Understanding the \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups\" AQI Range

An Air Quality Index (AQI) between 101-150 is deemed \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.\" Sensitive groups include:

Children
The Elderly
Pregnant People
People with cardiac and pulmonary diseases

\n\n

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

HEALTH RECOMMENDATIONS
How to protect from Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups pollution
\n \n $\"Mask$ \n Wear a mask outdoors and indoors GET A MASK\n \n \n	\n \n $\"Air$ \n Run an air purifier GET AN AIR PURIFIER\n \n \n
\n \n $\"Monitor$ \n Close your windows to avoid dirty outdoor air GET A MONITOR\n \n \n	\n \n $\"Exercise$ \n Reduce outdoor exercise \n \n

Protective Measures for Sensitive Groups

When air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups, everyone is at risk for eye, skin, and throat irritation, as well as respiratory problems. The public should greatly reduce outdoor exertion.

While the broader population might still be largely unaffected, sensitive groups are at much greater health risk and should be very cautious. They should avoid all outdoor activity.

How can I protect myself when air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups?

Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts and consistently monitor your air quality.
Help increase the amount of ground-level monitors by becoming an air quality contributor. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Sensitive groups should stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter pollutants, particles, gases, and other contaminants

","publishedAt","2026-01-07T16:17:33Z","tags",[446,447],"author",{"_55":445},"image",{"_53":440,"_210":441,"_208":442,"_212":443,"_214":444},{"_106":438,"_70":439},"ttsAudio","articleResources","aboutIQAir","relatedArticles",{"_95":437},"mobileImage","relatedProducts",{"_95":96},"value",{"_97":98},"nodes",[99,100],{"_101":102,"_53":303,"_66":304,"_70":305,"_106":306,"_108":307,"_110":308,"_112":309,"_114":-5,"_115":116,"_117":310,"_119":311,"_121":312,"_123":313,"_72":314,"_126":-5,"_127":315,"_129":316,"_130":317,"_132":318,"_134":319,"_136":320,"_138":321,"_140":322,"_142":323,"_144":324,"_146":325,"_148":326,"_150":327},{"_101":102,"_53":103,"_66":104,"_70":105,"_106":107,"_108":109,"_110":111,"_112":113,"_114":-5,"_115":116,"_117":118,"_119":120,"_121":122,"_123":124,"_72":125,"_126":-5,"_127":128,"_129":-5,"_130":131,"_132":133,"_134":135,"_136":137,"_138":139,"_140":141,"_142":143,"_144":145,"_146":147,"_148":149,"_150":151},"__typename","Product","gid://shopify/Product/8917546565931","kn95-ffp2-face-mask","KN95/FFP2 Face Mask","description","High-performance, comfortable mask with tight seal for better protection. IQAir Mask redefines what wearing a protective KN95/FFP2 mask should feel like. Engineered to not only provide superior reduction for a wide range of airborne pollutants, but also designed to provide the most comfortable wearing experience ever. Valveless, medical-grade, all-day protection KN95-certified air pollution mask filters 95% of particles down to 0.3 microns, PM2.5, PM1, PM10, and other common particulates.","descriptionHtml","

High-performance, comfortable mask with tight seal for better protection.

IQAir Mask redefines what wearing a protective KN95/FFP2 mask should feel like. Engineered to not only provide superior reduction for a wide range of airborne pollutants, but also designed to provide the most comfortable wearing experience ever. Valveless, medical-grade, all-day protection KN95-certified air pollution mask filters 95% of particles down to 0.3 microns, PM2.5, PM1, PM10, and other common particulates.

","productType","Mask","vendor","IQAir Global USD","trackingParameters","availableForSale",true,"featuredImage",{"_210":-5,"_214":272,"_53":271,"_208":273,"_212":272},"priceRange",{"_296":301,"_298":302},"compareAtPriceRange",{"_296":297,"_298":299},"selectedOrFirstAvailableVariant",{"_115":116,"_172":228,"_174":229,"_176":285,"_178":286,"_180":-5,"_53":232,"_84":287,"_183":288,"_185":289,"_187":290,"_189":237,"_70":226,"_191":-5,"_192":291,"_194":-5,"_195":-5,"_196":-5,"_197":292},{"_95":284},"countdown","unavailableForSaleMiddleEast",{"_95":283},"unavailableForSaleAsiaPacific","unavailableForSaleEurope",{"_95":282},"unavailableForSaleAmericas",{"_95":281},"unavailableForSaleAfrica",{"_95":280},"ctaButton",{"_159":274},"images",{"_97":269},"variants",{"_97":244},"options",[162],"primaryCollection",{"_159":160},"collections",{"_97":154},"reviewsRating",{"_95":153},"reviewsRatingCount",{"_95":152},"30","{\"scale_min\":\"1.0\",\"scale_max\":\"5.0\",\"value\":\"4.8\"}",[155],{"_53":156,"_66":157,"_70":158},"gid://shopify/Collection/462285635883","business-solutions","Business Solutions","reference",{"_66":161},"air-purifiers",{"_55":163,"_164":165},"Quantity","optionValues",[166,167],{"_55":226,"_169":227,"_171":-5},{"_55":168,"_169":170,"_171":-5},"60 Pack","firstSelectableVariant",{"_115":116,"_172":173,"_174":175,"_176":177,"_178":179,"_180":-5,"_53":181,"_84":182,"_183":184,"_185":186,"_187":188,"_189":190,"_70":168,"_191":-5,"_192":193,"_194":-5,"_195":-5,"_196":-5,"_197":198},"swatch","quantityAvailable",1997,"barcode","7640145097515","quantityRule",{"_222":223,"_224":-5,"_225":223},"unitPriceMeasurement",{"_216":-5,"_217":-5,"_218":219,"_220":-5,"_221":219},"compareAtPrice","gid://shopify/ProductVariant/47963561689387",{"_101":206,"_53":207,"_208":209,"_210":211,"_212":213,"_214":215},"price",{"_202":203,"_204":205},"product",{"_70":105,"_66":104,"_53":103},"selectedOptions",[201],"sku","298.FL.0A.25","unitPrice","quantityPriceBreaks",{"_97":200},"defaultMarkets","hideForMarkets","gangMedia","sellingPlanAllocations",{"_97":199},[],[],{"_55":163,"_95":168},"amount","704.0","currencyCode","BBD","Image","gid://shopify/ProductImage/83207755792758","url","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/files/KN95-100pack2.jpg?v=1776719813","altText","IQAir Mask Adult","width",679,"height",560,"measuredType","quantityUnit","quantityValue",0,"referenceUnit","referenceValue","increment",1,"maximum","minimum","12 Pack",{"_115":116,"_172":228,"_174":229,"_176":230,"_178":231,"_180":-5,"_53":232,"_84":233,"_183":234,"_185":235,"_187":236,"_189":237,"_70":226,"_191":-5,"_192":238,"_194":-5,"_195":-5,"_196":-5,"_197":239},2198,"7640145097843",{"_222":223,"_224":-5,"_225":223},{"_216":-5,"_217":-5,"_218":219,"_220":-5,"_221":219},"gid://shopify/ProductVariant/47574937501995",{"_101":206,"_53":207,"_208":209,"_210":211,"_212":213,"_214":215},{"_202":243,"_204":205},{"_70":105,"_66":104,"_53":103},[242],"299.F0.0L.15",{"_97":241},{"_97":240},[],[],{"_55":163,"_95":226},"171.0",[245,246],{"_115":116,"_172":228,"_174":229,"_176":258,"_178":259,"_180":-5,"_53":232,"_84":260,"_183":261,"_185":262,"_187":263,"_189":237,"_70":226,"_191":-5,"_192":264,"_194":-5,"_195":-5,"_196":-5,"_197":265},{"_115":116,"_172":173,"_174":175,"_176":247,"_178":248,"_180":-5,"_53":181,"_84":249,"_183":250,"_185":251,"_187":252,"_189":190,"_70":168,"_191":-5,"_192":253,"_194":-5,"_195":-5,"_196":-5,"_197":254},{"_222":223,"_224":-5,"_225":223},{"_216":-5,"_217":-5,"_218":219,"_220":-5,"_221":219},{"_101":206,"_53":207,"_208":209,"_210":211,"_212":213,"_214":215},{"_202":203,"_204":205},{"_70":105,"_66":104,"_53":103},[257],{"_97":256},{"_97":255},[],[],{"_55":163,"_95":168},{"_222":223,"_224":-5,"_225":223},{"_216":-5,"_217":-5,"_218":219,"_220":-5,"_221":219},{"_101":206,"_53":207,"_208":209,"_210":211,"_212":213,"_214":215},{"_202":243,"_204":205},{"_70":105,"_66":104,"_53":103},[268],{"_97":267},{"_97":266},[],[],{"_55":163,"_95":226},[270],{"_53":271,"_210":-5,"_214":272,"_212":272,"_208":273},"gid://shopify/ProductImage/82996784038262",1080,"https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/files/IQAirFFP2FaceMask_4b89063b-7c04-4d7f-ba8c-5bf744bfe874.png?v=1775755908",{"_275":276,"_208":277},"label",{"_95":279},{"_95":278},"https://www.iqair.com/support/contact-us","CONTACT A DEALER","[\"Mali - ML\"]","[\"United States - US\",\"Canada - CA\"]","[\"Russia - RU\"]","[\"Palestine - PS\"]","High-performance, comfortable mask with tight seal for better protection.",{"_222":223,"_224":-5,"_225":223},{"_216":-5,"_217":-5,"_218":219,"_220":-5,"_221":219},{"_101":206,"_53":207,"_208":209,"_210":211,"_212":213,"_214":215},{"_202":243,"_204":205},{"_70":105,"_66":104,"_53":103},[295],{"_97":294},{"_97":293},[],[],{"_55":163,"_95":226},"minVariantPrice",{"_202":300,"_204":205},"maxVariantPrice",{"_202":300,"_204":205},"0.0",{"_202":243,"_204":205},{"_202":203,"_204":205},"gid://shopify/Product/8927570526507","healthpro-plus","HealthPro 250 Air Purifier","Award-winning, medical-grade & gas/odor filtration for medium to large rooms. IQAir's top-selling room air purifier, featuring advanced HyperHEPA filtration for particles of all sizes and V5-Cell filtration for gases and odors. Excellent for allergens, bacteria¹, dust, viruses² and VOCs. Covers up to 104 m².","

Award-winning, medical-grade & gas/odor filtration for medium to large rooms.

