Safe-Home.com

Question about the Airpura H600 Allergy Asthma Air Purifier,Cream

Q:"What makes this portable air purfier superior to Honeywell, Holmes, etc. I am allergic and want the best air filtration unit I can find. Thanks. Sara."

Answer: AirPura is Made in Canada, not in China or outside North America. The construction and warranty as we describe below should help with your choice.

Air Pura Technology Below  Makes Airpura Your Best Choice:

• Vacuumable Pre-filter 570 sq in x 1" deep: Vacuum through the mesh and replace every 12 months
• 2 Micro-Suppress filters: Suppress bacteria and viruses around the carbon bed
• Carbon filter: Absorbs airborne chemicals, noxious gases and odors
• True HEPA filter: 40 Sq Ft. Traps 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns.HEPA is warm rolled to prevent cracking. 10 pleats per sq inch maximizes filtration (other systems only
  use 6-8 folds). Spacers to make sure every fold filters.
• Unimpeded airflow: air flows directly from the filters to the exterior for lower air turbulance and less noise
• Motor and electric parts out of the airflow:Other systems blow clean air over the motor and recontaminate it
• One piece motor / fan assembly: Eliminates vibration problems where separate fan is attached to a shaft with a set screw.
• Compact motor / fan design allows more space for filtration 
• Felt Gaskets: Seal the filter chamber so there is no off gassing from rubber seals.
• Unique pressure seal:seal system on the filter chamber ensures that all the impurities pass through the filters. Other filters let dirty air escape around the filters.
• Air Flow 560 CFM:More cfm than any other portable unit available
• Powdercoat steel mesh housing with 4 castors: No plastic vapors from housing.
• Attractive modern appearance: choose color to match your decor
• Variable speed control: allows user to set unit at optimum CFM for their situation
• Sound Level: 28.1db on low (at 6 feet),  62.3db on high (560cfm) (Room level 25.1db)
• Power usage:Watts   120 on high, 40 on low
• Size:  23" height, 15" diameter
• Etl Certified: Conforms to ANSI/UL 507  CSA C22.2 no 113
• Weight: 45 lbs.
• Warranty: 5 years on parts, 10 years on labor by AirPura
  

Compare with the Honeywell and other brands. Decide if you want a unit that lasts for 5 to 10 years or more or a throw away model.

Thanks for your question.

Sincerely, Barbara

 

Question about Envirosept Furnace Filter Panels and How to Choose the Correct Size.

Q: "I have bad allergies. I have a 5 ton Carrier HVAC system. I am currently using the disposable paper filters with the cardboard surrround. When I push the filter into the 1 inch furnace slot, the spring at the back causes the filter to buckle. My furnace slot is 21.5 x 23.25. Do you have an Envirosept to fit this size opening? Is this more effective than a paper filter? How does it work? Thanks. Bill"

Answer: In the furnace industry, furnace filter sizes are actually rounded up to the next whole number. (Thank you for your question because this was not a fact that was active in my mind!) I phoned the manufacturer and learned this and also that a 2 x 4 is actually 1.75 inches by 3.5 inches! Actually, in the first paragraph of every Envirosept Furnace Panel, Safe Home does give this information!

To determine the actual size of what you need, imagine a picture frame. You would measure that edge to edge across the top and the same up the side. That is how you measure a furnace filter. Then you pick the next larger furnace filter or furnace panel. Or you can remove the disposable furnace filter and measure it the same way.

In your situation, you would need the EnviroSept 22x23 Furnace Filter Panel,14 Filter Pads. This panel actually measures 21.5 inches by 23.25 inches, the measurements you gave me on the phone. This Envirosept includes 14 filter pads, two of which are in the furnace filter panel when it is delivered. So this filter size is rounded up if it is .5 inches for the 22 part and rounded down for the 23 part since your filter is 23.25 inches.

To get the most from your Envirosept, you need to run the fan continuously and change the filter pads regularly. This can mean every 3 to 4 weeks or even longer. We recommend that you check the panel after the first two weeks. Your choice then is to take the dirty primary filter and throw it out and use the secondary filter in the primary or first slot or replace both filter pads. Remember you do need an electrical outlet for this unit.

Thanks for your questions.

Sincerely, Barbara

Question about the AirPura Whole House forced air heating and cooling system air purifiers.

Q: "I want to install an AirPura HVAC air filtration system. I don't know which one will meet my needs. Please explain what the units have in common and how they differ. Thanks. Sam.

