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• Austin Air Filter FAQs

  Tuesday, February 11th, 2014

  What is the difference between the HeathMate™ and the Allergy Machine?

  The HealthMate has a True Medical grade HEPA filter surrounded by a carbon/zeolite blend which adsorbs odours and gases. The standard HealthMate™ filter weighs approximately 21 lbs (9.5 kg).

  The AllergyMachine™ has a HEGA filter comprised of True medical grade HEPA surrounding an advanced military carbon cloth which adsorbs odours and gases. The standard AllergyMachine™ filter weighs approximately 8 lbs (3.6 kg).

  Both products are effective for people with allergies and asthma. The HealthMate™is recommended for people with chemical sensitivities. The AllergyMachine™ is recommended for smokers, strong odours and for damp environments.

  What is the difference between the Healthmate™ and the HealthMate Plus™?

  Both have a Tue medical grade HEPA filter plus granular activated carbon and zeolite. The carbon in the Plus model is impregnated with potassium iodide to make the HealthMate Plus™ more effective at removing formaldehyde and ammonia. The HealthMate Plus™ is recommended for new homes, laboratories, beauty salons, funeral homes. Sources of formaldehyde in homes can be carpeting, wood paneling, construction materials, upholstery and drapery.

  Where should I position my Austin Air filter?

  Position your Austin air filter at least 4” form walls. For maximum benefit use the air cleaner in your bedroom with the door closed. Standard Austin machines will clean the air in an average bedroom in about 15 minutes with the door closed.

  What does HEPA mean?

  HEPA stands for ‘High Efficiency Particulate Arresting’. The original HEPA filter was developed by the Atomic Energy Commission during WWII to prevent the spread of airborne radioactive contaminants. Today, true HEPA filters continue to be the most efficient type of air filter. They must meet or exceed the True HEPA standard of trapping 99.97% particles 0.3 microns or larger. A human hair is about 300 times too large to penetrate a HEPA filter. This standard is set by the US Department of Energy.

  What does HEGA mean?

  HEGA stands for ‘High Efficiency Gas Adsorption’. It is a military grade carbon cloth filter originally developed in Britain as a defense against chemical warfare. HEGA cloth is light weight and extremely efficient at adsorbing gaseous pollutants in conditions unsuitable for granular activated carbon.

  What is activated carbon?

  Activated carbon is carbon derived from coconut shells treated with a steam process. Activated carbon has enormous surface area available for adsorbing gases and odours due to its micro-porosity. It is the most sought after material for cleaning contaminants from air and water. For instance, it is used in military gas masks.

  What is Zeolite?

  Zeolites are a special class of micro-porous minerals known as “molecular sieves.” Zeolites have the ability to selectively sort particulate based on a size exclusion process. Zeolites also have exceptional properties for adsorbing gases like formaldehyde, ammonia and carbon monoxide.

  What are Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)?

  VOCs are organic chemicals that vaporize easily at room temperature into the surrounding air.. VOCs are everywhere, man-made and naturally occurring. Most odours are VOCs. Some VOCs, such as from paint, formaldehyde, artificial fragrances, building materials floor coverings, draperies and plastics are dangerous to our health. Concentrations are highest indoors. Negative health effects develop from long term exposure making symptoms more difficult to link to the cause.

  What is Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS)?

  Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a chronic disabling condition attributed to low-level chemical exposure. MCS is not recognized by established health associations. Symptoms can be vague and hard to pinpoint. Some characteristic symptoms are headaches, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, inflammation of the skin, joints, gastrointestinaltract and respiratory system.

  What is the CFM rate?

  The CFM (cubic feet per minute) is the measurement of how much air passes through the unit. The CFM for Austin standard machines is 250 cfm on high speed and 75 cfm on low speed. The CFM for Austin Junior machines is 125 cfm on high speed and 50 cfm on low speed.

  Is there a difference between quoted fan rates and the actual cleaned air coming out of an air filter?

  Maximum room coverage figures are often exaggerated in the air purification industry by measuring air flow rates without filters installed. Good air purifiers, using true HEPA filters and large amounts of carbon, significantly reduce air flow rate because they provide effective contact time with the filtration media to thoroughly clean contaminated air. Additionally, Austin machines are thoroughly constructed with proper seals to prevent uncleaned air leaking from the machine. Poor quality air filters may leak dirty air which will increase ‘air flow’ but will not improve air quality. Austin Air is fastidious about quality construction and filtration materials for delivering first class, long lasting air purification results.

