Air cleaners do not use any new technology, but their popularity has been rising rapidly lately due to increasing concerns about air quality. Also known as an air purifier, an air cleaner is an appliance that can remove unhealthy contaminants from the air, such as pathogens, odors, smoke, dust, and more. There are many different types of these cleaners.

Types of Air Cleaners Based on the System

Air cleaners are generally available in two types of systems: portable units and whole-house systems. Each of these have their own benefits and drawbacks that you need to consider before choosing one for your house.

1. Portable Air Cleaners

Portable air cleaners are air purifier units with wheels on the bottom. The appliance usually can purify the air of one room only. You can move this unit to any room in the house that needs its air cleaned.

Advantages:

● The initial cost is much cheaper
● If you only have one or two units in the house that you carry along as you move to another room, they will consume significantly less energy than a whole-house system
● Easy operation because it requires no installation
● Can run any time without depending on another appliance

Disadvantages:

● Will not be efficient if you need to purify the air of every room in the house
● Somewhat noisy because of the fan
● Because the unit has to stand in a strategic spot in the room, it might be an inconvenience or an eyesore
● Regular maintenance is necessary

2. Whole-House Air Cleaners

Whole-house air cleaners are installations that are attached to your central HVAC system. The operation covers the entire interior of your house.

Advantages:

● You will not hear anything during its operation
● Because the system is hidden beneath the house, it will not interfere with the house’s aesthetic
● Minimal maintenance required
● Effective at cleaning the indoor air of your entire house

Disadvantages:

● The initial cost is significantly higher, especially if you don’t have a central HVAC installation to begin with
● Will not be efficient if you only need to clean the air of one or two rooms in the house because the system only works for the entire house
● Installation takes time and requires professional help
● Can run only when the HVAC is currently operating, making it energy-inefficient if you don’t currently need cooling or heating

If you are wondering which type of air cleaner is best, the answer will depend on the conditions of your house. As a guideline, try asking yourself the following questions:

● How often do you need the system to run?
● How many rooms does the air cleaning system need to treat?
● Do you already have a central HVAC system?
● Is it hard for you to commit to regular maintenance and cleaning?
● Will it bother you to hear or see the air cleaner unit while operating?

By understanding your situation, you will be able to measure which type of air cleaner will benefit you more, and which has more risk of inconvenience. But if you are still unsure about it, try asking for advice from a professional.