In Every Home

Appliances for Cooking, Cleaning, & Care

Advice for Safe Installation of a Room Air Conditioner


In times of extreme heat, air conditioning can quickly transform from a matter of comfort to a matter of health and safety. Millions rely on room air conditioners (aka “window units”) and portable air conditioners either as their primary means of staying cool or to supplement central air conditioning.  

Both room and portable air conditioners are effective options for staying cool in hot weather, and each has its advantages. One obvious difference between the two is that room air conditioners may require a more extensive installation. If you are using a room air conditioner, here are some tips on how to install it safely:  

Select an appropriate window for installation: Room air conditioners should be installed in windows in partially or fully shaded areas. They must be near a three-pronged outlet so the unit can be easily plugged in for proper grounding. Never use an extension cord or power strip with a room AC unit. It creates the risk of overload, which can cause fire.  

Install the air conditioner in an area free of obstructions: Air conditioners rely on the free flow of air. Trees, bushes and anything else that blocks the intake, on the indoor or outdoor sides, can interfere with its function and cooling ability. Clear obstructions away if you do not already have a window that is free of them. 

Have the proper resources available: Installing a room air conditioner can be a two-person job. Make sure you have the proper tools available for installation, as recommended by the manufacturer. Clear the area below the window of anything that could be damaged if the unit falls during installation.  

Check your window: Windows, and any material used to support the room air conditioner, should be in good condition, free of any damage or rotting. Do not install a unit in a damaged window.  

Purchase any necessary support brackets: Depending on the model, the room AC unit may or may not require support brackets. Consult the manufacturer and check local regulations to see if brackets are required or recommended.  

Make sure the AC unit drains properly: Most air conditioners require a way for condensation to drain, which is why room AC units often drip. Follow all manufacturer instructions for setting up drainage. Doing it incorrectly can lead to damaged wood, mold and odors as well as icing of the air conditioner’s coils.   

Sweat Less, Save More: Summer Appliance Strategies to Save Energy


Summer will be here soon, and as temperatures rise, now—before the heat waves roll in—is the best time to look at your home’s energy and water use and find ways to save. The good news is that energy-saving opportunities are all over your home. AHAM has compiled this list of energy saving tips that you can use every day throughout the summer to keep your home cooler, save water and hopefully make your energy bill a little lighter.  

Start with prevention  

  • On hot days, keep your house cooler by limiting heat-producing activities like cooking during the day.  
  • Close curtains and pull shades to block sunlight. 

Optimize your room or portable AC 

  • Resist the temptation to crank up the AC to the highest level, which uses more energy and can add excessive moisture to a room. Instead, set it at a comfortable level.  
  • Turn the temperature down at night for more efficient cooling, and up if you are leaving the home for an extended period.  

Let the cool air flow 

  • Use fans strategically to circulate cool air. 
  • Open windows (and shut off your AC) when the temperatures drop.  

Adopt summer-friendly fridge habits 

  • Maintain steady internal refrigerator and freezer temperatures by limiting how often you open the door.  
  • Cool those barbecue leftovers and other foods before storing them in the refrigerator. Hot and warm food can raise the temperature, forcing the fridge to work harder to stay cool. 

Cooler cooking 

  • Use pots and pans that are appropriately sized for the burners.  

Energy-smart dishwashing 

  • Run full loads of dishes to maximize efficient energy and water use. 
  • Avoid pre-rinsing dishes. You likely will use more water than it takes to wash a full load of dishes in the dishwasher. 

No-sweat Laundry  

  • Wash clothes in cold water to save the energy it would take to heat the water. 
  • Run full loads of laundry to maximize water and energy use. 
  • Clean dryer lint filters to maintain airflow and efficiency and reduce the risk of dryer fires. 

Find the Perfect Portable Appliance for Mom this Mother’s Day

There’s a good reason that Mother’s Day is one of the leading holidays for portable appliance purchases. The spirit of the holiday and the gift go hand-in-hand. Mother’s Day is built on the idea of making life a little bit easier for Mom and giving her a chance to relax. And the right appliance can bring comfort, convenience and maybe even some luxury on Mother’s Day and all year.  

But with so many options, how do you know which portable appliance will make the perfect gift? The answer is right in front of you in Mom’s preferences and her daily routine. AHAM has put together this checklist on what to consider to narrow down your options. 