IQAir's top-selling room air purifier, featuring advanced HyperHEPA filtration for particles of all sizes and V5-Cell filtration for gases and odors. Excellent for allergens, bacteria¹, dust, viruses² and VOCs. Covers up to 104 m².

","Air Purifiers","IQAir AG",{"_210":362,"_214":363,"_53":360,"_208":361,"_212":363},{"_296":435,"_298":436},{"_296":433,"_298":434},{"_115":116,"_172":366,"_174":-5,"_176":421,"_178":422,"_180":-5,"_53":369,"_84":423,"_183":424,"_185":425,"_187":426,"_189":374,"_70":364,"_191":-5,"_192":427,"_194":428,"_195":-5,"_196":-5,"_197":429},{"_95":420},{"_95":419},{"_95":418},{"_95":417},{"_95":416},{"_95":415},{"_159":412},{"_97":410},{"_97":382},[333],{"_159":332},{"_97":330},{"_95":329},{"_95":328},"2","{\"scale_min\":\"1.0\",\"scale_max\":\"5.0\",\"value\":\"5.0\"}",[331],{"_53":156,"_66":157,"_70":158},{"_66":161},{"_55":334,"_164":335},"Style",[336,337],{"_55":364,"_169":365,"_171":-5},{"_55":338,"_169":339,"_171":-5},"EU Plug Type C",{"_115":116,"_172":340,"_174":341,"_176":342,"_178":343,"_180":-5,"_53":344,"_84":345,"_183":346,"_185":347,"_187":348,"_189":349,"_70":338,"_191":-5,"_192":350,"_194":351,"_195":352,"_196":-5,"_197":353},94,"7640145092114",{"_222":223,"_224":-5,"_225":223},{"_216":-5,"_217":-5,"_218":219,"_220":-5,"_221":219},"gid://shopify/ProductVariant/55893897838966",{"_101":206,"_53":360,"_208":361,"_210":362,"_212":363,"_214":363},{"_202":359,"_204":205},{"_70":305,"_66":304,"_53":303},[358],"1BC.EA0.EAG",{"_97":357},{"_95":356},{"_95":355},{"_97":354},[],"[\"United Arab Emirates - AE\",\"Saudi Arabia - SA\",\"Qatar - QA\"]","[\"France - FR\",\"Austria - AT\",\"Belgium - BE\",\"Croatia - HR\",\"Czechia - CZ\",\"Denmark - DK\",\"Estonia - EE\",\"Finland - FI\",\"Germany - DE\",\"Greece - GR\",\"Hungary - HU\",\"Ireland - IE\",\"Italy - IT\",\"Latvia - LV\",\"Liechtenstein - LI\",\"Lithuania - LT\",\"Luxembourg - LU\",\"Monaco - MC\",\"Netherlands - NL\",\"Norway - NO\",\"Poland - PL\",\"Portugal - PT\",\"Romania - RO\",\"Slovakia - SK\",\"Slovenia - SI\",\"Spain - ES\",\"Sweden - SE\",\"Switzerland - CH\"]",[],{"_55":334,"_95":338},"2959.0","gid://shopify/ProductImage/83273836265846","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/files/HP250_Product_1.png?v=1776979073","IQAir HealthPro 250",1300,"UK Plug Type G",{"_115":116,"_172":366,"_174":-5,"_176":367,"_178":368,"_180":-5,"_53":369,"_84":370,"_183":371,"_185":372,"_187":373,"_189":374,"_70":364,"_191":-5,"_192":375,"_194":376,"_195":-5,"_196":-5,"_197":377},105,{"_222":223,"_224":-5,"_225":223},{"_216":-5,"_217":-5,"_218":219,"_220":-5,"_221":219},"gid://shopify/ProductVariant/55480279204214",{"_101":206,"_53":360,"_208":361,"_210":362,"_212":363,"_214":363},{"_202":359,"_204":205},{"_70":305,"_66":304,"_53":303},[381],"1BC.EA0.EDG",{"_97":380},{"_95":379},{"_97":378},[],"[\"Qatar - QA\",\"United Arab Emirates - AE\",\"Saudi Arabia - SA\",\"Cyprus - CY\",\"Bahrain - BH\",\"United Kingdom - GB\",\"Ireland - IE\",\"Oman - OM\",\"Kuwait - KW\",\"Singapore - SG\"]",[],{"_55":334,"_95":364},[383,384],{"_115":116,"_172":366,"_174":-5,"_176":398,"_178":399,"_180":-5,"_53":369,"_84":400,"_183":401,"_185":402,"_187":403,"_189":374,"_70":364,"_191":-5,"_192":404,"_194":405,"_195":-5,"_196":-5,"_197":406},{"_115":116,"_172":340,"_174":341,"_176":385,"_178":386,"_180":-5,"_53":344,"_84":387,"_183":388,"_185":389,"_187":390,"_189":349,"_70":338,"_191":-5,"_192":391,"_194":392,"_195":393,"_196":-5,"_197":394},{"_222":223,"_224":-5,"_225":223},{"_216":-5,"_217":-5,"_218":219,"_220":-5,"_221":219},{"_101":206,"_53":360,"_208":361,"_210":362,"_212":363,"_214":363},{"_202":359,"_204":205},{"_70":305,"_66":304,"_53":303},[397],{"_97":396},{"_95":356},{"_95":355},{"_97":395},[],[],{"_55":334,"_95":338},{"_222":223,"_224":-5,"_225":223},{"_216":-5,"_217":-5,"_218":219,"_220":-5,"_221":219},{"_101":206,"_53":360,"_208":361,"_210":362,"_212":363,"_214":363},{"_202":359,"_204":205},{"_70":305,"_66":304,"_53":303},[409],{"_97":408},{"_95":379},{"_97":407},[],[],{"_55":334,"_95":364},[411],{"_53":360,"_210":362,"_214":363,"_212":363,"_208":361},{"_275":413,"_208":414},{"_95":279},{"_95":278},"[\"Algeria - DZ\",\"Angola - AO\",\"Benin - BJ\",\"Cameroon - CM\",\"Chad - TD\",\"Congo - Kinshasa - CD\",\"Djibouti - DJ\",\"Gabon - GA\",\"Ghana - GH\",\"Guinea - GN\",\"Côte d'Ivoire - CI\",\"Mauritius - MU\",\"Nigeria - NG\",\"Congo - Brazzaville - CG\",\"Rwanda - RW\",\"South Africa - ZA\"]","[\"Argentina - AR\",\"Bolivia - BO\",\"Brazil - BR\",\"Chile - CL\",\"Colombia - CO\",\"Costa Rica - CR\",\"Ecuador - EC\",\"El Salvador - SV\",\"Grenada - GD\",\"Peru - PE\",\"Canada - CA\",\"United States - US\",\"Mexico - MX\",\"Curacao - CW\",\"Dominican Republic - DO\",\"Guatemala - GT\",\"Honduras - HN\",\"Nicaragua - NI\",\"Panama - PA\",\"Paraguay - PY\",\"Uruguay - UY\",\"Venezuela - VE\",\"Anguilla - AI\",\"Antigua and Barbuda - AG\",\"Bahamas - BS\",\"Belize - BZ\",\"Bermuda - BM\",\"British Virgin Islands - VG\",\"Cayman Islands - KY\",\"Dominica - DM\",\"Guyana - GY\",\"Jamaica - JM\",\"Montserrat - MS\",\"Saint Kitts and Nevis - KN\",\"Suriname - SR\",\"Saint Lucia - LC\",\"Saint Vincent and the Grenadines - VC\",\"Trinidad and Tobago - TT\",\"Turks and Caicos Islands - TC\",\"Barbados - BB\"]","[\"Azerbaijan - AZ\",\"Belarus - BY\",\"Kyrgyzstan - KG\",\"Türkiye - TR\",\"Ukraine - UA\",\"United Kingdom - GB\",\"Uzbekistan - UZ\",\"Russia - RU\",\"Armenia - AM\",\"Albania - AL\",\"Bosnia & Herzegovina - BA\",\"Greenland - GL\",\"Kazakhstan - KZ\",\"Kosovo - XK\",\"Moldova - MD\",\"Montenegro - ME\",\"North Macedonia - MK\",\"Serbia - RS\"]","[\"Australia - AU\",\"Bangladesh - BD\",\"Bhutan - BT\",\"Brunei - BN\",\"Cambodia - KH\",\"India - IN\",\"Indonesia - ID\",\"Japan - JP\",\"Laos - LA\",\"Malaysia - MY\",\"Mongolia - MN\",\"Nepal - NP\",\"New Zealand - NZ\",\"Pakistan - PK\",\"Philippines - PH\",\"South Korea - KR\",\"Sri Lanka - LK\",\"Taiwan - TW\",\"Thailand - TH\",\"China - CN\",\"Hong Kong SAR - HK\"]","[\"Palestine - PS\",\"Sudan - SD\",\"Syria - SY\",\"Tunisia - TN\",\"Afghanistan - AF\",\"Israel - IL\",\"Jordan - JO\",\"Morocco - MA\"]","Award-winning, medical-grade & gas/odor filtration for medium to large rooms.",{"_222":223,"_224":-5,"_225":223},{"_216":-5,"_217":-5,"_218":219,"_220":-5,"_221":219},{"_101":206,"_53":360,"_208":361,"_210":362,"_212":363,"_214":363},{"_202":359,"_204":205},{"_70":305,"_66":304,"_53":303},[432],{"_97":431},{"_95":379},{"_97":430},[],[],{"_55":334,"_95":364},{"_202":300,"_204":205},{"_202":300,"_204":205},{"_202":359,"_204":205},{"_202":359,"_204":205},"[\"what-pollution-measures-should-i-watch-out-for\",\"how-to-protect-yourself-from-wildfire-smoke\",\"which-molds-are-most-dangerous-to-my-health\"]","How to protect yourself against \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups\" air quality levels.","When air quality is \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups","gid://shopify/ArticleImage/415908102518","Unhealthy Sensitive Group (US AQI)","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQI_Sensitive_Desk_02e0448f-2c6f-4495-8819-ef33ceb533a2.jpg?v=1779907113",2880,1500,"IQAir Staff Writers","Air Quality","Wildfires","https://www.iqair.com/us/newsroom/unhealthy-for-sensitive-groups","New Burlington has \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups\" air quality. See the map and health recommendations.","thumbnail","https://www.iqair.com/dl/app/notifications/Notification_Daily_AQI_Face_03_Orange@3x.png",-84.5545727,39.2655973,"69e99590254ed829c3677739","Franklin County AQI Alert",[459,460],{"_208":448,"_70":458,"_450":451},"Franklin County has \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups\" air quality. See the map and health recommendations.",-83.0090858,39.9698749,"wEzP6ZZiARPyfgTsw","Middletown AQI Alert",[466,467],{"_208":448,"_70":465,"_450":451},"Middletown has \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups\" air quality. See the map and health recommendations.",-84.3648929,39.5029523,"5bc99367b3f912fa4c1057c7","Benton Harbor AQI Alert",[473,474],{"_208":448,"_70":472,"_450":451},"Benton Harbor has \"Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups\" air quality. See the map and health recommendations.",-86.4472501,42.1134948,{"_101":479,"_82":532,"_11":533,"_72":534,"_483":535,"_74":536,"_76":537,"_66":538,"_53":539,"_488":540,"_114":-5,"_78":541,"_80":542,"_70":543,"_84":544},{"_101":479,"_82":516,"_11":517,"_72":518,"_483":519,"_74":520,"_76":521,"_66":522,"_53":523,"_488":524,"_114":-5,"_78":525,"_80":526,"_70":527,"_84":528},{"_101":479,"_82":500,"_11":501,"_72":502,"_483":503,"_74":504,"_76":505,"_66":506,"_53":507,"_488":508,"_114":-5,"_78":509,"_80":510,"_70":511,"_84":512},{"_101":479,"_82":480,"_11":481,"_72":482,"_483":482,"_74":484,"_76":485,"_66":486,"_53":487,"_488":489,"_114":-5,"_78":490,"_80":491,"_70":492,"_84":493},"Article",{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"","excerptHtml","In the slender West African nation of Gambia, Dr. Sunkaru Touray of Permian Health Lung Institute is leading an unprecedented initiative to illuminate the invisible dangers of air pollution through the strategic deployment of low-cost air quality monitors. A vision born from necessity Dr. Touray, a pulmonologist