When it comes to enhancing indoor air quality, terms like “air filtration” and “air purification” are often used interchangeably. They address different pollutants in distinctly different ways. Knowing those differences can help you to understand and choose the best solutions. This is especially important for those managing hospitals, schools, food processing facilities, general business offices, and more.
What is Air Filtration?
Air filtration involves trapping airborne particles with filters, typically in HVAC systems or standalone air purifiers. Air filters capture contaminants like dust, pollen, and some bacteria. Filters vary in efficiency, with HEPA filters capturing even the smallest particles.
How Air Filtration Works
Filters are rated by Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, or MERV, indicating their effectiveness at capturing particle sizes:
- MERV 8 filters catch large particles, including dust and pollen.
- HEPA filters (MERV 17-20) remove 99.97 percent of particles as small as 0.3 microns. These are common in hospitals.
It is effective but limited. Air must pass through the filter for contaminants to be removed. Airborne pathogens and pollutants that avoid the system can remain in the space.
What is Air Purification?
Air purification uses methods that actively destroy or neutralize airborne contaminants, such as viruses, bacteria, and mold. While many purifiers use filters, they also use additional technology such as Synexis’ patented Dry Hydrogen Peroxide (DHP®). These help to eliminate pathogens in the air, reaching a broader range than filtration alone.
How Air Purification Works
Air purification technology doesn’t rely solely on trapping pollutants but rather targeting them directly in the air. A big key to determining the best air purification solution is whether or not it can operate in occupied spaces like DHP can. This means the system can provide constant protection without disrupting activities.
Key Differences Between Air Filtration and Air Purification
These methods share a common goal, but vary in approach and effectiveness.
| Aspect | Air Filtration | Air Purification |
| Process | Captures particles physically | Actively neutralizes contaminants |
| Effectiveness Range | Primarily larger particles | Effective against viruses and VOCs |
| Air Movement Needed | Requires airflow through filters | Works actively within the entire space |
| Primary Technology | HEPA, MERV filters | DHP |
| Applications | HVAC, air purifiers | Freestanding and in ventilation systems |
Why Use Both Approaches for Cleaner Indoor Air?
Air filtration alone may not be enough in spaces like hospitals, classrooms, or food processing areas. Filters capture dust and pollen but can miss viruses and bacteria. An active air purification system like Synexis offers with DHP technology, complements traditional filtration by reducing pathogens.
The Synexis Advantage: Enhanced Indoor Air with DHP
DHP provides for a powerful air purification solution. It reduces airborne and surface contaminants in real-time, even as people occupy the space. Unlike standard filtration, DHP disperses throughout an area, providing comprehensive coverage against pathogens.
Some benefits:
- Safe in Occupied Spaces: Synexis Systems operate continuously around people, which is idea for high-traffic areas.
- Reduces Pathogens: DHP is proven to reduce bacteria, viruses, and molds where filters alone fall short.
- Works with Filtration: DHP complements filters, enhancing overall air quality and reducing airborne risks.
While air filtration and purification both improve indoor air quality, combining them offers the most protection. Filters can capture larger particles, while DHP addresses pathogens and small contaminants, creating a safer indoor environment.
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