Understand Mom’s preferences: Is she a culinary enthusiast? If she loves to cook, a versatile appliance like a multi-cooker or stand mixer could be perfect. For the coffee connoisseur, a specialty coffeemaker might just hit the spot. Question to ask: Will Mom use this appliance regularly? Will it make her life easier?  

Appliance gift suggestions

  • Multi-cooker 
  • Specialty or cold-brew coffeemaker 
  • High-performance blender 

Consider Mom’s schedule: Extra time during the day might be the greatest gift you can give. If Mom has a busy schedule, consider appliances that might give her back some of her time. Maybe that’s a robotic vacuum or a smart coffeemaker. Or maybe it’s a multi-cooker slow cooker that takes some of the work out of making dinner. Think about Mom’s typical day and whether there is a task you can take off her plate and make her daily routine more manageable. Question to ask: Will this save Mom time?   

Appliance gift suggestions 

  • Robotic vacuum 
  • Smart coffeemaker 
  • Slow cooker 

Design and aesthetics matter: Certain portable appliances can bring a new visual element to the kitchen along with their function and features. Think about the color and style of the appliance. Does it match Mom’s tastes? A colorful stand mixer, a sleek coffeemaker or toaster with a unique finish can add a touch of elegance to her countertop. Question to ask: Does the appliance match Mom’s preferences for style and color? 

Appliance gift suggestions 

  • Stand mixer in Mom’s favorite color 
  • Toaster with a matte, chrome or retro finish 
  • Electric kettle with a colored finish 

Space considerations: Depending on the type of appliance you are purchasing, space can be a consideration. This is particularly true with appliances that tend to live on the kitchen counter, like a countertop oven, coffeemaker or stand mixer. You should also make sure the appliance is the right size for the job. Question to ask: Will this appliance fit seamlessly into the kitchen? 

Avoiding returns 

If you have followed the checklist above, you are on the right path to finding the perfect portable appliance to give for Mother’s Day. AHAM research has shown that the most common reasons for portable and floor care appliance returns are: 

  • Unmet expectations: If you think you have found the perfect portable appliance as a gift, consider asking the retailer if you can look at it out of the box and learn more about the ease of operation and setup. Make sure you are buying the right appliance to meet Mom’s needs. 
  • The appliance doesn’t match: The size and color should fit well with your home’s setup.  
  • The gift was unwanted: Use the questions above to do your research and find the appliance that Mom really wants.  

AHAM wishes moms everywhere a happy Mother’s Day!  

Mount Spurr Eruption: Protecting Indoor Air From Volcanic Ash and Smog

The predicted eruption of Mount Spurr in Alaska poses a unique indoor air quality challenge for residents of the state’s largest city, Anchorage, other communities in Alaska, and possibly areas of Canada. Experts are predicting an eruption within the upcoming weeks to months, and residents of the areas are reportedly stocking up on essentials as they prepare to deal with the effects of the eruption. 

If you live in an area that will be affected by pollution from the eruption, it is essential to have a plan in place to maintain your indoor air quality. Portable room air cleaners remain the best, most accessible option for mitigating the indoor air quality effects of both volcanic ash and volcanic smog, also known as vog. 

Volcanic smog consists of microscopic particles, including PM 2.5, sulfur dioxide and other compounds, according to the U.S. Geological Service. It affects visibility outside and can cause or aggravate breathing problems. It is a bigger issue in Hawaii, where public health officials recommend using a portable room air cleaner during vog events. However, vog can also develop in Alaska under the right conditions. 

Volcanic ash differs significantly from more common pollutants like wildfire smoke, dust or pollen, and making certain adjustments in how you use your room air cleaner can have a major impact on its effectiveness. Experts from the AHAM Verifide® program, which provides independent testing of room air cleaners, offer these tips for using an air cleaner in the aftermath of a volcanic eruption: 

Selecting an air cleaner 

  • Consider a unit with a pre-filter. Volcanic ash particles are larger and heavier than wildfire smoke or other more common pollutants. A pre-filter—which captures larger particles before they reach the air filter—can improve effectiveness and reduce the frequency of filter changes. 
  • Look for the AHAM Verifide® seal: The seal means the manufacturer’s claims about the air cleaner’s performance have been independently verified through rigorous testing.  
  • Select a unit with the right CADR: Choose a unit that is rated appropriately for the size of the room in which the air cleaner will primarily be used. The CADR will be displayed on the packaging of AHAM Verifide® air cleaners. 

