Are Air Quality HVAC Add-on Systems Worth Buying?

[golfjuly11]

Met with cooling and heating rep who suggested either an iWave-R Air Ionization System, or a Patriot Carbon UV unit. Both types of units are attached to the inside of the HVAC system and are marketed to eliminate odors and improve air quality in the home from dust and biological contaminants, etc. We suffer from allergies so are considering making this purchase. After doing research, it seems like a legitimate add-on. As they are quite costly (over $1,100), I would appreciate any thoughts or insights on these air quality systems. Thank you.

[retiredguy123]

I wouldn't buy it. Why not have your air tested by an independent testing company to see if they can detect allergens? If so, will the HVAC company guarantee to get rid of them? I doubt it.

[villagetinker]

I agree with above, with the addition to have yourselves tested for allergies so you know what you need to deal with, you may be allergic to stuff OUTSIDE and the additional equipment will do nothing for you.

[Babubhat]

If you are not satisfied stuck with an expensive gadget. Pass. Try a room ionizer first. Can always return it

[Topspinmo]

Don’t they have expensive air filters that will filter majority allergies out?

Best Air Filters for Allergies & Asthma | Air Filters Delivered (https://www.airfiltersdelivered.com/c/reduce-asthma-allergies)

[retiredguy123]

Don’t they have expensive air filters that will filter majority allergies out?

Best Air Filters for Allergies & Asthma | Air Filters Delivered (https://www.airfiltersdelivered.com/c/reduce-asthma-allergies)
I switched from a Merv 8 to a Merv 11 filter, and it seems to reduce dust and the unit runs quieter. You could try a higher Merv filter, but I wouldn't leave it in for more than a month or so because it can reduce the supply air flow. Lots of different filters available on Amazon. A better selection than the local stores.

[Mortal1]

ask the doctor who you use for your allergies. he/she will no more than anyone on this website or most others.

[saratogaman]

Had a Lenox PureAir sytstem installed a few years back. While I have no quantifiable data to prove it, the air does seem cleaner, there is less dust and odors go away very quickly. For me, an important feature is the UV bulb part to purify air. The two filters are easily changed (only need to do it once a year) and the bulbs last very long -- maybe two years or more. Filters & bulbs available from Amazon. Don't recall price but it was in the $1,000 range back then. It's not easily installed by owner.

[Topspinmo]

I switched from a Merv 8 to a Merv 11 filter, and it seems to reduce dust and the unit runs quieter. You could try a higher Merv filter, but I wouldn't leave it in for more than a month or so because it can reduce the supply air flow. Lots of different filters available on Amazon. A better selection than the local stores.

I did too, agree, the finer filters does reduce air volume some. Especially on heat cycle which usually runs at slower RPM. I had to bump my squirrel cage speed up some.

[tsmall22204]

Had that done, they setup all kinds of measuring devices and charge you an arm and a leg to do so. Then want you to purchase a product that costs the other arm and leg.

[Luggage]

I would get a higher Mirv filter first. Well some may have more restrictive air flow others do not and there is some excellent manufacturers of filters in the USA that can explain this to you. All better ones will have the CFM marked on their packages

[Redwood8300]

Kind of long but here is what CR says-
What Air Purifiers Do Well
The air purifiers that perform well in CR’s tests prove in our labs to be good at filtering dust, smoke, and pollen from the air. Multiple studies of room air purifiers show that using HEPA filters results in reductions of 50 percent or higher of particulate matter. In one 2018 study of about 130 households, filtration resulted in about a 30 percent reduction of coarse particles, such as dust.

But how does that affect your health? Almost a dozen studies—including ones conducted in Vancouver, British Columbia; Taipei, Taiwan; and Massachusetts—looked at the cardiovascular effects of air purification and showed improved cardiovascular health among participants. An EPA review of eight studies (PDF) found that purified air delivered modest improvements in at least one health area, such as allergy symptoms. And asthmatic participants in a 2018 study by the University of California, Davis (PDF), reported a 20 percent reduction in clinic visits.

Still, there are caveats. The scientific and medical communities have not definitively linked the use of air purifiers to health benefits, because reported health benefits are inconsistent among participants and there have been very few long-term studies. Plus, some studies had other variables at play, such as the regular use of a vacuum cleaner (CR can help you choose one of those, too) or pillow covers, and the removal of pets from the bedroom, all of which can affect results.

As for the coronavirus, air purifiers with HEPA filters are capable of capturing the droplets that the virus travels in (when people cough, talk, or breathe). But you’ll need one that consistently draws in enough air to reduce virus particles.

