Do Air Purifiers Help Relieve Allergy Symptoms?
One of the most common problems during springtime is the presence of spores and other particulates that trigger allergies. One of the most common ways to maintain indoor air quality is to install an air purifier. But does it really help relieve allergy symptoms? Your local heating and cooling company Reliable AC & Heat shares an overview.
How Do Air Purifiers Work?
Air purifiers can either be integrated with the HVAC system, or as a standalone unit. A fan or blower sucks air into the air purifier, which traps or eliminates impurities using one or more of the following methods:
1. HEPA Filter — High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are similar to the standard air filters installed on HVAC systems, but with much finer filtering material. Most HEPA filters are tested to arrest particles as small as 0.3 microns. In comparison, the smallest known pollen fragments are around 1 micron in size. You can also purchase HEPA replacement filters for your HVAC system.
2. Activated Carbon Filter — Activated carbon attracts particles such as indoor air pollutants, including allergens. Activated carbon filters can also eliminate unpleasant odors, as well as soot that comes from heating furnace systems.
3. Ionizer — An ionizer works by creating a static charge around contaminants, which will then stick to “collection plates” within the purifier. Some types of ionizers tend to allow “charged” pollutants to stick to walls and other surfaces.
4. UV Light — Ultraviolet (UV) rays are tested to kill organic air pollutants, including pollen and various allergens, as opposed to trapping them. UV lamps can be installed along standard HVAC components such as air filters and cooling coils.
Do Air Purifiers Help Relieve Allergy Symptoms?
Most types of air purifiers can help relieve allergy symptoms, however, you should keep in mind a few best practices to make sure that allergens are not introduced into your home. This means if you or anyone else in the household has spent some time outside, even in the yard, make sure you don’t wear the same clothes indoors. Wash your hair to remove pollen, and to do the same to your pets. Filter-based air purifiers are similar to HVAC systems, in that filters will need to be replaced over time. Be careful not to agitate the filters when you replace them to avoid recirculating some of the particles.
Trust Reliable AC & Heat for Your Indoor Air Quality NeedsReliable AC & Heat is your leading provider of HVAC services, including air conditioning repair. Give us a call at (818) 423-4285 or fill out our contact form. We serve customers in Los Angeles and nearby areas.