Using your air cleaner 

  • Practice in advance. Read your unit’s use-and-care manual and become familiar with its operation under normal circumstances. Run through the recommended maintenance, including filter changes, before the eruption. Learn how often the manufacturer recommends changing the filter under normal conditions, and if necessary, contact the manufacturer to find out what adjustments to make under the circumstances. 
  • Position the air cleaner near the center of the room. This will allow for better filtration. Putting it in the corner or against a wall can interfere with airflow.  
  • Stock up on extra filters. Even with a pre-filter, expect to change your air cleaner’s filter more frequently due to the volume of ash and the nature of the particles. Make sure you have extra filters on hand and only buy genuine filters that are recommended by the manufacturer. During the last eruption, businesses closed, and vehicle operation was affected. Residents were advised to stay inside. New filters may not be available for a while after the eruption.  
  • Keep the outside clean. During a heavy pollution event, expect particles to build up on the outside of the unit quickly. Clean it as necessary, as excess buildup can interfere with performance.  
  • Keep rooms closed off as much as possible. Keep doors to rooms closed to limit the spread of pollutants and improve air cleaner effectiveness.  
  • Run the air cleaner continuously.  

Other tips 

  • Vacuum regularly. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove settled ash particles so they are not kicked back into the air. Wear goggles and a mask while you vacuum, and wait until the particles have settled.   
  • Keep surfaces clean. Wipe down counters and clean floors and other hard surfaces regularly to remove settled particles.  The USGS recommends wearing a mask and goggles while you clean. 
  • Wash smaller loads of laundry: Volcanic ash particles are abrasive and tend to adhere to clothing. The USGS recommends washing smaller loads of laundry and extra detergent so clothes can move freely in the wash. Shake the clothing before washing. 

While experts don’t know for certain when Mount Spurr will erupt or which way the ash will drift, it is important to take steps to preserve your home’s indoor air quality in the event of an eruption. Volcanic ash settles more quickly than smaller particles like wildfire smoke, but air quality issues can last for days or weeks as settled ash is kicked back into the air. Visit www.ahamverifide.org for more tips and to select an air cleaner that is right- sized for your home to national standards.  

Stay Healthy in Your Home: Tips from an Environmental Engineer on Indoor Air Quality

Our homes harbor an astonishing amount of indoor allergens and pollutants, from known culprits like dirt and dust, to pet dander, cigarette smoke, and more. But some of the most common are things you may not have thought of, like volatiles and combustion-related pollutants from cooking, toxic chemicals off-gassing from personal care and cleaning products, and molds.  

Shelly L. Miller, Ph.D

AHAM recently sat down with Dr. Shelly L. Miller, Ph.D., an indoor air pollution expert and professor at the University of Colorado Boulder, to discuss all things indoor air quality (and portable air cleaners). During our conversation, she shared: 

  • The importance of ventilation for a healthy home 
  • Best practices for improving indoor air quality 
  • Things to look for when choosing a portable air cleaner 
  • How to get the most from your air cleaner 

According to Dr. Miller, most homes are poorly ventilated. While being sealed up tight might be great for energy efficiency, it’s NOT great for indoor air quality. “Ventilation is critical for a healthy indoor environment. By bringing outdoor air inside, concentrations of indoor air contaminants get diluted,” she said.  

Ventilation technology exists with things like heat recovery ventilators (HRV) or energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) that constantly condition and refresh the air inside the home, helping to remove pollutants, allergens, and other types of particles from the air. But, while modern ‘passive’ homes use these technologies, most homes — especially older homes — don’t have the technology, and it can be incredibly expensive to add.  

Other than increasing ventilation, which, again, is a costly fix, Dr. Miller says, “Simple solutions do exist for improving indoor air in homes, businesses, and schools — with the best practices being source control and air cleaning.” Source control means removing the pollution at the source  (such as using a range hood while cooking). Air cleaning, on the other hand, means capturing harmful pollutants after they have been released into the indoor air. This is where portable room air cleaners come into play. Portable room air cleaners represent a quick, accessible option for improving indoor air quality.  

Once you decide to purchase an air cleaner, there are hundreds of models to choose from. Between learning about all the technical features, plus an abundance of acronyms like CADR, ACH, and HEPA that are associated with air cleaners, shopping for the right model can be confusing.  

To determine whether an air cleaner will do the job, Dr. Miller advises to look for third-party certifications, and buy devices tested by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and/or the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) (That’s us! More on AHAM’s Verifide® program below).  

