For someone shopping for his or her first air purifier, the many different types of filtration can be a bit overwhelming. What does each type do and what do you really need? One of the types of air purifier that raises the most questions is VOC air purifiers. In this article, we’ll take a look at what these purifiers do, how they work and why customers should consider getting one.
What are VOCs?
VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are gaseous substances in the air, as opposed to particulate matter, which is particles of solid matter that have become airborne. Gases are much more difficult to remove from the air in your home than solid substances are, and some can cause very serious health problems if you are exposed on a regular basis for long periods of time. Gases of this type include various formaldehyde compounds, which can be found in many different types of building materials used in modern home construction. Formaldehyde in the air can severely irritate the upper respiratory system, leading to discomfort and in some cases aggravating existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma. Some VOCs are much more benign, being little more than odorous gases in the air. While these are less likely to pose a health hazard (unless you have severe asthma), they are still better removed from the air.
How VOC Air Purifiers Work
Air purifiers that remove VOCs from the air use a completely different filtration system than those which remove particulate matter. VOC purifiers make use of activated carbon in the form of chemically treated charcoal to trap VOCs as the air is filtered. This method will remove almost all gaseous organic compounds from the air, leaving it clean and healthy to breathe.
Should You Get a VOC Air Purifier?
Simply put, everyone who is serious about using clean air to naturally improve their health should have some means of filtering VOCs out of the air. However, most people will actually be best off purchasing a combination HEPA and VOC purifier that will remove both particulates and gases, as particulate matter can still pose a health risk. Here are a few of the great dual-purpose air purifiers currently offered at US Air Purifiers:
These air purifiers will suffice for most normal VOCs. However, there are some organic gases that take more specialized equipment to eliminate.
Still have questions about VOCs, how they affect air quality or how to get rid of them? No problem, we’re here to help. Just contact us to get your questions answered and to find out what air purifier is right for your home or workplace needs.