What is the working principle of an air purifier?
The purification capacity of an air purifier stems from the synergistic effect of its core technologies. Different functions correspond to different working principles. Currently, mainstream purification technologies can be divided into three categories: mechanical filtration, chemical decomposition, and ion purification. Understanding the differences between these principles is key to selecting the right product accurately. These technologies do not exist in isolation; most products adopt a composite design to achieve comprehensive pollution control.
1. Understand Core Parameters to Avoid Missteps in Product Selection
First and foremost, the core of choosing the right air purifier lies in understanding key parameters and avoiding being misled by marketing gimmicks. The two most critical indicators are CADR value and CCM value. The CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) directly determines the purification speed and must be matched according to the room area. The calculation formula is “Room Area × Floor Height (usually 2.8 meters) × 5”. For example, a 15㎡ bedroom requires a product with a CADR value of no less than 210m³/h, and the living room needs a correspondingly higher value. The CCM (Cumulative Clean Mass) represents the dust-holding capacity of the filter, divided into P-class (for particulate matter) and F-class (for formaldehyde). The higher the level, the longer the service life of the filter. P4 and F4 levels are ideal for home use, which can reduce the trouble and cost of frequent filter replacement. In addition, attention should also be paid to the HEPA filter level. HEPA filters of H12 level and above can filter more than 99.5% of 0.3-micron particles, which is sufficient to deal with pollutants such as PM2.5, pollen, and pet hair. If the home has just been renovated or has excessive formaldehyde, priority should be given to products equipped with activated carbon filters, and the activated carbon filling capacity should be sufficient to avoid secondary pollution after “adsorption saturation”.
2. Match Family Scenarios and Focus on Core Needs
Secondly, “accurate matching” based on family scenario needs can maximize the effectiveness of the air purifier. The core need for newly renovated houses is formaldehyde removal. Products with high formaldehyde CADR value and thick activated carbon filters should be selected, and at the same time, combined with opening windows for ventilation, to accelerate formaldehyde emission through “active purification + air circulation”. For families with the elderly, children, or people with allergies, the focus should be on the particulate matter purification capacity. Priority should be given to models with high HEPA filter levels and good mute effects to avoid noise affecting rest during night operation. Pet-raising families need to pay extra attention to whether the air purifier has a hair entanglement prevention design. The front primary filter of some products can be removed and cleaned, which can effectively extend the service life of the core filter. For large spaces, it is recommended to choose models that support APP control and zoned purification, or place small air purifiers in different areas respectively, to avoid incomplete purification caused by a single device “overworking”.
3. Develop Correct Usage Habits to Improve Purification Efficiency
Finally, correct usage habits are a “bonus” for purification effects. Many consumers fail to achieve the expected purification results because they ignore details. During use, doors and windows should be kept closed. If ventilation is needed, the air purifier should be turned off temporarily to avoid the circulation and exchange between purified air and external polluted air. Filter replacement is a key link that is easily overlooked. Although most models have a filter life reminder, adjustments need to be made according to the frequency of use. For families in smog-prone areas or with pets, it is recommended to check the filter monthly and replace it every 3-6 months. For the activated carbon filter in newly renovated houses, the replacement cycle should be shortened to 2-3 months to prevent pollutants from being released after adsorption saturation. In addition, the air purifier should be placed in a well-ventilated and open area, away from walls and furniture, with a distance of at least 10-20 cm from the wall to avoid air flow blockage. Regularly cleaning the air inlet of the machine body and the primary filter can also keep the purification system running efficiently.




