Do Air Purifiers Work? Here’s The Science Behind Them
How Air Purifiers Work
Many people swear by air purifiers, claiming they work wonders for their health, plants, and house. But to anyone who has never used one before, it’s easy to be skeptical about the many benefits you hear about purifiers. Do they really work as well as we’re told? Do they even work at all? Whether you’re just a little unsure about the benefits, or a complete skeptic, let’s take a look at the science behind air purifiers. By finding out just a little bit more about them, you might just realize they’re worth having around.
Why Use An Air Purifier?
The reasons for using an air purifier are multitudinous, at least to some people. As homes use artificial heating for warmth and air conditioners for cooling, the resulting air isn’t as pure as you might expect it. Poor ventilation and fluctuating temperatures are one of the main reasons for damp development in homes, which is why it’s usually most often in bathrooms where steam can’t ventilate efficiently. In an attempt to improve the air quality of their home, many people choose to use an air purifier which claims to remove moisture from the air.
Removing moisture in the air is essential to prevent mold from developing on internal walls, but it’s also essential for your health. In particularly humid climates, allergies can be exacerbated among some individuals and health problems (particularly those relating to the throat or lungs) can deteriorate. So, if an air purifier reduces moisture in the air then perhaps it really is beneficial to people’s health and home. Let’s take a closer look.
What Does Science Say?
In general, science shows that air purifiers have the potential to do great things for an individual’s health and home. However, this depends on the specific manufacturer and the quality of the device. While cheap, poorly designed purifiers may not do much to improve health, there are several features to be aware of that prove a device is worth its money and is capable of truly improving your air quality and health.
- HEPA Filters – HEPA filters are a common feature of air purifiers as they have become an industry standard since purifiers became popular a few decades ago. The HEPA filter has been proven to filter up to 99.97% of air particles, giving you continuously cleaner air to breathe.
- Activated Carbon – In areas with odors, gas, or VOCs (volatile air compounds), it’s worth checking that your air purifier uses activated carbon. When air passes through the carbon (usually packaged in a flat sheet or bed), the harmful chemicals are absorbed by pores on the carbon’s surface, removing them from the air we breathe. While this might seem like it’s only necessary for rooms like the kitchen or garage where fumes are most common, it’s an important feature no matter where you place your device. This is because VOCs can be found in the air wherever harsh chemicals are present such as nail polish, chemical cleaners, paint fumes, or other regular household items.
- Avoid Air Ionizers – Ionizing air purifiers send out ions that attract pollution particles which in turn make them leave the air and attach to walls, ceilings, or other surfaces. While ionizers do, in theory, remove pollutants from the air, the pollutant particles always end up attaching to surfaces including your airways! These devices also produce ozone which can build to harmful levels when used indoors, even with moderate use.
Can An Air Purifier Be Too Big For A Room? Can It Be Too Small?
The common size related issue with air purifiers isn’t usually that they’re too big. In fact, complaints are more likely to be about them being too small. Realistically, the only way an air purifier could be too large is if the machine itself takes up too much space in your room. However, with so many models available in plenty of shapes and sizes, you’re guaranteed to find a small yet mighty air purifier for small rooms. Air purifiers for large rooms, on the other hand, present a slightly more complex issue. You’ll need to check the recommended room size for your air purifier to ensure it works at optimal efficiency otherwise it may under/overwork.
Smart Home Technology
As technology continues to evolve, regular devices are continually being updated with the latest smart technology – and purifiers are no exception. A smart air purifier works much like any other smart device, using wireless technology which allows it to be connected and controlled by another smart device. As smart home technology is expanding and smart refrigerators, heaters, and doorbells are now easily commercially available, it’s no surprise that purifiers have joined the crowd. With a smart air conditioner, you can control the device from your phone or tablet, choose or adjust specific settings or even set your device on a timer to switch on or off regularly throughout the day.
Adding an air purifier is a good idea for a few simple reasons, so long as you choose a high-quality device with a HEPA filter and/or activated charcoal. Not only will a purifier prevent mold, but it’ll also help protect you from allergens and pollutants in the air.
Sources:
- How Air Purifiers Work – HowStuffWorks
- Do Air Purifiers Actually Work? – Healthline