An air purifier with a HEPA filter can remove fine particulate matter from firework smoke from the air inside your home, but it does not prevent smoke from entering. It is still wise to keep windows closed during fireworks and ventilate thoroughly afterwards. An air purifier is a supplement, not a protective device or medical treatment.
It is not December yet, but now is the time to prepare. Around New Year's Eve, the amount of fine particulate matter in the outdoor air rises sharply for a short period, and those who are sensitive to smoke are well advised to know what is and is not possible indoors.
What happens to the air around New Year's Eve?
Fireworks produce fine particulate matter, sulphur dioxide and heavy metals. The RIVM states that fine particulate matter concentrations rise sharply in the first hour after New Year's Eve; between 1995 and 2012 inclusive, PM10 increased by an average of around 277 micrograms per cubic metre in that hour, and in large cities the peaks can be much higher. See the RIVM page on recreational sources of air pollution.
Usually, the peak is short-lived. After the 2024/2025 New Year's Eve, the RIVM reported short-lived smog caused by fine particulate matter, after which concentrations quickly fell again due to the wind. The RIVM states that fine particulate matter from fireworks, together with other air pollution, can lead to reduced lung function and more respiratory complaints, especially in people with asthma, COPD or cardiovascular diseases.
What does an air purifier do against firework smoke?
An air purifier draws in air and passes it through filters. A HEPA filter captures small particles such as fine particulate matter. According to the product page of the Dynter HEPA 13 filter, it removes fine particulate matter (PM2.5), smoke and soot, among other things. According to the European standard EN 1822, HEPA 13 captures at least 99.95 percent of particles in the hardest-to-capture particle size.
Note the difference between filter performance in a test setup and performance in practice. In a real living room, new air constantly enters through gaps and vents, and particle filters do not remove gases such as sulphur dioxide. An air purifier therefore mainly works on the fine particulate matter that is already inside.
What can you do yourself about fireworks?
The RIVM recommends that vulnerable groups limit their exposure: stay indoors and/or find an environment where little or no fireworks are set off. Exposure is lower indoors, although some of the pollution does penetrate inside. Keep windows and doors closed during the fireworks, and ventilate only after the smoke has cleared. According to Milieu Centraal, you must continue to ventilate day and night, so do not keep the ventilation grilles closed all week.
If you have asthma, COPD or a cardiovascular disease, discuss with your GP what is sensible for you and how to keep your medication close at hand. An air purifier does not replace medical advice. Also read what an air purifier can and cannot remove from the air.
Direct answer: An air purifier with a HEPA filter helps reduce fine particulate matter from firework smoke in your home, but does not prevent smoke from entering. Keep windows closed during the fireworks, ventilate afterwards and use the air purifier as a supplement. If you have lung complaints, ask your doctor for advice.
Dynter AirPure Plus PA244
The Dynter AirPure Plus PA244 air purifier is suitable for a living room or bedroom where you want to keep the air cleaner. The data comes from the product page.
Filtration: 4-stage filtration system with HEPA 13 filter
Suitable for: rooms up to 55 m²
CADR: 260 m³/h
Noise: 28 to 60 dB, with sleep mode (whisper quiet, dimmed lighting)
Consumption: 45 W
Operation: three fan speeds, automatic mode and touch display
Filter: replaceable, 6 to 8 months with normal use; the HEPA 13 filter can be ordered separately
Overview: what helps when?
| Measure | What it does | Caveat |
|---|---|---|
| Keep windows closed during fireworks | Limits the entry of smoke | Some still penetrates inside |
| Ventilate after the fireworks | Removes residues | Wait until the smoke has cleared |
| Air purifier with HEPA filter | Captures fine particulate matter in the room | Does not remove gases and does not replace ventilation |
| Stay indoors | Lower exposure than outdoors | RIVM advice for vulnerable groups |
How to use the air purifier around New Year's Eve
Turn the device on well before New Year's Eve, so the air is already clean, and let it run during and after the fireworks. Do not place it in a corner or behind furniture; read where to best place an air purifier. The Consumentenbond advises always leaving an air purifier on if possible. Also check whether the filter is not yet worn out. Read more about the consequences of fine particulate matter in how fine particulate matter in your home affects your health.
Cleaner air in your home?
View the AirPure Plus PA244, the HEPA 13 replacement filter or the collection of air purifiers from Dynter.
Frequently asked questions
Should I set the air purifier higher during the fireworks?
You can, as long as the noise is tolerable. Use the automatic mode or a higher setting during and shortly after the fireworks and switch back to sleep mode for the night.
Does an air purifier remove the smell of fireworks?
The HEPA filter captures particles, not smells or gases. For smells, ventilating is more effective.
Should I open or close the windows?
Keep them closed during the fireworks and ventilate only afterwards, when the smoke has cleared.
Is an air purifier safe for people with asthma?
An air purifier is not a treatment. If you have asthma or COPD, discuss with your GP how best to get through New Year's Eve.
When should I replace the filter?
For the PA244, the filter lasts 6 to 8 months with normal use according to the product page. Replace it earlier if the airflow becomes weaker.