Air Purifier vs Air Scrubber

Updated: Jul 8, 2022 1:40 PM
Air Purifier vs Air Scrubber

There are quite a few things to know when it comes to matching up an air purifier vs an air scrubber. Airborne contaminants can cause asthma rates to rise in younger populations. This means that families with children should always invest in a balance of air purification systems that work for your household. No matter your age, though, having an air purification device is never a bad idea. After reading through this article, you’ll be able to find the best air purifier for you.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Air scrubbers can clean surface pollutants directly alongside harmful airborne particles, making it easier to remove toxins like mold spores.
  • Air purification devices span a wide range of products, so it’s essential to do plenty of research into different models to find the right air filtration solution for you.
  • A house air purifier is the best choice for a standard consumer, while an air scrubber is better for commercial office spaces.

The Difference Between Air Scrubbers and Purifiers

Figuring out how an air purifier vs air scrubber compares is a pretty straightforward process. Filtration type is one of the most significant areas in which they differ, especially since air scrubbers typically come with more than one stage of filtration. Of course, filtration type always makes a difference, but if you’re looking for something more new-age, check out Himalayan salt lamps vs air purifiers to find the best balance of air purification and homeopathy.

Explaining Air Scrubbers

There are both wet scrubbers and dry scrubbers available. Both types of air scrubbers provide a comprehensive cleaning process. While portable air scrubbers exist, they are most likely to be used in hospitals, construction sites, and other professional capacities. Those looking to do more air purifier research should try looking into an air purifier vs an air exchanger.

How Air Scrubber Technology Works

Air scrubbers use negative ions in the same way that ionizer purifiers do. They are also often used in conjunction with other filtration methods. Each stage of filtration provides another level of protection. Both standard and commercial air scrubbing systems clean nearby surfaces and the air of pollutants such as mold spores.

The Benefits of Air Scrubbers

Here are the benefits you can expect from this type of air cleaning method:

  • It significantly lowers the chance of asthma attacks.
  • It cleans surface particles as well as airborne pollutants.
  • It covers far more square feet, especially in commercial settings.

The Drawbacks of Air Scrubbers

Like all products, air scrubbers have their weak spots:

  • Commercial air purifiers are understandably effective
  • Lower-end models have a more difficult time with surface pollutants

Explaining Air Purifiers

The term “air purifier” might refer to multiple air cleaning technologies, like air purifiers and air ionizers. The most common are portable air purifiers, and that’s most likely the type in which you’ll invest. There are various products on the market to choose from made by air purifier manufacturers like Dyson, LG, and more.

Insider Tip

Use multiple filtration systems in your household, especially if you have children with developing lungs that benefit greatly from clean air.

How Air Purifiers Work

Air purification systems usually work by trapping airborne pollutants through a series of filters. This can happen through air filtration or air circulation, depending on the types of technologies used in the device.

The Benefits of Air Purifiers

There are many ways air purifiers impress consumers:

  • You can use the filtration type that works best for your home
  • The availability of budget air purifiers makes them affordable to most people
  • Purifying systems improve asthmatic conditions by removing toxic particles

The Drawbacks of Air Purifiers

While fantastic for most, this system does have a few cons:

  • Air purifiers are not generally suitable for large office buildings
  • Budget air purifiers are less efficient at removing harmful particles

Warning

Ozone is a dangerous pollutant that some air purifiers might produce, so make sure you research and avoid any guilty products.

F.A.Q.

Do air scrubbers produce ozone?

Most air scrubbing systems don’t, but some might produce a bit of ozone. The class of air purifiers that use low quantities of ozone to clean are referred to as ozone generators.


What Does a UV Light Do in an Air Purifier?

Any duct cleaning device with UV light will work wonders for your health over time. UV-C lights are highly effective. However, they aren’t a replacement for air purification technology that processes pollutants through air filters.


Do air scrubbers work on mold?

Yes, but only with a HEPA air filter and access to enough flowing air. Mold growth leads to severe issues, especially if you’re dealing with black mold. Even an excellent air cleaning device can’t save you from that, so make sure to contact local mold remediation companies for help if the black mold is an issue.


What is the best air scrubber?

That depends on what you’re looking for and what your lifestyle requires. There are a few notable brands, like the following:

  • Blueair
  • LG
  • Dri-Eaz

STAT: Indoor air can be up to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air, according to the EPA. (source)

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