choosing an air purifier

How do I choose an air purifier?

What is an air purifier used for?

Air purifiers are used to capture fine and very fine particles in the air. The principle is to create an air flow using a fan that absorbs the air, passes it through a filter and releases it free of pollutants. In addition to the ventilation power, the type of filter used must also be taken into account. The aim of using a domestic air purifier is not to turn your home into a clean room, but to reduce pollution and improve air quality. The aim of this guide is to help you find the right air purifier for your needs by asking the right questions.

sources de pollution de l'air intérieur - air&me

What are the sources of indoor air pollution?

%
of homes are affected by formaldehyde or VOC pollution

These pollutants are present in everyday household cleaning products, household equipment and floor coverings, or are simply generated by human activity (cigarettes, incense, candles, etc.).

Whatever the season, remember to air your home for at least 20 minutes a day!

The consequences of polluted air

The consequences of polluted indoor air

The consequences of polluted indoor air can be numerous and have significant long-term health impacts. Here are some of the main consequences:

Respiratory problems

  • Respiratory tract irritation: Coughing, sore throat, nasal congestion, frequent sneezing.
  • Exacerbation of allergies: Allergens present in indoor air (dust mites, mold, pollen) can trigger stronger reactions in allergic individuals.
  • Asthma: Polluted air can trigger asthma attacks or worsen symptoms in those with asthma.
  • Chronic lung diseases: Prolonged exposure to indoor air pollution may contribute to the development of diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Other health issues

  • Fatigue and headaches: Poor air quality can lead to chronic fatigue and recurring headaches.
  • Cardiovascular problems: Some studies suggest a link between indoor air pollution and cardiovascular issues.
  • Cancers: Exposure to certain indoor air pollutants, such as radon, increases the risk of developing certain types of cancer.
  • Sleep disturbances: Poor air quality can disrupt sleep and cause concentration difficulties.
conséquences d'un air pollué - air&me
sources de pollution de l'air intérieur - air&me

Indoor air pollution for children

Children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of indoor air pollution, as their lungs are still developing and they spend more time indoors. The consequences can be even more serious for them, particularly in terms of lung development and the risk of respiratory infections.

Criteria for choosing an air purifier

Pour choisir le purificateur adapté à votre besoin, il est nécessaire de prendre en compte certains points :

FILTERS

We identify two main areas: allergy problems and health problems.

In the case of allergies, HEPA (particulate) filtration is appropriate; in the case of health problems, combined HEPA and activated carbon filtration is required. 

Filter life varies according to use and environment. A filter will clog up quickly if, for example, you live above the Paris ring road and work from home.

As a general rule, manufacturers say that filters should be replaced every 6 months. Some filters are washable. 

CADR Clea Air Delivery rate

The CADR is a standard established by an independent American association.

This test assesses the removal of the three most common indoor air pollutants: dust, pollen and smoke.

A high CADR is synonymous with good filtration quality. It gives a room surface area for which the air purifier will renew the air 5 times an hour.

AUTO MODE

The air purifier can be fitted with an air quality sensor to make the appliance autonomous. The operating speed adapts to air pollution.

This mode allows you to optimise the life of your filter. More recently, Wifi-connected devices can also be used to monitor air quality remotely and programme routines, for example to fully purify the air in your bedroom before going to bed.

THE SURFACE TO BE FILTERED

To ensure optimum efficiency, it is important to choose your appliance according to the size of your room. Choosing an oversized appliance will put less strain on it, which means less noise and less clogging of the filter.

AIR FLOW

The air flow rate quantifies the speed of the purifier. The higher the air flow rate, the better the air circulation and the more effective your appliance will be. 

For example, an air flow rate of 300 m³/h will purify a 70m² room in 1 hour. 

NOISE LEVEL

The noise level can tell you how noisy the appliance might be. These appliances can be noisy at maximum speed. It's important to be aware of this, especially if the appliance is used at night. 

Air purifier filtration

Air purifiers are equipped with several filters capable of purifying all types of polluting particles.

Each filter has its own particles

  • Pre-filter: hair, dusts
  • Carbon filter: odours, tobacco smoke, formaldehyde, VOCs/gas
  • HEPA filter: dust mites, bacteria, viruses, mould, pollen
  • HPP filter: dust mites, bacteria, viruses, mould, pollen. This filter is washable and reusable. 

FOCUS IONISATION
Additional process

Ionisation is the diffusion of negative ions. Through an electrostatic phenomenon, these ions capture the dust remaining in the atmosphere and cause it to fall back to the ground. Ionisation also serves to make the particles in the air larger, making the filter's work easier.

Negative ions are the ions that keep us healthy. Mountain air is particularly rich in negative ions. That's why we tend to breathe it in at the top of our lungs. 

To put it simply, air pollutants are positive particles, and bombarding them with negative charges gradually makes them neutral, then negative, causing them to swell and fall to the ground.

Why purify the air?

An air purifier serves several purposes: limiting the circulation of viruses and allergens in the air, and limiting respiratory problems such as asthma. Some people are more sensitive than others to air quality, starting with the elderly, children, infants and, of course, people suffering from asthma or respiratory distress. 

How can I estimate the cost of an air purifier?

An air purifier requires maintenance. It must be kept clean. This involves replacing the filter when it becomes worn. The cost of the filter is an important factor in choosing an air purifier. It can vary from around ten euros for a simple EPA or HEPA filter to several hundred euros.

As well as using an air purifier, how can you monitor air quality?

It's essential to keep an eye on humidity levels and indoor air pollution. Humidity levels are often overlooked, even though they can be the source of real respiratory problems. Dry air results in a scratchy throat and a feeling of ‘stale’ air, i.e. polluted air. Adding a purifier in this case reduces suspended particles but does not raise the humidity level. A comfortable humidity level is around 50%. This is measured with a hygrometer. 

More sophisticated air quality sensors are among the most useful connected products for everyday use. In most cases, they indicate not only indoor pollution but also humidity levels.

Where should the air purifier be positioned?

The air purifier should be positioned as centrally as possible in the room to ensure optimum air circulation. In large rooms, positioning several small purifiers in different places will be more effective because the air currents are multiplied. 

Positioning is an important criterion when choosing a purifier because, depending on its design, the air can be drawn in at the front, back or bottom. Some purifiers can also be wall-mounted, an important criterion for nurseries, public buildings or offices.

Our selection of air purifiers