For air purification , filtration is almost always applied. Usually it needs pumps and fans to let air through the filters. They remain components in the air. A photocatalytic filter located in air purifiers decomposes organic pollutants into safe substances. This is its advantage in comparison with its predecessors: no replacement is required, and work efficiency does not change over time. This device will be discussed in the article.
Design features and principle of operation
The photocatalytic cleaner includes a catalyst and an ultraviolet lamp. The material of the device can be porous glass - a substance having a high absorbent effect. With it, even small particles are held in the air. Titanium oxide is applied to glass that transmits light. He is the catalyst.
Ultraviolet rays enter the catalyst bed, and under their influence, titanium oxide becomes a powerful oxidizing agent, which can decompose organic components into safe substances - water and carbon dioxide. Water evaporates, and therefore the air in the room is humidified. The carbon photocatalytic filter also works. Reviews confirm that the device makes living in the apartment more comfortable.
Efficiency
A photocatalytic filter eliminates contaminants. With it you can get rid of:
- dust and dust mites;
- carpet and fabric pile, animal hair;
- skin flakes;
- spores of mold, pollen, other allergens;
- tobacco smoke, formaldehyde, soot, carbon monoxide and exhaust gas;
- odors of spoiled foods, evaporation;
- toxic components of the organic species.
In addition to the above, the device is able to clean the air of bacteria and viruses, as it becomes disinfected. Numerous reviews indicate the effectiveness of the device, since it performs many different functions, and does it qualitatively.
Benefits
An air purifier with a photocatalytic filter has the following advantages:
- Excellent level of cleaning. The device eliminates viruses and bacteria by approximately 99%. The efficiency of the device is many times higher in comparison with a carbon filter.
- Elimination of delayed litter. There will be no dust and bacteria inside the device, as is the case with other devices, so the equipment cannot infect.
- Self-cleaning function. Since dirt does not accumulate in the device, there is no need to change filters, no expenditures on consumables, maintenance of the device. It is only necessary to regularly (once every 1-3 years) change the ultraviolet lamp.
- Quick air purification without unpleasant odors.
- Economical energy consumption - only 30-65 W / h. For devices of other types, the air stream is driven under high pressure to penetrate the dense filter. This does not require a photocatalytic device.
- Environmental friendliness and safety. Pollution breaks down into safe components that are not harmful to humans and the environment.
- Ease of maintenance. You need to vacuum the device once a year.
Due to these advantages, many choose this device for their home. If you consider the reviews, then many people prefer to purchase this particular device. Then the room will have a favorable microclimate.
disadvantages
But the photocatalytic filter also has disadvantages:
- Does not eliminate inorganic pollution. For example, it practically does not reduce building dust, and for a room with a long repair it is advisable to choose another device.
- Air purification from bacteria can adversely affect the immunity of the child, so the device should not be installed in the nursery. This does not affect adults.
Scope of application
The photocatalytic filter in the air conditioner or purifier is designed to protect the space of the room from contaminants that adversely affect people's health. It is used as a prophylaxis to fight infections and allergies. The reviews confirm the need for devices in residential premises, since there is usually dry air. The device is suitable for domestic premises, offices, hospitals, kindergartens and other institutions. Installation of the device is simple, it does not require special skills. The device is installed on a dry surface out of the reach of children. It is advisable to place such equipment in the area of severe pollution.
Compared to traditional devices, these filters do not accumulate pollution, but destroy them. This is due to photocatalysis - acceleration of reactions due to the catalyst and the light flux of a different spectrum. The air in the room where there is such a device will be clean.
Functions
The purifier may have additional functions:
- The timer is used to set the operating time and shutdown.
- The control panel allows you to switch modes remotely.
- Setting the fan speed allows you to switch the device to different modes, which determines the speed and noise level of the fan.
- Pollution detectors detect the amount of dust and gas in the air. When the set level is exceeded, the cleaner itself turns off. This function allows you to control the intensity of work.
- Display. Many cleaners have a liquid crystal screen, which contains information about the modes and time of operation.
- The indicators reflect information about the operation of the device.
- Aromatization. Such a device will emit a pleasant aroma.
Exploitation
Manufacturers advise regular replacement of filters for the normal operation of devices. This will extend the life of the device. If there are unpleasant odors, then the filter should be changed before the end of its use.
To keep the air always clean, it is desirable that the entire volume is processed at least 2 times per hour. The use of even the best air purifiers does not saturate the air with oxygen, so it is necessary to regularly ventilate the room.
The choice
To choose a suitable device where a photocatalytic filter is present, it is necessary to take into account some nuances:
- Power. This indicator determines for what area the device is intended. If the power is insufficient, the air will not be cleaned efficiently, and too strong a device will consume a lot of energy. When planning round-the-clock use of the device, it is advisable to choose low power consumption.
- Presence of HEPA filters. The equipment captures even small solid impurities. It can trap pollen, pet hair, and dust. Such filters are not always found in photocatalytic cleaners, but just such a device is needed if there is an allergic person in the room.
- Functions Before you purchase a purifier that has a photocatalytic filter, you need to know about the type of contamination in the room. If it contains inorganic impurities, then a device with an additional degree of purification is necessary. It is advisable to purchase a cleaner with a hygrometer, a pollution sensor and an automatic cleaning function.
If the device will be used infrequently, you should not purchase it with the humidification function, since the water filled in the tank stagnates, blooms, and there will be a coating inside. Some manufacturers combine 2 devices in the device. A photocatalytic cleaner can have an ionizer, additional filters, humidifiers, a hygrometer that allows you to control humidity. There is a possibility of the presence of other functions. Before buying, you should familiarize yourself with the characteristics of the selected device, as well as find out everything about it from the seller-consultant.