Answer: All the AirPura systems are supplemental air cleaners, i.e. they bypass air from the central air flow, clean it and return it through the main system. All are made in Canada, not China. AirPura suggests you have a "tinsmith" or HVAC person cut the holes in your return air duct. Once connected to your return air duct, a portion of the main airflow is by-passed through the unit which purifies it and returns the clean air into the system. The Airpura unit can continue to filter and distribute clean air throughout your home even when your central air system is turned off. Even when your central air system is turned off the Airpura W600 can continue to filter and distribute clean air throughout your home.

Here are the common features of all AirPura Whole House Air Purifiers:

• draws a portion of the main airflow as a by-pass, purifies it and returns the clean air into the system.
• efficient 560 CFM fan motor ensures that no change in air pressure takes place in your central air system.
• variable speed control, you choose the level of purification required: from OFF to MAX.]
• save on your energy costs and help protect the environment by cleaning and recirculating your indoor air instead of heating or cooling outdoor air.
• easy change pre-filter:simply unclip the input pipe and replace the pre-filter pad.
• 18 lbs Carbon Filter
• True HEPA filter Traps 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns:40 sq ft HEPA filtration surface
• Motor and electric parts out of the airflow:Other systems blow clean air over the motor and recontaminate it
  
• One piece motor / fan assembly: Eliminates vibration problems where separate fan is attached to a shaft with a set screw. Compact motor / fan design allows more space for filtration
• Powdercoat steel housing: Robust construction. No plastic vapors.
• Felt Gaskets Seal the filter chamber: No off gassing from rubber seals
• Unique pressure seal: The pressure seal system on the filter chamber ensures that all the impurities pass through the filters. Other systems allow dirty air to escape and fail to acheive their promised HEPA rating of 99.97% filtration.
• Physical Size: 22" high, 15" wide
• Effective for up to 2000 sq ft

These are the various units and what makes each unique:

• Airpura R600-W: All Features Listed Above, ie. 18 lb carbon filter plus true HEPA filter. Use in a typical home up to 2000 sq. ft where you want better air quality.
  

• Airpura V600-W: All Features Listed Above Plus Enhanced special blend carbon in the 18 lb carbon filter adsorbs VOCs and specific chemicals. True HEPA Filter. Use in a home up to 2000 sq. ft where you have exposure to ammonia, formaldehyde, etc.
  

• Airpura UV600-W: UV Germicidal lamp sterilizes antigens, pathogens and mold spores as they are trapped on the filters.17 inches germicidal surface U shaped lamp: 2 times the length of other makes and 2 times as effective Plus 18 lb carbon filter plus true HEPA filter. Use in a home up to 2000 sq. feet. when you are concerned about mold, antigens, germs, etc.
  
• Airpura P600-W:  TitanClean photocatalytic oxidizion technology targets VOCs, airborne chemicals and odors as well as mold, particles and microorganisms. Has a titanium dioxide reflector that works in conjunction with the Airpura'20 watt UV germicidal lamp. 18 lb. carbon filter, true HEPA filter. Use in home or business up to 2000 sq. ft. when you are concerned about reducing airborne chemicals to smaller safer compounds, until only carbon dioxide and water vapor are left. You can retrofit your UV600-W (a portable air cleaner) to use this reflector.
  
• Airpura H600-W:  For allergy and asthma sufferers and full scale particle filtration. Hi-C carbon weave filter traps airborne chemicals and odors. 18 lb. carbon filter, True HEPA Filter. Use in a home up to 2000 sq. ft. where persons live with allergies to pollen, dust mites, dust, etc. as well as to chemical odors.
• Airpura C600-W:  Extra large carbon bed ( 3 Inch) for maximum carbon adsorbtion. Especially effective for airborne chemicals and gases. 26 lb. carbon filter.  Special carbon blends available for specific chemical problems. HEPA-Barrier post filter traps particles. True HEPA Filter. For house or building up to 2000 sq. ft with HVAC forced air heating and air conditioning system.
  

So choose an AirPura whole house unit based upon your needs. Remember that if you have a house larger than 2000 sq. ft, the effectiveness of any of these units is greatly reduced. In many homes larger than 2000 sq. ft, there are 2 or more HVAC units depending upon the home size.

I hope this has helped you to make your decision. Thanks for your question.

Sincerely, Barbara

 

Question about theSafeHome Duo 20 inch by 20 inch by 1 inch 4 Pack and the Safe Home System Cold Air Return Purifier, 16X20X1

Q: "What is the difference between the two units as far as air flow and filtration is concerned? I manage a clinic where we have several very large cold air filter grills. Some physicians use aerosol products during medical treatments. We are also concerns about keeping the level of dust, spores, etc. to a minimum as the forced air HVAC system recirculates air. The filter grilles are hinged. Currently we are using 1 inch fiberglass disposable filters. Thank you for your input. Steve."

