Whether you’re working on basic research or handling highly sensitive DNA/RNA amplification, selecting the right tool is crucial. Two popular options are the dead air box and the PCR hood. Each has its own set of features and benefits that are designed to meet different laboratory needs.
What is a Dead Air Box?
Dead air boxes provide an environment free from air circulation. They are equipped with a UV light, which plays a vital role in maintaining a sterile environment. After each amplification cycle, the UV light is used to decontaminate the workspace. This decontamination process is essential for preventing carryover contamination, which can lead to false positives and unreliable results.
However, it’s important to note that while a Dead Air Box can help reduce contamination risks between uses, they lack HEPA filtration and therefore do not protect against airborne particulate contamination during PCR amplification.
For labs that require a higher level of protection, a PCR hood may be the better fit.
What is a PCR Hood?
When working with sensitive DNA or RNA, the slightest contamination can lead to inaccurate results. PCR hoods provide a sterile work zone for aseptic techniques and PCR amplifications that are sensitive to cross contamination.
PCR hoods provide a reliable solution via HEPA/ULPA-filtered air that flows downward, uniformly via laminar flow, safeguarding your amplifications from being contaminated by airborne particulates.
They maintain a positive pressure environment, ensuring any contaminated air from the surrounding environment is prevented from entering the work area, thus protecting your samples from external contaminants. By choosing a PCR hood, you can significantly reduce the risk of cross-contamination, leading to more accurate and reliable PCR results.
Choosing the right equipment for your lab
Selecting the right equipment for your lab is like finding the perfect tool for a job—get it right, and your work becomes seamless, efficient, and reliable.
PCR Hood vs Dead Air Box Quick Guide
- Dead Air Boxes: lack HEPA filtration and therefore do not protect PCR amplifications from particulate contamination.
- Dead Air Boxes: sterilization between amplifications is conducted via UV light.
- PCR Hoods: use vertical laminar airflow with HEPA filtration to protect items on the work surface from particulate contamination.
- PCR Hoods: are equipped with a germicidal UV lamp to create light emission conditions known to provide safe decontamination.
- PCR Hoods: provide a sterile work zone for aseptic techniques with air cleanliness that meets and exceeds ISO Class 5.
Ultimately, the choice between a Dead Air Box and a PCR Hood depends on the specific needs of your lab. For basic research and routine tasks, a Dead Air Box can be an excellent, cost-effective option. However, for more contamination-sensitive procedures, a PCR Hood is the clear choice to ensure amplification result accuracy.
Learn more about Purair® PCR Hoods or shop for select models on ductless.com.
