The principle of operation and types of dust collectors for the home and how to do it yourself
Housewives spend a lot of time and effort cleaning the house, cleaning the premises from dust containing components that are dangerous to humans. Dust particles that have penetrated furniture and textiles, deposited on equipment, are not easy to remove, they again end up in the air. Household dust collectors are gaining popularity, created for the home, purifying the air without human intervention, collecting air pollution, making the atmosphere in the apartment clean and safe.
Purpose and principle of operation of the device
All types of dust collectors work on the same principle: with the help of fans, they suck in masses of air, draw them into the cleaning systems and blow out the contamination-free air. The devices use different methods to remove dust from the air - filters, electrostatic.
Household dust contains microscopic particles of carcinogens, fungi and bacteria that negatively affect the respiratory system and cause allergies.
Varieties
When thinking about buying a dust collector for your home, it helps to familiarize yourself with the varieties of devices, as each design has its own strengths and weaknesses, so they hold up better to certain types of cleaning.
Electrostatic
In devices of this type, the property of dust particles to acquire an electric charge and be attracted to surfaces of opposite sign is realized. In the dust collector, metal plates are installed on which the impurities of the ionized air in the device settle. The device picks up dust, smoke, soot. In the presence of an ozonator, it kills germs and eliminates odors.
Electrostatic models are almost silent, consume minimal energy and belong to the budget segment. The main advantage of the devices is the absence of replaceable elements, which simplifies and reduces the cost of operation. Dust accumulates on the plates, they are washed once a week.
Photocatalytic
Photocatalytic dust collectors act on the disinfectant effect of ultraviolet radiation, which is directed towards the titanium dioxide plates, which act as a catalyst. Contaminants do not accumulate on the surface of the catalyst, but break down immediately into tiny particles (comparable in size to molecules) that are harmless to humans.
This type of dust collector is the most effective, but also the most expensive. Dirt does not settle inside, but is simply destroyed, the device itself does not turn into a source of accumulation of harmful substances.
The photocatalytic device eliminates toxins, biological contamination, odors.The disadvantages of the device include the need to replace the UV lamp (after 1-3 years), the price, a significant noise level, as well as death, as well as harmful and useful air flora.
With replaceable filters
The purification of the air in these devices is ensured by HEPA filters. They trap dust particles as small as 0.34 microns. Most devices implement multi-stage filtration through materials of varying density, which also have antibacterial impregnations.
A great option for homes with children and allergy sufferers. A significant drawback of this type of dust collector is the replacement of expensive filters, which is necessary for the device 1-2 times a year.
Combination devices
The greatest demand is for combined action dust collectors, which clean the air in several ways at once. They are equipped as follows:
- filters that cut large fractions (wool, dust particles) from the air - preliminary cleaning;
- charcoal - removes odors, impurities from the air;
- HEPA filters are leaders in removing biological components from the air;
- electrostatic filtration;
- photocatalytic filter - disinfects.
Combined cleaning is more expensive, the device requires maintenance and replacement of elements, but the result is worth it.
Note: any dust collector does not increase the amount of oxygen in the room, the apartment must be ventilated.
Choice criteria
A dust collector is a practical way to keep the air in apartments clean. But there are cases when the device is simply necessary. Who should buy:
- residents of large cities with high levels of air pollution;
- pet owners;
- smoking families;
- asthmatics and people with respiratory problems;
- lovers of the use of household chemicals and textiles, in which dust accumulates.
Dust collector manufacturers recommend considering the following important points when choosing:
- The area (volume) of the room. The radius of action varies from 10 to 150 square meters. It takes time to completely clean the air. The dust collector will have to be moved or purchased for each room. If the workpiece is too large for the machine, effective cleaning should not be expected.
- Sound level (in decibels). This indicator is important, because the dust collector works for a long time. The quietest are the electrostatic varieties. This criterion is especially important when used in the bedroom (the hygiene standard does not exceed 30 decibels).
- The possibility of replacing consumables. You will need to purchase HEPA filters at least once a year.
- Housing characteristics and household status. Appliances with HEPA filters are better than others at capturing allergy-causing contaminants. Devices with carbon filters do an excellent job with tobacco smoke and irritating odors.
For small, densely populated apartments, families with children, it is worth choosing a dust collector with an ultraviolet lamp, which kills pathogenic flora and prevents the spread of infections.
Sophisticated and expensive devices monitor the state of the air masses. When the set parameters are reached, they are turned on for cleaning. Other additional features are:
- filter element change sensor - informs about contamination;
- air aromatization - there is a built-in compartment for filling aromas;
- determination of atmospheric pollution - independent start of the device;
- ionization and ozonation;
- sleep timer;
- humidifier;
- work in silent mode (night).
Dust collectors are produced by many well-known brands of household appliances - Daikin, Boneco, Electrolux, AIC. The devices are distinguished by thoughtful design, electronic control and high-quality air purification.
How to do it yourself with your own hands
The simplest dust collector can be made at home from the tools available. For crafting you will need:
- volumetric plastic container with a tight lid;
- small fan (of the computer);
- fasteners, glue;
- power supply for fan operation (batteries, mains connection).
A dry room device is made using water (decanted or distilled) to keep the room moist. A hole is cut in the cover and the fan is firmly inserted, fixed with screws or glue, and the power supply is connected. Parallel to the bottom, fishing lines are pulled, a dense fabric is laid on it. Water is poured, the surface should be 3-5 centimeters below the fan.
The simplest device with humidification is ready - during operation they monitor the water level and the cleanliness of the filter. If the humidity in the apartment is high, use salt as a filter. Manufacturing diagram:
- On the opposite walls of the container, 2 holes are made: one for the fan in the upper part, the second for the air outlet closer to the bottom.
- Attach the cooler firmly to the wall in the hole near the lid.
- The second hole is carefully sealed with a filter - a gauze folded in several layers with foam rubber inside.
- Calcined salt is poured into the bottom - a layer above the filter, below the fan.
Such a device must operate at low speed to avoid knocking the crystals against the walls. Double air purification is provided - with salt and a fabric filter.
Usage tips
Before starting use, you must read the instructions carefully so that you know what type of maintenance the device will need, when and what needs to be changed. Basic rules:
- The device is placed in places of maximum dust accumulation, not too close to the wall (at least 10 centimeters).
- All devices are mains powered, they are plugged into a socket, set the desired mode.
- Filter clogging indication sensors are monitored. The replacement is carried out within the prescribed time.
- The plates of electrostatic models in daily use are cleaned of dirt once a week.
If there are active young children in the house, place the dust collector where the baby cannot reach it and dispose of it. By using any type of dust collector, you can improve the air quality in your home and make your life more comfortable. A clean atmosphere in the apartment helps to avoid respiratory problems, sleep well and relax. With a lack of funds, you can make the device yourself.