The latest models of air conditioners are equipped with filtering systems for cleaning from dust, small particles of wool, plant pollen and even viruses. There are systems that can detect the smell of smoke. To choose a climate equipment for fine cleaning, you should understand the principles of operation and types of filters.
Why air purification
The indoor air contains dust, soot, germs, and bacteria. Home appliances, household chemicals, perfumes and cosmetics are the sources of various chemical compounds that float in the air and enter the lungs when breathing. All this negatively affects people's health. A prolonged stay in a room with polluted air causes:
- headache;
- irritability;
- fatigue;
- drowsiness
- the development of asthma and allergies;
- decreased immunity.
In rooms with high traffic, the risk of contracting viral and infectious diseases is especially high.
To avoid these problems and create comfortable conditions for work or leisure, it is recommended to install an air conditioner with air purification function.
Types of filters and their features
Split systems are equipped with two types of filters:
- rough cleaning;
- fine cleaning.
The first are installed in all models of any price category, so the consumer receives elementary air purification from dust in any case. An electrostatic filter is a fine mesh, sometimes coated with a non-woven material. He copes with coarse garbage, fluff, animal hair, thereby protecting the device’s heat exchanger.
The second category of filters is installed on more expensive models of air conditioners with the function of fine air purification. The designs are diverse. Such air conditioners trap dust with particles of 0.01 microns, cigarette smoke, allergens, germs and viruses.
Carbon (deodorizing) carbon filter made from coconut. Delays small particles, smells, harmful chemical compounds.
Photocatalytic filter contains titanium dioxide, which acts as a catalyst. It captures unpleasant odors, viruses, and even toxic impurities. It breaks down organic matter into carbon oxides, water and other non-hazardous compounds.
Air conditioners with air purification from the street with an ultraviolet filter destroy almost all known harmful microbes and viruses and disinfect the air conditioner from the inside.
AT plasma filter an ionizer is installed, which creates a voltage of 4800 volts. Under its influence, fungi, viruses, bacteria, pollen, spores, etc. are destroyed. Larger joints adhere to the filter elements.
Catechin filter It contains a natural antiseptic contained in tea leaves. Destroys 98% of all known viruses.
Wasabi filter disinfects air masses with the help of a specific substance contained in horseradish. It has a powerful bactericidal effect.
Filtration with silver ions destroys the internal structure of bacteria and absorbs their cells. Thus, microorganisms disappear completely or significantly reduce activity. For the constant production of ions, the Nano Silver element is responsible.
Biofilter - A novelty in the production of air conditioners with air purification. Inside the cartridge are useful microbes that process 99% of dust and microorganisms. It consists of a prefilter for antibacterial treatment and retention of large particles, a biodegradable filter to eliminate odors, an air filter that kills fungi, mold that traps small particles.
Formaldehyde filter removes harmful volatile compounds, in particular formaldehyde, and unpleasant odors.
Premium air conditioning models ionizers. Ionized air improves well-being, relieves fatigue, and helps to normalize metabolism. Freshness and cleanliness in the room is maintained for a long time. Such conditioners are ideal for children's rooms and for people suffering from chronic diseases of the respiratory system.
In budget models, antioxidant filters are often installed, as well as those containing vitamin C.
Maintenance of air conditioners with air purification function
The electrostatic filter screen must be cleaned twice a month during active use. The frequency depends on the purpose of the room and the number of people who are constantly in it. Cleaning Methods:
- a vacuum cleaner;
- flushing with water.
You need to wash in warm water with non-aggressive detergents. Install in place only after complete drying. Forced drying is prohibited, as the mesh is deformed under the influence of hot air.
Fine filters do not need to be washed. Carbon cartridges are replaced every 3-4 months.
Photocatalytic filters after clogging are placed in direct sunlight. Deodorizing ability is restored by 95%. The service life of such a filter is 5 years.
Many air conditioner models have an indicator of filtration status. It gives a signal when the cartridge needs to be replaced. However, the sensor does not respond to actual contamination, but to an approximate service life, which is usually 2-3 months.
Examples of models of famous brands
Electrolux EACM-12 - floor air conditioner with air purifier. It works in the ionization mode and provides antibacterial filtration. Works with low noise. Easy to move around the room. Not intended for rooms with a large area. The cost of the model is about 30 thousand rubles.
Midea MSE-18HR - A model with a four-layer filter and a self-cleaning function, thanks to which the cartridge is replaced once every five years. It is quiet. The price is 20 thousand rubles.
Toshiba Daiseikai N3KVR - provides two-stage plasma and photocatalytic filtration, contains an air ionizer. The self-cleaning function prevents moisture and mold from accumulating in the indoor unit. Inverter control helps reduce electricity consumption. It costs about 50 thousand rubles.
General Climate GC / GU-F10HRIN1 - equipped with a silver ion filter, bio-filter and air ionizer. The status indicator of the indoor unit indicates the need to replace cartridges. Turbo mode allows you to quickly set the required temperature. There is a function of automatic restart in case of a sudden power outage.
Carrier 42QCP007713VG - air conditioning with fine filter. Ionizes and disinfects. The self-diagnosis function will indicate a specific problem and will allow you to quickly eliminate it. Built-in motion sensor.