As an expert in environmental health, I have been asked countless times about the effectiveness of air purifiers in improving air quality. With the rise of air pollution and the current pandemic, many people are turning to these devices as a solution. But do they really work? Let's take a closer look at the facts. First, it's important to understand that while portable air and HVAC filters can reduce indoor air pollution, they cannot eliminate all pollutants from the air. According to Filtrete, indoor air quality is often worse than outdoor air and we spend most of our time indoors.
This is where air purifiers come in. These machines are designed to capture up to 99.97 percent of airborne particles, including the fine particles (PM2.5) that can cause the most health problems by penetrating the human respiratory tract and entering the pulmonary alveoli. Several studies have shown that HEPA air purifiers can benefit people with allergies by reducing the concentration of indoor allergens such as pollen, house dust mite (HDM) allergens, and dog dander. These devices typically consist of one or more filters and a fan that sucks in and circulates air. It's important to note that if an air purifier emits ozone, this information should be clearly indicated on the packaging or in marketing descriptions. But do air purifiers effectively remove gases and odors? The answer is not so straightforward.
If you have a strong odor in your home, such as gas, very few air purifiers will be able to remove it for a long period of time or effectively. However, there are certain types of purifiers that can remove environmental impurities from the air, which may be overwhelming your community at the moment. In fact, air purifiers that use HEPA filters can even capture particles of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that spreads COVID-19. This is why many air purifiers come equipped with multiple filters, each designed to target different types of pollutants. So how do air purifiers work? They use fans to draw in air through one or more filters, trapping contaminants, and then recirculating the cleaner air back into the room. Not only do they provide real-time information about the air quality in your home, but they also collect data on air quality trends for those who are interested in that type of information. But do you really need an air purifier? The answer depends on your specific situation.
If you live in an area with high levels of outdoor pollution or have allergies or respiratory issues, an air purifier can be a valuable tool in improving your indoor air quality. However, it's important to note that air purifiers are not a substitute for proper ventilation and reducing common sources of pollutants in your home. According to materials published by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), working to reduce sources of pollutants and increasing fresh air flow in the home are crucial strategies for reducing air pollution risks. An air purifier can help with the rest. However, it's important to keep in mind that the effectiveness of these devices is limited when it comes to filtering gases.
In order for them to work optimally, filters need to be changed frequently, approximately every three months. If you're considering purchasing an air purifier, it's important to understand that it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Different types of purifiers are designed to target different types of pollutants. For example, some are better at removing particles while others are more effective at removing gases and odors. It's important to do your research and choose the right type of purifier for your specific needs. Finally, it's worth noting that air purifiers are not a substitute for wearing masks, especially during the current pandemic.
As Professor Michael Brauer, an expert in environmental health at the UBC School of Population and Public Health, points out, two people wearing masks are much more effective than using an air purifier. So if you're not at home, using an air purifier won't provide any real benefits. In conclusion, while air purifiers can be a valuable tool in improving indoor air quality, they are not a cure-all solution. It's important to understand their limitations and choose the right type of purifier for your specific needs. Remember to also prioritize proper ventilation and reducing sources of pollutants in your home for optimal air quality.