Air cleaners are not one-size-fits-all solutions, and there are a few important things to consider when choosing a room air cleaner: 

  • Room size. It’s vital that the air cleaner is capable of effectively covering the size of the room in question. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for the recommended room size.  
  • Focus on the Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR). The CADR, which is AHAM’s standard for measuring an air cleaner’s efficacy, helps provide a way to choose an air cleaner based on your specific air cleaning needs. That’s because CADR is a measurement of how fast an air cleaner filters three commonly sized particulate matter: dust, pollen and tobacco smoke. Match your air purifier’s CADR to room size. To do that, follow AHAM’s recommended 2/3 rule, and choose an air cleaner with a dust, pollen, or smoke rating that is two-thirds the size of the square feet of the room. That means a room that is 200 square feet would require an air cleaner with a CADR of at least 132. If you live in an area with a high pollen count, consider air cleaners with higher ratings for filtering pollen. If dust is an issue, pay closer attention to the unit’s rating for dust. And if you have smokers in the home, look for higher ratings for smoke. The higher the CADR number for each pollutant, the faster the unit filters the pollutant from the air.  
  • If wildfire smoke is your concern, the room sizing recommendation changes. Wildfires drive smoke and ash to very high levels, often requiring masking outdoors. Portable room air cleaners that will be used to mitigate wildfire smoke should have a smoke CADR equal to the room size.   

Knowing your unit’s CADR can help you determine how many air changes per hour (ACH) it is capable of, or how many times all the air in a space is cleaned. The bigger the room, the more airflow you need to clean all the air in it.   

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends looking for air purifier models that provide at least 4.8 ACH for the recommended room size to help improve your indoor air quality. A device labeled to provide 4.8 ACH in a 10’x 12’ x 8’ room can treat the air in a room of that size 4.8 times each hour. In general, according to EPA, a device with much higher ACH for a room is not recommended, as it provides minimal air quality improvements for higher energy use.   

It is important to note that claims regarding ACH and CADR have not been substantiated unless the product has been tested to the ANSI/AHAM AC-1 test method through a program that third-party verifies products such as the ENERGY STAR program or AHAM Verifide. 

When it comes to using air cleaners properly, a good rule of thumb is to place an air cleaner in each room. “It’s best to place the air cleaner close to the source of pollutants,” Dr. Miller says. “For instance, in a kitchen without an exhaust hood, put the air cleaner close to the stove.” Otherwise, air cleaners should be positioned as close as possible to the center of the room to maximize airflow. It’s also important to change the air cleaner filter regularly, according to the model’s use and care instructions. 

ABOUT AHAM VERIFIDE 

When you’re ready to purchase an air cleaner, always look for the AHAM Verifide® mark. Room air cleaners certified through the AHAM Verifide program have been rigorously tested by an independent laboratory to ensure the product will perform to the manufacturer’s product claims for the suggested room size. The AHAM Verifide mark can be found on product packaging.  

To find AHAM Verifide® room air cleaners, use AHAM’s online searchable directory to locate the model that’s right for you. 

Find a Certified Room Air Cleaner Here 

ABOUT DR. MILLER 

Dr. Shelly L. Miller is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering and faculty in the Environmental Engineering Program at the University of Colorado Boulder, holding an M.S. and Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering from University of California, Berkeley, and a B.S. in Applied Mathematics from Harvey Mudd College. Dr. Miller studies urban air quality and works diligently to understand the impact of air pollution on public health and the environment. She is an expert on indoor air quality, airborne infectious disease transmission, air pollution and air cleaning technologies, and assessing and mitigating urban air pollution exposures in underserved communities. Dr. Miller is a member of the Academy of Fellows of the International Society for Indoor Air and Climate (ISIAQ) and is also an Associate Editor for Environmental Science and Technology. Dr. Miller has published over 100 peer-reviewed articles on air quality including timely papers on COVID-19 transmission and control, and is the principal investigator on the National Science Foundation’s Social Justice and Environmental Equity Project in Denver (SJEQDenver.com). 

Make 2025 the Year for Cleaner Air

As we usher in 2025, many of us reflect on ways to improve our lives. While common resolutions include eating healthier or exercising more, let’s focus on something that is often overlooked, but important to health and well-being: indoor air quality (IAQ).

During winter, when we spend more time indoors with windows sealed tight against the cold, it is easy for pollutants to accumulate, affecting our health and comfort. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), levels of indoor pollutants can be two to five times—and occasionally more than 100 times—higher than outdoor levels. Indoor pollutants include allergens, smoke, pet dander, mold, bacteria, respiratory viruses, and more. 

