Air purifiers: how they work, how to choose them and who should buy one

We live in an era where the quality of the air we breathe is increasingly compromised.

Air pollution, industrial emissions, vehicles in circulation and climate change are just some of the causes that are deteriorating the quality of the air, not only outside, but also inside our homes: the increase in pollution has led many people to consider purchasing an air purifier, a tool that promises to significantly improve the air we breathe in our homes.

But how do these devices really work and, above all, who should buy one? Let’s find out together.

What is an air purifier and who is it for?

An air purifier is a device designed to remove contaminants from the air within an enclosed space, such as a room or an entire apartment. The goal is to improve indoor air quality by reducing the presence of particulate matter, allergens, viruses, bacteria, mold, and even volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can derive from household chemicals.

Who should seriously consider purchasing an air purifier?

First, those who suffer from allergies or asthma You could greatly benefit from a home environment with cleaner air, as dust particles, pollen and mold spores can worsen the symptoms of these conditions, making it difficult to breathe and causing allergy or asthma attacks: an air purifier air can help reduce the presence of these irritants in the home environment.

Even the people with pets may find an air purifier useful. Our furry friends shed dander and dander, which can become airborne and cause allergies or simply contribute to more dust in your home. Finally, who lives in urban areas with high levels of pollutionnear busy roads or in industrial areas, may want to invest in an air purifier to protect themselves from pollutants that can enter indoor spaces.

How does an air purifier work?

Air purifiers use different technologies to clean the air. The most common is the HEPA filtration (High-Efficiency Particulate Air), which is capable of removing up to 99.97% of particles larger than 0.3 microns. HEPA filters are particularly effective against allergens such as pollen, dust and pet dander.

Some models also include activated carbon filtersexcellent for absorbing unpleasant odors and chemical compounds such as cigarette smoke or VOCs. Activated carbon works through an adsorption process, where contaminant molecules bind to the porous surface of the carbon.

Other air purifiers can use the ionizationemitting negative ions that bind to particles suspended in the air, causing them to fall to the ground where they can be easily sucked up. The main problem with this technology concerns the production of ozone, a gas which in high concentrations can be harmful to health, which is why not everyone prefers it.

Finally, there are the photocatalysis air purifierswhich use ultraviolet (UV) light combined with a catalyst to destroy molecular contaminants such as bacteria and viruses. A technology that is certainly useful for those who want an additional level of protection against pathogens.

When should I use an air purifier?

An air purifier can be used at any time, but there are specific situations in which it can be particularly useful. If you have renovation work has just been carried out at home, for example, the indoor air may be loaded with fine dust, VOCs and other contaminants released by building materials. In this case, the use of an air purifier can help significantly reduce the concentration of these harmful substances.

During the spring and summer months, when pollen levels are highan air purifier can be a great help for those who suffer from seasonal allergies. The same goes for i periods of smogwhen air pollution reaches high levels and can easily penetrate indoor environments.

If there is a smoker in the housean air purifier equipped with an activated carbon filter can help reduce odors and harmful smoke particles, making the environment healthier for all occupants. Finally, the use of a purifier may be recommended if they are present in the home infants, elderly people or people with respiratory problemsas these groups are particularly vulnerable to poor air quality.

How much does a good air purifier cost?

The price of an air purifier can vary considerably depending on the characteristics, dimensions and technologies used. Basic models, which cover small rooms and use only a HEPA filter, can start at around 50-100 euros: sufficient devices for those with limited needs or who live in relatively clean environments.

If, however, you are looking for a more advanced model, which can cover larger spaces and includes additional functions such as activated carbon filters, ionizers or UV lights, prices can go up to 300-500 euros or more: these models are perfect for large families, for heavily polluted environments or for those suffering from serious respiratory problems.

Remember the maintenance. HEPA and activated carbon filters must be replaced periodically to maintain the effectiveness of the purifier. The frequency of replacement depends on use and air conditions, but typically a HEPA filter lasts between 6 and 12 months, while an activated carbon filter can last 3 to 6 months.

What else can you do to maintain good air quality in your home?

In addition to using an air purifier, there are other strategies you can employ to improve the air quality in your home.

One of the simplest is that of ventilate the rooms regularlyopening windows to let in fresh air and reduce the concentration of indoor pollutants. However, it is important to do this during times when outdoor pollution levels are lowest, such as early in the morning or late at night.

Keep the house clean is another crucial factor: dust surfaces regularly, vacuum carpets and use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter to capture the finest particles. Avoid using harsh chemicals for cleaning; instead opt for natural alternatives or ecological products that do not release VOCs.

If you have petswash and brush them frequently to reduce the amount of hair and dandruff that are dispersed into the environment. In the end, try to reduce the use of objects that can emit pollutantssuch as scented candles, incense and air fresheners, which often contain harmful chemicals.

How to choose an air purifier? 7 things to consider

When it comes to choosing an air purifier, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure you’re making an investment that adequately meets your needs.

1. Filter type: Most air purifiers use HEPA filters, which are highly effective at capturing fine particles such as pollen, dust, and pet dander. If you need to remove odors or volatile organic compounds, look for a model with an activated carbon filter.

2. Room Size: It is essential to choose an air purifier that is sized correctly for the room in which it will be used. Check the product specifications to make sure it is suitable for the dimensions of your space.

3. Noise level: some air purifiers can be quite noisy, especially at maximum speed. If noise is a concern, look for models known for their quiet operation or with adjustable speed settings.

4. Additional Features: consider whether you need extra features such as ionization, UV light or smart connectivity for smartphone control. These features can offer additional benefits but often come at a higher cost.

5. Maintenance: check the frequency and cost of replacing the filters. Some purifiers require frequent filter replacements, which can increase the overall cost of the device over time.

6. Energy efficiency: an air purifier that runs all day can increase energy consumption. Look for models with energy certification to ensure efficient use of energy.

7. Budget: finally, establish a budget. Air purifiers vary greatly in price, from inexpensive models to more advanced and expensive options. Determine which features are essential to you and which can be sacrificed based on your budget.

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