Types of Air Purifiers: How to Choose the Right One for Your Des Moines Home

If you’ve noticed more sneezing, dust buildup, or odors in your home, you’re not alone. Indoor air quality has become a growing concern, especially for families with allergies, pets, or asthma. Air purifiers are a smart way to remove airborne pollutants, helping you breathe cleaner, healthier air throughout your home. 

But not all air purifiers work the same way. Some are best for removing dust and pet dander, while others target odors or airborne bacteria. Choosing the right one depends on your home, your health needs, and the type of pollutants you're most concerned about. 

At Greens, we’ve helped Des Moines homeowners to improve their indoor comfort since 1958. In this post, we’ll walk through the four main types of air purifiers and help you understand which option may be the best fit for your household. 

Understanding Your Indoor Air Quality Needs 

Every home has different air quality concerns. Common indoor pollutants include: 

• Dust and dust mites 

• Pollen and mold spores 

• Pet dander 

• Smoke from nearby fires or cooking 

• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cleaning supplies or furniture 

Start by identifying your biggest concern. Are you struggling with seasonal allergies? Do you have pets that shed or produce odors? Is smoke from nearby agricultural areas a concern? Or are you simply trying to improve your home’s overall air freshness? 

Also consider the size of the room you want to treat. Larger areas require more powerful air purifiers, so knowing the square footage of your living space can help you choose a unit with the right coverage. 

Understanding Two Types of Air Purifiers 

Ozone Generators 

These purifiers intentionally produce ozone to neutralize odors and kill bacteria.
Important caution: Ozone can be harmful when inhaled. These are not recommended for use in occupied spaces and should only be used in unoccupied rooms with proper ventilation.
Best for: Professional or unoccupied use, such as odor remediation or mold treatment in sealed environments. 

UV-C Light Air Purifiers 

These use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria, viruses, and mold spores. Often combined with other filtration types, UV-C adds an extra layer of protection against microorganisms.
Best for: Homes concerned with germs or those with compromised immune systems or health sensitivities. 

How to Choose the Right Air Purifier for Your Home 

When selecting an air purifier, keep the following factors in mind: 

• CADR Rating (Clean Air Delivery Rate): This number shows how quickly the purifier removes pollutants. Higher ratings indicate better performance. 

• Noise Level: Bedroom or office use requires quieter models. Look for decibel (dB) ratings if noise is a concern. 

• Filter Replacement Costs: Some models have washable filters, while others require frequent replacements. Factor this into your long-term budget. 

• Room Size: Always choose a purifier rated for the size of the room you're placing it in to ensure effective results. 

Combining an air purifier with regular HVAC maintenance can provide even better indoor air quality over time. 

Greens, Your Trusted Partner for HVAC Maintenance and Repair in the Des Moines Area 

While air purifiers offer targeted solutions, your HVAC system plays a much larger role in your home’s overall air quality. At Greens, we’ve helped Des Moines homeowners improve comfort and indoor air health by maintaining clean filters, balanced airflow, and proper ventilation. 

We’ll help you choose the right purifier based on your home’s layout, allergy concerns, or pet-related needs. Our team offers personalized recommendations that work in harmony with your existing HVAC system. 

With over 60 years of service, we provide honest insights and dependable solutions. From system maintenance to air purifier consultations, Greens delivers HVAC care that puts your comfort and safety first. 

Call today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward cleaner, healthier air for your home.