The Benefits of Air Purifiers During the Coronavirus Pandemic

As the Coronavirus continues to stay present in society, scientists are learning more about what aids and prevents transmission. There is research that has concluded the virus can indeed spread via airborne transmission, indoor spaces have been considered much riskier environments than outdoors. Keeping the air in indoor areas clean and safe has become a greater priority for both commercial and residential spaces. 

As experts in the field discover more about the virus, maintaining safe practices indoors such as the frequent disinfection of frequently touched surfaces used alongside air cleaners can be an effective way to reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19. 

COVID-19 and the Importance of Air Quality

Air that is filled with pollution has been shown to be positively correlated with the presence and increased effects of the Coronavirus. Studies have shown that pollution exposure can make people more susceptible to developing more complications associated with COVID-19 as high as up to 15%. The presence of pollutants like nitrogen oxide is released into the atmosphere from vehicles, powerplants, and other facilities that contribute to pollution, increasing COVID-related fatalities in the most congested and polluted areas. 

This is because air pollution has a negative impact on the immune system, making it more difficult for the body to defend itself against the virus once infected. Given this information, clean air becomes an even more important factor for safety, especially for people exposed to polluted areas. 

Lockdown and the Prevalence of Indoor Pollution

Studies have focused on indoor pollution since people have started spending much more time indoors due to the imposed policies on lockdown. The shift in people’s activities from mostly outdoors to indoors can significantly affect air quality. People are at risk for exposure to higher levels of particulate matter, which can react with airborne particles that release toxic compounds into the air. 

Indoor air contaminants can affect certain people more than others, particularly those with existing respiratory diseases, asthma, heart disease, and suppressed immune systems. These individuals were also identified as being at higher risk of the adverse effects of the Coronavirus. 

How Air Purifiers Can Help

Having an indoor space with a good filtration system has been shown to filter pollutants or airborne contaminants, including particles that harbour viruses. It’s worth noting that even the best air purifier by itself cannot rid the surrounding air of particles containing the virus. However, filtration can be part of a strategy to reduce the potential transmission of COVID-19 while indoors. 

Air filters for your home will help remove viruses from the air by removing small airborne particles. This is typically indicated by the manufacturer on the packaging, such as the ability to remove 99% of particles as small as 0.5 um. The effectiveness of the air cleaner is indicated in two ways, with some manufacturers indicating that they use High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, while others use the Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating system.  

Conclusion

As more is learned about the virus, taking advantage of all the ways you can protect yourself is necessary. Given that indoor air quality has also declined due to changes in how people live, it is recommended for homes to be well ventilated to increase air circulation and improve air quality. In addition to using a high-quality home air purifier, following the guidelines that have been presented by experts, such as frequent hand washing, wearing masks, and maintaining social distancing measures, can protect you and your family. 

Here at LG Home Comfort, we are committed to providing only the best comfort solutions for you and your family. We offer air purification installation, furnace tune-ups, AC repairs and maintenance, as well as water heater repair and installations. Contact us today to get a quote on a home air purifier and your other needs!