Why not make a resolution to improve your indoor air quality? Here’s how to start.

Why Indoor Air Quality Matters

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), poor indoor air quality can lead to allergies, respiratory issues, and even long-term health problems. Dust, mold, pet dander, and other pollutants all contribute to indoor air pollution. And during the winter, when we spend 90% of our time indoors, the impact is even greater. The good news is that even small changes can improve indoor air quality.

Tips for Improving Indoor Air Quality

  1. Invest in a portable air cleaner. An air cleaner can remove dust, allergens, and other particles from the air. Choose one sized appropriately for your space and place it in high-traffic or sleeping areas for maximum benefit. When you are ready to purchase an air cleaner, always look for the AHAM Verifide® (learn more about AHAM Verifide below).
  2. Ventilate while cooking. Cooking can release smoke, grease, and other pollutants into the air. An externally vented range hood can capture these emissions and expel them outdoors. If you already have one, ensure it is functioning well and clean the filters regularly. And if you don’t have an externally vented range hood, you have other options to improve ventilation while cooking.
  3. Ventilate your home. Letting in fresh air for even 10 minutes a day can help dilute indoor pollutants. Use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathrooms to reduce moisture and odors.
  4. Reduce dust and allergens. Vacuum regularly using a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Wash bedding weekly in hot water and use dust-mite-proof covers on pillows and mattresses.
  5. Control humidity levels. High humidity encourages mold and mildew growth, while low humidity can irritate your skin and respiratory system. Aim for a humidity level between 30-50%. A humidifier or dehumidifier can help keep it in check.

Benefits of Cleaner Indoor Air

By improving your indoor air quality, you may notice:

  • Fewer respiratory issues and allergies.
  • Better sleep quality.
  • A fresher, more inviting home environment.
  • Peace of mind knowing you are creating a safer space for your family.

Start 2025 Off Right

Commit to cleaner indoor air as your New Year’s resolution and enjoy the benefits of a healthier home environment all year long.

About AHAM Verifide

When you’re ready to purchase an air cleaner, always look for the AHAM Verifide® mark. Room air cleaners certified through the AHAM Verifide program have been rigorously tested by an independent laboratory to ensure the product will perform to the manufacturer’s product claims for the suggested room size. AHAM’s standard for measuring an air cleaner’s efficacy is called the Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR). CADR indicates the volume of filtered air an air cleaner delivers, with separate scores for tobacco smoke, pollen and dust. The higher the CADR number for each pollutant, the faster the unit filters the air.

To find AHAM Verifide® room air cleaners, use AHAM’s online searchable directory to locate the model that’s right for you.

Find a Certified Room Air Cleaner Here

Beat the dry winter air with a humidifier

If you need another reason to dislike winter, dry winter air is a good one. It can dry out your nasal passages, which can make it tougher to bounce back from a stuffy nose. The dry air can aggravate asthma symptoms and cause dry skin. Over time, it can also damage your wooden floors and furniture and hurt the health of your houseplants.

Clearly, if you can offset the dry air, you should. And a humidifier is your go-to appliance for balancing out the air in your home as you count the days until spring. If you are shopping for a humidifier, there are a few things to consider while you’re making your choice.

Size of the room

If you have an idea of where you’re going to primarily use your humidifier, it’s important to know the size of your room. If you buy a humidifier that’s too large for the space, you’ll not only make the room uncomfortably humid, but also create an environment favorable to mold and mildew. Too small, and your humidifier won’t be able to adequately humidify the space. Humidifiers designed for larger spaces will have larger water tanks.

Check the labeling of the humidifier, which should have information about how big a space the model is made for. Know the square footage of your room and choose the model that’s appropriate for the space.

Warm vs. cool

Appliance manufacturers produce humidifiers that can put out either warm or cool humidity. Your choice is largely a matter of personal preference. Both warm and cool-mist humidifiers will increase the humidity in your home.

Filter or no filter?

Both filtered and filter-free humidifiers will humidify the air. A filtered model will remove minerals from water before the water is put into the air. However, the filter will need to be changed regularly, possibly every 1-2 months.

Filter-free models don’t require changing filters. But, you may notice an accumulation of minerals, possibly as a fine white dust, on the outside of a filter-free humidifier. However, some models come with demineralization cartridges, which need to be replaced periodically.

