Does aircon purify air? This article will answer this question most comprehensively. Aircon systems are widely used to cool and dehumidify indoor spaces. However, a common question is whether aircon units can also purify the air and improve indoor air quality. This article will explore this topic and provide a step-by-step guide to enhancing air quality through air conditioning.
Does Aircon Purify Air?
Aircon systems operate by drawing warm air from a room and releasing the cooled air back into the room. The primary function of an aircon is to control the temperature. However, in modern aircon systems, many advanced features are integrated.
Therefore, the question arises does an air conditioner purify air? Some of the modern features can help purify the air. LS Aircon Servicing Singapore offers aircon relocation, aircon repair, and aircon installation services, answering the question, “Does AC purify air?” in the most comprehensive way. Let’s go through the answer:
Step 1: Know Your Aircon Types
Different aircon systems offer varying levels of air purification. Window air conditioners are compact units typically installed in windows or walls. They are equipped with basic filters to capture large particles like dust. Split aircon systems consist of an indoor and an outdoor unit with advanced filtration systems to capture smaller particles and neutralise odours.
Portable air conditioners, which are movable units, usually have basic filters but may also include additional air purification features. Central air conditioning systems cool entire buildings or large areas and often include high-quality filters.
Step 2: Understanding Air Filters
Most aircon units come with filters that play a crucial role in improving air quality. Standard filters, usually made of fibreglass or polyester, are designed to capture large particles and need to be cleaned regularly. High-efficiency particulate Air (HEPA) filters can capture up to 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. Therefore, they are highly effective in removing dust, pollen, mould spores, and other allergens.
Activated carbon filters remove odours and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air by adsorbing gases and odours. Therefore, they can make the indoor air smell fresher. Electrostatic filters use an electric charge to attract and trap particles and effectively remove fine particles. They’re often washable and easily cleanable.
Step 3: Enhancing Air Purification
So, let’s revise the question again: “Does aircon purify air?” While aircon units can improve air quality to some extent, additional steps can enhance their effectiveness. Regular maintenance is essential for optimal performance, which includes regularly cleaning or replacing filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Moreover, replacing the normal filters with higher-quality filters, such as HEPA and activated carbon filters, can significantly improve air purification abilities.
HEPA and activated carbon filters, in addition to your aircon system, can further improve indoor air quality, especially in rooms where you spend the most time. Furthermore, high-quality filters can also control the humidity level. High humidity levels can promote the growth of mould and mildew, which can negatively impact air quality. Ensure your aircon unit effectively dehumidifies the air and use dehumidifiers in particularly humid areas of your home.
Step 4: Understanding Air Quality Benefits
An aircon system with air purification features can provide several benefits. High-quality filters can remove allergens and make the indoor environment more comfortable for allergy sufferers. Cleaner air can reduce the risk of respiratory issues caused by pollutants.
Activated carbon filters can effectively remove unpleasant odours from the air and maintain a fresher-smelling home. HEPA filters can capture fine particles, including those from pollution and smoke, to reduce the overall airborne particles.
Step 5: Limitations of Aircon in Air Purification
While aircon units with advanced filters can improve air quality, they have limitations. Standard aircon units without advanced filters may not significantly improve air quality, as their primary function is cooling, not purification. Filters need to be regularly cleaned or replaced to maintain their effectiveness.
Failure to maintain the filters can lead to reduced air quality and system performance. Even the best filters cannot remove all types of pollutants; gaseous pollutants, for example, may require specialised filters or additional air purification systems. Moreover, running an air conditioner continuously to improve air quality can increase energy consumption and costs.
Conclusion
Does aircon purify air? The answer is yes as a part-time job and no as a full-time job. Aircon units come with different kinds of air filters that filter the outside air, cool and spread it in the indoor environment. Moreover, aircon units can also dehumidify the air and reduce the chances of mould growth in the indoor space.
However, leaving air purification solely on aircon is not a wise decision because aircon units are primarily designed to control the temperature. Moreover, using an aircon as an air purifier can enhance its usage and thus reduce energy consumption and cost. Therefore, an air purifier in conjunction with an aircon can be used to achieve most of the benefits.