If you have allergies or asthma, an air purifier can help you breathe easier by reducing the amount of irritating airborne particulates in your home. These pollutants can cause sneezing, congestion, itchy or watery eyes and other symptoms. An air purifier that removes these particulates from the air may also make it easier to take allergy or asthma medicine.
The best air purifiers will capture a wide variety of allergens and particles from the air. Look for a pre-filter that captures large airborne particles like dust, pet dander and pollen and a HEPA filter that traps microscopic particles. Some models have an odor and chemical filter that includes activated carbon to reduce odors and a filter that traps formaldehyde and other chemicals such as those found in some wood products or paint.
One study showed that air purifiers can help protect your heart health. This effect is likely because removing air pollution can reduce your exposure to small particles that get deep into your lungs and enter your bloodstream, where they can affect almost every organ in your body. Air pollution is linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and lung disease.
A UV air purifier uses a powerful ultraviolet light to inactivate germs in the forced air it blows out. These include bacteria such as those that cause Legionnaire’s disease, which is spread through airborne water droplets and vapor. These machines can be very effective and relatively inexpensive. They are especially useful in bathrooms, where mold and mildew often grow. air purifier