Air purifiers have become a familiar appliance in many Vietnamese households, especially in large cities with high fine dust, vehicle emissions, and increasing pollution. However, not everyone maximizes the potential of this machine. One common misconception is that you can just buy it, put it anywhere, and it will take care of the rest. In reality, the placement of the air purifier is the crucial “missing piece” that determines its effectiveness.
Air purifiers work by drawing in dirty air, passing it through multiple filters, and releasing clean air back into the room. If the machine is tucked away in a corner, surrounded by furniture, the airflow will be restricted, leading to a significant decrease in performance. Experts recommend giving your air purifier some “breathing space” by creating a clearance of a few dozen centimeters around it to ensure unobstructed airflow.
Many people buy air purifiers based on their compactness and use them in large rooms. As a result, the machine runs continuously, but the air remains stuffy. This issue stems from the CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate). Each air purifier is designed for a specific room size. A small machine in a large room means slower and uneven air filtration. Conversely, for spaces with multiple smaller areas, it is better to use several moderately-powered machines instead of a single powerful unit.
Consider placing your air purifier in the following areas:
Bedroom: Prioritize air purification in the room where you spend 6-8 hours every day to ensure a good night’s sleep.
Living room, kitchen, and home office: These are high-traffic areas where dust, food odors, and smoke tend to accumulate.
Near windows and doors: Places where outdoor dust, pollen, and emissions can easily enter. Positioning the purifier nearby helps to trap pollutants at the source.
Humid areas: If your home has mold or mildew issues, combine an air purifier with a dehumidifier and place them near the moisture source to prevent the spread of spores.
Additionally, for purifiers with wheels or handles, you can easily move them to wherever you are to optimize their effectiveness.
Don’t forget to maintain your air purifier:
A clean air purifier will effectively clean your air. Users should:
Wipe away external dust, especially around the air intake.
Wash the pre-filter if the machine has this feature.
Replace the HEPA filter periodically as recommended to avoid a buildup that reduces filtration performance.
An air purifier is not a “set-and-forget” appliance. By adjusting its placement and considering its technical specifications, you can transform it into an “invisible gatekeeper,” ensuring a healthy and clean living environment for your family.
