Particulate matter is frequently in the news due to the health effects of poor air quality, especially in and around busy cities. What many people don't realize is that particulate matter doesn't just exist outdoors; it also blows right into your home through windows, doors, and ventilation systems. An air purifier with the right filter can make a difference here.
What exactly is particulate matter
Particulate matter, also known as PM, consists of tiny particles released by sources such as traffic, industry, wood-burning stoves, and cooking. The smallest category, PM2.5, is so small that it can penetrate deep into the respiratory tract. Indoors, particulate matter enters via outdoor air, but it is also generated by cooking, candles, vacuuming, and even textiles.
How an air purifier tackles particulate matter
An air purifier with a HEPA filter, and specifically a HEPA13 filter, is designed to filter very small particles out of the air. HEPA13 means the filter captures at least 99.95% of particles down to 0.3 microns, which includes the smallest and most difficult-to-filter particulate matter. Because air is continuously drawn into and filtered by the device, the concentration of particulate matter in the room gradually decreases as long as the device continues to run.
What to look for
- Choose an air purifier with a HEPA13 filter or equivalent; lower filter classes capture fewer of the finest particles.
- Pay attention to the CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate), which indicates how much filtered air the device delivers per hour.
- Match the CADR and maximum room size to the room where you place the device.
- Preferably leave the device running continuously, as particulate matter constantly enters through windows, doors, and daily activities.
What you can expect
An air purifier can noticeably reduce the concentration of particulate matter in an enclosed space, especially when windows and doors remain closed during use. With high levels of air exchange from outside, for example with windows open along a busy road, new particulate matter is constantly entering, which reduces the effectiveness. For the best results, combine an air purifier with conscious ventilation at times when the outdoor air is relatively clean.
Our advice
To reduce particulate matter in the home, we recommend an air purifier with a HEPA13 filter that has sufficient capacity for the room. The Dynter AirPure Plus PA244 filters 99.97% of particulate matter, pollen, bacteria, viruses, and microplastics from the air according to its filter specifications. With a CADR of 260 m3/h and suitability for areas up to 55 m2, the device is powerful enough for living rooms and bedrooms, and thanks to its three settings and silent night mode, you can let it run day and night without disturbance.
Do you want to structurally improve the air quality in your home? View the AirPure Plus PA244.