Do air purifiers really make a difference? While they may not directly or immediately improve a person's health, studies suggest that these devices can help reduce exposure to harmful contaminants, which may have long-term health benefits. But will you feel something different? Hopefully, yes, and perhaps in more ways than one. A small-scale study conducted in China found that air purifiers reduced fine particles in the air (dust, pollen, dandruff) and improved participants' blood pressure levels and lung function. It is important to note that an air purifier will not remove all harmful particles from your home.
A lot of particles can remain on soft surfaces (furniture, carpets, bedding, etc.). However, when used in conjunction with a filter and regular cleaning around the house, an air purifier is a fantastic way to improve air quality and your health. In addition, factors such as the location, flow rate and operating time of the air purifier will influence its operation. It all depends on what you want an air purifier to do in your home and how well you adapt the specific air purifier to your objectives. Fine PM2.5 particles, the term for the smallest particles of PM2.5, cause most health problems because they can penetrate human airways and enter the air sacs of the lungs.
One study cited several reports that HEPA air purifiers can benefit people with various allergies by reducing the concentration of indoor allergens, such as pollen, house dust mite (HDM) allergens, and dog dander. Before investing in an air purifier, you may want to invest in a home air quality test to determine what contaminants are in your home. But make sure your air purifier also has a HEPA filter to treat particles; a carbon filter alone won't trap dust or pollen. Fortunately, whether your suffering is due to pollen in the air or your boyfriend's cat sitting on your lap, an air purifier can provide some relief. It takes some time for all the air in the room to circulate through the purifier, so odors can stay for about an hour.
For an air purifier to qualify as “suitable for medical use”, it must be able to prevent the smallest types of particles, such as viruses, from penetrating. Household air purifiers are becoming increasingly popular, especially as people are more concerned about the environment and the quality of the air in general. If you want an air purifier to remove particles such as dust, dirt and soot, check the package or product description for the clean air supply rate (CADR). An air purifier can trap a lot of indoor toxins, although you should reduce the use of these products if you really want to eliminate toxin particles.