Do Air Purifiers Help with Severe Allergies? - An Expert's Perspective

For those suffering from allergies, cleaner air can be a great relief. Studies have shown that it can reduce symptoms such as sneezing, coughing and congestion, and even help reduce the amount of medication taken. But is an air purifier the right solution?It is important to note that ozone can irritate the respiratory tract and worsen allergy or asthma symptoms. Air purifiers can be beneficial, but they are limited in their ability to affect the air that circulates throughout the house.

The appliance industry has established a Clean Air Supply Rate (CADR) to help consumers choose the right air filter for their room. According to Dr. Shaughnessy, director of the indoor air research program at the University of Tulsa, the primary criterion for selecting an air filter should be its ability to effectively remove airborne particles. If you have a central HVAC system, it is recommended to consult an accredited contractor about replacing the manufacturer's filter with an approved boiler filter (the right size for your unit and the size of your air ducts) with a rated minimum efficiency value (MERV) of 11 or 12, and then set the fan to operate continuously. An air purifier works by removing particles, gases and other contaminants from indoor air. It is important to remember that only particles that pass through the air filter are captured and don't expect it to clean an entire house.

With an activated carbon HEPA filter, room air is filtered through four levels of cleaning to collect microscopic particles that usually cause an allergic reaction, such as pollen, dust and pet dander. When asked if one would feel healthier after using a home air purifier for an extended period, environmental microbiologist Ted Myatt recommends good brand mattress covers and pillows for beds, as well as air filters in areas where there is a lot of dust. Air purifiers are one of several indoor air quality management tools, but they are not a magic formula capable of solving air quality problems on their own. It is important to look up the Clean Air Supply Rate (CADR) to determine how many particles and square meters an air purifier can reach. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide if an air purifier is right for them.