  How many Air Changes per Hour (ACH) do I need my air filter to perform?

  ‘Air Exchanges per Hour’ (ACH) is a formula used to calculate the how often an air purifier cleans all the air in a room within one hour. People who suffer from allergies, asthma or chemical sensitivities will want at least 4 air exchanges per hour. Six or eight ACH are preferred. At 6 ACH an air purifier set on its highest speed will take 10 minutes to clean the air if no new pollutants are introduced.

  What is ‘Clean Air Delivery Rate’ (CADR)?

  ‘Clean Air Delivery Rate’ (CADR) is a measurement developed by The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers. Air filter brands can pay to have their machines rated according to this measurement.

  CADR does not measure an air purifier’s ability to filter chemical contaminants, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), toxic gases and odours.

  Several leading air filter brands, including Austin Air, do not subscribe to CADR because a CADR measurement determines the volume of air ‘purified’ by the machine but does not include an assessment of the machine’s thoroughness at retaining the sub-micron particles it processes.  Improperly sealed air filters can allow significant quantities of contaminated air to escape with outflowing ‘purified’ air. Poorly designed air filters may suck cleaned air right back into the machine rather than sending it out into the room in exchange for air that needs to be cleaned.

  Properly sealed air cleaning machines with substantial filtration media will cause air resistance, creating more contact time with the filtration media for more efficient filtration and consequently slowing the Clean Air Delivery Rate.

  Another brand of air purifier claims removal of airborne particulate as small as 0.003 micron. Why doesn’t Austin Air claim an equally small micron rating?

  Airborne particulate reduction ratings are measured with an air testing gun which is held to the air exiting the machine being tested. The inner components of some air purifiers (not Austin Air machines) contain Styrofoam which has electrostatic properties that skew the readings captured by an air testing gun. This malfunction results in near perfect readings that do not accurately reflect the true capabilities/limitations of the machine being tested.

  Why are the type of construction materials used for air purifiers so important for chemically sensitive individuals?

  Most air purifiers are made of injection molded plastics which off-gas toxic fumes. Chemically sensitive individuals may have no tolerance for any off-gassing. Austin Air makes every attempt to avoid the use of off-gassing materials in the construction and packaging of their machines. The structure of Austin Air purifiers consists of 22 gauge North-America sourced steel with water-based baked-on paint finish.

  About Ozone and Air Filters

  Ozone (O₃) is a powerful oxidant that is very effective at killing micro-organisms. It is so caustic that it can also damage mucus membranes, lungs and living tissues. Unlike the beneficial ‘ozone layer’ that prevents damaging solar rays from reaching the Earth’s surface, man-made ozone is a potent respiratory hazard. Ozone is produced as a by-product from the action of ultraviolet light, ionizing and electrostatic processes used by some air filter manufacturers. Incomplete oxidation of chemical compounds with ozone may result in the formation of dangerous toxins. For these reasons Austin Air purifiers do not produce or utilize ozone, ionization, electro-static precipitation or ultraviolet light.

  Why don’t Austin Air Machines have Remote Sensors and Filter Change-out Alarms?

  Typically these added air filter features do not have the ability to measure the quality of the air that has passed through the machine or the present condition of the air filter. They are based on time and may encourage premature filter replacement.

  Sensors that can measure the existing condition of the air filter are significantly more sophisticated and adding considerable expense to the cost of an air filter, an expense that is passed on to the consumer.

  Most sensors come with indicator lights. The most efficient place to position an air filter is in the bedroom. Sensor lights are often unwelcome in a bedroom at night.

  For these reasons, Austin Air does not include lights, sensors, timers, alarms or remotes with Austin machines.

  How do I know when to replace my Austin Air filter?

  Austin Air filters should be changed every 5 years or sooner if used in challenging circumstances.
  Replace your Austin Air filter whenever the first of these conditions occurs:

  • after five years of use
  • air flow becomes restricted
  • outflowing air has bad odour

  What causes shortened filter life?

  Some possible causes are new carpeting, new construction, paint fumes, heavy smoking, urban pollution, chemical-producing activities and lots of pets.

  Can Austin Air Filters clean up advanced mold and mildew?