What Air Purifiers Don’t Do
An air purifier can remove allergens only while they’re floating in the air. Larger, heavier allergens, such as mites, mold, and pollen, settle to the ground so quickly that air purifiers can’t capture them in time.

What We Don’t Yet Know
Radon is another blind spot for air purifiers. Studies are inconclusive on air purifiers’ ability to tackle this dangerous gas. There is insufficient research on air purifiers that address gaseous pollutants as a group, so it’s unclear how effective they are in that regard. There is also limited data on the effect of ionizer air purifiers on health.

That brings us to another important consideration: the various kinds of air purifier technology available.

A group of air purifiers in CR's test lab.
Air Purifier Ratings by Consumer Reports
Types of Air Purifiers
There are several technologies air purifiers employ for reducing indoor pollution. Some work better than others. And some can even be bad for your health.

Models with mechanical filters: This is the type that CR tests. Air purifiers with pleated filters use fans to force air through a dense web of fine fibers that trap particles. Filters with very fine mesh are HEPA filters—those certified to collect 99.97 percent of particles of a certain size (0.3 micrometers in diameter—smoke and paint pigments, for example). HEPA filters can remove larger particles, too, including dust, pollen, and some mold spores, while they’re suspended in the air. (Note that some filters labeled “HEPA-type” or “HEPA-like” have not been certified to meet the requirements of a true HEPA filter but may still perform adequately in our tests.)

As for limitations, mechanical filters don’t help with gases or odors. And they can be expensive to maintain. Mechanical filters need to be replaced every six to 12 months; they can cost up to $200 per filter but typically max out at $80.

Models with activated carbon filters: Rather than catch particles like mechanical filters, sorbent filters use activated carbon that can capture some odor-causing molecules from the air. They may also tackle some gases, but they’re not particularly effective against formaldehyde, ammonia, or nitrogen oxide. Because activated carbon filters don’t combat particles, many air purifiers will have both an activated carbon filter and a pleated filter for catching particles. Activated carbon gets saturated faster than a pleated filter, though, and requires replacement more frequently—every three months, as opposed to every six to 12 months for pleated filters. Make sure to budget for replacements accordingly: Activated carbon filters cost up to $50 each.

Ozone generators: These machines produce ozone, a molecule that can react with certain pollutants to alter their chemical composition. This can result in dangerous indoor air quality, and CR does not recommend these types of air purifiers. Makers of ozone generators often claim that the devices emit safe levels of ozone, but in the past, our tests found that even at low settings, some ozone generators quickly exceeded the Food and Drug Administration’s limit of 0.05 parts per million for medical devices. Plus, studies reviewed by the EPA have shown that low levels of ozone—the chief ingredient of smog—don’t effectively destroy indoor pollutants. Research also shows that ozone has been linked to decreases in lung function and increased risks of throat irritation, coughing, chest pain, and lung tissue inflammation. Ozone exposure might also worsen asthma, emphysema, and bronchitis.

Electronic air purifiers: Electrostatic precipitators and ionizers charge particles in the air so that they stick to plates on the machine or to nearby surfaces by a magnetic-like attraction. CR doesn’t typically test electronic air purifiers or recommend them, because they can produce ozone.

Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI): Some manufacturers claim their air purifiers kill airborne viruses, bacteria, and fungal spores with UV lamps. But some bacteria and mold spores are resistant to UV radiation. To work, the UV light must be powerful enough and the exposure must last long enough—minutes to hours rather than the few seconds typical of most UVGI air purifiers—to be effective. CR does not test UVGI technology, though some mechanical air purifiers we test may have the function.

Photocatalytic oxidation: PCO uses ultraviolet radiation and a photocatalyst, such as titanium dioxide, to produce hydroxyl radicals that oxidize gaseous pollutants. Depending on the pollutant, this reaction can generate harmful byproducts, such as ozone, formaldehyde, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide. CR does not currently test PCO technology. There have been few field investigations done on the effectiveness of PCO air purifiers, but one laboratory study conducted by researchers at Syracuse University in New York reported that the devices did not effectively remove any of the VOCs typically found in indoor air.

A variant of PCO known as PECO emerged in 2017 from the manufacturer Molekule. We tested the Molekule Air purifier, and it did not score well in our tests for dust, smoke, and pollen removal. Since then we've also tested the more expensive Molekule Air Pro, which performed better at removing contaminants on its highest setting but did not impress in CR’s other air purifier tests.