You may notice a difference in the way filtered and filter-free humidifiers put moisture into the air. Filtered models are evaporative and use a fan to put humidified air into the room. Filter-free models put a visible mist directly into the air.

Maintenance and care

All humidifiers, whether warm or cool, filtered or filter-free, require regular cleaning and maintenance. Before you buy, take a look at the models you’re considering and think about how easy they might be to clean. Do they have detachable parts that can be placed in a dishwasher? Are there narrow openings that might be difficult to clean? You’ll need to wipe down the inside of the tank regularly, so make sure the humidifier you choose has an opening large enough to reach inside.

The cleaning process will vary depending on the model, but in general, it’s a two-step process that involves descaling and disinfecting. Descaling breaks down any minerals that may have accumulated on the humidifier. Disinfecting will kill any germs that have built up. You’ll need bleach for disinfecting, vinegar for descaling, plus a cloth or brush. Follow the cleaning instructions in your humidifier’s use and care manual.

Keeping the humidifier clean is even more important if you’re using it to ease a cold, allergies or asthma, as a dirty dehumidifier can put contaminants back into the air.

Humidifiers are not diffusers

Humidifiers are sometimes confused with essential oil diffusers, but the two are not interchangeable. Diffusers tend to be much smaller than humidifiers and are designed to accommodate oils. Humidifiers can only be filled with water. Oils or other substances can damage the humidifier’s tank and mechanical parts.

Tips for Choosing the Ideal Portable Room Air Cleaner


Portable room air cleaners represent the quickest, most accessible option for improving indoor air quality in homes, classrooms, and offices. They work by filtering out harmful particles from the air like dust, pollen, tobacco smoke, mold spores, bacteria, viruses, and more. By removing these pollutants, air cleaners can significantly improve indoor air quality. 

But with so many models to choose from, it can be challenging to decide what you need from an air cleaner. That’s why we’re breaking down the buying process.  

When selecting an air cleaner, consider the following factors: 

  • Room size: Ensuring the air cleaner is capable of effectively covering the size of the room is the most important feature to look for. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for the recommended room size. EPA recommends looking for air purifier models that provide at least 4.8 ACH for the recommended room size to help improve your indoor air quality
  • Type of Filter: Learn what type of filter the air cleaner uses, including its capabilities and required maintenance.  
  • Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR): CADR, which is AHAM’s rating system for an air cleaner’s efficacy, provides a way to choose an air cleaner based on your specific air cleaning needs. CADR is a measurement of how fast an air cleaner filters three commonly sized particulates: dust, pollen and tobacco smoke. Follow the “two-thirds” rule and choose an air cleaner with a smoke CADR rating that is two-thirds the size of the room’s area. That means a room that is 200 square feet would require an air cleaner with a smoke CADR of at least 132. If you live in an area with a high pollen count, consider air cleaners with higher ratings for filtering pollen. If dust is an issue, pay closer attention to the unit’s rating for dust. And if you have smokers in the home, look for higher ratings for smoke. If you are using an air cleaner to address wildfire smoke, AHAM recommends a model with a smoke CADR equal to the size of the room in square feet. The higher the CADR number for each pollutant, the faster the unit filters the air. AHAM considers CADR the most important metric for comparing air cleaner performance. 
  • Noise level: This is related to room size. Choosing an air cleaner properly sized for the space is the best way to ensure that the noise level is appropriate.  
  • Look for the AHAM Verifide seal: The mark can typically be found on product packaging and means the manufacturer’s claims have been independently verified through rigorous testing. (learn more about AHAM Verifide below). 

ABOUT AHAM VERIFIDE 

Not all portable room air cleaners are the same. When you’re ready to purchase an air cleaner, always look for the AHAM Verifide® mark. Room air cleaners certified through the AHAM Verifide program have been rigorously tested by an independent laboratory to ensure the product will perform to the manufacturer’s product claims for the suggested room size. The AHAM Verifide mark can be found on product packaging.  

To find AHAM Verifide® room air cleaners, use AHAM’s online searchable directory to locate the model that’s right for you. 

Find a Certified Room Air Cleaner Here 

The ABCs of IAQ: A Guide to Understanding Indoor Air Quality Terms

Given that most people spend 90 percent of their time indoors, indoor air quality (IAQ) is an important aspect of our comfort and well-being at home and at work. Yet understanding IAQ can be a bit overwhelming — especially given all the science, measurements, and acronyms associated with it. Let’s take a deeper look at the ABCs of indoor air quality and the terms and acronyms you might run across when looking for solutions to improve your indoor air.

