THE TRUTH ABOUT AIR PURIFIERS- DO THEY REALLY WORK
Air purifiers have become a desired commodity as air quality concerns have increased now that we’re spending more time indoors and being exposed to indoor pollutants. But are air purifiers really the best solution to getting rid of these pollutants? Let’s take a look!
How Air Purifiers Work
Air purifiers work to sanitize the air around you. They are capable of removing common toxins, allergens, and pollutants in your home. Different types of purifiers are effective at removing different types of particles. Some versions use filters to trap particles as air goes through them, whereas others neutralize particles without filtering them. You also have the negative ion emitting air purifier, which neutralizes positive ion particles by attracting them.
Air Purifier Effectiveness
Though air purifiers are effective, they likely won’t remove all aggravating particles in your home. Many particles sit on soft surfaces such as furniture or hard surfaces such as walls, which makes them harder to neutralize. Here’s how effective purifiers are with different types of pollutants:
- Allergens: These substances can create adverse immune responses in the form of asthma or allergies. The most common allergens include pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. The best way to get rid of them is to use an air purifier in conjunction with a HEPA filter, which is great for trapping airborne allergens.
- Smoke: Filter-equipped purifiers can remove smoke from the air, but they can’t get rid of the smell of smoke entirely. Also, a purifier may not be able to prevent stains of ceilings and walls. Smoking cessation is a much better solution than trying to filter out smoke-filled air.
- Indoor toxins: When toxins from cleaning products and personal care products are in the air, they can become harmful to your body. Air purifiers are reasonably effective at trapping toxins, but the best way to get rid of them is to reduce their usage.
- Mold: Like allergens, indoor mold particles are particularly dangerous to people with asthma and similar lung conditions. Air purifiers may work to some degree, but filtration will be more effective at getting mold out of the air. Again, an air purifier with a HEPA filter is the best option.
Potential Benefits
Medications for asthma and allergies can prevent symptoms and alleviate reactions, but air purifiers are better at removing the source of those symptoms. Continued use is likely to lead to fewer allergic reactions and asthma symptoms. Still, an air purifier isn’t a replacement for your medication, and it’s still better to prevent the particles from getting into your home.