Can You Put an Air Purifier on Your Furnace? Essential Tips

Can You Put an Air Purifier on Your Furnace?


Do you ponder if you should install an air purifier on your furnace? The answer is a resounding YES! Air purifiers are great for improving air quality by eliminating pollutants such as dust, pet dander, bacteria, and allergens. Filtration via your HVAC system is a great way to get rid of numerous indoor air pollutants all at once.

Can You Put an Air Purifier on Your Furnace

Combining filters and UV light technology makes it possible to get rid of a wide range of pollutants. It is not a difficult task to install an HVAC/whole-house air purifier with your existing HVAC system. Get expert advice prior to any installation so that your unit fits your needs and is compatible with your HVAC system.

HEPA filters are reliable in trapping small particles, including particulate matter, which can worsen respiratory conditions like asthma. Media filters, PCO filters, electronic air cleaners, and ionizers can also help to clean the air in a home.

You may be surprised to learn that Honeywell Enviracaire Elite was among the leading products for its success in getting rid of airborne contaminants.

Cleaner air and saving cash on individual air purifiers? Sounds great!

Benefits of Installing an Air Purifier on Your Furnace


To improve the air quality in your home and reduce indoor air pollution, installing an air purifier on your furnace with the benefits of improved air quality and reduction of indoor air pollution is a great solution. This section will cover some of the benefits of installing an air purifier on your furnace, including the reduction of allergies and respiratory conditions, better HVAC system efficiency, and longer lifespan. Keep reading to learn more!

Air Purifier Improves Air Quality and Reduction of Indoor Air Pollution

Installing an air purifier on your furnace can drastically improve air quality in your home and reduce pollution. The furnace filter alone cannot capture all contaminants. But with the extra air purifier, these harmful pollutants will be wiped out!

Not only does it reduce allergens like dust, pet dander, pollen, and other potential respiratory irritants, but it also eliminates unwanted odors from cooking or smoking. Homeowners are choosing this for their families health and comfort.

Plus, you’re not just improving the home environment for yourself, you’re also protecting guests who may come in contact with surfaces. This cost-effective solution is a must-have for indoor air quality.

Enjoy the benefits of reduced indoor pollution and purified air without breaking the bank on medical bills.

Reduction of Allergies and Respiratory Conditions by Installing an Air Purifier

Air purifiers installed on furnaces help in decreasing allergies and respiratory conditions. These tools take out bad particles like mold, dust, pollen, and pet dander from the air with different filtering methods.

  • These pollutants in the air can cause asthma and allergic reactions. 
  • Air purifiers offer cleaner air by getting rid of those allergens that cause distress. 
  • It’s a successful way to lessen allergy symptoms and have a healthier environment.
  • Moreover, an air purifier on your furnace not only helps with the removal of allergens but also stops them from building up
  • It gives better indoor air quality than just using standard cleaning services.

Remember, investing in an air purifier decreases health costs and medical bills in the end. A little investment goes a long way toward overall wellness. Do something now to protect your family’s respiratory health with a dependable air purifier on your furnace.

Don’t miss out on having cleaner air quality indoors. Deciding to install an air purifier can be one of the best investments you make for your household’s well-being. Try it now and breathe easy! Your HVAC system will last longer.

Air Purifiers Gives Better HVAC System Efficiency and Longer Lifespan

Maintaining your HVAC system is essential. An air purifier helps out here. It removes dust, debris, and other impurities that could damage the furnace. Plus, it saves you money by reducing energy consumption.

There are lots of air purifiers to choose from. Electronic filters ionize particles, and mechanical filters capture dust. Media filters combine these two elements for superior air cleaning.

One homeowner invested in an air purification system and noticed a big improvement in his home’s air quality. His allergies lessened, and he saved money compared to replacing his furnace multiple times.

Choosing the right air purifier for your furnace is like picking a needle out of a haystack, but the needle is clean air and the haystack is confusing technical terms.

Types of Air Purifiers Available for Furnaces


To ensure clean air circulation via your furnace, you have the option to add an air purifier that removes harmful pollutants and contaminants. In this section about the types of air purifiers available for furnaces, I will introduce you to several categories, including highly effective media filters, electronic air cleaners that use ionizers, and PCO (Photocatalytic Oxidation) filters. The fourth sub-section, UV lights, provides an alternative technology for reducing molds, bacteria, and viruses.

Media Filters for Furnace

Media filters are air filters that stop harmful particles from entering the HVAC system. They typically last a few months and must be changed when their lifespan is exceeded. Let’s take a look at some of the different kinds of media filters out there.