IAQ: INDOOR AIR QUALITY

Indoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the quality of air in homes or other buildings, especially as it relates to the health and comfort of the occupants. It encompasses a variety of factors including pollutant levels, humidity and ventilation. Good indoor air quality is essential for maintaining a healthy indoor environment, especially in places where people spend a large portion of their time, like homes, offices, and schools.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), levels of indoor pollutants can be two to five times—and occasionally more than 100 times — higher than outdoor levels due to dust, allergens, smoke, pet dander, mold, bacteria, respiratory viruses, and more.  Key factors influencing indoor air quality include:

  1. Pollutants: These can come from a variety of sources:
    • Biological contaminants such as mold, dust mites, pollen, and pet dander.
    • Chemical pollutants from household cleaning products, paints, building materials or combustion byproducts.
    • Particulate matter (PM), which are small particles from dust, smoke or vehicle emissions can also accumulate indoors (learn more below).
  2. Ventilation: Poor ventilation can lead to a build-up of indoor pollutants. Proper ventilation, either through mechanical systems or open windows, is crucial for maintaining good air quality.
  3. Humidity: Excess humidity can encourage mold growth, while very low humidity can lead to dry skin and respiratory issues.

Improving IAQ involves proper ventilation, minimizing sources of pollutants, using air cleaners, and maintaining appropriate humidity levels.

CADR: CLEAN AIR DELIVERY RATE

AHAM’s standard for measuring an air cleaner’s efficacy is called the Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR). Similar to ACH, CADR indicates the volume of filtered air an air cleaner delivers, with separate scores for tobacco smoke, pollen and dust. The higher the CADR number for each pollutant, the faster the unit filters the air.

As a rule of thumb, the CADR of an air cleaner should be equal to at least two-thirds of the room’s area. For example, a 10-foot by 12-foot room has an area of 120 square feet. It would be best to have an air cleaner with a smoke CADR of at least 80. If you are using an air cleaner to manage wildfire smoke, AHAM recommends a smoke CADR equal to the size of the room in square feet.

Using an air cleaner with a higher CADR in that room will simply clean the air more often and faster. If your ceilings are higher than 8 feet, an air cleaner rated for a larger room will be necessary.

ACH: AIR CHANGES PER HOUR

Air changes per hour (ACH) is a key metric for air cleaners that refers to the number of times the entire volume of air in a room is filtered or replaced by the air cleaner within one hour.

ACH is calculated by dividing the volume of air the room air cleaner can process in an hour by the volume of the room. For example, if an air cleaner can process 400 cubic feet of air per minute (CFM), it would process 24,000 cubic feet of air per hour (400 CFM x 60 minutes). If the room has 6,000 cubic feet of air, the ACH would be 4, meaning the purifier can filter all the air in the room four times per hour.

The ACH value depends on the room size and the air cleaner’s capacity. An air cleaner that delivers 5 ACH in a small room might only provide 2 ACH in a larger room, so it’s important to choose an air purifier that matches the room size for optimal air cleaning efficiency. Per the AHAM AC-1 Standard, the suggested room size on the AHAM Verifide label is based on 4.8 ACH.  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Office of Indoor Air Quality recommends 4.8 ACH.  IAQ researchers have found that the minimum ventilation recommendation is 3 ACH, and that more ventilation or air changes enhance indoor air quality.

PM: PARTICULATE MATTER

Particulate matter (PM), is a complex mixture of tiny particles and liquid droplets in the air. I tis measured in sizes, such as PM10 and PM2.5. PM10 includes things like dust, pollen, and mold, while PM2.5 includes combustion particles and organic compounds like smoke.

To put the physical size of PM into context, a human hair is about 50-70 micrometers in diameter, and a grain of fine beach sand is about 90 micrometers. PM10 is less than 10 micrometers, while PM2.5 is less than 2.5 micrometers.

HEPA: HIGH EFFICIENCY PARTICULATE AIR

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are a type of air filter designed to trap very small particles from the air. To be classified as a HEPA filter, it must meet strict standards set by the U.S. Department of Energy, which require it to capture at least 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns in diameter. These particles include dust, pollen, mold spores, bacteria, and some viruses.

HEPA filters are made of a dense mat of fibers, usually composed of fiberglass, which create a maze-like structure that captures those harmful particles. They are included in a variety of household products, including some models of air cleaners and vacuums.

