Cigar Club Smoke Eaters: Media-Type v. Electrostatic

Are you in the process of opening a business catering to cigar enthusiasts? If so, congratulations on taking this exciting step! Opening a new business comes with a lot of challenges, but is also extremely rewarding. As you probably know, businesses that allow smoking indoors come with some unique challenges, one of the most pressing of which is: What type of smoke eater should you get? If you're in the process of weighing the options for managing the cigar smoke in your space, you may be trying to figure out whether to go with a media or electronic unit. Find out the pros and cons of each.

Media Smoke Eaters

Media smoke eaters draw cigar smoke through a filter that collects harmful particles and odors before discharging fresh, clean air. It will use a blower or similar mechanism to draw air into the unit. A good commercial smoke eater of this type will be about to remove about 95 percent of smoke particles on each pass through the filter.

The defining feature of media smoke eaters is that they have filters requiring regular replacement. Those costs accumulate and should be a part of the operating budget for your cigar club or lounge. However, these units are relatively low maintenance otherwise. The filters used for this type of unit will be disposable rather than something you can clean.

Electronic Smoke Eaters

Electronic units work by trapping pollutant particles like those found in cigar smoke and giving a charge. In a magnet-like process, collection cells gather the charged particles and pull them through a carbon after-filter that removes odors. It then disperses fresh air back into the room.

Instead of filters, electronic smoke eaters have electronic cells. The cells require regular cleaning but do not need to be replaced in the same way that filters in media-type models need to be replaced on a schedule.

This type of smoke eater generally operates more quietly than media type models, which might be an appealing benefit for creating the perfect cigar lounge experience.

Considerations for Modern Smoke Eaters

• Regulatory & Legal Compliance:

  • Stay current with local and state indoor air quality regulations.
  • Ensure your smoke eater meets updated health and safety standards for commercial cigar lounges.
  • Check for any new guidelines related to ventilation and secondhand smoke to protect both patrons and employees.

• Technological Advancements:

  • Integrated Filtration Systems:
    • Look for units featuring a combination of HEPA, UV, and activated carbon filters for optimal smoke and odor removal.
    • Modern systems can capture up to 99.97% of smoke particles, ensuring superior air quality.
  • Smart Features:
    • Opt for models with remote monitoring and automated cleaning reminders.
    • Energy-efficient designs help lower operating costs and reduce your business’s carbon footprint.
  • Noise and Efficiency:
    • New electronic smoke eaters operate quietly, ideal for upscale cigar lounges and residential cigar rooms.
    • Compare energy consumption and CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) ratings to find the best fit for your space.

• Cost & Maintenance Analysis:

  • Budget Planning:
    • Assess initial purchase costs versus long-term maintenance expenses (including filter replacement cycles).
    • Detailed cost breakdowns and ROI analysis can help you choose between media and electronic models.
  • Environmental Impact:
    • Consider the lifecycle and disposal methods for used filters—look for systems with recyclable or longer-lasting filters to minimize waste.

• Installation & Integration Tips:

  • Flexible Mounting Options:
    • Choose from flush-mounted, ceiling-mounted, or wall-mounted smoke eaters based on your space and design preferences.
    • Proper integration with existing HVAC systems ensures efficient air circulation throughout the lounge.
  • Aesthetic Integration:
    • Modern, sleek designs ensure the unit blends seamlessly with your décor while delivering powerful air purification.
  • Optimized Air Flow:
    • Use a CFM calculator to determine the right unit size for your lounge’s square footage.
    • Ensure strategic placement to maximize the removal of smoke and odor from high-traffic areas.

• Real-World Case Studies & Brand Recommendations:

  • Success Stories:
    • Many modern cigar lounges report improved customer satisfaction and health benefits after upgrading to advanced smoke eaters.

• • Top Brands to Consider:
    • Research and compare leading models from brands known for commercial smoke eaters and air purification systems.
    • Use comparison charts that include features, noise ratings, energy efficiency, and maintenance requirements.

Other factors to consider

Before purchasing a smoke eater for your cigar club or business, consider the following questions:

• What's the square footage of the space?
• How many clients or customers will use the space at any given time?
• Do you need a flush-mounted model, or can it stick out from the wall or ceiling?
• Will other space constraints affect your smoke eater installation?
• Are indoor smoking bans or local ordinances going to affect your business?
  
  

A professional company that regularly deals with cigar club owners and other similar establishments can help you find the right smoke eater and handle any service questions that arise.

To get a free consultation on choosing the right smoke eater for you, contact Pure n Natural.