Air purifiers, also known as air cleaners, are electronic devices that often resemble an upright floor fan. Air cleaners use several different methods of cleaning air. Some air purifiers direct air over a HEPA filter, others use ultraviolet radiation and some feature an electrostatic surface to collect dust and impurities from the air. These devices often require routine cleaning and may require filter changes to maintain cleaning efficiencies. Match the size of air purifier to the room or area that will be cleaned and the desired frequency of cleaning cycles. You can obtain health, financial and fresh smelling air as benefits of using an air purifier in your home.
Reduced Odors as a Benefit of Air Cleaners
Smoke, pet odors and garbage can result in foul odors. Air purifier use can reduce or eliminate smells, without the use of artificial fragrances, perfumed candles or air masking products. Using air purifiers rather than commercial fragrance products reduces the number of artificial chemicals in your environment. Some perfumes and chemicals may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. By using an air purifier, you can achieve a clean home smell without introducing chemicals that may cause adverse reactions. Additionally, air purifiers promote air movement that can minimize “stale air” smells caused by poor circulation.
Improved Health as a Benefit of Air Cleaners
If you are sensitive to airborne allergens such as smoke, animal dander and pollen, you may benefit from air purifier use. High-efficiency purifiers that are rated to remove impurities from the air and minimize allergens can reduce allergic reactions. Using air purifiers at night can help allergy-prone individuals recharge their body in a minimal allergy environment. Quality sleep may help increase the immune system, which can help the body fight allergic reactions. Air purifiers may be recommended if you have asthma, allergies or lung conditions.
Financial Savings as a Benefit of Air Cleaners
You may decrease your medically related expenses if the air you breathe is cleaner and has less allergy-causing components. Decreases might occur through reduced medication usage and decreased medical visits to doctors or emergency facilities. You may also benefit from an increased ability to conduct business, attend school or carry out your normal daily activities. Less disruptions due to sick days can decrease lost work revenue and increased health may allow you to perform your school or work activities more efficiently.
Summary of Air Cleaner Benefits
If you have a health condition such as allergies, asthma or other condition that impairs your ability to breathe, consider discussing the benefits of air cleaners with your doctor. You may benefit from increasing the quality of air in your home, especially if there are smokers in the home. Standard air cleaners can be purchased at home improvement stores and most large generic retailers that offer fans. Prices vary based on the efficiency and size of the unit purchased. Consider checking Consumer Reports ratings on air cleaners to help select the unit that is the best air cleaner for your needs.
References:
WebMD: HEPA Filters for Allergies
MayoClinic.com: Air Fresheners- Are Continuous Scents Harmful?
Asthma & Allergies: The Costs of Chronic Disease
BMC Evolutionary Biology: Sleeping to Fuel the Immune System
