How to Test Air Purifiers

Testing air purifiers adequately involves researching the purifier as well as the filter that will be used before the unit is even purchased. Air purifiers are designed to clean indoor air of pollution, mold spores, allergens, pet dander and dust mites. The most accurate air purifier tests are performed before the unit even reaches the consumer market. The best way to test an air purifier as well as the filter is to research and then compare the specific test numbers and results that are present on the air purifier box or filter packaging.

computer with internet access
air purifier test results (lab testing)

Instructions

- 1
  Research air purifier lab test results online in order to begin the process of narrowing down which system will work best within the home. Consumer Reports website explains that all air purifier companies claim that their systems will kill germs and filter all of the particles and allergens out of the air. However, certain systems will work better than others.
- 2
  Locate the air purifier lab testing results online or on the air purifier's packaging. The Achoo Allergy website explains that air purifiers should be certified by the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air-conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). The ASHRAE tests all air purifiers and certifies the systems to ensure accuracy and effectiveness.
- 3
  Find the ASHRAE results from the Initial Staining Dirt Efficiency Test and the Average Arrestance Test. The Achoo Allergy website explains that the first test determines how well the purifier removes microscopic staining particles from the air. The second test determines how many ordinary participles, including dust and lint, are removed from the air.
- 4
  Determine what level of effectiveness the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers gave the air purifier system. Consumer Reports explains that the AHAM tests for tobacco, dust and pollen removal. The testing reviews that air purifier's clean-air delivery rate, which is how many particles are removed from a cubic foot of air per minute.
- 5
  Purchase a quality filter that has received adequate testing and certification. The Achoo Allergy website explains that the air filter plays a vital role in ensuring that the air purifier works effectively. For example, a filter that is HEPA-approved has been tested and confirmed to remove 99.97 percent of all airborne contamination within a home.

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