  No air filter, whether it be Austin or some other brand, can get rid of advanced mold and mildew conditions. Remediation at the source of the problem is needed before installing an air filter.

  What are Austin Air prefilters made of?

  Austin PermaFilt prefilters are made of cotton.

  What is the Austin Air Return Policy?

  From date of purchase (from WaterMatters) the customer has 30 days to contact WaterMatters in order to obtain a Return Authorization. WaterMatters would then obtain a Return Authorization Number from Austin Air. The unit would be shipped back to Austin Air (Ontario) by and at the expense of the customer. Original shipping expenses would also become the customer’s expense. Upon return of the unit to Austin Air, WaterMatters would then issue credit to the customer.

   

   

  Posted in Water and Health

• How to Choose Your Austin Air Filter

  Tuesday, February 11th, 2014

  All Austin Air cleaners come with these outstanding features:

  • medical grade true HEPA filter
  • PermaFilt™ prefilter
  • 360-degree air intake system
  • stainless steel housing with baked-on (no off-gassing) paint finish
  • energy efficient permanent-split capacitor motor
  • 5-year mechanical warranty
  • 5-year pro-rated filter warranty
  • 30-day return guarantee

  Select Size, Model and Colour

  • Size – Choose Standard or Junior.

  Standard Austin Air machines offer coverage up to 1500 sq ft for large rooms, work areas and open concept spaces.
  Dimensions: 23” (58.4 cm) high x 14.5” (36.8 cm) wide x 14.5” (36.8 cm) deep

  Junior Austin Air machines offer coverage up to 700 sq ft for smaller and offices.
  Compact, lighter in weight.
  Dimensions: 16.5” (42 cm) high x 11” (27.9 cm) wide x 11” (27.9 cm) deep

  •  Model – Choose the best Austin air purifier to correct your indoor air quality problems.

  Standard machines:

  HealthMate™
  First class general air cleaner for allergens, asthma and Multiple Chemical Sensitivities (MCS).

  Allergy Machine™
  Recommended for smokers and for damp or greasy environments.

  The PET Machine™
  The air cleaner for pet owners.

  HealthMate Plus™
  Boosted protection from chemical contaminants.

  The Bedroom Machine™
  Advanced ultra-filtration of gases and airborne particles for extreme chemical sensitivity.

  Junior machines:

  HealthMate Junior
  Compact general purpose air cleaner.

  Allergy Machine Junior
  Compact design recommended for relief from tobacco smoke
  and for use in damp or greasy environments.

  Baby’s Breath
  Compact, effective, lightweight, easy-to-move air cleaner.

  HealthMate Plus Junior
  Compact, boosted protection from chemical contaminants.

  •  Colour

  Austin Air Machines come in your choice of White, Sandstone, Midnight Blue or Black.
  Baby’s Breath machines come in Light Blue or Pink.

  Posted in Water and Health

• Why We Recommend Austin Air Purifiers

  Monday, February 10th, 2014

  Austin Air makes first class air purifiers that surpass typical home air filters in performance, longevity and cost effectiveness. Austin Air Filters are highly regarded for their superior filtration abilities, long filter life, economical cost of operation, reliability, sturdy build and non-toxic materials including stainless steel housing. Every Austin air purifier comes with a five-year warranty on all parts and labor, plus a full five-year pro-rated filter warranty

  Effective

  Typical indoor air quality contains unhealthy particles and gases. Indoor air pollutants rank among the top 5 environmental risks to public health.* Austin Air Purifiers deliver superior air filtration to protect your lungs and sinuses from allergens, pollen, bacteria, viruses, mold spores, dust mites, pet dander, smoke, chemical fumes, bad smells, urban exhaust and plain old dust.

  Standard Austin air filters process 400 cubic feet of air every minute through 4-5 progressive stages of filtration.
  Over 60 square feet of true medical grade HEPA filter material remove airborne particles including bacteria and viruses.
  In addition the Austin HealthMate™ filter includes an outstanding 15 pounds of activated carbon/zeolite mix to adsorb gases, odours and toxic chemicals.

