With Delhi’s air quality consistently reaching the ‘severe’ category, there have been many concerns over the issue of respiratory health that have grown significantly.
As pollution levels rise in the city, many residents are now turning to air purifiers to breathe cleaner air indoors. But how effective are these devices in fighting against Delhi’s toxic smog? Experts share their insights.
According to the environmental specialists, air purifiers can provide pretty much relief indoors, especially when the outdoor air quality deteriorates sharply.
Most modern purifiers that have been deployed use HEPA filters capable of trapping up to 99.97% of fine particulate matter, including PM2.5 and PM10, which are the most harmful pollutants.
Some also have advanced models that feature activated carbon filters, which are mainly designed to absorb harmful gases, smoke, and odours.
However, experts have now raised a caution that air purifiers are not a complete solution.
Dr Randeep Guleria, who is a leading pulmonologist, also explains that while purifiers can reduce indoor pollution but the main part is that they cannot eliminate all contaminants.
That too, when it is particularly talked about, when doors or windows remain open or when the filter is not maintained regularly.
Regular filter replacement and then choosing the right purifiers with appropriate CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) ratings for room size are crucial for efficiency.
The demand for air purifiers in Delhi NCR usually increases during the smog season, but users are still advised to combine purifiers with other protective measures.
These include wearing N95 masks outdoors, ensuring proper ventilation, and reducing sources of indoor pollution like incense, candles, and smoking.
Government agencies have also emphasised that improving air quality in Delhi requires large-scale policy interventions, not just some of the handful of household solutions.
Air purifiers can help individuals cope temporarily, but are no substitute for long-term pollution control measures.
