Written by Husna Sultana

What is an air purifier?

An air purifier is a device that helps you filter air of micro-organisms, VOC’s, harmful chemicals, mold, smoke.

What are different types of filters?

  • HEPA filter (High efficiency particulate air)– filters 99.97 % of particles as small as 0.3 micron. It can capture pollen, hair, dust, pet dander and micro-organisms. It cannot remove chemical fumes, VOCs, and odors
  • Carbon filter – Activated carbon removes VOC’s, odors, and chemical fumes
  • Pre-filter-This filter captures the largest particles (such as hair and dirt) -larger than 5 microns and helps extend the life of the other internal filters.
Where should the air purifier be placed in the classroom?
  • At the source of pollution/ High traffic area
  • Obstruction-free area
  • Away from the windows
  • Air purifier should be placed on the floor, it is not necessary to mount air purifier on anything.

Should the air purifier be on during the lunch hour?

Yes, the air purifier should be kept on during the lunch hour and recess to clean the air when the children are out of classroom.

How many air purifiers does one classroom need?

It depends upon the size of the room and number of students in the class. Two air purifiers in a classroom are ideal.

Will it also help the students/staff in any other way apart from keeping the air virus-free?

Air purifiers also help combat with asthma, allergies, mold, odors and VOCs, and have been shown to improve cognitive ability.

The EPA states that nearly 1 in 13 children of school-age has asthma, the leading cause of school absenteeism due to chronic illness. There is substantial evidence that indoor environmental exposure to allergens, such as dust mites, pests and molds, plays a role in triggering asthma symptoms. These allergens are common in schools. There is also evidence that exposure to diesel exhaust from school buses and other vehicles exacerbates asthma and allergies. 

  • How often should we change the filters? (Recommended for Airpura air purifiers)
  • HEPA Filters: 3-5 years (depending on the usage)
  • Carbon Filters: 2 years 
  • Pre-Filters: 1 year (depending on the usage)

9) Which is the best Air purifier for schools?

Airpura UV600

Viruses, bacteria, mold, chemicals, and particles go through four levels of filtration for complete

removal of airborne microorganisms like influenza, gastro, and VOC’s

1) 18 lbs of custom blended activated carbon adsorbs chemicals, VOC’s  gases,and odors

2) Medical grade HEPA filter provides powerful particle reduction of 99.97% of particulate matter as small as 0.3 microns (including PM2.5, pollen, dust, dander) 

3) Pre-filter captures larger particles like dust and hair, preventing them from clogging the HEPA filter

4) UV light that provides an additional level of protection against pathogens.