Safe-Home.com

Question about the SafeHome Duo 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 the second, inner layer being impregnated with carbon and potassium permanganate.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 Xtra Fresh Air XFA-1500

Q: "How does this air purifier work? Can I install it myself? Does it fit all return air ducts?" Thanks. Steve.

Answer: The Xtra Fresh Air XFA-1500 replaces the Solaire unit that we previously sold. (If you need replacement bulbs for the Solaire, we have those available. Yes, you can install this unit and it will fit all cold air return air ducts. Where it goes in in the duct work nearest to the air filter.

The X-tra Fresh Air Purifier is a UV-C germicidal light element device that is set to turn on when the blower on your HVAC system is on. For best results, leave the blower running all the time. At a minimum, run the unit during summer if you live in a humid environment and use central air.

• UV-C Germicidal Lamp Element: Produces cleansing rays similar to solar rays. Bathes cold air return (duct work) of central heating and cooling systems with germicidal UV-C rays!
• Power Cord: Fast, Easy, Convenient. No hard wiring required. Plug Xtra Fresh Air into the nearest 110 volt outlet. Power cord is 9 feet long with 2-prong plug.
• O3: Generates super Oxygenated Air (O3) in a scientifically-proven, safe, balanced concentration of 20 to 30 parts per billion (PPB) to purifier and freshen your household air … odors are destroyed, not masked.
• Secure-hold Magnets: Simple installation and maintenance as magnets securely hold the Xtra Fresh Air unit in place no screws, and a simple fast cleaning and bulb replacement.

The only maintenance is a yearly change of the germicidal bulb. The bulb may appear to be working but it has lost its ability to provide UV-C and O3.

Along with the Xtra Fresh Air, we recommend installing an Envirosept electronic furnace filter panel if your panel size is one inch thick. These units come in dozens of sizes. Just see what size replaceable filter you are using and purchase accordingly. Just slip into the filter opening, plug into a nearby outlet and begin to work. Change filters every few weeks to monthly depending upon your needs. Here at the office, we change ours out every two to three weeks because of all the printers in use.

Thank you for your questions.

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.

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 filts
2. AirPura. Made in Canada. The AirPura Black Air Pura UV600 features the UV light inside the HEPA cartridge. 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.

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.