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Dehumidifiers and air purifiers are used to eliminate allergens, but they are not equal in performance. One is built specifically to aid allergy sufferers, while the other is used to remove excess moisture from the air. This guide explains the differences between these devices and how they can benefit your home.

What Does a Dehumidifier Do?

The ideal humidity in the home is between 40 and 50 percent, and these devices help maintain that level by extracting moisture from the air. The air in the home will smell less musty, but it is not due to an air-purification effect; the removal of excess moisture creates a less hospitable environment for the growth of mold and/or mildew. 

Not only do dehumidifiers help reduce mold and mildew, but they also reduce the cycle of dust mites. Mites also thrive in a moist environment, so a dehumidifier also helps to reduce this allergen. Dehumidifiers are available in stand-alone units or whole-house models.

What Does an Air Purifier Do?

Dehumidifier-Lexington-SCAn air purifier sucks in air and forces it through a filtration system to remove small airborne pollutants, such as pollen, dust, and smoke particles. It works like the air filter on an HVAC unit, but is more effective.

A purifier with a HEPA filter can trap 99.97 percent of airborne contaminants, which is effective enough to capture mold and mildew particles. HEPA filtration units are available as stand-alone units, which can be placed in a room, or they can be incorporated into a central HVAC system.

Which Is Right for Your Needs?

Although these devices combat allergies, the dehumidifier accomplishes the task through cause and effect. By reducing humidity, mold, mites, and mildew are unable to thrive.  They are also useful in other areas with excess moisture — like basements (or crawlspaces), or where flooding occurred from severe weather or broken pipes.

Air purifiers reduce allergens, so they are helpful for those with severe to light allergies, asthma, or other respiratory conditions. They create an overall healthier living environment, reduce pet dander, and remove smoke, mold, and pet odors.

 

If you’re still not sure if you need an air purifier or dehumidifier, then contact the experts at Wilson Heating & Cooling. Based in Lexington, SC, they’ve provided quality service, reliable results, and excellent warranties for over 40 years. They offer heating and AC products and service; they also give their customers the best industry experience, excellent rates, and flexible appointments. Call (803) 996-3322 for an estimate, or visit them online to learn more about their air quality services.

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