Air Purifier vs. Dehumidifier

Air purifiers and dehumidifiers are commonplace items you often find in homes, businesses, and other spaces. Although the terms are regularly used interchangeably, there is a distinct difference between them. But what is that difference, exactly? And which option might be best for you? SERVPRO^® is Here to Help^® outline the features and considerations of both air purifiers and dehumidifiers.

What is an Air Purifier?

Merriam-Webster provides the following definition of an air purifier: “A device that removes contaminating particles (such as dust, pollen, and dander) from the air.”

What is a Dehumidifier?

Dehumidifiers are defined by Cambridge Dictionary as: “A machine that removes water from the air in a room.”

As you can see, the difference between an air purifier and a dehumidifier lies in what, exactly, is removed from the air.

Pros of Air Purifiers

Healthline details many positive effects of air purifiers, including:

• Potential reduction of animal dander (from pets such as dogs, cats, birds, and more).
• Potential reduction of dust in the air.
• Potential reduction of particulate matter in the air.
• Potential reduction in airborne particles containing viruses.
• Potential reduction in allergy symptoms and other health effects.

Cons of Air Purifiers

Banner Health notes some potential drawbacks of air purifiers, including:

• The financial investment of purchasing one.
• They may not be able to filter out every single dirty particle (since windows and doors are continuously opened).
  • Ultimately, new particles are constantly emerging into the air.
• Older models might be faulty.

Pros of Dehumidifiers

Healthline outlines a variety of advantages and disadvantages of dehumidifiers. Advantages include:

• Mold growth can be controlled, since moisture is being pulled out of the air.
• They can potentially lessen allergy triggers.
• They can control humidity levels to lessen the chance of dust mites entering your space. (Notably, they need a relative humidity level of 65% to survive.)
• They can help contribute to an overall healthier environment.
• They can cool your home or business, and potentially reduce the need for air conditioning (if you live in a warmer, more humid climate).
• They can reduce the presence of dust and mold, which can potentially lower the chance of bugs and other vermin entering your property.

Cons of Dehumidifiers

Conversely, Healthline details some potential disadvantages of using a dehumidifier, which include:

• While they will make the air drier, this could exacerbate certain health conditions, especially if you already live in an arid or dry climate to begin with.
  • This is important if you already use gas or electricity to heat your home, and live in a high-altitude area, or a place with desert conditions.

• You may need to stay more mindful of hydration with a dehumidifier in place.

• Skin and hair might become affected by use of a dehumidifier.

Air Purifier vs. Dehumidifier: The Bottom Line

When it comes to selecting either an air purifier or dehumidifier for your home, business, or other space, as you can see from the information above, choosing which is “best” largely boils down to what your objective is. Although the terms “air purifier” and “dehumidifier” are often used interchangeably, the items they remove from the air differ.  

So, whether you end up using an air purifier, dehumidifier, or both (for different parts of your property), make sure to do your research and select the one that is right for you.

For Deodorization, Mold Removal, and More, SERVPRO is Here to Help

Moisture in the air can often contribute to the growth of mold and mildew, which can be more than just a pesky nuisance. If left untreated, it may cause health effects, devalue your property, and ruin precious and personal belongings. Beyond that, stuffy air can sometimes bring with it unpleasant or foul odors, which an air purifier or dehumidifier may not be able to fully assist with. For professional cleanup, restoration, and construction services, including mold remediation, deodorization services, and more, reach out to your local SERVPRO.

With 2260 SERVPRO locations in the United States and Canada, there is a location nearby, ready to assist with 24-hour emergency property damage remediation services. Established in 1967, SERVPRO has grown to become the #1 choice in fire and water cleanup and restoration*. Whether you need our services in the middle of the night, on a weekend, holiday, or more, SERVPRO professionals are here to help. Reach out today.

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