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What are the Different Types of Air Filtration Equipment?

S. Zaimov
S. Zaimov

Air filtration equipment is used for cleaning air. It can also help regulate temperature, and often contains a filter, or barrier, to capture harmful airborne particles, such as dust. Air filtration equipment is often installed to help clean the interior environments of homes, restaurants, and larger industrial buildings, such as factories.

Air purifiers are typically used for the specific purpose of removing dirt from air. Most of these products also have built-in ionizers, which are devices that release tiny particles called electrons into the air. These electrons attach themselves to particles from tobacco smoke, dust and other pollutants, and form larger, heavier groups called ions. The larger size of ions makes it easier for air or vacuum cleaners to catch and suck in such harmful particles.

A dirty air filter.
A dirty air filter.

Air conditioners are widely used in homes and offices to help manage the temperature. These machines create a cycle by drawing in hot air, cooling it down and releasing it back through a filter at the desired temperature. Freon gas is an important component in this process. This gas initially heats the air, allowing it to pass through a series of tubes until it cools down and into a liquid. The same gas in a lower-pressure capacity then forces the liquid to evaporate into cold air, which is released back into the environment.

Air conditioning units are one example of air filtration equipment.
Air conditioning units are one example of air filtration equipment.

Humidifiers and dehumidifiers are also considered to be air filtration equipment. Their purpose is to control the humidity, or the amount of water vapor in the air. Cold weather usually brings low levels of humidity, which can cause dry skin and stuffy noses. On the other hand, during warmer months, and especially in places that are close to natural bodies of water, air can be extremely hot and humid, which can contribute to the spread of diseases. Humidifiers and dehumidifiers respectively increase or decrease the desired amount of water vapor in the air, and can help people to maintain an air humidity of around 50%, which is usually the optimal condition.

Humidifiers are used frequently for air filtration.
Humidifiers are used frequently for air filtration.

Air filtration equipment can also be installed in buildings. Sometimes called flush mount filtration, such a device can eliminate the need for opening windows and allowing unclean air inside. The larger size of the filters can also help to better control temperature and humidity. These systems are often used in restaurants or big facilities that have a lot of people coming in and out. Flush mount filtration is often secured to a permanent structure above the ceiling, such as a support beam.

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    • A dirty air filter.
      By: Edward Stephens
      A dirty air filter.
    • Air conditioning units are one example of air filtration equipment.
      By: AndG
      Air conditioning units are one example of air filtration equipment.
    • Humidifiers are used frequently for air filtration.
      By: StockPhotosArt
      Humidifiers are used frequently for air filtration.