Answer: Both types of air filters will fit your 16 x 20 x 1 inch air return filter grille.

The Safe Home Duo, is a two layered polyester filter with a MERV8 rating. The first layer filters the particulates like dust, pollen, etc. The second, inner layer is impregnated with carbon and potassium permanganate that is for chemical removal.The Duo offers the same allergen, odor and chemical removal as the System, but in a single 1" filter. Duos utilize an inner steel frame that creates a filter with self sealing edges for great filtration and whisper quiet operation. SafeHome Duos are available as individual 3 month filters. You may need to replace more often depending upon your facility. To install, you fold the excess material around the filter's internal frame to slide it into the grille and then tuck the remainder in so you can close the cover over the filter slot. This excess material helps seal the edges where the filter fits into the equipment and keeps air from going around the filter through gaps. Air should enter the white side, which traps allergens, and exit through the dark side, which traps gases and odors.

The SafeHome System Annual filter package consists of four pre-filters for dust, pollen, spores, etc. and one pollution filter. The pollution filter absorbs gases and odors and fits into the air duct behind the return grille with filter slot. The System has 125 grams per square foot of activated carbon and FormadaSorb to remove the most common, hazardous pollutants. The replacement filters for the filter slot are electrostatic air purifier filters. These pre-filters should be changed at least every three months.

More frequent changes may be necessary due to a wide variety of circumstances that increase chemical, odors and particles like allergens or dust. Examples of chemical and particulate sources include the following:

• Painting or renovations
• High levels of outdoor pollution
• Burning candles or using air deodorizers
• Cleaning agents
• Shedding Pets
• High activity levels

Rated at MERV 7, these filters are pleated with thin metal wire in diamond shapes covering the pleats. MERV 7 is an industry standard rating that means the filter removes 50% to 70% of particles down to 3 microns in size. With use, removal increases to more than 98% effectiveness.

The manufacturer recommends that the Safe Home System be used in the largest air return grill for each air system. So, one choice is to use the Duo filters in all but the largest air return grill. When you calculate the difference in price, however, you may elect to keep all the grille filters the same especially if they are the same size in each exam or waiting room.

Both the SafeHome Duo and the SafeHome System come in many sizes.

Thank you for your question. Please contact us if you need more information.

Sincerely, Barbara

 

 

 

Question about the Safe Home Duo Air Purify Furnace Filter 16 x 20 x 1 In.

Q:"My furnace in our second home has a one inch filter slot. We run the furnace only in the winter. We have older carpeting and pressed wood cabinets in the kitchen that we think are out-gassing formaldehyde. We've considered an Amaircare whole house system but the cost is high for the frequency of use of our second home. How would your furnace filter help with the formaldehyde problem? We have a 16 x 20 c 1 inch filter slot. Thanks. John."

Answer: I recommend the Safe Home air purification furnace filter because it is so effective. This is a dual filter with a MERV rating of 8. MERV ratil layered polyester filter. There is a white pre-filter attached to a second polyester filter with embedded activated carbon and potassium permanganate. This air purifier filter has an internal steel frame. The polyester extends slightly beyond the metal frame so the filter seals very tightly in the slot. That way allergens, gasses, etc. cannot go around the filter edges.

The white polyester outer layer first receives the air flow: it removes pollen, mold spores, and other common allergens. The second layer features FormaldaSorb™ (potassium permanganate) and activated carbon that traps odors and hazardous gasses, such as formaldehyde, ammonia, and others. These are emitted by cleaning chemicals, paint, particle board, and other household items. No other one inch furnace filters are as effective at removing dust mites, mold spores, pollen, odors, cleaning chemicals, ozone, paint fumes, and common gasses like formaldehyde which triggers asthma and allergies.

The SafeHome Duo utilizes polyester layers as a prefilter and uses carbon and FormaldaSorb injected fibers for further filtration. This filter design uses mechanical filtration which offers the advantage of increased filtration efficiency over time because the particles themselves become part of the filter and there is no reliance on electrostatic charges which degrade over time. Mechanical filtration is particularly advantageous in humid areas or near kitchens because humidity and vapors significantly degrade pleated air filters’ electrostatic charge. By containing multiple densities of material, Duo filters are able to capture more particles while maintaining proper air resistance.

Safe Home Duo Filter Features:

• Dimensions: 16" x 20" x 1"
• Captures up to 95% of common household allergens
• Eliminates odors from pets, paint, cooking, and more
• Uses high density carbon and advanced compounds
• FormaldaSorb™ traps hazardous gasses
• Highly effective and affordable

Change the Duo at least every 3 months. Some conditions may require more frequent changes due to increased pollutants. Examples: furry pets, construction work, painting and smoking.