and critical care physician originally from Kartong, The Gambia, was profoundly affected by the respiratory issues he encountered while practicing in New Mexico. These issues, often linked to hydrocarbon exposure and environmental pollutants, spurred him to address similar problems in Gambia, where air quality data is scarce. \"There's a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air,\" Dr. Touray noted. Recognizing the parallels between New Mexico and Gambia, Dr. Touray envisioned the Permian Health Clean Air Initiative. This initiative aims not only to collect data but to empower Gambians with knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air. “There’s a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air.” –Dr. Sunkaru Touray, Founder, Permian Health The journey of Permian Health Permian Health's mission is clear: to democratize access to air quality data in Gambia by installing low-cost air quality monitors throughout the country. The team selected IQAir’s AirVisual outdoor monitors for this critical work. “These devices are proven to be reliable, user-friendly, and can operate on solar power,” Dr. Touray said. “They also have 4G LTE connectivity,” which make the monitors ideally suited for Gambia's diverse environments—from the bustling streets of Banjul to the rural countryside. \"The goal,\" Dr. Touray explained, \"is not just to collect data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air.\" Highlighting areas of concern: Brikama’s air quality Brikama stands as a poignant example of the challenges faced across Gambia. Known for its bustling markets and as a hub for both commerce and community life, the town also grapples with air quality issues that pose risks to its residents. By placing monitors in strategic locations, including the busy highway through Brikama, Permian Health is mapping pollution levels and raising awareness among the local population about the air they breathe daily—while simultaneously acting as a testament to the potential of grassroots air monitoring networks in challenging regions. Dr. Touray said, \"As we look to the future, the lessons learned from Brikama will inform our expansion strategies to other regions facing similar challenges. Our success in achieving nationwide coverage, with Brikama as a keystone in our network, exemplifies the scalable model of Permian Health Clean Air Initiative.” “The goal is not to just collect the data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health.” Local feedback has been largely positive. According to Dr. Touray, real-time access to air quality monitor information has improved local understanding of the dangers of poor air quality, especially during the dry, dusty Harmattan season typically experienced from November to March. Permian Health has collaborated with local groups such as the Brikama Nema Diaspora Group (BRIND) and Karamie’s Health clinic to install sensors in key areas, allowing residents and medical professionals to access real-time air quality data. Pioneering work on the ground To date, the Permian Health air quality network has grown to 14 sensors, achieving nationwide coverage with an air quality sensor in all regions of The Gambia—proof of the project's rapid scalability and success. The project has successfully installed air quality monitors in various locations, including urban areas and industrial sites. These monitors provide real-time data on pollutants like PM2.5, which pose the greatest threat to human health, offering invaluable insights into the air pollution across different regions of Gambia. \"We have sensors in the most densely populated areas,” Dr. Touray said. \"Through the process of collecting PM 2.5 data in Gambia and identifying pollution hotspots, we educate the public about air quality and its impact on public health—and also communicate the importance of installing air quality sensors as a means to make a change.\" This foundational work sets the stage for enhanced accuracy and credibility in air quality monitoring, as underscored by a pivotal development in the project's journey. “The recent addition of a reference-grade monitor donated by MetOne marks a significant leap in our capacity for precision and validation of the data collected by our existing sensor network,” Dr. Touray said. However, maintaining and expanding the network can be impeded by dust accumulation on solar panels during the Harmattan season, unreliable power supplies, and other issues. ‘While we have made significant progress in addressing some of these challenges, connectivity and maintenance in remote areas remain ongoing hurdles in our efforts to maintain and expand the sensor network efficiently,’ Dr. Touray explained. Uniting minds and garnering accolades To raise awareness about their work, Permian Health has created a promotional video which serves as a powerful tool to inform and engage the public about their project. A key milestone for the project was the establishment of the first air quality conference in Gambia, bringing together stakeholders from the government, academia, and civil society to discuss the findings and implications of the collected data. \"This conference was a pivotal moment for us, marking the beginning of a national conversation on air quality,\" reflects Dr. Touray. This national conversation is already making a policy impact. The Ministry of Health has issued public health advisories several times since the air quality sensors were deployed, raising air quality awareness in communities around the country. Dr. Touray emphasizes the importance of partnering with the Gambian government to leverage their data for national air quality standards and planning. \"Working closely with governmental bodies is crucial for our success,\" Dr. Touray notes, highlighting his strong connections within the National Environment Agency, which have been supportive of their endeavors. With the NEA, Permian Health was able to release their first air quality report based on initial installations. This sets the table for future updates from newly installed sensors. Additionally, the project's recent recognition by the Energy Policy Institute of the University of Chicago with an Air Quality Award underscores the global acknowledgment of their impactful work. This prestigious award will enable Permian Health to scale their network further. Currently, there are 22 low-cost sensors deployed, and Gambia will, for the first time ever, have a reference monitor to assist in enhancing air quality monitoring and assessment. Hopes for the Future Thanks to their recent Air Quality award, Permian Health acquired an additional 10 sensors, bringing the total to 26 sensors across The Gambia. Six new sensors have been deployed to NEA headquarters, two major health centers with support from the Ministry of Health, and in housing developments in partnership with Gambia’s largest real estate company, TAF Africa Global. The remaining sensors will be deployed to the National Stadium, Gambia International Airport, the Seaport in Banjul, and a major intersection as soon as final government approvals are processed. Dr. Touray envisions a future where every Gambian has access to air quality information, enabling them to protect themselves and their families from air pollution. Furthermore, he hopes to leverage the data collected to advocate for stronger environmental policies and regulations in Gambia. “We’re not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change.” \"We're not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change,\" says Dr. Touray. \"Our ultimate goal is for Gambia to set national air quality standards, informed by the comprehensive data we've gathered.\" A key step toward this goal is the second Clean Air Conference, which Permian Health is organizing in partnership with the NEA. The event will bring together stakeholders, including officials from the ministries of Health, Environment, Transport, and Education, to develop a national air quality work plan. According to Dr. Touray, Permian Health is conducting an inventory assessment to determine the key sources of pollution, such as waste burning, reliance on charcoal and firewood for cooking, and transport-related emissions. \"Looking ahead, we aim to strengthen our collaboration with the NEA and the Ministry of Health, to expand and maintain our sensor network.\" \"We plan to enhance public awareness campaigns, especially during high-risk periods, to better inform the community about air quality concerns. We would also like to engage more with local TV stations for them to display air quality and weather information from our network. Conclusion Dr. Sunkaru Touray's work with Permian Health exemplifies innovative activism. The project not only addresses air quality data gaps but also empowers communities to tackle air pollution—an issue that transcends borders. Dr. Touray's mission goes beyond air quality monitoring; it's about transforming the quality of public health around the world.","

In the slender West African nation of Gambia, Dr. Sunkaru Touray of Permian Health Lung Institute is leading an unprecedented initiative to illuminate the invisible dangers of air pollution through the strategic deployment of low-cost air quality monitors.

