Do air purifiers work?

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, safety measures like masks and isolation were recommended. Air purifiers were also suggested, with guidance from the EPA on their use in homes.

Are air purifiers worth the cost? Dr. Ana Zamora-Martinez, Mayo Clinic's medical director, discusses the effectiveness, benefits, and concerns surrounding air purifiers, which can range from $100 to $600 on Amazon.

Air purifiers are effective in enhancing home air quality when used properly. Dr. Zamora-Martinez advises choosing an air purifier with a HEPA filter, capable of removing over 99.97% of airborne particles. Remember to replace the filter every three months.

The most widely sold home air purifier is a filtration-based air cleaner. As per the University of Massachusetts Amherst, these devices filter the air, separating harmful particles or gases and circulating purified air back into the room.

Can air purifiers assist in managing smoke? Indeed, air purifiers can be beneficial in addressing smoke, particularly during wildfires. For this purpose, portable air purifiers with HEPA filters are recommended as they offer flexibility and can be used for extended durations, as explained by Zamora-Martinez.

Do air purifiers help with dust? Yes, those with HEPA filters trap dust particles from the air, although they don't eliminate it entirely. Useful in dry, sandy areas, according to Zamora-Martinez.

Can air purifiers alleviate allergies? HEPA purifiers can filter out common allergens like pollen and dust, though they're not a complete cure.