If you are allergic to mold or dust or suffer from respiratory issues, indoor air quality becomes a top concern. Contractors often leave behind contaminants in residential and commercial facilities. Exposure to these compounds can be a problem for workers, especially in the long run. 

Using air scrubber HVAC systems for filtration and purification is the latest trend to reduce these particles. These devices are simple to install and maintain, and they provide admirable results. Air scrubbers are new to the market, which causes confusion among users. This guide focuses on answering common user questions and debunking myths. Here’s what to know about these devices!

What Are Your Top Air Scrubber Questions?

Scrubbers are portable filtration systems. They are portable and connectible to the HVAC installation. Their task is to purify the air by seizing particles that could cause allergies and respiratory issues. Scrubbers are lightweight, ensuring that a single person can transfer them. You can use them on multiple job sites, providing long-term value for contractors. Now that you’re familiar with the basics, here are the top questions about these systems!

1. How Do Air Scrubbers Work?

The most frequent consideration is how the scrubbers purify the air. Their primary working process is similar to other systems. The devices come with special filters that capture airborne particles and decrease contaminants. The scrubber draws bacteria, mold, asbestos, and other dangerous compounds multiple times per hour.

As the air goes inside the scrubber, it needs to pass through several filters. Those filters purify and secure a healthier environment. The filters vary, but most belong to the HEPA category. These are high-efficiency particulate air components that can capture over 99.9% of contaminants.

2. What Different Parts Are There in Air Scrubbers?

Learning about filters included in air scrubbers is essential to understanding how they work. You can divide all components into four categories:

• Pre-filters. The first phase in the filtration process includes capturing the biggest contaminants. Its task is to remove large particles and maintain an optimal airflow. Thanks to that, the device can be faster in capturing smaller contaminants. Although these are “big compounds,” they aren’t visible to the naked eye.

• Primary filtering. The initial stage won’t capture contaminants smaller than a single micron. They’’ remain in the air, but as they circulate through the scrubber, they come across the primary filter. It’s a high-quality part that captures compounds down to 0.3 microns. You’ll notice this filter is heavier and thicker than the initial unit.

• Carbon filters. Not all scrubbers have this component. You might encounter an Aerus air scrubber with it, but not all brands and models use the part. Carbon is a wise addition in conditions where toxic chemicals and pollutants are present. Solid waste disposal, portable toilets, can lead to smelly odors that require a carbon filter. It can absorb the scents and eliminate them from the air.

• Fans. Some call these blowers, and their task is to ensure optimal air circulation. The component draws the polluted air and lets the filters do the job. You’ll find fans of different strengths in scrubbers.

3. What Is the Difference Between Dry and Wet Air Scrubbers?

While there are many scrubber types available, the two main classes are wet and dry units. The names suggest how they operate, and both can achieve high efficiency.

Dry scrubbers come with reagents that circulate the exhaust stream. Thanks to that, they can target specific pollutants. Once the reagent interacts with the contaminant, it removes it from the air. The heat burns some pollutants, and others remain in the filter. Dry scrubbers are eco-friendly and don’t need water. They are great at removing acidic gases and solvents.

Wet scrubbers require liquid to clean the air. The common option is water, but other specialized solutions are available. The liquid enters the stream and interacts with contaminants. It captures them in the flow, making it an excellent choice for most gasses. Wet scrubbers can deal with chlorides, ammonia, and similar contaminants.

4. When Should You Use Air Scrubbers?

Scrubbers are an integral part of cleaning the indoor air. Purifiers can do an excellent job in maintaining optimal quality. But these devices remove particles after construction work to achieve that level. If you are building or renovating a home, using air scrubbers is imperative.

Here’s what these systems will remove:

• Mold. It often appears in houses and building structures. The fungus grows fast and can damage surfaces and air quality. Mold can be dangerous even for those without respiratory issues.

• Dust mites. These allergies are frequent, but scrubbers can remove 100% of these contaminants.

• Gases and chemicals. These can lead to serious health problems if present in the air. They appear during construction work, so it’s imperative to remove them.

