What is CADR?
AIR PURIFIERSSOLUTIONS
Clean Air Delivery Rate: Air Purifier Performance
In the quest for cleaner indoor air, numerous air purifiers line the shelves boasting impressive claims and technical jargon. One term frequently thrown around is Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR), but what exactly is it, and why does it matter?
In this guide:
What is CADR?
Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) in essence measures the volume of clean air an air purifier delivers per minute. Think of it as a performance indicator, similar to how miles per gallon gauges a car's fuel efficiency. A higher CADR signifies the purifier cleans a larger air volume faster, potentially achieving cleaner air in your space.
However, CADR isn't a one-size-fits-all metric. It's crucial to understand its nuances to choose the right purifier for your needs. Here's why CADR matters:
1. Particle Size Matters:
CADR is not a single number, but three, each corresponding to a specific particle size range: smoke (0.09–1.0 µm), dust (0.5–3 µm), and pollen (5–11 µm). This distinction is vital because different pollutants exist in different sizes. For example, pet dander falls in the dust range, while allergens like dust mites are even smaller. Choosing a purifier with a high CADR for your specific concern ensures optimal filtration.
2. Room Size Matters:
CADR is measured in a controlled environment, typically simulating a 300-square-foot room. In reality, rooms come in various sizes. So, while a purifier with a high CADR might excel in a small bedroom, it might struggle to keep up in a large living room. Use the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM)'s "2/3 rule" as a guide: choose a CADR that's 2/3 of your room's square footage in cubic feet per minute.
3. Filtration Matters:
CADR measures air volume cleaned, but it doesn't tell you how well the particles are removed. This information lies in the filter type and its effectiveness against specific pollutants. Look for air purifiers equipped with HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, which capture at least 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns. Additionally, consider filters specifically designed for your concerns, such as activated carbon filters for odor and gas removal.
4. Other Factors to Consider:
While CADR is a crucial indicator, it's not the sole factor to consider. Factors like noise level, energy efficiency, filter replacement costs, and warranty should also influence your decision.
Remember: CADR is a valuable tool, but it's just one piece of the puzzle. By understanding its limitations and considering your specific needs, you can make an informed decision and breathe cleaner, healthier air.
Beyond CADR:
While CADR provides a good starting point, it's important to be aware of its limitations. It doesn't account for factors like:
Circulation: A high CADR doesn't guarantee good air circulation within your room. Ensure the purifier effectively distributes clean air throughout the space.
Gaseous pollutants: CADR primarily focuses on particulate matter. Consider purifiers with activated carbon filters for gas and odor removal.
Real-world performance: CADR is measured in controlled environments. Real-world factors like room layout and source of pollutants can affect performance.
Conclusion:
CADR is a valuable tool for understanding air purifier performance, but it's not the only factor to consider. By educating yourself on particle sizes, room size, filtration types, and other relevant factors, you can choose the right air purifier for cleaner, healthier air in your home. Remember, clean air is an investment, and making an informed decision ensures you breathe easy and maximize your investment in your well-being.