How Do Air Purifiers Work?

Air purifiers are devices designed to filter indoor air by removing airborne particles. They typically use HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, activated carbon filters, or UV light to trap or neutralize contaminants.

Key Features:

• HEPA filters: Trap up to 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns (like dust, pollen, and pet dander).

• Activated carbon: Absorbs gases, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

• UV light: Destroys airborne bacteria and viruses.

Effective Against:

• Dust and allergens

• Smoke and cooking odors

• Mold spores

• Certain bacteria and viruses

Ideal For:

• Bedrooms, living rooms, or offices

• People with asthma or allergies

• Homes with pets or smokers

Air purifiers are generally plug-and-play units that sit in a room and continuously cycle the air through their filtration system.

How Do Air Scrubbers Work?

Air scrubbers take things a step further. They’re typically installed in your home’s HVAC system, treating air as it circulates throughout your ductwork. But here’s the kicker: unlike purifiers that mostly capture particles, air scrubbers actively clean surfaces and air using advanced technology like ionization or photocatalytic oxidation.

Key Features:

• Whole-home integration via HVAC

• Releases oxidizers or ions into the air to neutralize contaminants

• Cleans both airborne particles and surface contaminants

Effective Against:

• Mold, bacteria, and viruses (in air and on surfaces)

• Smoke and VOCs

• Odors from pets, cooking, or chemicals

Ideal For:

• Large homes or whole-house solutions

• Families concerned about germs on surfaces

• Canadian winters where homes are sealed tightly

Unlike purifiers, air scrubbers are proactive—they send out cleaning agents into the air to reduce contaminants before they even reach your lungs.

Air Scrubbers vs Purifiers: Side-by-Side Comparison

Which One is Best for Canadian Homes?

Living in Canada means dealing with long winters, sealed homes, and sometimes poor ventilation. Here’s what to consider:

Choose an Air Purifier if:

• You want a portable solution you can move between rooms.

• You’re dealing with seasonal allergies or pet dander.

• You’re looking for a budget-friendly option.

Choose an Air Scrubber if:

• You want whole-home protection, especially during winter months.

• You’re concerned about viruses, bacteria, and surface contamination.

• You’re renovating or living in an area with poor outdoor air quality.

For many Canadian homes—especially those using central heating systems—an air scrubber can provide more comprehensive protection. That said, air purifiers still have their place, particularly in bedrooms or high-use areas.

Conclusion: Which Should You Choose?

The debate between air scrubbers vs purifiers comes down to your home’s needs and your health priorities. If you need a quick, room-by-room solution, air purifiers are convenient and effective. But if you’re looking for a full-scale defense against allergens, pollutants, and microbes—especially during Canada’s sealed winter months—air scrubbers might be the smarter long-term investment.

💡 Pro Tip: Some households use both—a scrubber in the HVAC system and purifiers in specific rooms for targeted filtration.

FAQ: Air Scrubbers vs Purifiers

1. Can I use both an air scrubber and an air purifier?

Yes! Many homeowners use air scrubbers for whole-home coverage and air purifiers for targeted areas like bedrooms or nurseries.

2. Are air scrubbers safe for people and pets?

Most modern air scrubbers are safe and certified for residential use, but always choose models with safety certifications and avoid ozone-producing units.

3. Do air purifiers remove COVID-19?

While no device can guarantee virus removal, HEPA filters and UV technology can reduce airborne virus particles, including those similar to COVID-19.

4. Do I need professional installation for an air scrubber?

Yes, air scrubbers must be installed into your HVAC system by a qualified technician.

5. How often should I replace the filters in an air purifier?

Typically every 6–12 months for HEPA filters and 3–6 months for carbon filters, depending on use and model.

6. Will an air scrubber help with pet odors?

Absolutely. Air scrubbers actively neutralize odors at the molecular level, both in the air and on surfaces.

7. Can I install an air scrubber if I don’t have central air?

Unfortunately, air scrubbers require a central HVAC system. If you don’t have one, a high-quality purifier is your best bet.

8. What’s better for allergies—air scrubbers or purifiers?

Both help, but HEPA-equipped air purifiers are especially good for allergy relief since they capture pollen, dust mites, and dander directly.