The short answer
How an Air Scrubber Works
An air scrubber uses a fan to draw air from the surrounding room. The air passes through a pre-filter that catches large debris like dust and pet hair. Then it moves through a HEPA filter, which traps tiny particles such as mold spores and pollen. Some units also include a carbon filter to absorb odors and chemicals.
The machine runs continuously to cycle the air multiple times per hour. As it pulls air out, it can create negative air pressure in the room. This pressure difference helps prevent contaminated air from spreading to other parts of your home. The cleaned air is then released back into the space, improving overall air quality.
Why Air Scrubbers Are Used After Water Damage
After a water damage event, your home can hold excess moisture that encourages mold growth and musty odors. An air scrubber helps by filtering airborne mold spores and other contaminants that become suspended in the air. It also assists with the drying process by improving airflow, which helps surfaces dry faster.
If you live in Caldwell, you might see air scrubbers used during structural drying and dehumidification. The semi-arid climate with cold winters and hot dry summers can still produce water damage from leaks or flooding. An air scrubber is a practical tool for clearing the air while your home is being dried and restored.
- Removes dust, pollen, and mold spores from the air
- Reduces musty odors left by water damage
- Helps maintain negative air pressure to contain contaminants
- Improves airflow to speed up the drying process
- Portable and can be placed in any affected room
- Often used alongside dehumidifiers and air movers
When to Consider an Air Scrubber
You might consider an air scrubber if you notice a persistent musty smell after a leak or flood. It can also be useful during renovations that create dust, or if someone in your home has allergies or asthma. However, an air scrubber is not a replacement for fixing the source of moisture or cleaning affected surfaces.
If you have significant water damage, the pros will likely bring in air scrubbers as part of the drying process. They will assess the situation and decide if an air scrubber is needed. In minor cases, you might be able to use a portable unit yourself to improve air quality.
Air Scrubber vs Air Purifier
An air purifier is designed for everyday use in a single room, filtering out allergens and smoke. An air scrubber is larger and more powerful, built to handle bigger spaces and higher levels of contamination. Air scrubbers often create negative pressure, which purifiers do not.
For water damage situations, an air scrubber is usually the better choice because it can handle larger volumes of air and remove mold spores more effectively. If you just want to freshen the air in your living room, a purifier might be enough. But for post-flood cleanup, an air scrubber is the more practical tool.
Renting or Buying an Air Scrubber
You can rent an air scrubber from equipment rental stores or purchase one from home improvement centers. Renting is often more practical for a one-time water damage event, as it saves you the cost of buying a machine you may not use again. If you have ongoing moisture issues, buying might be worth it.
The cost to rent an air scrubber often ranges from $50 to $150 per day, depending on the size and the rental period. Prices vary based on your location and the equipment provider. Before you rent, check the machine's filters and make sure it is in good working condition.
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Call Now (208) 729-2441Frequently asked questions
How long should I run an air scrubber after water damage?
Run the air scrubber continuously for at least 24 to 48 hours after the water is extracted and drying begins. The exact time depends on the extent of the damage and humidity levels. The pros can recommend a specific duration based on your situation.
Can an air scrubber remove mold from my home?
An air scrubber filters mold spores from the air, but it does not remove mold growing on surfaces. You must clean and dry affected areas to eliminate mold growth. Use an air scrubber as a supplement to proper mold remediation, which may require a mold professional.
Do I need an air scrubber if I have a dehumidifier?
Yes, because they do different jobs. A dehumidifier removes moisture from the air, while an air scrubber filters out particles and odors. Using both together is often recommended after water damage to dry the space and improve air quality at the same time.