A vision born from necessity

Dr. Touray, a pulmonologist and critical care physician originally from Kartong, The Gambia, was profoundly affected by the respiratory issues he encountered while practicing in New Mexico. These issues, often linked to hydrocarbon exposure and environmental pollutants, spurred him to address similar problems in Gambia, where air quality data is scarce. \"There's a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air,\" Dr. Touray noted.

Recognizing the parallels between New Mexico and Gambia, Dr. Touray envisioned the Permian Health Clean Air Initiative. This initiative aims not only to collect data but to empower Gambians with knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air.

\n
“There’s a significant data gap in Africa when it comes to understanding our air.”
\n
–Dr. Sunkaru Touray, Founder, Permian Health
\n

The journey of Permian Health

Permian Health's mission is clear: to democratize access to air quality data in Gambia by installing low-cost air quality monitors throughout the country. The team selected IQAir’s AirVisual outdoor monitors for this critical work. “These devices are proven to be reliable, user-friendly, and can operate on solar power,” Dr. Touray said. “They also have 4G LTE connectivity,” which make the monitors ideally suited for Gambia's diverse environments—from the bustling streets of Banjul to the rural countryside.

\"The goal,\" Dr. Touray explained, \"is not just to collect data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health and advocate for cleaner air.\"

Highlighting areas of concern: Brikama’s air quality

Brikama stands as a poignant example of the challenges faced across Gambia. Known for its bustling markets and as a hub for both commerce and community life, the town also grapples with air quality issues that pose risks to its residents. By placing monitors in strategic locations, including the busy highway through Brikama, Permian Health is mapping pollution levels and raising awareness among the local population about the air they breathe daily—while simultaneously acting as a testament to the potential of grassroots air monitoring networks in challenging regions.

$\"\"$

Dr. Touray said, \"As we look to the future, the lessons learned from Brikama will inform our expansion strategies to other regions facing similar challenges. Our success in achieving nationwide coverage, with Brikama as a keystone in our network, exemplifies the scalable model of Permian Health Clean Air Initiative.”

\n
“The goal is not to just collect the data but to empower our communities with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their health.”
\n

Local feedback has been largely positive. According to Dr. Touray, real-time access to air quality monitor information has improved local understanding of the dangers of poor air quality, especially during the dry, dusty Harmattan season typically experienced from November to March.

Permian Health has collaborated with local groups such as the Brikama Nema Diaspora Group (BRIND) and Karamie’s Health clinic to install sensors in key areas, allowing residents and medical professionals to access real-time air quality data.

Pioneering work on the ground

To date, the Permian Health air quality network has grown to 14 sensors, achieving nationwide coverage with an air quality sensor in all regions of The Gambia—proof of the project's rapid scalability and success. The project has successfully installed air quality monitors in various locations, including urban areas and industrial sites. These monitors provide real-time data on pollutants like PM2.5, which pose the greatest threat to human health, offering invaluable insights into the air pollution across different regions of Gambia. \"We have sensors in the most densely populated areas,” Dr. Touray said. \"Through the process of collecting PM 2.5 data in Gambia and identifying pollution hotspots, we educate the public about air quality and its impact on public health—and also communicate the importance of installing air quality sensors as a means to make a change.\"

This foundational work sets the stage for enhanced accuracy and credibility in air quality monitoring, as underscored by a pivotal development in the project's journey. “The recent addition of a reference-grade monitor donated by MetOne marks a significant leap in our capacity for precision and validation of the data collected by our existing sensor network,” Dr. Touray said.

However, maintaining and expanding the network can be impeded by dust accumulation on solar panels during the Harmattan season, unreliable power supplies, and other issues.

‘While we have made significant progress in addressing some of these challenges, connectivity and maintenance in remote areas remain ongoing hurdles in our efforts to maintain and expand the sensor network efficiently,’ Dr. Touray explained.

Uniting minds and garnering accolades

To raise awareness about their work, Permian Health has created a promotional video which serves as a powerful tool to inform and engage the public about their project.

A key milestone for the project was the establishment of the first air quality conference in Gambia, bringing together stakeholders from the government, academia, and civil society to discuss the findings and implications of the collected data.

\"This conference was a pivotal moment for us, marking the beginning of a national conversation on air quality,\" reflects Dr. Touray.

This national conversation is already making a policy impact. The Ministry of Health has issued public health advisories several times since the air quality sensors were deployed, raising air quality awareness in communities around the country.

Dr. Touray emphasizes the importance of partnering with the Gambian government to leverage their data for national air quality standards and planning. \"Working closely with governmental bodies is crucial for our success,\" Dr. Touray notes, highlighting his strong connections within the National Environment Agency, which have been supportive of their endeavors.

With the NEA, Permian Health was able to release their first air quality report based on initial installations. This sets the table for future updates from newly installed sensors.

Additionally, the project's recent recognition by the Energy Policy Institute of the University of Chicago with an Air Quality Award underscores the global acknowledgment of their impactful work. This prestigious award will enable Permian Health to scale their network further.

Currently, there are 22 low-cost sensors deployed, and Gambia will, for the first time ever, have a reference monitor to assist in enhancing air quality monitoring and assessment.

Hopes for the Future

Thanks to their recent Air Quality award, Permian Health acquired an additional 10 sensors, bringing the total to 26 sensors across The Gambia.

$\"\"$

Six new sensors have been deployed to NEA headquarters, two major health centers with support from the Ministry of Health, and in housing developments in partnership with Gambia’s largest real estate company, TAF Africa Global. The remaining sensors will be deployed to the National Stadium, Gambia International Airport, the Seaport in Banjul, and a major intersection as soon as final government approvals are processed.

Dr. Touray envisions a future where every Gambian has access to air quality information, enabling them to protect themselves and their families from air pollution. Furthermore, he hopes to leverage the data collected to advocate for stronger environmental policies and regulations in Gambia.

\n
“We’re not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change.”
\n

\"We're not just collecting data for the sake of it. We want to drive change,\" says Dr. Touray. \"Our ultimate goal is for Gambia to set national air quality standards, informed by the comprehensive data we've gathered.\"

A key step toward this goal is the second Clean Air Conference, which Permian Health is organizing in partnership with the NEA. The event will bring together stakeholders, including officials from the ministries of Health, Environment, Transport, and Education, to develop a national air quality work plan.

According to Dr. Touray, Permian Health is conducting an inventory assessment to determine the key sources of pollution, such as waste burning, reliance on charcoal and firewood for cooking, and transport-related emissions. \"Looking ahead, we aim to strengthen our collaboration with the NEA and the Ministry of Health, to expand and maintain our sensor network.\"

\"We plan to enhance public awareness campaigns, especially during high-risk periods, to better inform the community about air quality concerns. We would also like to engage more with local TV stations for them to display air quality and weather information from our network.

Conclusion

Dr. Sunkaru Touray's work with Permian Health exemplifies innovative activism. The project not only addresses air quality data gaps but also empowers communities to tackle air pollution—an issue that transcends borders.

Dr. Touray's mission goes beyond air quality monitoring; it's about transforming the quality of public health around the world.

","permian-health-air-quality-crusade-in-gambia","gid://shopify/Article/998083264886","onlineStoreUrl","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/permian-health-air-quality-crusade-in-gambia","2025-03-24T10:03:00Z",[497,498,499],"Revealing the Invisible: Permian Health’s air quality crusade in Gambia",{"_53":494,"_210":495,"_208":496,"_212":443,"_214":444},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/407094034806","Man working on pole","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/PermianHealth_Desk_A_82dc4964-aaa3-4053-96ec-1d5218eb3bd9.jpg?v=1754470616","Community","Featured Contributor","Success Stories",{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"WWF Pakistan is tackling air pollution with IQAir. Learn how real-time data is driving change across the country.","

WWF Pakistan is tackling air pollution with IQAir. Learn how real-time data is driving change across the country.