[Treetops]

Two suggestions, for what they are worth:-
I agree with previous response that one thing you can do is to make sure you use Merv 11 filters on your HVAC. You can get them at Home Depot. They should help a bit.
I can’t respond to a whole house filter but we have a portable floor model air purifier that we keep mostly in the bedroom. It seems to work well for sleeping at night. It is automatic in that it changes speed depending on the purity of the air. It has a HEPA filter that lasts about 9 months. It is the smaller model of the room air purifier recommended by Consumer Reports: Alen BreatheSmart 45i. Rated to clean an 800 sq ft area in 30 min. Bought it on Amazon for $400. We are very pleased with it - look it up.

[croughwell]

The AC airhandler passes the air through the system so quickly that any UV bulb treatment is inefffective!

[noslices1]

Met with cooling and heating rep who suggested either an iWave-R Air Ionization System, or a Patriot Carbon UV unit. Both types of units are attached to the inside of the HVAC system and are marketed to eliminate odors and improve air quality in the home from dust and biological contaminants, etc. We suffer from allergies so are considering making this purchase. After doing research, it seems like a legitimate add-on. As they are quite costly (over $1,100), I would appreciate any thoughts or insights on these air quality systems. Thank you.

Get a K & N washable filter and you only have to clean it every 90 days. Lifetime warranty. Medium high rating for lots of pollutants including mold. It is rated MERV 11.

[Ski Bum]

Two suggestions, for what they are worth:-
I agree with previous response that one thing you can do is to make sure you use Merv 11 filters on your HVAC. You can get them at Home Depot. They should help a bit.
I can’t respond to a whole house filter but we have a portable floor model air purifier that we keep mostly in the bedroom. It seems to work well for sleeping at night. It is automatic in that it changes speed depending on the purity of the air. It has a HEPA filter that lasts about 9 months. It is the smaller model of the room air purifier recommended by Consumer Reports: Alen BreatheSmart 45i. Rated to clean an 800 sq ft area in 30 min. Bought it on Amazon for $400. We are very pleased with it - look it up.

Agree with the portable unit for the bedroom. We live in a wildfire area and have air quality issues most every summer. These units work well.

[Windguy]

Be careful of high MERV filters, as the highest ones will restrict air flow so much it can wear out your fan motor.

[retiredguy123]

Be careful of high MERV filters, as the highest ones will restrict air flow so much it can wear out your fan motor.
Yes, it can. But, I switched from Merv 8 to Merv 11 filters about 7 months ago. My HVAC fan speed is set on medium, and I am getting plenty of airflow in every room. I seem to have less dust and the system is very quiet. When I replaced the filter recently, I noticed that it was much dirtier than in the past when I used the Merv 8 filters, so I think it is removing more particles. I plan to continue using the Merv 11 filters, but replace them more often. Note that, even if your fan motor fails, it is a relatively inexpensive part of your HVAC system.

[jimjamuser]

I agree with above, with the addition to have yourselves tested for allergies so you know what you need to deal with, you may be allergic to stuff OUTSIDE and the additional equipment will do nothing for you.
I often look at the pollen count for Lady LAKE. It has been HIGH every day for the past 3 or 4 months. It will occasionally drop down to medium when there are one or two days of rain to wash the pollen out of the air. We had a UV pollen and dust filter installed on the A/C unit about 2 years ago. We also have a small UV filter and fan sitting on a table in the bedroom.
........I have never noticed any improvement in my allergies from either of these devices. Many of our windows are old and probable let outside air leak in. Possibly, with a new house, a person might notice some improvement in allergy relief with an A/C UV unit installed? When I have a sore throat caused by pollen I get relief with Tussin, which is a generic Robitussin - that definitely works. I also use a steroid nasal inhaler and an albuterol sulfate inhaler during periods of high pollen.
.........It may be my imagination, or just growing older, but I feel that the high pollen times seem to last longer than I remember them lasting in Florida about 20 years ago - possibly global warming changes - I would have to be a climatologist to know for certain.

[saphoto4u@gmail.com]

Met with cooling and heating rep who suggested either an iWave-R Air Ionization System, or a Patriot Carbon UV unit. Both types of units are attached to the inside of the HVAC system and are marketed to eliminate odors and improve air quality in the home from dust and biological contaminants, etc. We suffer from allergies so are considering making this purchase. After doing research, it seems like a legitimate add-on. As they are quite costly (over $1,100), I would appreciate any thoughts or insights on these air quality systems. Thank you.

