When whole house air purifiers are attached to the central air conditioning unit, the air intake and main return openings are designed in order to result in efficient air purification.  Most of these purifiers require that a distance of the air intake and return openings are at least situated about six feet from each other so that the reintake of the clean air into the air purifier is prevented.  The airflow draws air into the air purifier and then released back into the main system so that it could be circulated throughout the entire house.  It is recommended that the HVAC system that runs in tandem with the air purifier should have a fan that is turned on to allow for better air circulation.  These air purifiers that serve entire homes are able to achieve air changes of about two to four times an hour.  Those requiring at least six air changes an hour should think about investing in separate air purifier units in each room.  Homes about 2000 to 4000 square feet big should benefit from having a whole house air purifier.

One other particular advantage that whole house air purifiers have is its relatively quiet functioning.  As there is no separate unit inside the rooms themselves, there is no noise to indicate that an air purifying equipment is running.  Most central air purifiers use a combination of filtration methods that clean out the small allergens and pollutants from the air and reduce particulate levels in the air.  These filtration methods would include a pre-filter, a HEPA filter and a post-filter.  HEPA filters remove particulates as small as .3 microns in size.  In some central air purifiers, however, having a fine HEPA filter could hamper the air movement in the HVAC system.  This is why those filters used in some of these air purifiers for whole houses are only fine enough to filter particulates up to 1 to 1.5 microns big.  HEPA filters remain to be more efficient in cleaning out the allergens and pollutants from the air.  Using other purification methods like ultraviolet germicidal irradiation increases the purification effectivity of central home air purifiers.

Weighing only 16 pounds, the Alen a350 air purifier sports a sleek and slim design that could fit even in small spaces.  This air purifier stands at seventeen and a half inches, is eighteen and a half inches wide, and has a depth of eight inches.  Its lightweight construction makes it possible to mount it on walls.  While it could efficiently service the air purifying needs of an eight hundred square foot room, the recommended room size for this air purifier model is an area about 281 square feet with a room height of eight feet.  This air purifier has an all-in-one filter that integrates a washable pre-filter and a post filter.  This filter construction makes it easy to replace the filter by simply removing the front panel and sliding the filter mechanism out.  Only a few seconds are needed in order to complete the task.  Replacement filters for this air purifier costs about $50 to $60.

The Alen a350 air purifier uses a true HEPA filter to clean out most air borne particles up to .3 microns in size.  The pre-filter effectively traps larger particles so that the HEPA filter is protected.  The result is a longer lasting HEPA filter.  There is also a post filter made of carbon-mesh to optimize the equipment’s air purifying performance.  There is also a built-in ionizer which function by the aid of technology of ionic breeze, that could be turned on or off as the user desires.  With these filtration mechanisms, this air purifier does not have to produce ozone in order to clean out airborne pollutants.  Among those that could be cleaned out from the air are common allergens like dust, pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and molds.  This air purifier comes highly recommended for those who have severe allergies, asthma, and other respiratory diseases.

The a350 air purifier from Alen is very simple to operate.  It has an LCD digital display with performance indicators like control settings, filter life monitor, fan on or off, and ionizer on or off.  This air purifier runs on four speed settings ranging from a low of 40 cubic feet per minute air flow rate to a high of 225 cubic feet per minute air flow rate.  There is also a 12-hour timer that could be used to automatically shut the unit off after the desired operating time.  One particular advantage that this air purifier equipment gives its consumers is its lifetime warranty.  This, however, could only be valid if the air purifier filters are replaced every six months.

Features

1. Cleans the air of mold, pollen and pet dander in a room up to 800 sq ft.
2. Ideal for large bedrooms or living rooms;
3. Removes 98% of airborne particles;
4. Effective for environment pollutants including odors, wildfires, ash and mold spores;
5. Energy Star Certified;
6. All in one filter: washable pre-filter with an active layer of carbon and our signature HEPA filtration;
7. Low filter replacement costs;
8. Easy to maintain;
9. Meets ETL independent testing guidelines;
10. 4-speed settings & 12 hour timer;
11. Wall-mountable space saving design or can be placed on the floor;
12. Optional built-in ozone safe Ionizer to effectively minimize pollutants Ionizer can be manually turned on or off – produces no ozone;
13. Filter change indicator;
14. Digital display with simple and intuitive touch button controls.