","In Pakistan, severe air pollution silently impacts public health and well-being nationwide. Yet, due to a dire lack of air quality data, air quality monitors, and public awareness, the scale of the threat remains largely unseen. In 2024, Pakistan was the third most polluted country in the world, with an average PM2.5 concentration of 73.7 μg/m3 and exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended annual guideline of 5 μg/m3 by 14.7 times. Numerous cities experienced poor air quality, with high average PM2.5 concentrations measured for Islamabad (52.4 μg/m3), Rawalpindi (65.8 μg/m3), Faisalabad (88.8 μg/m3), Peshawar (91.0 μg/m3), and Lahore (102.1 μg/m3) – all exceeding the WHO recommended guideline by ten times or more. Recognizing the urgency of this crisis, WWF-Pakistan has taken significant steps to address air pollution using IQAir’s air quality monitoring technology. WWF-Pakistan has successfully deployed stations across Pakistan and published data to IQAir’s AirVisual platform, establishing the country’s largest air quality monitoring network. With this initiative, WWF-Pakistan is transforming how the country understands and confronts this invisible threat. \"We have successfully reached the goal of installing AirVisual Outdoor sensors in 15 of our offices across Pakistan,\" said WWF-Pakistan’s Research Officer, Muhammad Huzaifa who led this initiative in Pakistan. As of now, WWF-Pakistan has air monitoring stations located in key regions like Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Multan, and Peshawar. They provide real-time data that is accessible to both policymakers and the public. \"We are excited to say that we’ve published the data from these stations to IQAir’s platform, where communities can see their local air quality in real-time.” Why Pakistan Needs Reliable Air Quality Data Pakistan's urban centers, such as Lahore, Peshawar and Karachi, frequently grapple with thick layers of smog. While this is a visible reminder of air pollution, the more dangerous pollutants often remain unseen and unmonitored. One of the greatest challenges in Pakistan has been the need for more reliable, public air quality data. \"Our air quality network provides crucial air quality data in some of Pakistan’s most polluted regions and are often ranked among the top 10 most polluted cities in the world\" Huzaifa explained. WWF-Pakistan, the nation’s largest environmental organization, has been addressing critical environmental issues since 1970. Originally focused on protecting wildlife and ecosystems, the organization’s scope has broadened to include tackling climate change, protecting vulnerable habitats, and securing vital resources like freshwater. Now, through their air quality monitoring initiative, they are addressing one of the most pressing health and environmental crises facing Pakistan. “Unfortunately, there is little public air quality data available,” Huzaifa noted. “This information vacuum has left policymakers and citizens unprepared to tackle the pollution crisis.” WWF-Pakistan’s initiative helps fill this gap, ensuring the public has access to real-time, localized air quality data. With real-time data now available, citizens, governments, and policymakers can work together to implement solutions, reduce pollution and improve health outcomes across the country. Building Pakistan's National Air Quality Network WWF-Pakistan’s initiative, which involves installing air quality sensors in key cities across the country, marks a critical step in Pakistan’s battle against air pollution. By coordinating 15 monitoring stations under one national initiative, WWF-Pakistan now operates the country’s largest organized air quality monitoring network, making real-time data accessible to both citizens and policymakers. Partnering with IQAir adds both credibility and precision to the project. \"IQAir's AirVisual air quality monitors are globally recognized for their accuracy and ability to track even the smallest fluctuations in air quality,\" said Huzaifa. \"IQAir's technology is built to withstand all sorts of weather and having it in place ensures that people will trust the data.\" This transparency is essential for mobilizing both community efforts and policy interventions, as reliable information is crucial to driving meaningful change. Using Air Quality Data to Combat Pollution in Pakistan With the sensors online and data flowing into the IQAir platform, WWF-Pakistan's live contributor profile showcases the impact of their work, allowing anyone to monitor air quality in real-time. This transparency empowers citizens and policymakers alike to take informed action, using reliable data to drive meaningful change across the country. Explore WWF-Pakistan’s profile to see the live data from their monitoring stations across Pakistan. \"Data isn’t just a tool for awareness—it’s the foundation for meaningful action,\" Nazifa Butt, Director Climate Action and Sustainability WWF-Pakistan emphasized. “Now that we have the data, we have something to report and base our decisions on.” Nazifa emphasized the importance of storytelling. “We’re going to have to tell two parts of the story,” she explained, pointing out how data can not only expose alarming trends but also inspire communities to push for change—through policies, advocacy, and local initiatives. With 18,800 followers across its national network, WWF-Pakistan is sharing that data every day with citizens who urgently need real-time air quality information to help protect themselves from pollution. Pakistan's Long-Term Pollution Solutions WWF-Pakistan envisions a future where every region of the country has access to real-time, accurate air quality data. \"Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan,\" Nazifa explained. By providing access to this data, WWF-Pakistan aims to foster a culture of proactive health management, where individuals and communities can take the steps necessary to protect themselves from pollution. The air quality data being gathered is more than just numbers—it’s a lifeline for communities struggling with the dangers of polluted air. “Our initiative is laying the foundation for a National Clean Air Research Centre,\" Huzaifa said. \"This will be a hub for research and data-driven policies, enabling us to tackle pollution with innovative strategies.\" “Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan.” In October 2024, WWF-Pakistan warned that Lahore’s air quality posed a terrible threat to public health, recommending a number of changes to government policy including helping farmers manage crop waste, expanding mass transit, and improving zoning laws to reduce industrial pollution away from residents. It also noted that low-cost air quality monitoring systems could be used to uncover air pollution hotspots along traffic routes. Armed with that information, governments could restrict heavy transport vehicles or develop alternate routes to avoid congestion (1). Beyond their air quality monitoring project, the WWF-Pakistan team oversees more than 60 active environmental protection initiatives in FY 2025 across the country, ranging from clean water access and forest preservation to sustainable infrastructure development. These efforts, working in tandem with the air quality monitoring network, are all part of WWF's broader mission to protect the planet's natural environment and create a future where both people and nature can thrive in harmony. Conclusion WWF-Pakistan's initiative is a testament to the transformative power of air quality data, technology, and collective will in addressing one of today’s most pressing challenges. And by increasing the footprint of air quality monitors across the country, innovative solutions to persistent pollution problems can be put into play. As this vital work advances, it invites everyone to contribute to the cause—because in the fight for clean air, every voice and every action matters. “This initiative,” Nazifa said, “lays the foundation for what we envision as Pakistan’s future air quality innovation hub. It will serve as a hub for developing strategies and methods to tackle air pollution, aligning efforts across governmental and non-governmental sectors, both locally and internationally, in the fight against climate change.”","

In Pakistan, severe air pollution silently impacts public health and well-being nationwide. Yet, due to a dire lack of air quality data, air quality monitors, and public awareness, the scale of the threat remains largely unseen.

In 2024, Pakistan was the third most polluted country in the world, with an average PM2.5 concentration of 73.7 μg/m3 and exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended annual guideline of 5 μg/m3 by 14.7 times. Numerous cities experienced poor air quality, with high average PM2.5 concentrations measured for Islamabad (52.4 μg/m3), Rawalpindi (65.8 μg/m3), Faisalabad (88.8 μg/m3), Peshawar (91.0 μg/m3), and Lahore (102.1 μg/m3) – all exceeding the WHO recommended guideline by ten times or more.

Recognizing the urgency of this crisis, WWF-Pakistan has taken significant steps to address air pollution using IQAir’s air quality monitoring technology. WWF-Pakistan has successfully deployed stations across Pakistan and published data to IQAir’s AirVisual platform, establishing the country’s largest air quality monitoring network. With this initiative, WWF-Pakistan is transforming how the country understands and confronts this invisible threat.

\"We have successfully reached the goal of installing AirVisual Outdoor sensors in 15 of our offices across Pakistan,\" said WWF-Pakistan’s Research Officer, Muhammad Huzaifa who led this initiative in Pakistan.

As of now, WWF-Pakistan has air monitoring stations located in key regions like Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Multan, and Peshawar. They provide real-time data that is accessible to both policymakers and the public. \"We are excited to say that we’ve published the data from these stations to IQAir’s platform, where communities can see their local air quality in real-time.”

Why Pakistan Needs Reliable Air Quality Data

Pakistan's urban centers, such as Lahore, Peshawar and Karachi, frequently grapple with thick layers of smog. While this is a visible reminder of air pollution, the more dangerous pollutants often remain unseen and unmonitored. One of the greatest challenges in Pakistan has been the need for more reliable, public air quality data.

\"Our air quality network provides crucial air quality data in some of Pakistan’s most polluted regions and are often ranked among the top 10 most polluted cities in the world\" Huzaifa explained.

WWF-Pakistan, the nation’s largest environmental organization, has been addressing critical environmental issues since 1970. Originally focused on protecting wildlife and ecosystems, the organization’s scope has broadened to include tackling climate change, protecting vulnerable habitats, and securing vital resources like freshwater. Now, through their air quality monitoring initiative, they are addressing one of the most pressing health and environmental crises facing Pakistan.

“Unfortunately, there is little public air quality data available,” Huzaifa noted. “This information vacuum has left policymakers and citizens unprepared to tackle the pollution crisis.” WWF-Pakistan’s initiative helps fill this gap, ensuring the public has access to real-time, localized air quality data.

With real-time data now available, citizens, governments, and policymakers can work together to implement solutions, reduce pollution and improve health outcomes across the country.

Building Pakistan's National Air Quality Network

WWF-Pakistan’s initiative, which involves installing air quality sensors in key cities across the country, marks a critical step in Pakistan’s battle against air pollution. By coordinating 15 monitoring stations under one national initiative, WWF-Pakistan now operates the country’s largest organized air quality monitoring network, making real-time data accessible to both citizens and policymakers.

Partnering with IQAir adds both credibility and precision to the project. \"IQAir's AirVisual air quality monitors are globally recognized for their accuracy and ability to track even the smallest fluctuations in air quality,\" said Huzaifa. \"IQAir's technology is built to withstand all sorts of weather and having it in place ensures that people will trust the data.\" This transparency is essential for mobilizing both community efforts and policy interventions, as reliable information is crucial to driving meaningful change.

Using Air Quality Data to Combat Pollution in Pakistan

With the sensors online and data flowing into the IQAir platform, WWF-Pakistan's live contributor profile showcases the impact of their work, allowing anyone to monitor air quality in real-time. This transparency empowers citizens and policymakers alike to take informed action, using reliable data to drive meaningful change across the country. Explore WWF-Pakistan’s profile to see the live data from their monitoring stations across Pakistan.

\"Data isn’t just a tool for awareness—it’s the foundation for meaningful action,\" Nazifa Butt, Director Climate Action and Sustainability WWF-Pakistan emphasized. “Now that we have the data, we have something to report and base our decisions on.”

Nazifa emphasized the importance of storytelling. “We’re going to have to tell two parts of the story,” she explained, pointing out how data can not only expose alarming trends but also inspire communities to push for change—through policies, advocacy, and local initiatives.

With 18,800 followers across its national network, WWF-Pakistan is sharing that data every day with citizens who urgently need real-time air quality information to help protect themselves from pollution.

Pakistan's Long-Term Pollution Solutions

WWF-Pakistan envisions a future where every region of the country has access to real-time, accurate air quality data.

\"Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan,\" Nazifa explained. By providing access to this data, WWF-Pakistan aims to foster a culture of proactive health management, where individuals and communities can take the steps necessary to protect themselves from pollution.

The air quality data being gathered is more than just numbers—it’s a lifeline for communities struggling with the dangers of polluted air. “Our initiative is laying the foundation for a National Clean Air Research Centre,\" Huzaifa said. \"This will be a hub for research and data-driven policies, enabling us to tackle pollution with innovative strategies.\"

“Each sensor we deploy is a step closer to a healthier, more sustainable Pakistan.”