  1. Fiberglass Filters – Often used as disposable filters, they are made up of sheets of spun fiberglass. These are the most basic type of air filter, trapping large particles like dust and debris efficiently.
  2. Pleated Filters – These filters use folded material to offer more surface area for capturing small pollutants. They can capture mold spores, pet dander, pollen, and other allergens, depending on their MERV rating – the higher the MERV, the better the filtration.
  3. Electrostatic Filters – These are washable filters created from electrostatically charged fibers that remove fine airborne particles using static electricity.

When selecting a media filter, it is important to know which type is best for your needs. Aside from its effectiveness in removing airborne pollutants, you should also consider factors such as cost and how often you will need to replace it.

One family found out that their daughter’s respiratory problems were due to their old filter when they changed it with a high-efficiency pleated filter. The upgraded filter was able to trap more pollutants which led to a big improvement in her symptoms. Ditch the dust and get clean air with electronic air cleaners. They are the perfect solution for those who want better air quality than their Instagram posts!

Electronic Air Cleaners

Did you know Electronic Air Cleaners are over a century old? Arthur Rosenfeld’s father developed the earliest electrostatic filters in California, USA, in the early 1900s. But now, technology advancements have resulted in more efficient and user-friendly cleaners!

Types of Electronic Air Cleaners include:

  • Electrostatic Precipitators: Trap airborne pollutants on an electrically charged plate with opposite polarity.
  • Ionic Filters: Release ions that attract pollutants, allowing them to be removed from the air.
  • UVGI Purifiers: Kill germs with ultraviolet light; however, they can’t remove allergens like dust mites or pollen.

Plus, PCO filters can even purify the air and fight crime at the same time!

For superior air purification, Electronic Air Cleaners can filter up to 99.9% of contaminants from your home’s air-filtration system. This makes breathing easier, especially for those with asthma or allergies.

PCO Filters

PCO filters are an air purifying type that uses photocatalytic oxidation to remove pollutants. They contain titanium dioxide which, with UV light, can break down molecules.

These filters don’t capture particles like traditional ones. They’re best for VOCs, smoke, and odors. To get the most from PCO filters, change them as directed and also, keep your furnace and heating system clean. 

This way, you can always breathe healthy air. And, don’t forget to give your furnace a good tan with UV lights!

UV Lights

UV lights can be a great add-on to your furnace air purifier. They produce ultraviolet rays that kill bad microorganisms, like bacteria, viruses, and germs. Here’s a table to learn about the types of UV lights and what they do:

Type of UV LightFeatures
Coil Sterilization UV LightsCleans coils and nearby areas for better air
Air Sterilization UV LightsRemoves airborne pathogens for healthier air
Surface Sterilization UV LightsDestroys biological growth on surfaces to stop mold

It’s noteworthy that coil and air sterilization are usually used for furnace air purifiers. Both makeup for each other’s flaws; coil sterilization disinfects the indoor unit, increasing energy efficiency by 21%. While air sterilization takes care of bacteria-affected airflow.

The use of UV light started with an interesting story. Did you know that Niels Finsen realized sunlight could heal wound infections in people with tuberculosis in the early 1900s? During WWII, this knowledge inspired scientists to create artificial UV light to sterilize equipment and bedding.

Your furnace deserves the best air purifier – it’s been working hard for years!

Factors For Choosing the Right Air Purifier for Your Furnace


To make sure you choose the right air purifier for your furnace, you’ll need to consider a few factors. Understanding MERV ratings and air pollutants will help you make informed decisions about what type of air purification system you need. You’ll also want to take into account the unique considerations that come with ductwork and HVAC systems. Lastly, the budget and costs of air purifiers should be carefully weighed to ensure you get the best value for your money.

Understanding MERV Ratings and Air Pollutants for Choosing the Air Filter

Air pollutants can be bad for your health and can cause breathing issues. So, it is important to know about MERV Ratings and Air Pollutants when selecting the right air purifier for your furnace.

Look at the table below to see the comparison between MERV ratings and air contaminants they capture:

MERV RATINGCAPTURED PARTICLES
2-4Pollen, Dust Mites, Sanding Dust
5-8Mold Spores, Pet Dander, Hair Spray
9-12Legionella Bacteria, Lead Dust, Auto Emissions
13-16Bacteria, Viruses, Smoke

Also, MERV ratings are based on their ability to filter particles with a 0.3-micron diameter or larger effectively. The higher the rating, the better it is at capturing contaminants.

