Top quality purifiers often boast of their use of ‘HEPA’ (High Efficiency Particulate Absorber) filters, defined as able to remove 99.97% of particles larger than 0.3 microns (really very small – a single human hair is around 250 times as thick). Less reputable brands may talk of ‘HEPA-like’ filters which is jargon for ‘Not a HEPA filter but you probably won’t know’.
The smaller the particle, the more readily it can get into your lungs and your blood stream, ending up inside your cells throughout your body.
The MobileAir contains two layers of Super HEPA – acting as a barrier to 99.99% of particles as small as 0.1 microns – or 1/10,000 of a mm. Unlike traditional pleated HEPA filters Super HEPA is not manufactured with glues, binders or fibreglass and is ideal for users with chemical sensitivities.
The ONLY way to remove significant quantities of gaseous pollutants is with activated carbon. The source of the carbon, the method used to activate it, the size of particle, and various chemical processes all affect how well the filter will remove different polluting gases from the air.
The MobileAir uses Vocarb - a proprietary blend of carbons especially engineered to have the maximum effect on both nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) , the chief gaseous concern from diesel emissions and the numerous VOC’s (Volatile Organic Compounds) given off by vehicle interiors and which react with N0₂ to form equally hazardous ozone.
Many purifiers claiming to have carbon filters contain just a few grams of a standard carbon. Not only is the exact type of carbon important but these filters work by attracting the gases to their surface, so the more carbon, the better the filter and the longer it will last. Many alternatives MobileAir contains a massive 2 lbs (900 g) of bespoke activated carbon granules, to create the longest lasting, most effective purifier on the road.
In general use the filters in a MobileAir will need replacing after 3 years. However, in the heavily-polluted environment of a new car (yes, sorry) we strongly recommend changing the filters after the first 9 months.
Both the HEPA particulate filter and the activated carbon filter in the MobileAir are designed to last for 3 years. However, actual working life will depend on how much you use the unit and how polluted the air is that it is cleaning. The chemicals given off by the interior of a new car will saturate the carbon filter much more quickly and a 9 month life-expectancy is then typical.
If the airflow from the unit seems reduced:
The particulate filter may be blocked with dust and particulates. An occasional gentle vacuuming
against the vents may extend the filter life.
If smells don’t go away as quickly:
The carbon filter is likely to be full and cannot hold more polluting gases.
If smells are given off by the unit:
As above. The carbon may release some odours in order to make room to trap others.
In very hot conditions the unit may temporarily release certain odours before re-absorbing them as the temperature drops. This is normal. Opening windows and not leaving the unit in direct sunlight will reduce this effect. If the odour is re-absorbed there is no need to replace the filters.
If you have agreed that we may retain your contact details we will get in touch to remind you when your filters are likely to need replacement.
When you purchase replacement filters:
We send you pre-paid packaging for the unit.
You package the unit and arrange a convenient time for our courier to collect.
We recycle the used activated carbon, clean and service your MobileAir, install new filters, and send the unit back to you.
Clean air cost: 10p/day over a 3-year filter life.
The filter replacement service costs
£110 (£91.67 + VAT)
Plain Air researches and delivers advanced air purification solutions.
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