The Difference Between an Air Scrubber and Air Purification & Filtration
Air scrubbers and air purifiers are a commonly researched and sought-after solution to improve indoor air quality (IAQ). But are they the same thing? Or are they two different IAQ technologies? Although they both help to clean the air, keep reading to learn more about the differences between an air scrubber and an air purifier, and which one would be the best choice for you and your space.
What is an air scrubber?
Much of the general public uses the terms air scrubber and air purifier to refer to the same product, much like how people use pop and soda interchangeably. However, at the industry level, an air scrubber is a filtration device designed for industrial-scale purposes like mold remediation, building renovation, for welding and other types of manufacturing areas, or even cleaning outdoor air surrounding a facility. Due to their intended application in industrial settings, air scrubbers have not been designed to look aesthetically pleasing nor to operate at a low noise level.
What is an air purifier?
Air purifiers, on the other hand, are designed to have a much better aesthetic, being able to blend into the surrounding space. They have also been designed to be much quieter. Air purifiers were designed for spaces where occupants would not only be present, but where noise level would also need to be minimal, such as schools, offices and hospitals. On the other hand, air scrubbers are not designed to be placed in a business office or school, but rather in locations where the building has been vacated or in an environment where noise level is not a contributing factor in determining which air filtration technology should be implemented.
What is the difference between a commercial air scrubber and a commercial air purifier?
The term “commercial” is used to imply the intended purpose and the quality of design. A commercial air scrubber is the same as an air scrubber and can be used interchangeably where the purpose for both is still for an industrial-level application. A commercial air purifier, however, is designed for providing filtration in spaces occupied by people where a low noise-level is necessary. Unlike a commercial air scrubber being the same as an air scrubber, a commercial air purifier IS DIFFERENT from a standard air purifier due to the high-quality parts and air distribution capability. Unlike residential air purifiers, commercial models are able to clean rooms with more than just a few occupants or those of a larger size, at a high rate, and with great effectiveness at much lower noise levels. Residential air purifiers are not the most appropriate choice for a classroom, office, or even some residential spaces due to their high maintenance, loud volume, and inefficient air-throw design for commercial applications. Furthermore, residential, including table-top models, have high costs that result from energy usage, maintenance, and the increased number of models required to provide adequate protection that would come with a commercial application like a classroom, gym, or business office.
What is the right choice for my building to improve IAQ and be cost-friendly?
If you are looking for a powerful mold remediation solution for unoccupied spaces, then an air scrubber might be the right choice for you depending on the model. If you are looking for an air cleaning solution for your office space, classroom, fitness facility, or any other space that would have occupants where noise-level matters, a commercial air purifier would be the better choice. Not only are commercial air purifiers highly effective at removing air pollutants like viruses, bacteria, mold, allergens like pollen, VOCs, and other airborne contaminants, but they are more cost-friendly than an air scrubber. However, not all commercial air purifiers are equal in terms of their effectiveness and cost-effectiveness. Read our blog on features that you should look for in a commercial air purifier.
What do ISO-Aire commercial air purifiers offer?
ISO-Aire commercial-grade HEPA air purifiers offer a premium air filtration package engineered to provide proper air filtration in commercial spaces. Equipped with a 12 in.-thick HEPA filter, and 55-plus years of air filtration and ventilation expertise in their design, ISO-Aire commercial air purifiers provide best-in-class effectiveness, whisper-quiet operation, energy efficiency, and low maintenance.
ISO-Aire commercial air purifiers are leading the way in creating safe, clean indoor spaces across the country. We offer air purification systems with proven clean air technology that capture and destroy 99.99% of harmful airborne contaminants.
Conclusion - Scrubber vs. purifier
Due to the recent focus on air quality, many now use the term air scrubber and air purifier interchangeably. However, before the pandemic, the two technologies were considered to be separate IAQ solutions, with both having a different intended application and with air scrubbers being much louder and not as aesthetically pleasing.
RSF Series
Our RSF300 in the lobby of a credit union. The RSF300 and our other RSF models come equipped with up to three layers of air filtration technology, including a 99.99% HEPA filter.
Our RSF series is a portable air purifier that’s designed for small-to-large rooms such as classrooms, offices, gyms, libraries, restaurants, and more. Easy installation and minimal maintenance; simply plug in and turn it on. Our RSF series is also available with a ductwork connection for HVAC systems.
Quiet and low maintenance
Effective against COVID-19
Built to last with a lifespan of over 20 years
Captures and destroys 99.99% of viruses and emerging variants, bacteria, mold, allergens, smoke and other harmful contaminants
Get a FREE pre-filter with purchase.
RSH Series
Our RSH800 and RSH1000 hanging HEPA air purifiers are the perfect indoor air quality solutions for ceiling-mounted protective ventilation. The quiet and effective design is perfect for gyms, restaurants, schools, daycare centers, and senior living centers. They are easy to install and require minimal maintenance. Other leading benefits include:
Helps in the fight against COVID-19 and is recommended for indoor air quality by the CDC and ASHRAE.
Convenient air purifier for ceilings when floor space is limited.
Can connect to existing ductwork or as a stand-alone.
Captures and destroys 99.99% of viruses, emerging variants, bacteria, mold, allergens, smoke, and other harmful contaminants.
Receive a FREE IAQ analysis for your facility
For quotes or questions, please call 651-265-0605 or email info@ISO-Aire.com
