As an expert in the field of air quality, I am often asked whether air purifiers are worth the investment. While they may not have an immediate impact on a person's health, studies have shown that these devices can help reduce exposure to harmful pollutants, which can have long-term health benefits. However, it's important to note that not all air purifiers are created equal. In fact, some types of air filters may actually produce ozone gas and other pollutants that can be hazardous to our health.
This is why filter air purifiers are considered to be the safest option for home use. These devices use fans to suck air through one or more filters, trapping various contaminants and then circulating cleaner air back into the room.When shopping for an air purifier, it's important to look for one that has been accredited by a certification program. This often provides a different CADR rating and size guidelines, which can help you determine the best option for your home. While there are whole-house air purification systems available, they are typically connected to the HVAC system of a home or facility.
For filtering particles, the most effective option is a device with a HEPA filter, which is designed to capture at least 99.5% of particles in the air that are 3 microns or smaller in size. Before investing in an air purifier, it may be beneficial to first invest in a home air quality test to determine what pollutants are present in your home. According to materials published by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), working to reduce common sources of pollutants and increasing fresh air flow in the home are crucial strategies for reducing air pollution risks. A good air purifier can help with the rest. However, it's important to note that the issue of air pollution is complex.
In addition to being present in the air, particles can also be embedded in furniture, bedding, and carpets, and accumulate on hard surfaces such as walls and ceilings. As air passes through the filter of an air purifier, pollutants and particles are captured, and clean air is returned to the living space. While there is limited medical evidence to support that air purifiers directly improve health or alleviate allergies and respiratory symptoms, they can still play a role in improving overall air quality. The filter of an air purifier is typically composed of a dense sheet of small pleated fibers that are sealed in a metal or plastic frame. Portable air purifiers are a great option for helping to ventilate the house, reducing or increasing humidity, limiting access to air pollution, and keeping the air in the house clean.
When shopping for an air purifier, look for ones that are certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America as being suitable for asthma and allergies. It's important to note that most filters on the market are designed to capture particles such as dust, smoke, and pollen, but they may not trap gases such as VOCs (volatile organic compounds) or radon that can accumulate in adhesives, paints, or cleaning products. It's also worth mentioning that some air purifiers use ionizers to help attract particles. These devices emit static negative ions that adhere to dust and allergens, causing them to settle out of the air. However, it's important to note that ionizers may also produce ozone gas, which can be harmful to our health.
