Introduction
Over the years, our understanding of indoor air quality has changed radically. With this in mind, many people are now using air purifiers, particularly in regions prone to high humidity. In the UAE, for example, where the humid season can run from April to October, the combination of intense heat, hot winds, and high humidity can make the overall temperature feel hotter. This can be made more uncomfortable due to the dampness in the air, making effective air purification crucial.
Air purifiers address the issues associated with humid conditions. Units equipped with advanced filters can effectively capture mold spores and dust mites (both common in high humidity) by drawing in air, filtering out contaminants, and then releasing cleaner air back into the room. This process minimizes their impact on respiratory health and creates a far more healthy environment.
Air purifiers also address another challenge that we see with humid environments – lingering odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be emitted from a number of different sources, including paints, paint strippers, and other solvents, wood preservatives and aerosol sprays, as well as cleansers and disinfectants. The increased moisture in the air often amplifies these unpleasant smells and can contribute to the accumulation of VOCs. Air purifiers can neutralize these odors by incorporating features like activated carbon filters, creating a fresher and more pleasant indoor atmosphere.
So, there are a lot of benefits to air purifiers, and in this article we will discuss how exactly they work and what impact they can have on humidity levels.
Do air purifiers affect humidity levels?
Some air purifiers, especially those with HEPA filters or activated carbon, do not significantly impact humidity levels. These purifiers focus on filtering out airborne contaminants without altering the moisture content in the air. They draw air through their filters and then release it back into the room, a process that does not change humidity. They do have a positive effect on some of the problems associated with high humidity, though, and we’ll look at these later in more detail. These issues include reducing mold and mildew, managing dust mites, and removing odors and VOCs.
Some air purifiers do come with built-in humidifiers or dehumidifiers. These combined units are designed to address both air purification and humidity control. For instance, a purifier with a built-in humidifier will add moisture to the air, increasing the room’s humidity levels. Conversely, a purifier with a dehumidifier function will remove moisture, thus reducing humidity.
How do air purifiers work?
At the core of most portable air purifiers is a fan that draws air from the room into the unit. This air then passes through one or more filters designed to capture different types of contaminants. The specific type of filter used can vary – HEPA filters are excellent for trapping small particles like dust and pollen, while activated carbon filters effectively absorb odors and VOCs. After the air has been filtered and cleaned, it is re-circulated back into the room, providing a fresher and healthier environment.
Portable air purifiers come in various sizes and weights, making them adaptable to different spaces. Their mobility allows users to move them from room to room, optimizing air purification where it’s needed most. Some models are compact and lightweight, designed for easy relocation, while others are larger and more robust. There are also models designed to be mounted on walls, which can be particularly useful in saving floor space, as well as compact units that fit on a desk or nightstand and cater to smaller spaces or individual needs.
Benefits of using air purifiers in humid conditions
Generally speaking, air purifiers are not intended to alter air moisture levels. However, they create the sensation of drier air and help alleviate some moisture-related problems. These are three of the key areas where they can have a positive impact:
Reduction of mold and mildew: High humidity levels create an ideal breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can lead to health problems and damage to property. Air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters are particularly effective at capturing mold spores from the air, helping to reduce their concentration and mitigate their impact on indoor air quality.
Manage dust mites: Dust mites are a common allergen, and their numbers can increase with higher humidity levels. By trapping dust mites and their waste products, air purifiers can alleviate allergy symptoms and contribute to a healthier living space. This is especially beneficial for individuals with asthma or respiratory conditions, as reducing airborne allergens can lead to fewer triggers and improved breathing comfort.
Removing odors and VOCs: In humid conditions, air purifiers with activated carbon filters can be effective at eliminating odors and VOCs that may be more pronounced in damp environments. For example, musty odors associated with high humidity can be neutralized, contributing to a more pleasant indoor atmosphere. Some advanced models also come with dehumidifying features, which can directly address excessive moisture in the air, further enhancing air quality and comfort.
About Daikin
In any modern city, rapid urbanization, industrial activities, and weather conditions such as dust storms contribute to air pollution. In the UAE, we’re fortunate that the government has put in place a number of regulations and pollution control initiatives. But an air purifier can still be a great way of ensuring the indoor air you’re breathing is as healthy as possible. To safeguard the air you breathe within your home and maintain a healthier living space, it is advisable to invest in a purifier to help reduce indoor pollutants and improve overall air quality.
When it comes to air purifiers and air conditioners, Daikin is a world leader. We offer a wide range of solutions tailored to meet diverse building requirements, including residential, commercial, and industrial. Selecting the right air purifier is crucial for ensuring the best possible air quality in your indoor environment, helping clean the air, minimize allergies, remove odors, and reduce the risks of airborne diseases. They can be particularly important for those with allergies or respiratory issues or environments where there is a lot of dust.
Daikin’s products deliver cleaner, fresher air with exceptional performance, energy efficiency, and comfort. With innovative, pioneering technology and exceptional service, Daikin has sold millions of systems in 140 countries. If you would like to find out more about Daikin’s products, contact us today.