ABOUT AHAM VERIFIDE

Portable room air cleaners represent the quickest, most accessible option for improving indoor air quality. Air cleaners can filter out harmful particulates like tobacco smoke, dust, and pollen, making the air your family breathes cleaner and healthier.

But not all air cleaners are the same. When you’re ready to purchase an air cleaner, always look for the AHAM Verifide® mark. Room air cleaners certified through the AHAM Verifide program have been rigorously tested by an independent laboratory to ensure the product will perform to the manufacturer’s product claims for the suggested room size. The AHAM Verifide mark can be found on product packaging.

To find AHAM Verifide® room air cleaners, use AHAM’s online searchable directory to locate the model that’s right for you.

Button: Find a Certified Room Air Cleaner Here

HEPA Filters: What They Mean for Indoor Air Quality

Between indoor air pollutants and allergens like dust and pollen, PM 2.5, smoke from wildfires and illnesses like flu, COVID, RSV, and the common cold, there are plenty of reasons to pay more attention to indoor air quality. 

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), most people spend about 90 percent of their time indoors, where levels of pollutants can be two to five times higher than outdoors. Those levels of indoor air pollutants are of particular concern in the fall as it gets cooler, and people begin to spend even more time indoors. 

If you are looking for a room air cleaner or vacuum, you likely have come across the term ”HEPA.” HEPA stands for “high efficiency particulate air” and refers to a type of air filter designed to trap very small particles. To be classified as HEPA, the filter must meet strict U.S. Department of Energy standards, which require the filter to capture at least 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns in diameter. These particles include dust, pollen, mold spores, bacteria, and some viruses. 

HEPA filters are made of a dense mat of fibers, usually composed of fiberglass, which create a maze-like structure that captures particles through a combination of three mechanisms: 

  1. Interception: Particles following the airstream come into contact with the filter fibers and stick to them. 
  2. Impaction: Larger particles can’t follow the airstream around fibers and instead collide with them. 
  3. Diffusion: Smaller particles move erratically, increasing the chance they will hit a fiber and become trapped. 

HEPA filters can improve indoor air quality because they: 

  • Remove allergens and pollutants: HEPA filters can capture common indoor allergens like dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores, improving air quality for people with allergies or respiratory conditions. 
  • Capture harmful microorganisms: HEPA filters are capable of trapping illness-causing bacteria, viruses and mold.  
  • Reduce smoke and odors: HEPA filters can capture smoke particles, improving air quality in environments where tobacco smoke, wildfire smoke, or pollution is a concern. 

HEPA filters are included in a variety of household products designed to improve air quality and cleanliness. Some common types of products that utilize HEPA filters include: 

Air cleaners: Standalone portable room air cleaners are designed specifically to clean indoor air. They may use HEPA filters to trap dust, pollen, mold spores, pet dander, smoke, and other particles. If you live in an area affected by wildfires, or have tobacco smokers in the home, an air cleaner with a HEPA filter and activated carbon filter can also help reduce the smell of smoke in your home.  (Learn more about AHAM Verifide below.) 

Vacuums: HEPA-filtered vacuums prevent dust, allergens, and fine particles from being released back into the air while cleaning carpets, rugs, and floors. 

Home dehumidifiers with air filtration: Some dehumidifiers are equipped with HEPA filters, meaning they both reduce moisture and capture fine particles in the air. 

HEPA filters are particularly valuable in settings where maintaining clean, allergen-free air is important, such as homes with allergy sufferers or environments prone to airborne particles like smoke or dust. It is important to change HEPA filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.  

About AHAM Verifide 

Portable room air cleaners, also called air purifiers, represent the quickest, most accessible option for improving indoor air quality in the home. When you are ready to purchase an air cleaner, always look for the AHAM Verifide® mark. Room air cleaners certified through the AHAM Verifide program have been rigorously tested by an independent laboratory to ensure the product will perform to the manufacturer’s product claims for the suggested room size. AHAM’s standard for measuring an air cleaner’s efficacy is called the Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR). CADR indicates the volume of filtered air an air cleaner delivers, with separate scores for tobacco smoke, pollen and dust. The higher the CADR number for each pollutant, the faster the unit filters the air. The AHAM Verifide mark can be found on product packaging.  

To find AHAM Verifide® room air cleaners, use AHAM’s online searchable directory to locate the model that is right for you. 

Find a Certified Room Air Cleaner Here

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