Frequently asked questions about Austin Air Cleaners.
FAQ PDFPhone: 877.432.1AIR (1247) ~ 973.820.8719
How many filters are inside the Austin Air cleaner?
There are four filters. The first is Austin Air Permafilt™ filter. This pre-filter is a cotton fabric that lines the inside wall of the unit. The purpose of the pre-filter is to stop hair or large dust particles from clogging the HEPA filter. Next, there is a medium particle filter which is the outside layer of the filter housing. In the HealthMate the main filter is comprised of two filter medium: activated granular carbon/zeolite mixture and True Medical HEPA medium. In the Allergy Machine there is the True Medical HEPA medium and the military carbon cloth filter known as HEGA.
What is activated carbon?
Activation is a process that increases the surface area of the carbon, allowing for greater odor and gas adsorption.
What is Zeolite?
Zeolite is a natural mineral that has the distinct capability of adsorbing certain gas molecules. Zeolite is particularly effective in adsorbing formaldehyde, ammonia and carbon monoxide. Zeolite is used in the HealthMate, HealthMate Plus and Pet Machine.
What are the carbon and zeolite used for?
Carbon and zeolite are used to remove over 3000 gases, odors and chemicals from the air. Both carbon and zeolite have properties that allow them to adsorb chemicals and gaseous materials. The approximate ratio of carbon to zeolite is 10:1.
What is so special about True Medical HEPA filtration?
The HEPA (High Efficiency Particle Arresting) filter was developed by the US Atomic Energy Commission to filter out sub-micron particles. All True Medical HEPA is laser-tested and must remove a minimum of 99.97% of all particulate matter greater than 0.3 microns in size (about 3000 times smaller than a human hair!).
This special paper is designed to remove microscopic particles from the air including dust mites, mold spores, pollen and pet dander. Microorganisms (bacteria, viruses) are trapped within the paper and are unable to survive without water. HEPA filters are widely used by hospitals, clean rooms and for the abatement of lead and radioactive particles.
The Austin Air Allergy Machine, HealthMate and HealthMate+ have 60 Sq. ft. of HEPA media. The Junior models have 30 Sq. ft. of HEPA media.
This special paper is designed to remove microscopic particles from the air including dust mites, mold spores, pollen and pet dander. Microorganisms (bacteria, viruses) are trapped within the paper and are unable to survive without water. HEPA filters are widely used by hospitals, clean rooms and for the abatement of lead and radioactive particles.
The Austin Air Allergy Machine, HealthMate and HealthMate+ have 60 Sq. ft. of HEPA media. The Junior models have 30 Sq. ft. of HEPA media.
What is a HEGA filter?
HEGA is unique to Austin Air and stands for High Efficiency Gas Absorption. HEGA is a special woven activated carbon cloth for gas and odor absorption that replaces the carbon zeolite mix.
The HEGA material does not release carbon dust. The Austin Air Allergy Machine and Baby’s Breath have the HEPA medium as an outer layer of filtration. The HEPA layer removes the airborne particles before they reach the inner carbon cloth, prolonging the life of this filter. The HEGA material, which is on the inside, is than able to focus solely on removing smoke, odors and gases from the air. HEGA is highly efficient , which is why HEGA filters are relatively light.
The HEGA material does not release carbon dust. The Austin Air Allergy Machine and Baby’s Breath have the HEPA medium as an outer layer of filtration. The HEPA layer removes the airborne particles before they reach the inner carbon cloth, prolonging the life of this filter. The HEGA material, which is on the inside, is than able to focus solely on removing smoke, odors and gases from the air. HEGA is highly efficient , which is why HEGA filters are relatively light.
What is the difference between the HealthMate and the Allergy Machine?
Both machines have the same body and mechanical specifications. Both units have four stage filters including a Perafilt™ pre-filter. The HealthMate uses Carbon Zeolite on the outside with HEPA filtration on the inside and weighs 45 pounds, the HealthMate Jr. weighs 18 pounds. The Allergy Machine and Babies Breath use HEPA filtration on the outside and HEGA filtration (military carbon cloth)on the inside. The Allergy Machine weighs 35 pounds and Baby's Breath weighs 12 pounds.
Should I purchase the HealthMate or the HealthMate+?