There are other filter sizes from which to choose as well. These include 12 x 12 x 1, 12 x 24 x 1, 14 x 14 x 1, 14 x 24 x 1, 12 x 25 x 1, 14 x 30 x 1, 20 x 20 x 1, 20 x 25 x 1, 20 x 30 x 1, and 24 x 24 x 1. If you need a custom size, contact us. There is a minimum of 12 units required for custom sizes. We'll get a quote to you in response to your email.

Thanks for your question.

Sincerely,

Barbara

Question about the Amaircare HEPA Filter Air Purifier Model 3000.

Q: "How often should I change the HEPA filter in my Amaircare 3000 portable air cleaner? I have cats and dogs and use it in my bedroom because my husband is allergic. Thanks." Susan

Answer: Usually the HEPA is changed every 2 to 3 years depending upon where the air purifier is used. What is as important is to wipe off the outside of the metal cabinet regularly and to change the pre-filters and inner filters regularly. Typically the outer filter is changed every 3 to 4 months and the inner filter every 6 months. The outer filter is made from foam and can be washed with detergent and water. The inner filter is made from a pure carbon blanket media that removes VOC's (volatile organic compounds like formaldehyde, paint thinner, etc.) and is not washable.

Americair manufactures its own Amaircare® brand HEPA filters in Canada. Filament is bonded to air filter media for structural support and even pleat spacing. After pleating, filters are enclosed in protective screens and cast in food-grade plastisol at both ends for a 100% air seal. 100 square feet of HEPA filtration material captures the smallest particulates. Each Amaircare HEPA filter is then tested for 99.97% efficiency, with a laser particle counter.

The Amaircare 3000 HEPA filter is a 16 inch cartridge filter that also fits the Amaircare 3050 and and Amaircare 4000. (These units are no longer made.) The same intervals should be followed for the other Amaircare air purifiers which include the Amaircare 2500 and the Roomaid with the VOC canister filter or with the standard HEPA and pre- and post-filters. There are also VOC cartridge filters that can be added to all these air purifiers.

Important: Always replace a HEPA air filter if an air purifier is turned off for more than 3 to 5 days. HEPA is a medium in which bacteria, viruses, etc. can grow if moisture collects in the filter media. Constant air flow keeps the HEPA filter media dry and free of such contaminants.

Thank you for your question.

Sincerely, Barbara

Question about the Envirosept Electronic Furnace Filter Model 1625.

Q: "Currently I am using disposable furnace filters. I am considering the Envirosept but wonder if this performs any beter than the washable furnace filters. We do have allergies to dust. Thanks." Frank

Answer:  I have two answers, one based upon personal experience here at our Safe Home Products' office and one based upon information from the manufacturer.

At our offices, we have numerous printers plus the dust and dirt that drifts in from the frequent comings and goings into our large warehouse. We tried a fiberglass filter initially and then replaced it with a 1625 Envirosept furnace panel. The amount of dust that collects on desks, monitors, etc. decreased significantly with the Envirosept. We do have to change the filters about every three weeks.  I, too, am allergic to dust plus pollen and more. The EnviroSept keeps the air clean so I'm not sneezing!

Second, the manufacturer, Aqua Air Technologies shares that there is no way to compare the EnviroSept to either the frictional electrostatic filters or the standard fiberglass ones that you throw away. Mike explains that the Envirosept is up to a thousand times more effective under normal operating conditions.  "In theory, the plastic/glass strands are supposed to develop a static electric charge as the air passes through the filter, much like when you comb your hair. However, you need very low humidity to create any type of low level static charge. This charge is quickly lost as soon as the filter collects any dust, which insulates the plastic/glass strands and prevents the generation of any static charge. It would appear that the only benefit these filters offer is that they are permanent. Further, you do have the dirty task of washing these filters every two-three months. In addition, these filters have been known to cause major air restriction problems after several years that may damage your heating/cooling system."

Our unit is 5 years old and we've experienced no problems. The Envirosept units come in many sizes. All the units we sell come with 14 filter pads, enough for most people for at least 1 year.  The power used is minimal and the cost cannot be beat! Changing the filters is easy. Just unplug the panel. Slip it out. Open the clips. Remove the dirty filters, replace into the one inch slot after fastening the clips and plug in. Wipe off the grids with a damp microfiber cloth if necessary and let dry before refilling and replacing.

Thanks for your question.

Sincerely,

Barbara

Question about the Roomaid Air Purifier.

