Here’s How to Improve Indoor Air Quality at Home
Indoor air should be clean and allergen-free.
Yet furry friends, damp basements and dry winter climates can affect your home’s air quality. Fortunately, properly used air cleaners, air purifiers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers can clear the air so you can breathe easy year-round. Here’s what to look for.
Air Quality Solutions
For optimal air quality, your home may benefit from one or multiple solutions. Air cleaners and air purifiers filter your air to varying degrees, while humidifiers and dehumidifiers optimize moisture levels for comfort and cleanliness.
Factors to Consider
Whether you are choosing an air cleaner, air purifier, humidifier or dehumidifier, here are some factors to consider when searching for the right product.
Room Size
Using the right size air cleaner, air purifier, humidifier or dehumidifier is critical when it comes to getting good results. Measure the room/area the machine will be operating in, and then check product specs to find a model capable of handling that square footage.
Season
A premium air purifier is well worth the investment if you’re using it year-round. For a humidifier that’s only used in winter, or a basement-located summer dehumidifier, you may want to save money by opting for basic models.
Lifestyle
Don’t overlook space, noise level and design. Many compact units can fit on to a table or desk, while tower units are slim and space-saving. Some machines operate more quietly than others, and designs range from utilitarian to sleek and modern. For kids’ rooms or pets, cool mist is the safer humidifier choice.
Product Features
Look for performance features that can help you get more – and save more – from your air cleaner, air purifier, humidifier or dehumidifier.
Energy Savings
Energy Star models use less energy than standard models
Programmable Timer
Run your machine only when you need it to cut energy use (and costs)
Air Quality Sensors
Air purifier sensors monitor the air for pollutants and adjust settings accordingly
Automatic Shut Off
Turns a unit off when water reservoir needs filling or emptying
Indicator Lights
Alerts user if unit needs filter change or other maintenance
Castors or Handles
Improved room-to-room portability for larger units