Air purifiers can be effective in eliminating the source of allergies, but they should not replace prescription medications. Studies have shown that air purifiers can help people with common allergies by trapping pollen and other irritants inside their filters, but there is still little consensus on the subject. Using a HEPA filter in your home can remove most of the particles in the air that could worsen allergies. It is also important, whenever possible, to eliminate the source of allergens and irritants.
An air purifier can work in conjunction with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, which is best known for trapping airborne allergens. Not only can your home be a source of airborne allergens and mold, but it can also be a source of indoor toxins from cleaning products, personal care products and more. Research shows that filtering air can help remove harmful particles from indoor spaces, especially allergens, smoke and mold. The right air purifier can also remove irritants such as smoke, odors and VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
A professional HVAC company must install a HEPA filter for the whole house and be properly sized for its air treatment unit, in order to protect the life of the equipment and ensure that air passes through the HEPA filter and not around it. Some versions are made with filters to trap particles as air passes through them, while others can neutralize other particles in the air without first filtering them. Air purifiers are an effective tool for reducing allergens in your home, but they should not be used as a replacement for prescription medications. It is important to note that only ionizing air purifiers can exacerbate allergies.
To get the most out of an air purifier, it is important to keep areas such as carpets, bedding, curtains, countertops and tables clean. Additionally, it is important to eliminate sources of allergens and irritants whenever possible. The EPA warns that the functionality of air purifiers is limited in terms of filtering gases and that filters must be replaced frequently to work optimally. When choosing an air purifier, it is important to select one with a HEPA filter that is properly sized for your home's air treatment unit.
It is also important to avoid ozone generators as they are respiratory irritants and can worsen allergy or asthma symptoms. PhoneSoap states that their air filter can reduce allergens such as pet dander and help purify polluted, smoke-filled air more than traditional filters. In conclusion, air purifiers are an effective tool for reducing allergens in your home but should not be used as a replacement for prescription medications. It is important to select an air purifier with a HEPA filter that is properly sized for your home's air treatment unit and avoid ozone generators as they are respiratory irritants and can worsen allergy or asthma symptoms.
