What Is an Air Scrubber, and How Does It Work?
Indoor air quality is a growing concern for many homeowners. Dust, pet dander, mold spores, and airborne bacteria can accumulate inside your home, leading to allergies, respiratory issues, and unpleasant odors. An air scrubber is a device that helps improve indoor air quality by working with your HVAC system to remove these contaminants from the air.
Unlike standard air filters that passively trap dust and debris, an air scrubber proactively neutralizes pollutants before they settle in your living spaces. It helps reduce airborne particles, odors, and microbial contaminants, making your home environment cleaner and healthier.
How Much Does an Air Scrubber Cost? (Pricing and Cost)
One of the first questions homeowners ask is, “How much does an air scrubber cost?” Pricing varies based on several factors, including the brand, features, and installation. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Aerus Air Scrubber: $900–$1,500 (including installation)
- Germicidal UV Light Air Scrubber: $500–$1,000 (including installation)
- Phenomenal Aire R6 & D.32: $700–$1,300 (including installation)
- Ongoing Maintenance Costs: Replacement bulbs or cells every 2 years (~$400–$600)
While the upfront cost may seem high, many homeowners find the investment worth it for improved indoor air quality, reduced allergy symptoms, and lower HVAC maintenance costs due to cleaner ducts and coils.
What Are the Pros and Cons of an Air Scrubber? (Problems and Drawbacks)
Before making a purchase, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of installing an air scrubber.
Pros:
- Improves Indoor Air Quality: Removes dust, allergens, mold spores, bacteria, and viruses.
- Reduces Odors: Helps eliminate smells from pets, smoke, and cooking.
- Protects HVAC System: Reduces dust buildup in your HVAC unit, increasing efficiency.
- Minimal Maintenance: Requires little upkeep aside from occasional bulb or cell replacements.
- Cleans Surfaces, Too: Unlike traditional filters, some air scrubbers reduce contaminants on countertops, doorknobs, and other surfaces.
- No Filter Changes Required: The Aerus Air Scrubber operates without the need for costly and frequent filter replacements.
Cons:
- Higher Upfront Cost: More expensive than a standard air purifier.
- Not a Replacement for Air Filters: Works best when paired with a high-quality HVAC filter.
- UV Bulb Replacements Needed: To maintain effectiveness, UV bulbs or ActivePure® cells must be replaced periodically.
- Standalone UV Light Recall Issues: Recent recalls have shown that some standalone UV light air purifiers have caused damage to HVAC equipment and ductwork. Due to these issues, we have pulled standalone UV lights from our offerings.
While an air scrubber significantly improves air quality, it’s important to pair it with good HVAC maintenance, proper ventilation, and regular filter changes for the best results.
Best Air Scrubber for Your Home (Best of Lists)
If you’re considering an air scrubber, these are the top options:
- Aerus Air Scrubber (Best Overall) – Uses ActivePure® Technology and UV light for maximum air and surface purification. Aerus and its brands develop technology for NASA and make it accessible to consumers, ensuring cutting-edge advancements for home air purification. Additionally, unlike many air purifiers that require regular filter replacements, the Aerus Air Scrubber does not require filter changes. Once installed, it operates seamlessly with minimal maintenance. A professional HVAC technician can install the system in just 30–45 minutes, ensuring quick and hassle-free setup.
- Phenomenal Aire R6 & D.32 (Best for Ionization Air Purification) – These models use advanced cold plasma ionization technology to neutralize airborne contaminants, allergens, and odors. They are a great option for homeowners looking for a non-UV, filter-free air purification solution that integrates with their HVAC system.
- Germicidal UV Light Air Scrubber (Best for Bacteria & Viruses – Limited Availability) – While germicidal UV lights are effective for killing airborne pathogens, recent recalls have shown that some models can damage HVAC equipment and ductwork, leading us to remove standalone UV lights from our offerings.
- Carrier Infinity Air Purifier (Best for Allergies) – A high-end filtration system with advanced HEPA-like capabilities. While we do not offer this particular model, it remains an attractive option for certain homeowners looking for a dedicated HEPA-based air purification solution.
For most homeowners, the Aerus Air Scrubber remains the best choice because it offers full-spectrum air purification, including dust, allergens, odors, and pathogens, while requiring minimal maintenance.
Is an Air Scrubber Right for Your Home?
Air scrubbers aren’t just another gadget—they’re an investment in your home’s air quality and your family’s health. With their ability to remove dust, neutralize odors, and kill airborne contaminants, they offer benefits that go beyond what traditional filters and purifiers can provide.
If you’re ready to improve your indoor air quality, contact us at (805) 737-2564 for a consultation and installation.
Call us today or visit www.pacaire.com/home-air-quality/ to learn more!
