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Size Matters
Ordinary HEPA filters
can only filter 0.3 micron particles and larger.
IQAir's HyperHEPA
technology filters the
smallest airborne particles
that exist.
More than
90%
of all airborne
particles
0.003 microns
Viruses
Viruses: 0.005 – 0.3 microns
Like bacteria, viruses are organisms that spread airborne diseases as mild as the common cold and as serious as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) through coughs, sneezes and improperly maintained ventilation systems.
Tobacco Smoke
Tobacco Smoke: 0.01 – 1 micron
Sidestream smoke has higher concentrations of cancer-causing agents (carcinogens) than mainstream smoke. And, it has smaller particles than mainstream smoke, which make their way into the lungs and the body's cells more easily.
Soot
Soot: 0.01 – 0.3 microns
Long-term exposure to urban air pollution containing soot increases the risk of coronary heart disease, according to a major study published in New England Journal of Medicine in 2007.
0.01
0.1
Ultrafine Particles
Approx.
9%
of all airborne
particles
0.3
Pet Dander
Pet Dander: 0.1 – 25 microns
Pet dander is the old skin and fur that pets shed. Animal dander is very small and can become attached to your clothingeven if you do not own a pet. Dander can be found everywhere: floors, carpets, walls, furniture, bedding, even the ceilings. Pet dander is a known asthma and allergy trigger.
Dust Mites Allergens
Dust Mites Allergens: 0.2 – 25 microns
House dust mites are considered to be the most common cause of asthma and allergic symptoms worldwide. Dust mites themselves do not cause an allergic reaction, however, their dung-pellets are an irritant to sensitive people and can cause breathing difficulties. They thrive in warm, humid, dark conditions such as mattresses, carpets, sheets, pillows, and upholstery.
Bacteria
Bacteria: 0.5 – 10 microns
People spread bacteria through the air when they cough and sneeze, transmitting respiratory diseases and triggering symptoms in asthma sufferers. Bacteria can also grow inside poorly maintained ventilation systems, which spread it into the circulating air.
1
Household Dust
Household Dust: 1 – 100 micron
Dust may worsen hay fever. Circulating outdoor air through a house by keeping doors and windows open, or at least slightly ajar, may reduce the risk of hay fever-causing dust. In colder climates, occupants seal even the smallest air gaps, and eliminate outside fresh air circulating inside the house. So it is essential to manage dust and airflow.
2.5
Fine Particles
Less than
1%
of all airborne
particles
10
Mold Spores
Mold Spores: 8 – 80 microns
Mold and fungus are commonly found in most homes and may be found in the air ducts of your heating/cooling system. They tend to float throughout the house, and form new colonies where they land. Fungus spores have been known to increase the chances of developing asthma.
Pollen
Pollen: 10 – 100 microns
One of the most common allergens is pollen. It affects the nose, eyes, and mouth making it difficult to breathe. Most pollen that produces allergic reactions is from trees, grasses, and weeds.
100
Coarse Particles
Affected Organs »
-
Brain
-
Lungs
-
Throat
-
Eyes
-
Nose
-
Heart
-
Kidneys
-
Liver
Select one of the particles
above to see how it affects your body
ULTRAFINE PARTICLES (Particles 0.003μ - 0.1μ) | 90% of all airborne particles
Ultrafine particles are airborne particles less than 0.1 microns in diameter. In sheer number, they represent more than 90% of all airborne pollutants. Ultrafine particles are inhaled and deposited directly into the lungs, where they penetrate tissue and can be absorbed directly into the bloodstream. Through the bloodstream, they can reach any organ or area of the human body.
FINE PARTICLES (PM2.5) | Greater than 9% of all airborne particles
Fine particles (also known as PM2.5) are particulate matter that is less than or equal to 2.5 microns in diameter. Fine particles penetrate deeply into the lungs, into areas known as small airways and into the primary air exchange areas of the lungs. Fine particles come from vehicle exhaust, gas and chemical reactions, tobacco smoke, burning candles and other indoor and outdoor sources.
COARSE PARTICLES (PM10) | Less than 1% of all airborne particles
Coarse particles (also known as PM10) are those with a diameter between 2.5 and 10 microns in diameter. Coarse particles are deposited almost exclusively in the nose and throat. They are not generally inhalable directly into the lungs. Examples of PM10 include coal dust, fly ash, some components of wood smoke, asbestos fibers, and roadside particles from tires and brakes. This category also includes dust, some pollen and mold spores.