  Fast, Powerful Relief

  Standard Austin Air cleaners filter up to 1,500 square feet in approximately 15 – 20 minutes delivering fast relief from allergies and asthma. The smaller the space the faster the effects.
  Based on conservative calculations, Austin standard machines deliver:
  8 air exchanges per hour in a 235 sq ft space
  6 air exchanges per hour in a 315 sq ft space
  4 air exchanges per hour in a 470 sq ft space
  2 air exchanges per hour in a 940 sq ft space

  Cost Effective

  Austin Air machines are premium quality air purifiers yet they are more economical to own than other air cleaners. Austin machines and their initial filters will still be functioning under warranty years long after other brands have required multiple replacement parts or have gone to the landfill.

  Nothing to Replace for Five Years

  In the long run, Austin Air machines are the most economical air purifiers to operate. No parts need to be replaced for up to five years of clean air, under normal residential use.

  Cost of ownership for a typical lower quality air cleaner will eventually exceed an Austin Air HealthMate™. Even at 3-year filter changes, Austin air filters are economical.

  Easy Maintenance

  Austin air filters save you time as well as money. You won’t have to hassle with the frequent filter changes required to maintain other brands of air purifiers. The only maintenance requirement is to vacuum the outside of the Austin machine at least once a month.

  Quality Construction and Non-Toxic Materials

  Austin Air machines have a stainless steel housing with a baked on non-toxic paint finish. Efficient seals and precision fitting ensure thorough filtration of sub-micron particles without air by-passing or contaminants leaking into finished air.
  Standard Austin Air machines have easy-roll casters for easy maneuverability.

  Ozone-Free Operation

  Austin Air cleaners do not emit any by-products such as ozone, a toxic gas. Ozone is a severe irritant, especially for people with serious respiratory conditions such as asthma.

  Unbeatable Warranty for Service Life plus Filter Life

  5 Year Mechanical Warranty

  Your Austin Air cleaner is warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of 5 years from the date of purchase, as long as your Austin air cleaner has been operated under normal residential use and that you have completed and returned your warranty registration to Austin Air Systems.

  • 5 Year Pro-rated Filter Warranty

  Your Austin Air filter is covered by a 5 year pro-rated warranty, by far the most comprehensive warranty in the Air Purifier industry.

  30-Day Money Back Guarantee

  New Austin machines come with a 30-day no-questions-asked return policy. The customer would pay for shipping (for delivery from and return to Ontario) if the customer decided to return the unit within 30 days of purchase. (See details under FAQs.)

  How Austin Air Filters Work

  

  360° Progressive Filtering System

  Austin Machines efficiently draw in air from all sides to deliver more clean air faster.

  Incoming air is processed through 4 or 5 progressive stages of filtration. The quality and quantity of Austin’s air filtration materials is unsurpassed.

   

  Every Austin Air Purifier incorporates true HEPA filtration and large amounts of carbon in a thoroughly sealed system. Although these essential factors increase air resistance and reduce delivered air flow rates, the superior build and components of an Austin Air machine guarantees superior filtration results.

  Every Austin Air filter includes a specific combination from among these materials:

  True Medical Grade HEPA

  HEPA means High Efficiency Particulate Adsorption. True Medical Grade HEPA is the most effective particulate filtering media available. It was originally developed by the Atomic Energy Commission specifically to protect the Human Respiratory System from airborne radioactive contaminants. True HEPA is a sub-micron filter which removes 99.97% of all particulate down to 0.3 microns and 95% of particulate 0.1 microns and even smaller in size.

  Activated Carbon & Zeolite – the most powerful adsorbents known

  Austin Air Cleaners have the highest levels of gas and odor filtering materials available. Austin filters* incorporate the two most effective adsorbents known: activated carbon and zeolite. The extremely porous Activated Carbon is made from renewable coconut shells. Combined with the molecular sieving properties of natural Zeolite, this blend creates a maximum surface area to chemically bind and absorb impurities, odours, smoke, toxic gases and VOC’s like formaldehyde.

  HEGA

  HEGA stands for High Efficiency Gas Adsorption. The Austin Allergy Machine, The Bedroom machine and the Baby’s Breath Junior Machine combine both true HEPA and HEGA technologies plus Activated Carbon to effectively deliver long life protection from cigarette smoke, woodstove smoke, heavy pollen, dust and damp environments.

  Made in USA, Born in Canada

  Austin Air is a family owned business which began in Ontario in 1991. It has grown to become the most respected name in home air purification in North America. All Austin Air purification systems are now built in-house in Buffalo, New York at Austin Air’s manufacturing facility, the largest of its kind in the world. You can count on Austin Air to be around long into the future.

  Posted in Water and Health

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