Q: "I am interested in purchasing the Roomaid since I understand the unit can be operated both in a motor home or car on a 12VDC power adapterand also on standard AC power. My concern is maintaining the unit. What is involved with that? Do you have any personal experience with the unit? Thanks. Mary

Answer: The Roomaid is made in Canada by Amaircare. I've run a "white" ( it is really cream colored) Roomaid in my home office continuously (except for when I wash the prefilters) for over 9 years. I've changed the HEPA once and the pre-filter maybe 4 times. By the way, I have allergies and have run an Amaircare 3000 continuously in our bedroom for 9 years as well. Original motors still purr along quietly. (German motors.)

Both units are especially needed since Buddy the Siamese cat joined the family a year ago. Since Buddy likes to sleep in his cat bed right next to my monitor, the Roomaid prefilter does pick up a lot of cat hair over the course of a month (don't believe everything you read about Siamese shedding very little). The annual filter kit includes both pre and post filters There is also an optional VOC carbon filter if you are sensitive to formaldehyde or other volatile organic compounds.

To maintain the unit, turn the unit off and wash the prefilters in soapy water, rinse thoroughly and allow to dry. Remember that HEPA filters can become a source of mold or bacterial growth if air does not move through them nearly continuously. Never have an air purifier with a HEPA filter sit idle for more than 3 or 4 days or you need to replace the HEPA.

To change the snap on HEPA replacement filter you just jank a bit (or maybe use a knife for leverage) and pull off the entire top of the unit which is the HEPA. There are 4 or 5 little peg inserts that snap into the bottom of the Roomaid where the motor is. Then push the new unit on and put on the new prefilter. The post filter sits in the middle of the HEPA unit.

You could add a scent to the top of the HEPA unit. There is a little round container for scent. I choose not to since I am allergic to begin with.

For use in the car, there is a seat belt clip included with the optional 12volt power adapter.

In my opinion, there is not a sturdier unit available in this price range. And certainly maintenance is simple as well.

Thanks for your question.

Sincerely, Barbara

Question about portable air purifier units such as the MiracleAir PM 600 and the Air Pura UV600 for waiting rooms, waiting areas in restaurants, etc. that can help reduce exposure to viruses and bacteria.

Q: "For those of us who work in offices, medical clinics, etc, exposure to viruses, colds, etc. is part of every day. What air purifier do you recommend to reduce the "air pollution" in waiting areas from coughing and sneezing? I don't want to wear a mask or stay home. Thanks. Dave."

Answer: HEPA air purifiers with UV germicidal lights are the best proactive option for those areas. Do continue to take those actions recommended such as the University of Connecticut website: cough and sneeze into an arm or elbow, not into hands; wash hands often with soap and water, especially after a sneeze or cough; sing the “ABC Song” while washing to make sure hands are thoroughly washed; use alcohol-based hand sanitizers; avoid touching eyes, nose, or mouth; avoid contact with others who are ill; stay home from work or school and avoid contact with others if ill; get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

These air purifiers use true HEPA in their filter cartridges, too. Consider using one in a room with a sick child or adult. Remember that HEPA air filtraiton systems must be run continuously to avoid bacterial growth within the cartrdige.

We recommend you consider either of these two quality portable air purifiers with UV germicidal lights:

1. MiracleAir. Made in USA. The Black MiracleAir PM600 or the white MiracleAir PM600 both feature twin double UV lights plus three filters including a potassium permanganate filter for odor removal.
2. AirPura. Made in Canada. The AirPura Black Air Pura UV600 features the UV light inside the HEPA cartridge. Additional filters are available. Colors: black, cream or white.

We recommend that one or more units be placed in patient waiting areas, employee lounges, restaurant waiting areas or other areas where groups congregate. This is one of the better proactive measures for maintaining good health.

Thanks for your question.

Sincerely, Barbara

Q: "Before I buy an EnviroSept furnace filter panel, I need some questions answered.

1. Can this unit be used in a heat pump forced air unit?
2. With a gas pack unit?
3. Is there a reduction of air flow through the filter? How much?"

Answer: The answers to questions 1 and 2 is "yes." The answer to question 3: yes the air flow is reduced somewhat. A clean fiberglass filter has an airflow reduction of .05 and this restriction with the Envirosept panel is .20.

Please let us know the size of your current fiberglass filter so we can help you choose the correct unit. Thanks for your question.

Sincerely, Barbara

Comments: The Envirosept comes in sizes to fit all HVAC units. Maintenance is minimal: polywool filters need changed every month for most homes. Once a year or so, the panel needs wiped off with a microfiber or lint-free cloth.