5. Why It’s Important to Use Air Scrubbers?

Experts suggest the indoor air quality is five times lower than outside. That leads to potential health problems. But removing contaminated particles from the air isn’t the only scrubber’s benefit. It also comes with these advantages:

• A long-term health investment. People living in those structures will benefit from premium air quality. That reduces the risk of medical issues developing from breathing contaminants. The same is true for construction company staff, who works at sites loaded with hazardous particles.

• Compliance with standards and laws. The regulations vary, but most authorities are strict with indoor air quality. Hazardous pollutants could render a location inhabitable. Ensuring you remove them and comply with relevant air quality standards is imperative for pro contractors.

• Protecting HVAC systems. Contaminants could overload the filters on your heating and air conditioning units. Scrubbers remove dangerous particles before they enter the HVAC systems. That promotes their lifespan and functionality.

• Freshening the air. Smelly odors and harmful gasses that produce them are also what scrubbers remove. Moreover, some devices come with refreshing scents.

6. How Much Do Air Scrubbers Cost?

The price varies and goes anywhere from $500 to $4K or more. You can find powerful air scrubbers for smaller sites for up to $1K. Many online stores often have sales that secure tempting deals. Entry-range scrubbers shouldn’t cost more than $1.5K.

If you’d like a premium unit, the price could increase to over $4K. You might consider air scrubber rental for these solutions, especially if you don’t require them frequently. But if you are a contractor that often uses these devices, it could be a wise investment.

7. What Are the Best Air Scrubbers?

Have you decided to get a scrubber but are unsure about the right model? Sticking to premium brands like Alorair and Electrocorp is imperative. Factors like power, filter strength, and other features depend on your requirement. These devices are a great choice for professionals and homeowners!

• Alorair Cleanshield HEPA 550 Scrubber

The entry-range device is versatile and can help remove hazardous airborne particles anywhere. That includes industrial plants, chemical storage, hospitals, etc. 

Alorair designed the device to use a three-stage process. It has a main HEPA 500 filter and carbon addition to remove undesired odors. Pet dander, smoke, chemicals, and other smells won’t be a problem after using this scrubber.

The device only weighs six ounces, making it ideal for transport. It ensures more portability than a commercial-grade dehumidifier. The advanced system also includes a notification feature when you need to replace the filter.

You can use the Alorair Cleanshield scrubber in multiple positions. You can combine several units to ensure maximum purification. The manufacturer added a free-bearing motor with a low noise level. Even when operating at high speeds, it will remain quiet and only consume 3Amps of electricity.

• Electrocorp Air Rhino Scrubber

The next scrubber on this list is a high-end unit for demanding industrial needs. Air Rhino, designed by Electrocorp, offers multiple speed options. The device comes with a standard filter for large particles. It also includes HEPA and carbon layers, ready to remove smaller contaminants. The airflow goes up to 1,000CFM, which is impressive.

Despite the huge power, the Electrocorp scrubber is small. Its dimensions are 37x26x26, making it suitable for transport. In addition, you can pick between horizontal and vertical housing. The latter is ideal for restricted spaces due to its minimal footprint. Optional additions also include UV bulbs and a flange adaptor. The latter ensures outdoor ventilation or negative air pressure.

• Alorair Pureairo HEPA Scrubber

Pureairo is another example of an excellent job done by this manufacturer. The device comes with HEPA and activated carbon filters. You’ll notice a large duct in this scrubber. The air intake is 14-inch, ensuring airflow up to 750CGM.

You’ll love that the noise level never exceeds 69dBa. The product weighs around 13 ounces, and its cord goes up to 25 feet. That ensures maximum portability and allows placing at most locations regardless of the outlet’s position.

Alorair implemented the UV-C light technology that works well with filters. It helps destroy cigarette smoke, dust, and other irritants. The product has ETL/CETL certification and comes with a 10-year warranty.

Final Thoughts

The indoor air quality standards are higher than ever. Homeowners and workers in contracting companies worry about what they’ll inhale daily. That makes getting an air scrubber by Aerus or another reputable brand a top priority. 

Today’s industry giants have premium filtration systems connected to HVAC systems. If you get a top-quality scrubber, you can use it in multiple locations and reduce air contamination efficiently. Feel free to browse online shops and order the desired unit from the comfort of your office!