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January 10, 2024 – 6 min read
There’s nothing quite like a global pandemic to make us focus on the quality of the air in our home. That’s why air purifiers have become a must-have home appliance for removing dust, toxins and odours from the air. Sufferers of asthma, allergies and other respiratory illnesses find air purifiers particularly useful, but there may be another member of your household ‒ of the furry kind ‒ who could benefit, too.
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“We’ve been seeing a huge increase in people’s interest in air purifiers,” says Scott Bazley, The Good Guys Buyer – Seasonal. “They are great for families with pets and allergies, in particular.”
Air purifiers work by reducing the concentration of any airborne contaminants in your home by circulating the air and filtering it, usually using a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter. This type of filter traps small particles, such as dust, pollen, mould, pet dander, smoke, chemical irritants and odours.
“There is even some evidence that HEPA filters can minimise viruses in the air. A HEPA-based air purifier will filter particles down to 0.3 microns in size and some may filter even smaller particles,” says Scott Bazley. “Not all air purifiers use HEPA filters, so check the product specifications at the time of purchase.”
Purifiers come in different sizes to cater for different-sized spaces. Don’t forget to look at the room coverage specified by an air purifier. Some experts advise choosing a purifier that covers a larger space than you need, so you can use it on the lowest setting and keep your running costs lower.
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Like humans, pets will always benefit from an increase in air quality around the home, especially if there is a smoker in the house. Older pets and dogs with respiratory illnesses may particularly benefit from the use of a purifier.
Veterinarian Dr Edward Bassingthwaite of The Healing Vet says that having clean and healthy air is important for the wellbeing of all animals and people.
“Anything that increases air quality, particularly if you live in cities where there’s smog, is going to have health benefits for animals,” he says.
When used correctly, HEPA-filtered air purifiers are safe to use in households, with all types of animals.
However, if you have a pet bird, you’ll need to avoid one type of air purifier that can be harmful to our feathered friends. Known as ionisers, these purifiers work by eliminating bacteria and other harmful materials, but they can also produce ozone as a by-product. The ozone combined with dust particles can affect a bird’s respiratory system, so look for a non-ionising air purifier if you have a pet bird.
“Most odours travel throughout the air as small particles, which can be trapped by the filters on purifiers, so they can be very effective in controlling unpleasant smells,” says Scott Bazley.
Pet odours are generally harmless and can be best managed with air purifiers that include a charcoal filter to minimise smells even further. Many odours come from Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which are airborne particles that originate in chemicals such as household cleaners or paints, as well as natural organisms such as flowers and plants.
These VOCs can be trapped through HEPA filters in air purifiers, although it is important to note that air purifiers usually only work in the room they are located in.
Pet dander (miniscule particles shed from the bodies of dogs, cats and birds) is the source of most common allergies to animals and can be minimised using an air purifier.
“Purifiers allow these microscopic particles to be captured and eliminated, allowing you or family members with allergies to live with your pets comfortably and keep any symptoms under control,” says Scott Bazley.
Some purifiers can also capture fine hairs from pets, which is another source of allergies, but you might find it helpful to use a vacuum cleaner designed for pet hair as well.
“Cordless varieties and handheld versions are great options and allow you to clean upholstery and soft furnishings, like the sofa. And, let’s face it, that’s where many dogs and cats spend much of their time,” says Scott Bazley.
Is it time to clean the air at home? Visit us in-store or online to check out our huge range of the latest air purifiers and vacuum cleaners to help you create a healthier home. For more advice, tips and inspiration, visit our air purification ideas page.
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