In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the conversation about virus protection has gone a notch higher. Some of the practices proposed to slow or stop viruses from spreading include social distancing, sanitization, frequent hand washing, and staying home. Notably, improving indoor air quality using your air filtration system can go a long way in helping to prevent the spread of viruses. But how do these devices help?
How Air Purifiers Work
Air purifiers work by removing contaminants from indoor air to improve air quality. The devices comprise a web of tiny fibers that carry an electromagnetic charge and a fan that sucks in the air. This mechanism allows them to attract and trap small particles in the air. The particles include pollutants, allergens, toxins, viruses, and bacteria. These devices also sanitize the air to help keep it clean and fresh.
How Viruses Spread
Viruses such as COVID-19 typically spread in the air through close person-to-person contact when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Infected respiratory droplets are then released into the air and can remain suspended in the air for some time. Other people in close proximity can get infected when they breathe in these tiny droplets.
How the Device Can Help Protect Against Viruses
Now that you know how an air filter works and how viruses spread, you may want to know if these devices can slow down the spread. The filter in an air purifier is made of tightly woven fibers, making it possible to capture and remove particles in the air containing viruses and bacteria. The good news is that HEPA air filters are nearly 100 percent efficient at capturing even the smallest airborne particles. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) means that the filters can pull things out of the air and hold them to prevent recirculation.
So, can air filters help stop viruses? The simple answer is yes. These devices can be particularly useful in poorly ventilated spaces where the concentration of viruses in aerosols can be quite high. By removing the contaminants and sanitizing the air, air filters help minimize the airborne transmission of infectious viruses.
Other Ways to Help Improve Indoor Air Quality
As much as air filters can help prevent the spread of viruses like COVID-19 through the air, there are many other ways to transmit such viruses. The devices are essentially just one part of prevention. They should be complemented by practices such as opening windows and turning on ceiling fans to promote air circulation and using box or floor fans to improve indoor air quality.
In addition, working with a certified air conditioning expert for quality air duct cleaning in Bucks County, PA, will also help to improve air quality. At Hutchinson, we have dedicated professionals who provide duct and vent cleaning services to help create a healthier indoor environment. Contact us today to learn more.