In October 2024, WWF-Pakistan warned that Lahore’s air quality posed a terrible threat to public health, recommending a number of changes to government policy including helping farmers manage crop waste, expanding mass transit, and improving zoning laws to reduce industrial pollution away from residents.

It also noted that low-cost air quality monitoring systems could be used to uncover air pollution hotspots along traffic routes. Armed with that information, governments could restrict heavy transport vehicles or develop alternate routes to avoid congestion (1).

Beyond their air quality monitoring project, the WWF-Pakistan team oversees more than 60 active environmental protection initiatives in FY 2025 across the country, ranging from clean water access and forest preservation to sustainable infrastructure development. These efforts, working in tandem with the air quality monitoring network, are all part of WWF's broader mission to protect the planet's natural environment and create a future where both people and nature can thrive in harmony.

Conclusion

WWF-Pakistan's initiative is a testament to the transformative power of air quality data, technology, and collective will in addressing one of today’s most pressing challenges. And by increasing the footprint of air quality monitors across the country, innovative solutions to persistent pollution problems can be put into play.

As this vital work advances, it invites everyone to contribute to the cause—because in the fight for clean air, every voice and every action matters.

“This initiative,” Nazifa said, “lays the foundation for what we envision as Pakistan’s future air quality innovation hub. It will serve as a hub for developing strategies and methods to tackle air pollution, aligning efforts across governmental and non-governmental sectors, both locally and internationally, in the fight against climate change.”

","revealing-the-invisible-wwf-pakistan","gid://shopify/Article/997495079286","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/revealing-the-invisible-wwf-pakistan","2025-11-12T17:43:03Z",[497,498,499],"Revealing the Invisible: WWF-Pakistan’s mission for clean air",{"_53":513,"_210":514,"_208":515,"_212":443,"_214":444},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/410126352758","WWF Team standing Next to Solar Panel","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_PakistanContributor_Desk_A_a18d7b5d-29f7-4e70-ad5d-e0c4f15aebc6.jpg?v=1762969386",{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"Discover how Tedy Mwendwa's air quality monitoring project in Nairobi is bridging critical gaps in Africa's air quality data. Learn more.","

Discover how Tedy Mwendwa's air quality monitoring project in Nairobi is bridging critical gaps in Africa's air quality data. Learn more.

","“Every day, I witness the severe impact of poor air quality on my community,” Tedy Mwendwa explained. “Using my expertise in electrical engineering, I felt compelled to create change.” In the heart of Africa, amidst bustling cities and vibrant rural landscapes, Mwendwa is pioneering a movement for cleaner air in Kenya. With a professional foundation in electrical engineering and a passion for environmental stewardship, Mwendwa's deployment of a low-cost air quality sensor in Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi, marks a pivotal step in revealing and addressing pollution and bridging critical gaps in Africa’s air quality data. Nairobi's leap towards cleaner air In late 2021, Mwendwa established an air quality station. Set up along one of Nairobi’s busy thoroughfares, the station gathers data on pollutants from sources like vehicular exhaust and biomass burning. \"It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution.” “It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution,” Mwendwa said. “Empowering our community with this data is crucial for driving action and advocating for sustainable solutions. Without data, we remain in the dark.” Local expertise, global resources drive innovation Building on the foundation of community-driven air monitoring, the project has taken a step forward. It now hosts East Africa’s first Monster Aerosol System (a platform that houses advanced aerosol analyzers), featuring a Time-of-Flight Aerosol Chemical Speciation Monitor (TOF-ACSM). This technology provides real-time, high-resolution data on airborne particles—including nitrates, ammonium, and chlorides—uncovering the chemical fingerprints of pollution with unprecedented precision. Paired with a black carbon monitor, the system offers a comprehensive view of airborne composition and sources. These reference-grade instruments build on the project’s original IQAir AirVisual Outdoor monitor—pairing community-level, real-time data with laboratory-grade chemical insight. The TOF-ACSM will help identify pollution sources—from mineral dust kicked up by unpaved roads and construction to organic aerosols tied to biomass burning and traffic emissions. It will also track seasonal and daily shifts in air quality, influenced by weather patterns and human activity. The initiative is expanding further with the deployment of GRIMM EDM 180 reference monitors across Nairobi, replacing older equipment to deliver faster, more accurate readings with minimal maintenance. In collaboration with the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA), these monitors will be placed along major highways and construction zones, ensuring data reflects the realities of urban life. These advancements are part of the NBO-CHEM Project (Nairobi Aerosol Chemistry and Monitoring Initiative), an effort funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) and led by Prof. Daniel M. Westervelt, Dr. Godwin Opinde, and Tedy Mwendwa. By combining local expertise with state-of-the-art scientific resources, the project aims to transform how we understand air pollution in East Africa. The challenge of air quality monitoring in Africa The new additions to the project are heartening developments towards advancing air quality understanding in East Africa. Yet, despite the increasing efforts to monitor air quality globally, Africa remains one of the most underrepresented continents in terms of air quality data. According to the 2024 World Air Quality Report, there is only one monitoring station for every 3.7 million people. While coverage has expanded to include more African countries in recent years, there are still vast areas without sufficient data. For example, countries like Niger and Sudan remain without publicly available monitoring data.Air pollution is a major health threat, causing an estimated seven million premature deaths worldwide each year. Without accurate data, it is challenging to address the sources and impacts of air pollution effectively. Grassroots efforts like Mwendwa's are crucial in filling these data gaps, providing models for further projects and inspiring broader initiatives. Harnessing technology for a healthier tomorrow Utilizing an AirVisual Outdoor air quality monitor, Mwendwa’s station gathers critical real-time data. “The AirVisual sensor was easy to deploy and requires little maintenance, even in our somewhat extreme conditions with limited resources,” he said.The project, though small, is already making a difference in the community. “By sharing a link to the AirVisual Platform and using the app, we can easily get our data to students nationwide, enabling them to conduct their own research on pollution,” he said. The data has also been used to inform parents with small children of the effects of poor air quality. \"They need to understand that this data can help give them a better life,\" Mwendwa said. Cultivating environmental consciousness Mwendwa envisions a future where air quality stations span Africa, fostering a culture of environmental awareness and proactive health management. “The data my station is gathering empowers students to conduct community research, highlighting pollution's impact and fostering greater understanding,” he said. “This awareness can significantly influence the general population.\"Mwendwa plans further collaborations with local governments, communities, and international bodies, with this initial project laying a foundation for sustainable environmental policies and practices. “Our goal is to illuminate the unseen threats of pollution through technology,” he said. “Providing our community, and beyond, with this data, equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future. Without data, we are navigating blindly.” “Providing our community with this data equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future.” Conclusion From a low-cost sensor to a full NBO-CHEM reference hybrid network, Mwendwa’s project shows how local leadership and modern tools can accelerate Kenya’s clean-air progress. The project is an invitation to communities and policymakers to engage in a similar quest for healthier environments.Mwendwa's efforts symbolize more than geographic growth—they embody the momentum of a global movement dedicated to clean air. His work exemplifies uniting technology, data, and collective engagement to tackle one of our era's most pressing challenges.Achieving cleaner air is a communal endeavor, demanding innovation and cooperation. Mwendwa's project is a rallying cry to all, inviting participation in crafting a healthier, sustainable future for generations to come.","

“Every day, I witness the severe impact of poor air quality on my community,” Tedy Mwendwa explained. “Using my expertise in electrical engineering, I felt compelled to create change.”

In the heart of Africa, amidst bustling cities and vibrant rural landscapes, Mwendwa is pioneering a movement for cleaner air in Kenya. With a professional foundation in electrical engineering and a passion for environmental stewardship, Mwendwa's deployment of a low-cost air quality sensor in Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi, marks a pivotal step in revealing and addressing pollution and bridging critical gaps in Africa’s air quality data.

Nairobi's leap towards cleaner air

In late 2021, Mwendwa established an air quality station. Set up along one of Nairobi’s busy thoroughfares, the station gathers data on pollutants from sources like vehicular exhaust and biomass burning.

\"It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution.”

“It's about leveraging technology to unveil the hidden dangers of pollution,” Mwendwa said. “Empowering our community with this data is crucial for driving action and advocating for sustainable solutions. Without data, we remain in the dark.”

Local expertise, global resources drive innovation

Building on the foundation of community-driven air monitoring, the project has taken a step forward. It now hosts East Africa’s first Monster Aerosol System (a platform that houses advanced aerosol analyzers), featuring a Time-of-Flight Aerosol Chemical Speciation Monitor (TOF-ACSM). This technology provides real-time, high-resolution data on airborne particles—including nitrates, ammonium, and chlorides—uncovering the chemical fingerprints of pollution with unprecedented precision. Paired with a black carbon monitor, the system offers a comprehensive view of airborne composition and sources. These reference-grade instruments build on the project’s original IQAir AirVisual Outdoor monitor—pairing community-level, real-time data with laboratory-grade chemical insight.

The TOF-ACSM will help identify pollution sources—from mineral dust kicked up by unpaved roads and construction to organic aerosols tied to biomass burning and traffic emissions. It will also track seasonal and daily shifts in air quality, influenced by weather patterns and human activity.

The initiative is expanding further with the deployment of GRIMM EDM 180 reference monitors across Nairobi, replacing older equipment to deliver faster, more accurate readings with minimal maintenance. In collaboration with the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA), these monitors will be placed along major highways and construction zones, ensuring data reflects the realities of urban life.

These advancements are part of the NBO-CHEM Project (Nairobi Aerosol Chemistry and Monitoring Initiative), an effort funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) and led by Prof. Daniel M. Westervelt, Dr. Godwin Opinde, and Tedy Mwendwa.

By combining local expertise with state-of-the-art scientific resources, the project aims to transform how we understand air pollution in East Africa.

The challenge of air quality monitoring in Africa

The new additions to the project are heartening developments towards advancing air quality understanding in East Africa. Yet, despite the increasing efforts to monitor air quality globally, Africa remains one of the most underrepresented continents in terms of air quality data. According to the 2024 World Air Quality Report, there is only one monitoring station for every 3.7 million people.