I was have allergic reactions to my AC/Heat this year (and probably since I moved here 3 years ago) but especially this year when it got cold and the heat had to be on for a few days. I called my AC company to see if they cleaned air ducts and they referred me to AdvantaClean. 407-973-6252. My house is 24 years old, and I don't think the duct were ever cleaned. They came out and took care of my duct cleaning and air quality is so much better and the AC unit even runs more quietly. The dirt that was on the fan looked like my dryer lint filter, and all the stuff they removed was amazing. After they "fogged" the duct with anti-fungal/mold to prevent growth. I highly recommend this company. My house is about 2,300 sqft, and the cost was about $750 but worth every penny.

[jimmy o]

Met with cooling and heating rep who suggested either an iWave-R Air Ionization System, or a Patriot Carbon UV unit. Both types of units are attached to the inside of the HVAC system and are marketed to eliminate odors and improve air quality in the home from dust and biological contaminants, etc. We suffer from allergies so are considering making this purchase. After doing research, it seems like a legitimate add-on. As they are quite costly (over $1,100), I would appreciate any thoughts or insights on these air quality systems. Thank you.

All your responders have given valid reasons. But one thing to remember; if you leave your windows or lanai open your filter becomes meaningless.

[thevillages2013]

All your responders have given valid reasons. But one thing to remember; if you leave your windows or lanai open your filter becomes meaningless.

Wait , wait , wait Jimmy! You telling me NOT to open my windows. You sir are an outside the box thinker:popcorn:

[RCMill531@comcast.net]

Well worth the price. I have dust and mold allergies. Our new house is very dusty.

[joelfmi]

Met with cooling and heating rep who suggested either an iWave-R Air Ionization System, or a Patriot Carbon UV unit. Both types of units are attached to the inside of the HVAC system and are marketed to eliminate odors and improve air quality in the home from dust and biological contaminants, etc. We suffer from allergies so are considering making this purchase. After doing research, it seems like a legitimate add-on. As they are quite costly (over $1,100), I would appreciate any thoughts or insights on these air quality systems. Thank you. cost should be with parts about $600.00 to $ 800.00 a its a days work plus material.

[Velvet]

We use a portable hot or cool Dyson with UV and hepa filter in the bedroom. I am allergic to dust and some types of pollen and our builder carpet is a great collector of both. The first 2 years I kept getting sinus allergies, it got so bad I needed antibiotics, then we started steam cleaning the floor once every two months and using this portable unit and vacuuming regularly. I have not had even a sniffle this year. I also think one develops a sort of immunity towards Florida climate with time and it gets easier year by year.

[rsibole]

Met with cooling and heating rep who suggested either an iWave-R Air Ionization System, or a Patriot Carbon UV unit. Both types of units are attached to the inside of the HVAC system and are marketed to eliminate odors and improve air quality in the home from dust and biological contaminants, etc. We suffer from allergies so are considering making this purchase. After doing research, it seems like a legitimate add-on. As they are quite costly (over $1,100), I would appreciate any thoughts or insights on these air quality systems. Thank you.

Depends if you want actual air filtration or just going through the motions . . . . .

Home HVAC systems barely “filter” the air regardless of the filter you use. Relatively speaking, particles of dust, dander, mold, pollen, shed skin cells and even hair from people and pets passing through any filter are Mack trucks.

Not even units like Dyson and others capture most of these things. The only home available method to most closely eliminate these pollutants is a patented technology used in filter systems manufactured by a company in New York, Healthway ( not Healthways). They make everything from portable machines the size of Dyson up to the largest in-line systems for clean rooms and hospitals.

And no, I do not own the company, you cannot buy stock since it is a private business and I am not a sales agent. These units just work better than any method to filter air in a home where air pollution is a problem or health risk.

I suggest you research for yourself . . . . . Global Home Page | HealthWay Family of Brands(R) (https://www.healthway.com/) and Google search “Healthway air filters” for information and dealers.

[rpalumberi]

I purchased the Nu-Calgon iWave-R Air Ionization System through our AC maintenance contractor Sunshine AC for $759 model 4900-20 because my wife has been complaining of dust throughout the house. We also use a MERV 11 filter that I change twice a year.

This is our 2nd year with the iWave-R and I can't say we really notice any "dust" difference. When they came out at the beginning of year 2 I asked the maintenance tech if it appeared to be working as intended and he said it appeared to be. It may be doing something but its hard to say what or to what extent. Since it wasn't that expensive I thought we'd give it a try. I read through these responses in the hope of seeing other peoples experience.

[retiredguy123]

All your responders have given valid reasons. But one thing to remember; if you leave your windows or lanai open your filter becomes meaningless.
True, but, the EPA has done hundreds of studies and spent millions of dollars researching indoor air purification systems. And, they say that:

"The most effective ways to improve your indoor air are to reduce or remove the sources of pollutants and to ventilate with clean outdoor air."