The use of the Blueair 402 filter enables Blueair air purifiers to provide clean breathable air in most medium-sized indoor environments.  The patented HEPA silent filters are able to capture 99.97% of most airborne allergens and pollutants.  Up to .1 micron particles could effectively be trapped by Blueair’s HEPA silent filters.  This includes pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, and other allergens.  For air filtration of air containing gas, smoke, and odors, there is a specially designed Blueair SmokeStop filter that could be used.  Both the HEPA silent filters and the SmokeStop filters are easy to use and are made of environmentally friendly materials.  This makes it all the more beneficial for those who have respiratory ailments.  The air filtered by the Blueair 402 air purifier is truly clean and free from any particles that could trigger allergic reaction or cause respiratory attacks.

The HEPA silent filter is made of polypropylene.  This is one of the least harmful chemicals around.  Compared to the usual triclosan-coated paper and glass filter fibers that most air purifier filters are made of, this material is safer and is non-toxic.  The HEPA silent filter could be recycled.  It does not release toxins into the air and produces only carbon dioxide and water when it decomposes.  These filters are also waterproof, making it more resistant to contamination from bacteria and viruses.  The SmokeStop filter, while made of the same material, also contains three pounds of activated coconut shell carbon that is impregnated with Potassium Iodide, Phosphoric Acid, and Potassium Hydroxide in equal amounts.

The Blueair 402 filter measures four inches by ten inches by twenty one inches.  It conveniently weighs three pounds.  Blueair air purifier units are equipped with filter change timers that indicate when the filters are in need of replacing.  The soiled air purifier filter could be replaced by sliding it out of the side compartment and then dropping in the replacement filter.  There are no special tools that are needed.  The side compartment could easily be opened by hand.   These air purifier filters could be ordered online and shipped anywhere in the United States.  Blueair replacement filters are not usually shipped together with the air purifier itself to prevent potential damage due to mishandling.

Technical details of the Blueair 402 :

Room Size –      365 Sq. Ft.
Construction –    All steel with baked-on powder coat finish.
CADR –     Smoke 240, Dust 240, Pollen 240
AirFlow :CFM –     75 – 240
Sound Level:dBA –     27 – 51
Air Purifiers Filters –     HEPA, activated carbon
Height –     22″
Width –     20″
Depth –     11″
Weight –     33 Pounds
Power – used on high     70 Watts

Airborne Particles – These trigger allergic reactions in allergy sufferers, and can irritate normal people’s lungs as well.  Common airborne pollutants are: dust, mold spores, pet fur, plant spores, smoke, pollen, fungi and other tiny particles.

Gases and Smells – Even if you aren’t allergic to pollen or your cat’s fur, you may be sensitive to certain smells.  It could be cigarette smoke, pesticide or the smell of cooking oil.

Volatile Organic Compounds – These are chemical compounds that are a part of various household agents such as paints, adhesives, varnish, disinfectants and even new leather and carpets.   If you’ve ever felt dizzy from being around furniture polish or a newly painted house, this is why.

Micro-organisms – In this category are fungi, bacteria, viruses and other microbes smaller than the eye can see.

An air ionizer such as the Ionic Breeze Air Purifier works by charging particles in the air.  These charged ions combine with the pollutants and allergens in the air and create a (usually) negative charge.  These are, in turn, attracted to a collecting plate that has a positive charge.  If not the plate, the negatively charged particulates will stick to appliances that are positively charged.  The advantage of an ionic air purifier is that it’s quiet and requires no filter replacement.  It can also catch very small particles.  However it has to be cleaned often.  It doesn’t remove bad smells or kill germs but only takes them down from the air.   Users must beware that the Ionic Breeze Air Purifier emits traces of ozone and must follow instructions carefully.

Another common air purifier is the HEPA filter.  It is great for capturing tiny particles like animal dander, pollen and mold spores.  It is ineffective against gases, smells and chemicals.

If your main concern is bad odors, you can use an ozone generator.  Ozone is extremely powerful against bacteria, but may irritate the lungs.

Carbon air filters are quite effective against chemicals, smoke, gases and odors.  But they are useless against allergens like pollen and micro-organisms, so they are often used in conjunction with HEPA filters.

