Archive for May, 2009

May 29, 2009
Filed Under (Air Filter Articles) by admin

HEPA air purifiers are just one of many types of filtration systems used to clean the air in an enclosed space like a home or office. Originally created by the military in the 1940s to deal with radioactive particles, they are still very effective and widely used in the private sector.

HEPA stands for High Efficiency Particulate Air. The Department of Energy certifies each filter, and they are most commonly used to remove pollen, dust, and other common air contaminants. HEPA filters are certified to remove 99.97% of particulates from the air that measure .03 microns or larger.

The filter is made from a glass fiber sheet that is pleated like paper. Corrugated aluminum separators are placed between the pleats. They are then bonded to a sturdy base to create the core of the filter. Filters must be changed occasionally for optimum performance. Filters can also be expensive. The filter system works by drawing air in through a fan. The fiber sheet traps larger particles, while small particulates get trapped within the charcoal core of the filter. One of the best things about them is they do not emit any secondary pollutants or byproducts like ozone.

There are two basic designs… straight and unidirectional. A straight filter draws air in from the back and blows it out the front. A unidirectional unit takes in air from all directions, and blows it out in all directions. This is best for cleaning the air of a large room. These portable filter systems are light weight, and come in a variety of styles to fit your décor.

HEPA filters can also be installed into your heating and air conditioning unit, but would have to remain behind if you move. Uninstalling the system would be difficult, and may not fit the air system you have in your new home.

These air purifiers can be beneficial in any home. It is generally known that indoor air is more polluted than outdoor air most of the time. If you suffer from asthma or allergies, a HEPA purifier can be even more useful, since it will remove particulates that may trigger an asthma attack, or dust and pollen that may cause an allergic reaction. These filters are usually quiet and unobtrusive when in operation. They are also very energy efficient.

There are however a few drawbacks. They do not safeguard your family against bacteria and viruses until the old filter is removed and replaced. They can be ineffective in large areas. Due to the glass fiber, the filters can easily be damaged during installation, and since they are expensive, that can be a definite problem when that happens. And of course the filters must be changed regularly to remain effective.

HEPA air purifiers are still an industry standard, more than sixty years after they were first invented. They are proven to work well, and still provide fresh, clean air in offices, homes and other areas to people everywhere.



May 28, 2009
Filed Under (Air Filter Articles) by admin

There are many benefits to using air cleaners. Nowadays air cleaners are quite affordable and every home should have one particularly if you live in large cities where the pollution levels are quite bad.

If you or your family members are suffering from allergies, an air cleaner is a necessity in your home. The reason being an air cleaner can help to remove allergens in the air by filtering and recycling the air thereby reducing the possibility of allergy attacks.

If you are suffering from asthma or sinus problems, an air cleaner will really help you. An air cleaner will dramatically reduce the amount of dust and debris in the air. Other particles that irritate the lung are also removed thereby reducing the rate of asthma attacks. A doctor recommended this to me since he told me for asthmatic patients to reduce the chance of asthma attacks, I should get an air cleaner. Really, if you considered the small price you pay for an air cleaner versus your health, I think it is a worthwhile investment.

An air cleaner can also reduce the number of air-borne germs. It can used particularly useful for those with a weak immune system who are prone to illness and other diseases. For babies and young toddlers, it is equally useful since their immune system is not developed fully yet.

There are various types of air cleaners available on the market these days that do not cost a lot of money. Some air cleaners require you to replace the air filter periodically. The newer models of air cleaners use what’s known as an ionic system. An ionic system does not need to replace the air filter but instead by regularly washing the air filter similar to your air-conditioner. In my opinion, an ionic air cleaner is a better choice since you can save a bit of money in buying replacement air filters.

Air cleaners are well worth your investment if you consider your health or your family health is more important than anything. An air cleaner can cut down the chances of a allergy attack or an asthma attack. If you are living in an urban city, chances are the air is a lot more polluted than you think. I got a shock when I saw how dirty the air filter was after a period of time. More than anything, I have cut down the number of times I visit the doctor for my asthma. So what are you waiting for? Go get yourself an air cleaner today.



May 27, 2009
Filed Under (Air Filter Articles) by admin

Most problems that people face with air conditioners can be solved by simple maintenance and cleaning. A regular cleaning of the air conditioner grille and filter helps to increase its longevity and make it more efficient at cooling. Sometimes particle aggregation inside the air filter chokes the ducts and makes the air conditioner ineffective. This can be solved by a simple cleaning of the air filter.

The common problems with air conditioners are faulty cooling, collection of water pools below the air conditioner, rattling sounds when the unit is shutting down, dysfunctional temperature control, etc. Some of these problems can be repaired by the owners themselves without calling for technical help. The air conditioner manual carries solutions to minor problems which can be easily implemented.

Before attempting Air Conditioner Repairs, it is most important to turn the power off. Removing the grille is an easy task, but care should be taken if the fan is attached to the grille as in some central cooling systems. Also, no wires should come loose while removing the grille and disconnecting the fan. If there are any wires connecting the fan to the main board, their sequence should be remembered so that they can be reconnected later.

Sometimes the air conditioner may not turn on at all due to a tripped or a broken fuse. The fuse is simple enough to be replaced by anyone. Instructions to replace fuses are mentioned in the manual. Hence, before calling a technician, it is advisable to check if there is a fuse problem.

Another common problem is the accumulation of water under the front portion of the air conditioner. This may be due to leakage of one of the ducts. Simple replacement solves the problem and instructions are mentioned in the manual.

Problems with thermostats are trickier to solve. Thermostat problems cause the air conditioner to cool the room unexpectedly. Even the heat pump may cause unexpected temperature swings if it is broken down. Thermostats and heat pumps should only be repaired by skilled technicians from the companies themselves.

Air Conditioner Repair is not a very difficult task, but people who are not confident with electrical appliances may contact the company to send their technicians. Technicians from the same company should be preferred over other repairmen.