Statistics show that an average of $250 million is spent annually on air cleaners or air purifiers for American homes. A majority of these sales are from individuals suffering from asthma and allergies. However, there are scientists who claim that air cleaners are not effective. Despite these claims, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issues approval notices on air cleaners. Air cleaners that bear the FDA approval are safe and proven to have medical benefits.
Even if you do not have asthma or allergies, you can still benefit from clean indoor air. Read on to know more about how air cleaners work.
Reduction of Asthma and Allergy Symptoms
Indoor air may contain contaminants that are harmful to homeowners, particularly to asthma and allergy sufferers. Simple things like cockroaches, moisture and even our pets contribute to this. The amount of contaminants in your home may be reduced through an air cleaner.
Air cleaners, however, are not magical tools that will instantly eliminate substances that cause asthma or allergies. In short, air cleaners are not solutions per se. Through an air cleaner, however, breathing can be easier. It helps relieve allergy and asthma symptoms by reducing particle counts of allergens and irritants in the air. Air cleaners are helpful in removing dust, dust mites, mold spores and pet dander. In addition, continuous usage of air cleaners can help prevent mold growth caused by moisture.
Filtration of Undesirable Odor
Smoke from cigarette or tobacco is a top cause of undesirable odor indoors. Secondhand smoke is not only harmful for asthma sufferers, but for everyone who inhales it. Air cleaners that contain high-grade carbon can help remove smoke and other undesirable odors from rotten food, dirty laundry and pet litter. Other air cleaners make use of adsorbent materials like activated charcoal to trap odors, fumes and chemicals.
Maintenance of Air Cleaners
For an air cleaner to be effective, it must be maintained constantly. Poorly maintained air cleaners may cause more harm than good, as they can be a source of contaminants themselves. Instead of reducing asthma and allergy symptoms, they may increase the risk of asthma and allergy attacks. To avoid this from happening, users must religiously follow maintenance guidelines. Most air cleaners require cleaning and replacement of filters every two to three months.
It is important to note that an air cleaner on its own is useless. Using air cleaners is only part of your indoor air control program. Your effort in maintaining hygiene and cleanliness in your home is still the main solution.
Written by APM Construction Services, a construction and home maintenance company that is the best choice for heating and cooling in Columbia, MO.