Specifications

8
Selecting an air cleaner: Assessing potential per-
formance
Air cleaning is one of three methods recommended by US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
used for reducing pollutants in indoor air. In order of effectiveness, the three methods are:
Removal of the source or control of its emissions1.
Ventilation2.
Air cleaning3.
Removal or control of sources and good ventilation systems are not always easy choices, especially
in major urban areas. Air cleaning is then a simple and proven alternative adjunct. Although, remember
that air cleaning alone cannot adequately remove all pollutants typically found in indoor air.
Who should use an air cleaner?
Many factors need to be considered in determining whether use of an air cleaner is appropriate in a
particular setting. Therefore, the decision whether or not to use an air cleaner should be left to the
individual.
Major factors
The following major factors that affect the performance of an air cleaner should be advised before
purchase.
Efficiency•
The percentage of particles removed from the air as it goes through the air cleaner.
Airflow•
The amount of air handled by the device per time unit. As the air constantly is bombarded with
air pollution, high filter efficiency may not be enough if only small amounts of air are processed
at a time. Especially if pollutants are generated quicker than they are removed. The more air that
passes the unit, the faster is the air cleaned in the room.
Room volume•
The effective volume of the air to be cleaned. For example, a single portable unit used in a room
within a large building in which the air flows, for example between several apartments or several
offices, would be of little or no value.
Other important factors
Factors other than the ability to reduce airborne pollutant concentrations are also important when
purchasing air cleaners.