When selecting an air purifier for your furnace, take into account room size and its intended use like; 

  • For large rooms or commercial spaces, such as medical facilities, MERV 13-16 filters are recommended as they provide superior filtration.
  • In residential cases, lower MERV rating filters (MERV 8) are preferable as they ensure dust and pet dander are caught effectively and do not disturb cooling systems’ performance.

Knowing MERV Ratings and Air Pollutants is key to improving air quality and keeping comfort levels. So, make sure you pick an air purifier that suits your needs! 

Don’t forget that your ductwork is like your house’s respiratory system – it needs attention too.

Considerations for Ductwork and HVAC System

Choosing the right air purifier for your furnace is key. If the ductwork and HVAC system aren’t up to date, air filtration and air quality will suffer.

Factors to consider when choosing an air purifier for your furnace:

FactorsDetails
Age of the ductwork and HVAC system10-15 years
Size of the ducts and filtersMake sure they’re properly sized
MaintenanceBi-annual inspections
Filter typeHEPA or MERV

Also, inspect for any leaks in the ductwork. Even a tiny leak will significantly reduce air quality.

My friend once bought an air purifier without looking at their ductwork and HVAC system. After months of using it, no improvement in air quality. Upon inspection, they found their old ductwork was full of dust and debris. In the end, they had to replace it and spend more money before enjoying clean air.

Don’t skimp on your air purifier, or you’ll be sneezing and wheezing like you’re in a remake of The Exorcist.

Budget and Costs of Air Purifiers

Creating a budget for air purifiers can be tricky. But, it’s important to consider costs before investing. Here are essential factors to think about when choosing an air purifier for your furnace.

See the table below for accurate prices of the top air purifiers on the market. This will help plan your budget.

Air Purifier BrandCost
Honeywell$120
Winix$220
Coway$260
Levoit$90

Choose a purifier that is suited to your needs. If you suffer from allergies, go for a brand that focuses on allergen removal. For odors and smoke, select one that specializes in odor control.

An air purifier with a multi-stage filtration system or HEPA filter is ideal. It is effective at removing contaminants from the air. Also, calculate ongoing maintenance costs like filter replacements and energy consumption before investing.

Just remember, an air purifier won’t make bad cooking smell any better!

Installation of the Air Purifier on Your Furnace


To ensure clean and fresh air in your home, you might consider installing an air purifier on your furnace. In this section, we will share our tips for a successful installation of an air purifier on your furnace. We will discuss the Placement and Location in the Furnace Cabinet, the Tools Needed and Installation Tips, and the Common Mistakes to Avoid when it comes to installing an air purifier on your furnace.

Placement and Location in the Furnace Cabinet

Air purifier placement and location in the furnace cabinet are very important for optimal efficiency and effectiveness. Check out the table below for the ideal placements and locations.

PlacementLocation
Before filterBetween air return duct and furnace
After filterBetween furnace and blower motor
At the endBetween blower motor and main supply duct

But remember – each position has its own benefits. For example, one before the filter can stop bacteria from building up in the furnace. Placing it at the end can stop contaminants from getting through.

For even better air purification, here are a few more tips:

  1. Get a HEPA filter to guarantee good cleaning.
  2. Make sure it’s the right size for your home.
  3. Don’t forget to maintain both filters.

Follow these instructions and you’ll have a smooth installation. 

Get ready to grab your toolbox – this air purifier job needs more than just enthusiasm!

Tools Needed and Installation Of Air Purifiers

When fitting an air purifier on your furnace, having certain tools and knowing certain tips is a must! Here are some crucial points to remember:

Tools needed: 

  • A screwdriver set, 
  • wire stripper, measuring tape, and 
  • pliers can come in handy.

Installation Tips: 

  • Switch off the power supply of your furnace before installation.
  • Spot the central air return duct near or above the furnace. 
  • Then, firmly attach the filter rack to it.
  • Check online or consult a pro for any safety measures related to your furnace brand.

It is vital to check if your furnace model and the chosen air purifier cartridge size are compatible.

A real-life example is when a family was affected by allergens in their indoor airflow system. A technician inspected their furnace, then attached an air purifier with an appropriate-sized cartridge to its central return ducting near the furnace. Result – the family noticed a big difference in their allergies with purer air circulating in their home all the time.

Remember – don’t put the air purifier upside down or else you’ll be cleaning the air with your ceiling fan!

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Installation Of Air Purifiers

It’s vital to understand the common blunders to sidestep when installing an air purifier on your furnace. 