While coverage has expanded to include more African countries in recent years, there are still vast areas without sufficient data. For example, countries like Niger and Sudan remain without publicly available monitoring data.

Air pollution is a major health threat, causing an estimated seven million premature deaths worldwide each year. Without accurate data, it is challenging to address the sources and impacts of air pollution effectively. Grassroots efforts like Mwendwa's are crucial in filling these data gaps, providing models for further projects and inspiring broader initiatives.

Harnessing technology for a healthier tomorrow

Utilizing an AirVisual Outdoor air quality monitor, Mwendwa’s station gathers critical real-time data. “The AirVisual sensor was easy to deploy and requires little maintenance, even in our somewhat extreme conditions with limited resources,” he said.

The project, though small, is already making a difference in the community. “By sharing a link to the AirVisual Platform and using the app, we can easily get our data to students nationwide, enabling them to conduct their own research on pollution,” he said. The data has also been used to inform parents with small children of the effects of poor air quality. \"They need to understand that this data can help give them a better life,\" Mwendwa said.

Cultivating environmental consciousness

Mwendwa envisions a future where air quality stations span Africa, fostering a culture of environmental awareness and proactive health management. “The data my station is gathering empowers students to conduct community research, highlighting pollution's impact and fostering greater understanding,” he said. “This awareness can significantly influence the general population.\"

Mwendwa plans further collaborations with local governments, communities, and international bodies, with this initial project laying a foundation for sustainable environmental policies and practices. “Our goal is to illuminate the unseen threats of pollution through technology,” he said. “Providing our community, and beyond, with this data, equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future. Without data, we are navigating blindly.”

“Providing our community with this data equips them to advocate for sustainable solutions essential for a healthier future.”

Conclusion

From a low-cost sensor to a full NBO-CHEM reference hybrid network, Mwendwa’s project shows how local leadership and modern tools can accelerate Kenya’s clean-air progress. The project is an invitation to communities and policymakers to engage in a similar quest for healthier environments.

Mwendwa's efforts symbolize more than geographic growth—they embody the momentum of a global movement dedicated to clean air. His work exemplifies uniting technology, data, and collective engagement to tackle one of our era's most pressing challenges.

Achieving cleaner air is a communal endeavor, demanding innovation and cooperation. Mwendwa's project is a rallying cry to all, inviting participation in crafting a healthier, sustainable future for generations to come.

","revealing-the-invisible-kenya","gid://shopify/Article/607976751403","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/revealing-the-invisible-kenya","2025-12-01T04:00:00Z",[498,499],"Revealing the Invisible: Boosting air quality awareness in Kenya",{"_53":529,"_210":530,"_208":531,"_212":443,"_214":444},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/415907709302","Nairobi-city-smog","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_Revamp_Kenya_Clean_Air_Desktop_e5ca2c63-ae6e-4f33-85d4-be4ab18dbeb7.jpg?v=1779905059",{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"A Detroit childcare center is prioritizing clean air technology in early childhood education. Discover how air quality awareness is changing lives and influencing the next generation.","

A Detroit childcare center is prioritizing clean air technology in early childhood education. Discover how air quality awareness is changing lives and influencing the next generation.

","Air quality awareness and clean air environments are all too often a second thought within busy classrooms, where immediate challenges and childcare obstacles take over. However, in Detroit, Michigan, an early education center is reshaping their air quality concerns and the well-being of their students. Founded by Sentra Johnson-Smith, Sent Loves the Kids Development Center has meshed early education with air quality awareness and data collection through the installation of clean air technology. In partnership with IQAir and the Clean Air for Kids initiative, the Michigan childcare center is leading the charge in bringing pollution awareness through air quality monitoring and filtration to the early childhood education space. Children need clean, safe learning environments Sent Loves the Kids was born from Johnson-Smith's natural connection to children and her desire to holistically shape their early developmental stages. She aims to provide foundational education alongside physical and mental well-being for her students through comprehensive childcare and community connections (1). “Sent Loves The Kids was founded out of my deep love for children and my strong desire to be part of their educational journey,” said Johnson-Smith. “My goal is to nurture and educate the whole child—mind, body, and soul.” In Detroit and other large populous cities alike, these childcare facilities face unique environmental challenges. From urban air pollution to possible lead exposure in water supplies, harmful pollutants can go undetected and sneak into indoor spaces from outside environments. Especially in fast-paced childcare settings, air pollution and environmental concerns can go unnoticed or overshadowed by immediate demands. “Before receiving [an] air monitor, air quality wasn’t on my mind,” Johnson-Smith admitted. “When managing the day-to-day demands of running a facility, air quality was at the bottom of the list.” However, after partnering with IQAir and receiving air quality technology, Johnson-Smith has created a clean air environment for her students and reformed early education learning to encompass air quality awareness. Clean air environments in educational spaces Safe environments and clean air quality are essential to providing a productive learning space for students to thrive in. For children with asthma or allergies, air quality is a daily concern. By employing the Atem X air purifier, the Sent Loves the Kids facility can actively airborne pollutants and produce clean air for students to feel comfortable and safe. “By monitoring the air quality more closely, we can take immediate action when needed, such as adjusting indoor activities or ensuring that children with respiratory conditions are not exposed to triggers,” Johnson-Smith said. Multiple studies have shown children and infants to be among the most vulnerable populations affected by poor air quality. Childhood exposure to long-term air pollution can lead to harmful chronic impacts related to lung development, respiratory health, and asthma (2)(3). However, the utilization of air purifiers and air cleaning tools can drastically lower these risks and improve symptoms. With support from IQAir and the Clean Air for Kids Initiative, Sent Loves the Kids now provides a safe environment for teachers, students, and faculty alike through clean air technology and monitoring. Early education meets air quality awareness With access to real-time air quality monitors that detail various air pollutants and air quality levels, what once was invisible has become impossible to ignore for the Sent Loves the Kids facility. Data collection and air quality monitoring has allowed Johnson-Smith to build safeguards around child healthcare and create immersive lesson plans surrounding local air quality environments. Sent Loves the Kids takes air quality awareness a step further, teaching the next generation about environmental impact and air quality safety. According to Johnson-Smith, “incorporating air quality awareness into our educational programming not only aligns with our mission to provide a nurturing and safe environment but also helps children understand the importance of caring for their health and the planet.” After setting up the AirVisual Pro Indoor Monitor, Johnson-Smith noticed more air quality events and pollutant concerns, modifying school schedules and activities to maintain a safe environment for children and faculty alike. With the combination of clean air filtration and monitoring, Sent Loves the Kids has become a safe breathing and learning environment for students and teachers alike. Conclusion Sent Loves the Kids proves that meaningful childcare changes doesn’t require a large facility or financial burdens. Through air quality monitoring, filtration, and environmental education, Johnson-Smith is laying the groundwork for the next generation to breathe easier and healthier. With the support of IQAir science-backed air quality technology and a passionate mission, any childcare provider or community facility can make an impactful difference in lives of children, families, and the broader local community.","

Air quality awareness and clean air environments are all too often a second thought within busy classrooms, where immediate challenges and childcare obstacles take over. However, in Detroit, Michigan, an early education center is reshaping their air quality concerns and the well-being of their students.

Founded by Sentra Johnson-Smith, Sent Loves the Kids Development Center has meshed early education with air quality awareness and data collection through the installation of clean air technology. In partnership with IQAir and the Clean Air for Kids initiative, the Michigan childcare center is leading the charge in bringing pollution awareness through air quality monitoring and filtration to the early childhood education space.

Children need clean, safe learning environments

Sent Loves the Kids was born from Johnson-Smith's natural connection to children and her desire to holistically shape their early developmental stages. She aims to provide foundational education alongside physical and mental well-being for her students through comprehensive childcare and community connections (1).

“Sent Loves The Kids was founded out of my deep love for children and my strong desire to be part of their educational journey,” said Johnson-Smith. “My goal is to nurture and educate the whole child—mind, body, and soul.”

In Detroit and other large populous cities alike, these childcare facilities face unique environmental challenges. From urban air pollution to possible lead exposure in water supplies, harmful pollutants can go undetected and sneak into indoor spaces from outside environments. Especially in fast-paced childcare settings, air pollution and environmental concerns can go unnoticed or overshadowed by immediate demands.

“Before receiving [an] air monitor, air quality wasn’t on my mind,” Johnson-Smith admitted. “When managing the day-to-day demands of running a facility, air quality was at the bottom of the list.”

However, after partnering with IQAir and receiving air quality technology, Johnson-Smith has created a clean air environment for her students and reformed early education learning to encompass air quality awareness.

Clean air environments in educational spaces

Safe environments and clean air quality are essential to providing a productive learning space for students to thrive in. For children with asthma or allergies, air quality is a daily concern. By employing the Atem X air purifier, the Sent Loves the Kids facility can actively airborne pollutants and produce clean air for students to feel comfortable and safe.

“By monitoring the air quality more closely, we can take immediate action when needed, such as adjusting indoor activities or ensuring that children with respiratory conditions are not exposed to triggers,” Johnson-Smith said.

Multiple studies have shown children and infants to be among the most vulnerable populations affected by poor air quality. Childhood exposure to long-term air pollution can lead to harmful chronic impacts related to lung development, respiratory health, and asthma (2)(3). However, the utilization of air purifiers and air cleaning tools can drastically lower these risks and improve symptoms.

With support from IQAir and the Clean Air for Kids Initiative, Sent Loves the Kids now provides a safe environment for teachers, students, and faculty alike through clean air technology and monitoring.

Early education meets air quality awareness

With access to real-time air quality monitors that detail various air pollutants and air quality levels, what once was invisible has become impossible to ignore for the Sent Loves the Kids facility.

Data collection and air quality monitoring has allowed Johnson-Smith to build safeguards around child healthcare and create immersive lesson plans surrounding local air quality environments. Sent Loves the Kids takes air quality awareness a step further, teaching the next generation about environmental impact and air quality safety.

