Air Scrubber Types Explained

With air pollution on the rise, indoor air quality is increasingly important to home health and safety.

Northeast Indiana’s high humidity and seasonal pollen also impact the air we breathe at home. Over time, homeowners can experience respiratory illnesses or other symptoms of poor ventilation.

Air scrubbers are one of many air filtration devices widely used in homes and businesses. They remove particulate matter, such as dust, dander, and pollen, using methods like moisture, carbon filters, or UV light.

Although there are several types of air scrubbers, they’re best distinguished by whether they use “wet” or “dry” methods. Here, we’ll explain the different categories of air scrubbers so you can choose the best fit for your home.

Choosing the Right Air Scrubbers: A Guide

Consider an air scrubber installation for a targeted, high-powered approach to cleaning your indoor air supply.

An air scrubber uses a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to withdraw and eliminate particles, contaminants, microorganisms, and even airborne viruses. A whole-house or portable air scrubber mechanically “cleans” the air when installed in a home. Its specific cleaning technique depends on the type:

UV Light Air Scrubbers

When we don’t wear sunscreen, ultraviolet light damages our skin cells.

The same logic applies to UV light air scrubbers, only for microbes, fungi, or bacteria exposed to UVGI, or ultraviolet germicidal irradiation. When air scrubbers suck up these harmful pathogens, they disinfect and then eliminate them altogether.

Ionizers & Ozone Generators

Ionizers and ozone generators charge particles to remove contaminants from the air. When used effectively, ionizers cause particulate matter to clump together to be easily collected. Ozone generators produce ozone to neutralize odors and absorb pollutants.

Wet Scrubbers

True to their name, wet scrubbers collect dust, particles, or toxic gases using a liquid solution. Advanced wet scrubbers consist of multiple components, including fans, mist eliminators, and ductwork.

Dry Scrubbers

Dry scrubbers rely on filters to purify and distribute cleaned air. A HEPA filter is the primary capture method, although it’s often combined with additional filters or UV light prefilters.

Integrated Scrubbers

Integrated scrubbers are installed into existing HVAC systems. Since they’re designed to cover a wide area, they’re suitable for use in entire buildings or homes.

Pros & Cons of Air Scrubbers

Air scrubbers might not be the right fit for every household, but they offer several benefits, like:

• Enhanced air quality: Air scrubbers ensure that toxic materials are safely stored and removed.
• Odor protection: Carbon filters are especially effective at capturing odor molecules.
• Mold removal: Prevent mold growth by filtering out spores before they reproduce.
• Reduced allergy symptoms: Air scrubbers catch common irritants that exacerbate asthma or chronic allergies.

Despite their positive impact, an air scrubber might not be necessary in smaller spaces. There are a few other drawbacks to consider, including:

• Installation fees: Since they’re a sophisticated system, air scrubbers are more expensive to install than other IAQ (indoor air quality) equipment.
• Required maintenance: Regular filter replacements are necessary for any air scrubber system.
• Potential byproducts: Ozone generators emit dangerous toxins when improperly installed.
• Higher energy consumption: Air scrubbers are unnecessarily powerful for single-room use.

Air Scrubbers vs. Air Purifiers

While they perform similarly, air scrubbers chemically alter airborne contaminants using moisture, filtration, UV light, or ionization. Air purifiers use filters, like HEPA, to trap particles without chemical interference.

Choose Masters Heating & Cooling for Air Scrubber Services

If you’re debating whether your home needs an air scrubber, our dedicated professionals will help you make the right call.

Masters Heating & Cooling’s NATE-certified technicians specialize in indoor air quality services, assisting our local community with effective, personalized solutions. Home care starts with upfront pricing — we’ll never upsell you on an IAQ service that doesn’t benefit your home.

We’re committed to providing best-in-class care, flexible financing options, and exclusive discounts for active military, veterans, and seniors.

Breathe easier with Masters Heating & Cooling. Schedule an air scrubber installation or indoor air quality assessment for your Fort Wayne home today.