Clean air in your home may support better respiratory function and overall health. It also contributes to improved sleep quality and enhanced cognitive function. An air conditioning service provider uses many methods to improve the air quality in your home, but the most common are humidifiers or air purifiers. Here is how the two systems compare:
Humidifier
A humidifier is an indoor air purification system that reduces the amount of dry air in a room. Once an air conditioning service provider installs the humidifier, the device generates moisture to increase your home’s humidity level. Increased humidity assists in the prevention of various health conditions, such as dryness and skin irritation. During the dry season, humidifiers may help to improve comfort. If you have plants or wood furniture in your home, humidifiers provide enough humidity to prevent them from cracking and drying.
There are several types of humidifiers, including evaporative humidifiers that blow air with a fan. Evaporative humidifiers are energy-efficient but need regular maintenance. Another type is ultrasonic humidifiers, which use ultrasonic vibrations to generate moisture and then release it into the air. This humidifier is quiet and generates cool and warm moisture. If you want moisture that is free from bacteria, choose steam vaporizers. Steam vaporizes warm water, turns it into steam, and then transmits the moisture throughout the house.
Air Purifiers
Air purifiers intercept and remove particles in the air that are circulating within your home. Some of these particles, such as pollen and dust, can cause allergic reactions. Some types of air purifiers remove particles that cause foul smells from the air, helping to keep your home feeling fresh. If the air purifier has ionization technology or UV-C light, it can kill bacteria and germs in the air.
The High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter is a common type of air purifier that can remove even the smallest particles. You may also choose the activated carbon filter. These filters are more adept at removing chemical fumes and odors from your home, but they may fail to capture tiny particles. UV-C air purifiers capture and kill airborne pathogens. Other options include ozone generators that kill microbes and ionizers that remove particles by attaching to them.
Air Purifier Vs. Humidifier
Your choice depends on the main issue affecting the air in your home. If the main challenge in your house is dry air, prioritize a humidifier. An air purifier can be useful if there are many airborne particles in your house, such as dust and pollen. People who own pets may prefer air purifiers since they are capable of removing pet dander. Consider your climate, as air humidifiers are often beneficial in places with dry climates. Air purifiers work in any environment to remove air contaminants. Your air purifier should be large enough to work throughout your home, while humidifiers should have the capacity to provide enough humidity for an entire room.
If you have respiratory conditions such as asthma, you should get an air purifier to avoid triggering symptoms. If you have dry skin, a humidifier is ideal. Air purifiers require regular filter replacement, and humidifiers must be frequently cleaned to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
Integration With HVAC Systems
Both air purifiers and humidifiers can integrate with your home’s HVAC system. Once the humidifier generates moisture, the HVAC system uses its air ducts to distribute the moisture to every room in the building. HVAC systems also direct external air through the purifiers, but this only works if there is ductwork compatibility.
Get Help From an Air Conditioning Service Provider
Air purifiers and humidifiers can increase home comfort and purify air. An air conditioning service provider can determine the type of humidifier or air purifier ideal for your home. They can also monitor and help maintain the humidifier or air purifier for effective operation over time. Contact a professional plumber near you for help.