For sensitive environments, one may use UV or ultraviolet light – based purifiers.   The UV rays can kill mold, bacteria and viruses; but without a filter the germs may pass through too quickly.  Also, UV light attracts and kills insects beneficial to man.

The most well-known model of this product line is the ionic breeze quadra silent air purifier. It has been in the market for how many years now and consumers prefer it more than the other air cleaners due to its quietness and design. The device produces a breeze that captures air particles, but barely creates a mechanical sound. Moreover, due to its quietness, this product is lauded by users for being environmentally friendly. This piece of equipment is approximately 2.5 feet tall and comes in a nice-looking appearance that can suit home decors. Since it doesn’t take up much space due to its horizontal position, the unit can be placed in the corners of your rooms.

Just like the usual ionic breeze air cleaner, it does not use a filtering system. It functions without a fan but works on flat stainless steel blades called collector plates which can easily be removed and cleaned with a damp cloth once a week or every two weeks. It is not just environmentally friendly but economically friendly as well. There is no more hassle of having to replace the filter every time and buy a new one. In addition to its economical advantage, the gadget requires only 10 watts a day, unlike the other air purifiers. The low energy utilization absolutely saves money.

There are three ground-breaking technological advancements that make the ionic breeze quadra silent air purifier stand out from the rest of the air filtration system. One is the electrostatic precipitator technology. Its process is backed up by the basic principle ruling ionic air purifiers where electrically charged airborne particles are drawn into the device due to the air flow or noticeable breeze from the metallic plates. Second, the use of ultraviolet germicidal irradiation through a UVC light inside the machine has proven to be very effective in killing germs. The light is measured at a wavelength of 254 nanometers, emitting just about the right amount of energy to destroy the DNA of viruses and bacteria present. Finally, the ionic breeze quadra silent air purifier has a Zenion effect technology that is only true to this equipment. As explained above, this equipment runs on 10 watts a day, allowing for a 24-7 continuous silent operation. Also, the noise level of Zenion effect is absolutely zero, meaning the device functions with no noise at all. These enhanced product features have made the ionic breeze quadra outstanding in the air filtering industry.

Ionic Breeze Quadra Silent Air Purifier (Model SI867 GRY) technical details and features :

- Operates in medium and large rooms;
- Needs 220 V but it has a power converter which transform 110 V from the wall to 220 V to appliance;
- Airborne contaminants are trapped on electrostatically charged rods;
- Silent electronic propulsion air purifier circulates air with no motor;
- Air purifier’s energy use is no more than 10 watts to operate 24 hours a day 7 days a week;
- Ozone guard with PremAir catalyst from BASF Catalysts LLC coverts by-product ozone to oxygen;
- Grey color option;
- Dimensions : 8 inches high, 10 inches wide, 31 inches long;
- Weight : 10 pounds.

After diligent research and application of current technological approaches, skilled air cleaning professionals produced the ionic breeze technology. Ionic breeze, simply put, is the process of cleaning the air from impurities through ionization. From this, experts introduced the ionic breeze air cleaners. Basically, there are three types: negative ion generators, electrostatic precipitators, and electrostatic filters. But the latter is the most outdated device. All kinds of ionic breeze air cleaners operate by charging airborne particles and then magnetize them to metal electrodes. This procedure is termed as ionization. Part of the result of this process is the emission of small amounts of ozone in the air.

What can ozone contribute in this process? We must already know what ozone is and its contribution to the environment. To further refresh our memory, let’s define ozone and identify its effects. Technically speaking, ozone is a very reactive gas occurring from a chemical reaction between the diatomic oxygen molecules (O2) and an oxygen atom (O). It must be common knowledge that the presence of ozone layer in the atmosphere protects us from the sun’s harmful UV radiation. However, inhaling heavy concentrations becomes detrimental to the respiratory tract, particularly the lungs. It can be a cause of throat irritation and shortness of breath, and even worsens asthma.

In an ionic breeze cleaner with electrostatic precipitator technology, only very small amounts of ozone are released as compared to negative ion generators or the so-called ozone generators that produce heavy concentrations of “bad” ozone inside our homes. It is important to select the best type of ionic breeze cleaner for our homes. When buying one, make sure to check the product specification and details of how it works. There are more advanced ionic breeze air cleaners that have unique features such as zero noise level, 24/7 continuous operation, low energy requirement, and environmentally friendly. It can be a little heavy in the pocket but is definitely worth the price when it comes to quality and benefits. After all, it is not just some type of personal gadget that can be given away or easily replaced when outgrown. It has a more essential purpose of keeping our health in a stable and good condition.

