Do you often wake up with watery eyes, an itchy nose, or chest congestion? Are you tired of using antihistamines or inhalers to manage your allergies or asthma symptoms? You’re not alone. Millions of people worldwide suffer from allergies and asthma, and the numbers keep rising due to pollution, climate change, and poor indoor air quality.
Fortunately, technology has made it easier to breathe cleaner, toxin-free air in your home or workplace. An air purifier can help remove harmful particles such as dust, pollen, mold, pet dander, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that trigger allergies and asthma attacks. In this article, we’ll explore the best air purifiers for allergies and asthma and guide you through the buying process.
How do air purifiers work?
Air purifiers operate by pulling the air through a series of filters that trap harmful particles and pollutants. The filters’ effectiveness depends on their size, density, and technology. Some air purifiers combine filters, such as HEPA filters, activated carbon filters, and UV-C light to capture a range of toxins. Air purifiers are also designed to achieve specific particle removal rates (PM2.5, PM10), measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM), and cover a certain square footage area.
What are the best air purifiers for allergies and asthma?
1. Airmega 400s
The Airmega 400s is a top-of-the-line air purifier that is perfect for those with severe allergies or asthma. It combines a Max2 filter that captures 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), with a dual suction fan that increases air circulation and coverage up to 1,560 square feet. You can control the Airmega 400s with your smartphone, and it features a smart mode that automatically adjusts the fan speed based on air quality and time left until the next filter change. The Airmega 400s costs around $699 and is an investment worth making for your health.
2. Dyson Pure Cool DP04
The Dyson Pure Cool DP04 is a sleek air purifier that doubles as a cooling fan. It combines HEPA and activated carbon filters that capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including pollen, bacteria, and dust. The DP04 features a unique oscillation and bladeless design that pushes air around the room. You can control the DP04 with the Dyson Link app that allows you to monitor air quality, set schedules, and create custom routines. The DP04 costs around $449 and is available in white/silver or black/nickel color.
3. Blueair Classic 480i
The Blueair Classic 480i is a Swedish-made air purifier that boasts a HEPASilent ultra-quiet technology that captures 99.97% of particles as small as 0.1 microns, including pollen, dust, and pet allergens. The 480i features a sleek and sturdy design that can cover up to 434 square feet. It also has smart features, including Wi-Fi connectivity, filter replacements alerts, child lock mode, and auto-mode that automatically adjusts airflow based on air quality. The Blueair Classic 480i costs around $689 and comes in black or white colors.
4. Rabbit Air MinusA2 Ultra Quiet HEPA Air Purifier
The Rabbit Air MinusA2 is an affordable air purifier that uses a six-stage filtration system that includes a pre-filter, medium filter, HEPA filter, custom filter, activated carbon filter, and negative ion generator that effectively removes dust, allergens, and odors from the air. The MinusA2 is ultra-quiet, energy efficient, and can cover up to 700 square feet. You can customize the MinusA2 with artist series front panels that come in various designs, including cherry blossom, Van Gogh’s Starry Night, and cranberry red. The Rabbit Air MinusA2 costs around $550 and includes a five-year warranty.
5. Coway AP-1512HH Mighty Air Purifier
The Coway AP-1512HH is a compact and efficient air purifier that delivers clean air to small and medium-sized rooms up to 361 square feet. It uses a 4-stage filtration system that includes a pre-filter, an odor filter, a true HEPA filter, and a vital ionizer that eliminates airborne particles and impurities. The Coway AP-1512HH is cost-effective, noiseless, and has a smart features that indicate filter replacement, air quality monitoring, and energy-saving mode. The Coway AP-1512HH costs around $130 and comes in black or white colors.
How to choose the best air purifier for allergies and asthma
When selecting an air purifier for your allergies or asthma, there are several factors to consider:
1. Room size
The first step is to measure the square footage of the room where you want to place the air purifier. Most air purifiers list the maximum coverage area they can handle. Select an air purifier with a coverage area that matches or exceeds your room’s size. Otherwise, the purifier may struggle to clean the air effectively, and you may need to buy multiple air purifiers.
2. Filtration type
Not all air purifiers are created equal in the type and quality of filters used. Look for air purifiers that use HEPA filters, which are known to capture at least 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. Activated carbon filters are also important for removing odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), especially if you’re sensitive to smells or have pets. Other types of filters include pre-filters, ionizers, and UV-C light.
3. Noise level
Consider the noise level of the air purifier, especially if you plan to use it in a bedroom or a quiet space. Some air purifiers can be as loud as a fan or an AC unit, while others are whisper-quiet or have a sleep mode that reduces noise at night. Check the decibel (dB) level of the air purifier before purchasing.
4. Energy efficiency
Air purifiers can consume a considerable amount of energy, which can increase your electricity bill. Look for air purifiers with the Energy Star certification, which means they meet the energy efficiency guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Energy-efficient air purifiers can save you money in the long run and have a lower environmental impact.
5. Smart features
Finally, consider the smart features of the air purifier, such as Wi-Fi connectivity, filter change alerts, air quality sensors, auto-mode, remote control, etc. Smart air purifiers can provide real-time data on your air quality and let you control the settings from your smartphone or voice assistant voice. However, smart features can also increase the cost of the air purifier.
Conclusion
Allergy and asthma sufferers can benefit greatly from using an air purifier to remove harmful particles and pollutants from the air. The Airmega 400s, Dyson Pure Cool DP04, Blueair Classic 480i, Rabbit Air MinusA2, and Coway AP-1512HH are some of the best air purifiers for allergies and asthma based on their technology, efficiency, and performance. Remember to consider the room size, filtration type, noise level, energy efficiency, and smart features when selecting the best air purifier for your needs. Invest in a high-quality air purifier for better health and enjoy a cleaner and fresher air inside your home or office.
Thank you for reading, and see you again in another exciting article!