Both have a True Medical HEPA filter and activated carbon and zeolite. Both remove 99.97% of all particles larger than .3 microns and eliminate 3000 toxic gases and odors. The carbon in the HealthMate + model has Super Blend; carbon/zeolite enriched with potassium iodide. The HealthMate + is the most effective unit for removing chemicals including formaldehyde and ammonia. Austin Air’s HealthMate + is best used in places like new homes, artist studios, laboratories, beauty salons, funeral homes, etc. Sources of formaldehyde in homes can be carpets, wood panels, construction materials and furniture upholstery. HealthMate + is also the best choice for people with MCS (Multiple Chemical Sensitivities)
Do any of the HealthMate family of air purifiers produce any harmful substances?
No, Austin Air purifieres do not produce ozone, ions, or negative ions. Ozone is a known lung irritant and can agrivate respiratory problems such as asthma, emphysema, and bronchitis.*
Additionally, Austin Air products are made of steel and have a powder coat paint, which is baked on, so the products do not off gas.
Additionally, Austin Air products are made of steel and have a powder coat paint, which is baked on, so the products do not off gas.
Are ionizers and ozone generators safe?
No. Ionizers create ozone. Ozone is a known lung irritant which can exacerbate allergies and asthma. Both the EPA and The American Lung Association consider ozone to be a pollutant with potentially dangerous side affects.
I don't have allergies, can indoor pollution still affect my health?
The EPA states that levels of indoor air pollution is 2 - 5 times greater than levels of outdoor pollution! Considering that we spend as much as 90% of our time indoors, Indoor Air Pollution is a significant problem.
What size unit should I buy?
The standard HealthMate or the Allergy Machine will clean up to 1,500 square feet and is good for a one-story house or apartment. The Junior model will clean up to 700 square feet is recommended for a single room. (assuming 8 ft. ceilings.)
What is the CFM rate?
The CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) is the measurement of how much air passes through the unit. The HealthMate, HealthMate+ and the Allergy Machine have 400 cfm on the high setting and 75 cfm on low. The HealthMate Jr. has 200 cfm on the high setting and 50 cfm on low.
The standard units come with wheels. Can you put wheels on the Junior models?
Yes, wheels can be installed on the Junior models for an additional $25.00. Add about one week to delivery.
How much electricity is required to run the standard air cleaner?
It runs on ordinary 120 volt household electricity. The maximum draw is about 135 watts on the high setting, or 1¢ per hour.
How do Austin Air purifiers save you money?
To calculate the true cost of an air purifiers (purchase price + replacement filter costs + energy costs = total cost). Austin Air offers the highest quality machine, with a filter life of 5 years, and low energy consumption. Other machines require as many as 20 filter changes over a 5 year period and have higher energy consumption. Why spend a bundle when the best costs less?
What is the Austin Clean Air Pocket™?
Place an Austin Air cleaner near you. Quite magically, the filter will create a pocket of clean air around you, almost immediately! This pocket provides extra protection to the breathing zone, which is most helpful if you are struggling with respiratory problems.
Where should I place the unit for maximum effectiveness?
It can be placed anywhere in a room, at least four (4)inches from the wall. The best room in the house to use a single machine is the bedroom. You will breath easier and sleep better, due to the clean air pocket.
Is the air cleaner noisy to operate?
Depending on the fan setting used, the noise level ranges from the sound of a whisper to the sound of a normal conversation (< 50 to 65 decibels.)
Does the Austin Air cleaner require any special maintenance?
Monthly vacuuming of the outside of the air cleaner (use brush attachment) is the only regular maintenance required.
Why do Austin Air filters last 5 years?
It is both the quantity and quality of the activated carbon and True Medical HEPA medium that establish the life of the filter. Austin Air uses the best quality of materials in generous proportions to create these filters.
How do I know when to change the filter?
When the carbon in the unit is full, you will notice a large drop in airflow or you will notice an subtle odor coming from the air cleaner. These signals are no cause for alarm, merely they tell you that its time to replace the filter.
Can I keep the same machine and use a different filter type?
Yes, all Austin Air filter housings are designed to meet the same specifications. That means you can change filter types without a problem.
Prevention is always better than treatment.
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