The ionic breeze air cleaner is an output of further research on how to develop the ionic air cleaner. This type is different from the latter in that there is no filter used, though it still utilizes a collector plate that gathers the air particles. The cleaner can only accumulate particles into the plate less than 1/8 of an inch away since it doesn’t have a fan or filter at all. But what’s nice about it is that it does not create noise when used since it has no fan to filter the air impurities in the room. It is much smaller in size, making it much more handy and convenient to use. However, because it is small, the plates are easily covered with dust, thus, requiring regular maintenance. If not, it may not properly clean the air either in a small room or open area. It is recommended to check the plates and clean them once every week to keep functioning efficiently.

To better understand how this kind of air purifier works, it is important to know the principle behind it. Researchers and air purifying experts used the property of electrostatic field structured between the two collector plates of the device. When air particles are gathered, the electrostatic field ionizes it causing the air pressure to become low. As a result, an air flow is produced and starts to move between the plates first then progresses into an increasing level of pressure. The air particles which are electrically charged are collected near the metallic plates through the help of the air flow. Imagine an electrically charged plastic object that captures strands of hair; very light substances, small pieces of paper, etc. This is what makes the device very convenient especially in closed spots like our rooms since it is efficient with minute substances present in the air. This is how the ionic breeze air cleaner works.

Just like the classic air purifier or any type of air cleaner, it is not quite easy on the pocket. However, it doesn’t just save you from health problems; it also saves you from hospital bills and medication expenses. Compared to the typical air cleaner, the ionic breeze air cleaner characterizes a definite progress in the air purifying industry. But then again, it is still wise to choose an air cleaner that tailors your needs.

Air cleaning experts have designed ways and means to battle this problem. They have invented air cleaning devices intended to remove and control impurities in the air. Air purifiers can be classified into three types which are ionic, HEPA, and ultraviolet. Let us focus on the most common and easily marketable kind of air purifier which is the ionic air cleaner. Not like the other types of air purifiers, ionic air cleaners bond microscopic ionic particles together with the air pollutants in your home. What are these ionic particles? These are the negative ions or molecules that no longer have electrons. That is why ionic air cleaners are also otherwise known as ionizers because they are made with negative ion generators which are responsible in sending out the electrons. Once in the air, it joins together with the positive particles and causes it to become heavy. Due to its own weight, these particles fall and thus remove the air indoors.

What so good about ionic air cleaners? These types of air cleansing purifiers don’t necessarily need regular changing of the filter compared to other filters that require regular replacement since dust particles clog up after continuous use. This makes the machine less hazardous to one’s health. When considering the cost, think also of the price you have to pay if ever a family member gets hospitalized because of the impurities in the air that endanger everyone’s health. Thus, deciding to purchase this product is a great investment already. Not only does it pamper the health and clean the air inside your homes, it would also eventually save you money.

However, there are always imperfections to everything. Ironic air purifier or cleaner has a collection plate where air particles are accumulated. This plate has to be cleaned regularly for the machine to function effectively because if there is poor maintenance, it won’t clean all the allergens from various sources and it can be a hassle. Also, in one of the studies conducted by Consumer Reports, they found out that this device contributes to the detrimental presence of ozone in the air. It releases small amounts of ozone as a result of the ionization method which, when added to existing ozone, can possibly create unhealthy absorption of air.

Nevertheless, the invention of a technology as this is indeed a good contribution in our busy lives, but it still advisable to do our share in keeping the air healthy without being too dependent on machines. Let’s not wait for pollution to build up inside our dwelling places.

In light of these findings which have been publicly disseminated, people have been on the prowl for cleaning devices that may offer convenient help in creating cleaner, healthier dwellings.  Cleaner air in one’s home can significantly change quality of life.  We can definitely agree with that.
Coming to the aid of individuals in removing dust, ash, pet dander, and other allergens that pose health risks to home dwellers are ionic air purifiers. Such modern product technologies require some up-front money, although the healthier products are expected to last longer, require less long-term maintenance, and not increase energy bills. The biggest payoff is expected in the form of better health.  Yet some product brands have lately been subject to some flak as far as living up to its claims of effectively removing dust, dander, and other irritants in enclosed indoor spaces is concerned. Such has been the case with the Quadra Air Purifier, whose undeniable appeal has had many consumers purchasing the product, but generating mixed reactions.

