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 the SafeHome™ Duo 20 x 20 x 1 4 Pack and the Safe Home System Cold Air Return Purifier, 20 X 20 X 1

Q: "We just bought a new retirement home in Arizona. Instead of the usual furnace filter system we had up north, this HVAC system has one very large cold return air grille high on the wall in the family room.  Up north there were lots of cold air returns but none had a place for a filter and none were this large. We understand this is the new way of filtering air. The grille tips out and holds a one inch filter panel. We want to avoid any unnecessary house cleaning. Which cold air system do you recommend and why? Thanks. Pete."

Answer: Particularly in Southern and Western states where air conditioning is used most of the year, the newer homes have filter slots in return air grilles. One website notes that furnace filters located in the furnace plenum near the motor are meant to keep the motor clean, not the household air. The less dirt that gets to the motor, the more likely you'll get longer life. The problem is that dust and dirt get into the duct work. So filter grills not only keep the household air cleaner but also keep your duct work cleaner. Modifying older HVAC systems is difficult because the actual ductwork is often much smaller. If you put too high of a MERV rated filter into the furnace slot, you'll cut down the air movement and possibly have an overheated motor,too.

Safe Home™ sells the Safe Home Duo and the Safe Home System. Both are disposable filter products which means no messy washing, waiting for filters to dry and most likely running the unit without any filtration during that time.

The Duo has an internal metal frame with two filters, one for dust, mold, dirt and pollen and the other for gasses such as formaldehyde. The unit fits very tightly into the tip out filter grille holder because the filtration media surrounds the metal frame. The second layer, the inner layer, is impregnated with carbon and potassium permanganate which capture the VOC's such as formaldehyde and ammonia. We suggest changing that filter about every 3 months unless your home is subject to dust from remodeling, etc.

The second, the Safe Home System, consists of 5 filters of which 4 are electrostatic. These are pleated with wires that create the static charge. These 4 pre-filters that capture dust, pollen, dirt, etc. fit into the grille itself. The 5th filter, the VOC or volatile organic chemical filter, actually fits into the duct opening behind the grille. So it fits into the actual duct work. 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.

NOTE: Neither of these filters will remove carbon monoxide, radon gas or carbon dioxide. We recommend installing carbon monoxide monitors on every level of your home and in or near all sleeping areas. Test units regularly. Replace batteries at least annually.

So, either unit will meet your needs. Do check and make sure the carbon chemical fits. The Safe Home Duo and the Safe Home Filter System come in sizes to fit almost everyone's return air grille and/or furnace slot. If you have custom sized slots, please contact us for pricing on special sizes.

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 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