Specifications

9
Installation, use and need for maintenance•
Air cleaning units may have certain installation requirements that must be met, such as an ad-
equate and accessible power supply or the need for access during use, repairs, or maintenance.
After installation, operating and maintenance procedures specified by the manufacturer need
to be followed to assure adequate performance of the air cleaner. Filters must be cleaned or
replaced and plates or charged media of electronic air cleaners must be cleaned, sometimes
frequently.
Cost•
Major costs include the initial purchase of the air purifier, maintenance costs such as cleaning
and/or replacement of filters and other parts, and operating costs, for example electricity.
Production of pollutants•
Another consideration to consider in selecting an air purifier is whether some units produce new
pollutants or re-disperse old ones. The potential for ion generators and electronic air cleaners to
produce ozone, a lung irritant, may be of concern, particularly if electronic air cleaners are not
properly installed and maintained. However, at least two manufacturers of portable units openly
advertise in the United States that their products produce ozone to facilitate removal of harmful
gases. The levels produced by these devices and the possible health effects are not known.
Ability to remove odors•
Some air cleaners that are able to reduce the levels of tobacco particles in the air are not able to
remove the odor from the smoke. This depends on that many air cleaners do not contain effective
systems to remove the gaseous pollution in tobacco smoke. The ability to remove odors are
especially important in high pollution areas that suffer from automotive exhaust fumes or are
located near heavily traveled areas such as major highways.
Noise•
Noise may be a problem with air cleaners containing a fan. Some portable units operating at high
speed can produce noise equivalent to a vacuum cleaner. Even at low speeds, many competing
units produce an annoying hum or whine.
Conclusion
The value of any air cleaner depends upon a number of factors including its basic efficiency, proper
selection for the type of pollutant to be removed, proper installation in relation to space, and faithful
maintenance. Features vary with the type or brand. Factors that should be considered include if ad-
equate pollutant removal, if re-dispersement of pollutants, if deceptive masking rather than removal of
pollutants, if generating ozone and if unacceptable noise levels.