The Quadra Air Purifier is the modern, updated version of antiquated types of air purification systems that have been around for over a hundred years. Believe it or not, scientists have long been working on methods and techniques to address impure air. Nowadays, a blueprint for a healthier home is something most homeowners carefully think out with their architects.  Dust that pervades the home environment, and chemical orders that linger for months may seem tolerable in the short term, but people who are sensitive to toxins stand to feel lousy and suffer impaired health long afterwards.

With the clamor for cleaner air going unabated, companies like Sharper Image have churned out innovations like its Ionic Series air purifiers to do the job of creating a noticeable improvement in air quality in many homes. Sharper Image’s Ionic Breeze Quadra air purifier features the OzoneGuard™ for an added level of air cleaning that instantly converts ozone by-product to oxygen molecules on contact.

Ionic Breeze products come with a removable front grill that features the OzoneGuard™. Since ionic purifiers use collection grids, users need not be troubled with replacement filters.  All that needs to be done is wipe off the grid once or twice a month. Sharper Image encountered a serious challenge when Consumer Reports (basing findings on the industry standard for measuring clean-air delivery rate) ran magazine articles in 2002 which casted doubt on the ability of Ionic Breeze to reduce airborne particles. The company branded the claims as false and malicious and has since come out with product enhancements. The other problem raised by consumers is that when dust particles accumulate in the device, the inner plates of the air purifier tend to quickly lose much of their power to attract more particles.

All hope is not lost, though, and people remain optimistic that there will soon be a system that will address the kinks and help in the proper cleaning and purification of indoor air.

It is small wonder that when a well-designed air purifier wends its way to most online sites and claims to re-circulate cleaner air in fuss-free fashion, many consumers – most of them allergy sufferers — become a rapt audience.

Considering that these new electronic devices seem to be aesthetically suited for most modern contemporary homes today, and given their touted benefits of reducing irritants and other airborne allergens that cause a host of respiratory diseases and impaired overall well-being, the new wave of electronic air cleaners have generated much consumer interest.
A typical air purifier works by magnetically attracting airborne particles like house dust and other pollutants into its metal dust collection plates. Any homemaker will find the maintenance cleaning that follows (wiping the plates clean) a practically easy routine.  When particulates and residues from air sucked in for re-circulation accumulate in the metal dust collection plates after weeks of continuous use, the air purifier may produce a buzzing sound, signaling cleaning time. To wipe the metal dust collection plates clean, you can use a damp cloth. The plates will then have to be dried and re-inserted back in place.
One innovation that promises to clear a room (supposedly up to 500 square feet) of dust & other allergens is the compact Sharper Image Ionic Breeze Tabletop. Its features and specifications sound promising especially for consumers looking to avert the most toxic pitfalls when it comes to furnishing, refurbishing and remodeling their homes.
Ideal for small living spaces, the Ionic Breeze Tabletop air purifier is bruited as a quiet appliance. Moreover, consumers will find that the device has no disposable filters that continually need to be replaced. The product can be easily propped up. It does away with the additional accessories that most people end up purchasing to complement their newly bought appliances or electronic gadgetry. The Tabletop version of the Ionic Breeze line, retailing for around $200, offers two silent air-cleaning speeds to deal with dust and other allergans which are the culprits for a variety of illnesses.
The tabletop version of the Ionic Breeze Air Purifier line is suitable for one’s den or master’s bedroom with a study. It likewise holds an appeal for dormitories as well as corporate boardrooms. This tabletop version actually has two silent air-cleaning speeds.
Probably the critical chink in the armor of Sharper Image, the company which retails the Ionic Breeze line, is being the thumbs-down by the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology for being incapable of cleaning and enhancing air quality. When not cleaned well following constant use, the inner plates are unable to harness their capability to attract more dust particles.

Sharper Image Ionic Breeze Tabletop Air Purifier Model SI719 specifications :

- Operates quietly;
- No need to replace filter indicator;
- Dimensions : Height – 13 inches, Width – 5 inches, Depth – 7.5 inches;
- Weight : 3 lb.