Choosing an air purification system: A guide to breathing easy

Understanding the types of air purification systems, their effectiveness, and the importance of pre-purchase research and monitoring air quality.

  (photo credit: INGIMAGE)
(photo credit: INGIMAGE)

The following article was published originally in August 2023. We are sharing it now for your perusal, but take into account that the following information may be outdated.

Numerous studies, including those by the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), have found a direct link between cases of respiratory, heart, and circulatory diseases and exposure to indoor or workplace air pollution.

To meet the need for clean air at home, in public spaces, and in factories, air filtration and purification systems have been developed. "Naturally, each space requires a specific system, the system installed in the factory is not exactly the same as the one installed in a private home, but the technology is similar," explains Ofer Nidam, an aerodynamics engineer and CEO of Dusmit, which manufactures air purification and filtration systems.

Nidam specifies the types of systems: "In general, there are two main types of systems: passive systems and active systems. The passive system relies solely on filters, so it tends to clog quickly and be less active. The active system, on the other hand, is more efficient but also more dangerous." Nidam recommends comprehensive market research before purchase: "It is advisable to check which standards the company you are buying from adheres to. Could the system emit pollutants?"

According to Nidam, some systems not only allow for purification but also for monitoring air quality: "Some of the systems, including ours, come with a dedicated application. The application monitors air quality and provides the user with data directly to their mobile device. Additionally, the application allows the user to control the system, adjust the level of activity, and even activate weekly plans."