  1. Not cleaning or replacing the filters on a regular basis is one mistake people make this can diminish the air purifier’s efficiency and damage the furnace.
  2. Measuring the size of your furnace filter is essential; you must get a filter that fits perfectly, or else it won’t work.
  3. Don’t attempt to install the air purifier yourself, hire a pro! It may appear like an effortless task, however, leaving it to the experts ensures the job is done right.
  4. Regular maintenance is also a must. Even if you have installed the air purifier correctly, neglecting maintenance can make it useless eventually. 
  5. Lastly, make sure your air purifier is compatible with your furnace before installation.

If there is any element of the installation you’re uncertain about, consult the manufacturer’s instructions or ask an expert for help. Cleaning your furnace air purifier is like washing dishes – no one likes to do it, yet it’s essential to avert a smelly disaster.

Maintenance and Cleaning of Your Furnace Air Purifier


To maintain and clean your furnace air purifier, regular inspections, and filter replacement, cleaning and clearing accumulated dust and particles, and addressing any issues or concerns with the furnace air purifier are essential. These actions keep your air purification system functioning correctly and can help improve the quality of air in your house. In this section, we’ll discuss in detail how you can execute these cleaning and maintenance tasks.

Regular Inspections and Filter Replacement Of Furnace

Inspect your furnace air purifier regularly to avoid potential breakdowns. 

  • Replace the filter at least every three months to ensure optimal functioning. 
  • If you have pets or family members with allergies or asthma, replacing the filter more often is essential. 
  • Clean reusable filters with a soft brush or vacuum cleaner. Washable electrostatic filters can be washed with lukewarm water and a mild soap solution. 
  • A dirty filter impedes airflow, causing the furnace to work harder, leading to malfunctions. Therefore, it’s important to not just clean, but also replace an excessively dirty filter. 
  • Ignition systems that go through worn-out filters can cause heat exchanger damage, and this might lead to toxic fumes entering the living area. 
  • Additionally, clean your air conditioner’s evaporator coils and condenser annually to avoid dust buildup that might move into the furnace
  • A dirty air purification system can increase electricity bills. The dirtier it gets, the more strain is put on its mechanical parts, resulting in increased energy consumption. 

So, say goodbye to dusty bunnies and breathe in the fresh air with these cleaning tips for your furnace air purifier.

Cleaning and Clearing Accumulated Dust and Particles in Furnace

Cleaning your furnace air purifier is super important! It keeps it efficient, and better at improving your indoor air quality. If not cleaned, health issues, wasted energy and increased utility bills can occur.

Here’s how to clean it:

  1. Turn off the power supply – safety first!
  2. Check the manual for filter cleaning instructions, then remove them carefully. Use a soft-bristled brush or vacuum to dust them off.
  3. Clean components like fans, humidifiers, UV lamps, and coils with a damp cloth or gentle brush.

Regular maintenance of your furnace air purifier is essential for it to work well and save you money. Set reminders for when you need to clean it again. Don’t neglect it as it may cost more to repair than just getting some minor attention from time to time. 

Maintaining your furnace air purifier is like fixing a broken heart – it takes time, care, and a few expert opinions.

Addressing Any Issues or Concerns with the Furnace Air Purifier

Furnace air purifiers are great for households. They reduce harmful particles and improve air quality. But, like any appliance, they may have issues. Here are some tips on how to fix them.

  • Check the filter: It could be dirty or clogged and cause problems. Replace it if needed.
  • Inspect electrical connections: Loose ones or faulty ones can lead to power failure.
  • Examine the fan motor: It moves air through the system. If it’s not working, it will affect performance.
  • Clean the unit: Dirt and debris can accumulate on surfaces and inside components. Cleaning is important for maintaining efficiency and improving indoor air quality.

For healthy indoor air quality, it’s essential to maintain your furnace air purifier. Check for any abnormalities like strange noises or poor airflow and address them quickly.

Hire professional technicians for periodic cleaning and maintenance service. Also, keep electronics away from outside interference like furniture placement. This will help prolong the lifespan of your furnace air purifier.

Maintaining your furnace air purifier properly today will keep allergies away tomorrow.

Conclusion 


Air purifiers are great for at-home air quality. Before buying, there are some things to consider. Choose the right type for your needs. Different purifiers remove different pollutants. Installing a central air purifier in your furnace cabinet can help filter out contaminants. This is ideal for those with respiratory/allergy issues. It can also remove indoor pollutants like dust mites, mold, and gaseous pollutants. The HEPA filter is the best, with MERV ratings of 17-20. Electronic air cleaners use ionizer tech to clean; media filters trap particles on corrugated fibers. Many benefits, but cost & maintenance must be considered. Also, avoid ozone generators as they pose health risks.