Those who suffer from allergies are constantly seeking ways to alleviate them. Medication is always an option, but keeping your home clean and tidy is also important. Poor indoor air quality can be a major contributor to allergy attacks. One way to cleanse indoor air is by using an air purifier — but will an air purifier help prevent allergies? Read on to learn more.
How do air purifiers work?
Air purifiers work by circulating indoor air through a filter. Then, the filter removes contaminants and allergens before the air is forced back into the house. This process is why some people refer to air purifiers as air cleaners. The most efficient air purifiers use a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter. HEPA filtration systems remove small air particles and must meet Department of Energy standards. Air purifiers with ULPA (ultra-low penetration air) filters work even more efficiently and remove smaller particles.
Ionizing air purifiers are also common, and use the corona discharge method to remove large particles from the air, such as dust. Many air purifiers incorporate absorbent materials such as activated charcoal into their filtration systems to remove cigarette smoke, chemicals fume and bad odors from the air. These types of purifiers are helpful in creating an allergen-free home environment. (If you’re simply dealing with dry indoor air, you’ll want to look into a humidifier instead.)
What types of allergies do air purifiers help with?
The aforementioned devices are most effective for allergy sufferers who are especially sensitive to airborne particles. Allergens that do not remain airborne, including dust mites, are more difficult to eliminate from the air. Dust mites in particular are a leading cause of allergy symptoms. If you have difficulties with such allergens, look for an air purifier with a filtration system that specifically aims to capture dust mites. Most quality air purifiers with a HEPA or ULPA filter are effective at trapping dust mites, pet dander and spores.
If you’re concerned about how effective a particular air purifier will be at combating allergens, check its Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR). This number will tell you how well the purifier removes pollen, dust and tobacco smoke from indoor air. The higher the CADR, the more effective the purifier.
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Ready to invest in an air purifier?
Now that you know the answer to the question “Will an air purifier help allergies?”, you’re probably ready to purchase one. In general, air purifiers are one of the best ways to combat allergies by cleaning your indoor air.
When choosing an air purifier with the aim of alleviating allergens, consider the size of your home. Air purifiers specify the capacity of their filters, which will tell you if it can handle the square footage of your house. One affordable option is to keep a quality air purifier in the room where you spend the most time. However, in larger homes, it may be necessary to place multiple devices around the house. Clean, purified air is beneficial for all residents of your home, from babies to pets. For more help choosing an air purifier for your home, check out our Best Air Purifier Reviews.