According to Johnson-Smith, “incorporating air quality awareness into our educational programming not only aligns with our mission to provide a nurturing and safe environment but also helps children understand the importance of caring for their health and the planet.”

After setting up the AirVisual Pro Indoor Monitor, Johnson-Smith noticed more air quality events and pollutant concerns, modifying school schedules and activities to maintain a safe environment for children and faculty alike. With the combination of clean air filtration and monitoring, Sent Loves the Kids has become a safe breathing and learning environment for students and teachers alike.

Conclusion

Sent Loves the Kids proves that meaningful childcare changes doesn’t require a large facility or financial burdens. Through air quality monitoring, filtration, and environmental education, Johnson-Smith is laying the groundwork for the next generation to breathe easier and healthier.

With the support of IQAir science-backed air quality technology and a passionate mission, any childcare provider or community facility can make an impactful difference in lives of children, families, and the broader local community.

","detroit-childcare-center-embraces-clean-air","gid://shopify/Article/1002153509238","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/detroit-childcare-center-embraces-clean-air","2026-07-20T17:09:37Z",[497,499],"Detroit childcare center achieves clean air and data monitoring awareness",{"_53":545,"_210":-5,"_208":546,"_212":547,"_214":548},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/418784674166","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/A_711a0f0b-37dc-4393-8ebc-3ed6f90da591.jpg?v=1786554670",839,674,{"_101":479,"_82":601,"_11":602,"_72":603,"_483":603,"_74":604,"_76":605,"_66":606,"_53":607,"_488":608,"_114":-5,"_78":609,"_80":610,"_70":611,"_84":612},{"_101":479,"_82":585,"_11":586,"_72":587,"_483":587,"_74":588,"_76":589,"_66":590,"_53":591,"_488":592,"_114":-5,"_78":593,"_80":594,"_70":595,"_84":596},{"_101":479,"_82":570,"_11":571,"_72":572,"_483":572,"_74":573,"_76":574,"_66":575,"_53":576,"_488":577,"_114":-5,"_78":578,"_80":579,"_70":580,"_84":581},{"_101":479,"_82":553,"_11":554,"_72":555,"_483":555,"_74":556,"_76":557,"_66":558,"_53":559,"_488":560,"_114":-5,"_78":561,"_80":562,"_70":563,"_84":564},{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"Learn more how scented candles release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit — and can harm your health.","Are scented candles bad for you?Burning a scented candle is a popular way to create a pleasant ambiance at home. Scents such aslavender, jasmine, and sandalwood can be relaxing and invigorating. During the holidays, many people find the warm glow and aroma of pine, gingerbread, or cinnamon makes a room feel more festive.Unfortunately, most mass-produced scented candles can have a negative impact on indoor air quality. From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.So while you and your family may enjoy the fragrance of scented candles in your home, they may be harmful to your health. Read on to learn why some candles are bad for you.Paraffin waxAre paraffin wax candles safe? In what way can wax be harmful?According to a 2017 study in the International Journal of Tropical Disease and Health, paraffin candles emit pollutants that can threaten human health and shouldn’t be burned in enclosed areas (1).Most candles are made from paraffin, a petroleum byproduct. To create paraffin wax candles, petroleum waste is chemically bleached, deodorized, and made into wax. When burned, paraffin wax can release toxicvolatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, including known carcinogens like: alkenes acetone benzene toluene These are the same chemicals found in diesel fuel emissions and are known to cause allergies, asthma attacks, and skin problems.A 2005 study published by the University of South Florida showed that candles made of paraffin wax emit low levels of benzene even when they are not lit (2).Is burning candles bad for you?In addition to releasing toxic chemicals, burning paraffin wax produces soot composed of particulate matter such as, PM2.5 and ultrafine particles that can remain suspended in the air for hours. According to the University of South Florida study, ultrafine soot particles are similar to diesel exhaust in both their size and composition. They penetrate deeply into the lungs and are absorbed into the blood stream (3).A 2000 study conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency showed that soot emissions from candles are significantly higher after wax breakthrough occurs and when a candle is smoldering (4).Ultrafine particles are associated with severe health issues, including: allergies asthma COPD (5) respiratory tract infections heart attacks strokes cancer So, are candles bad for your health? Not all candles produce the same amount of air pollutants. A 2002 study published in theJournal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society found that soywax, much like beeswax candles, burned at a significantly lower rate and resulted in less soot than paraffin candles (6).Chemical fragrancesAnother problem with scented candles is that the chemicals they use to create a pleasing aroma are generally far from wholesome.Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature.Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature. Commonly emitted VOCs related to the scent in candles include (7): formaldehyde petroleum distillates limonene alcohol esters These harmful chemicals can cause health problems, such as: headaches dizziness allergy symptoms asthma attacks respiratory tract infections cancer Cored wicksMany candles have cored wicks made from cotton that are wrapped around a metal support. The design helps keep the wick from falling over into the wax. This is especially useful for scented candles because the fragrance oils soften the wax and allow non-cored wicks to go limp.Are candles toxic? If they have lead in them, possibly. Lead was once commonly used in cored candlewicks — especially in candles imported from overseas. However, after determining that these wicks could present a lead poisoning hazard to young children, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the manufacture and sale of all candles with lead-core wicks in 2003 (8). Zinc and tin have been used as a substitute since the ban.All metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned.However, all metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned. Wicks with zinc and tin cores can still release small amounts of lead particles (9,10).Safer alternativesTo limit soot stains and poor air quality in your home, you should avoid or restrict the use of candles (11).If you still crave the pleasant ambiance and aroma of scented candles, here are safer ways to scent the air: Use essential oils for fragrance.Essential oils can be placed in a diffuser or in bathwater to create a desired aroma. Simmer spices.Place spices such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg in a pot of water and let it simmer on the stove. Create potpourri.Dried items such as flowers, berries, fruit rinds, wood chips, and spices can be placed in bowls or fabric bags and placed around your home. The takeawayLighting scented candles may seem like a relaxing way to enjoy your home. But burning scented candles releases VOC pollutants and worsens your home’s indoor air quality. Although fragrances from safer alternatives like essential oils can be pleasant, trulyclean air smells like nothing at all.","

Are scented candles bad for you?

Burning a scented candle is a popular way to create a pleasant ambiance at home. Scents such aslavender, jasmine, and sandalwood can be relaxing and invigorating. During the holidays, many people find the warm glow and aroma of pine, gingerbread, or cinnamon makes a room feel more festive.

Unfortunately, most mass-produced scented candles can have a negative impact on indoor air quality. From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.

From the wax to the wick to the fragrance itself, the average scented candle can release harmful chemicals into the air — even when unlit.

So while you and your family may enjoy the fragrance of scented candles in your home, they may be harmful to your health. Read on to learn why some candles are bad for you.

Paraffin wax

Are paraffin wax candles safe? In what way can wax be harmful?

According to a 2017 study in the International Journal of Tropical Disease and Health, paraffin candles emit pollutants that can threaten human health and shouldn’t be burned in enclosed areas (1).

Most candles are made from paraffin, a petroleum byproduct. To create paraffin wax candles, petroleum waste is chemically bleached, deodorized, and made into wax. When burned, paraffin wax can release toxicvolatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, including known carcinogens like:

alkenes
acetone
benzene
toluene

These are the same chemicals found in diesel fuel emissions and are known to cause allergies, asthma attacks, and skin problems.

A 2005 study published by the University of South Florida showed that candles made of paraffin wax emit low levels of benzene even when they are not lit (2).

Is burning candles bad for you?

In addition to releasing toxic chemicals, burning paraffin wax produces soot composed of particulate matter such as, PM2.5 and ultrafine particles that can remain suspended in the air for hours. According to the University of South Florida study, ultrafine soot particles are similar to diesel exhaust in both their size and composition. They penetrate deeply into the lungs and are absorbed into the blood stream (3).

A 2000 study conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency showed that soot emissions from candles are significantly higher after wax breakthrough occurs and when a candle is smoldering (4).

Ultrafine particles are associated with severe health issues, including:

allergies
asthma
COPD (5)
respiratory tract infections
heart attacks
strokes
cancer

So, are candles bad for your health? Not all candles produce the same amount of air pollutants. A 2002 study published in theJournal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society found that soywax, much like beeswax candles, burned at a significantly lower rate and resulted in less soot than paraffin candles (6).

Chemical fragrances

Another problem with scented candles is that the chemicals they use to create a pleasing aroma are generally far from wholesome.

Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature.

Most scented candles use synthetic fragrances and dyes that give off dangerous VOCs even at room temperature. Commonly emitted VOCs related to the scent in candles include (7):

formaldehyde
petroleum distillates
limonene
alcohol
esters

These harmful chemicals can cause health problems, such as:

headaches
dizziness
allergy symptoms
asthma attacks
respiratory tract infections
cancer
\n\n\t

Cored wicks

Many candles have cored wicks made from cotton that are wrapped around a metal support. The design helps keep the wick from falling over into the wax. This is especially useful for scented candles because the fragrance oils soften the wax and allow non-cored wicks to go limp.

Are candles toxic? If they have lead in them, possibly. Lead was once commonly used in cored candlewicks — especially in candles imported from overseas. However, after determining that these wicks could present a lead poisoning hazard to young children, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the manufacture and sale of all candles with lead-core wicks in 2003 (8). Zinc and tin have been used as a substitute since the ban.

All metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned.

However, all metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when they are burned. Wicks with zinc and tin cores can still release small amounts of lead particles (9,10).

Safer alternatives

To limit soot stains and poor air quality in your home, you should avoid or restrict the use of candles (11).

If you still crave the pleasant ambiance and aroma of scented candles, here are safer ways to scent the air:

\nUse essential oils for fragrance.Essential oils can be placed in a diffuser or in bathwater to create a desired aroma.
\nSimmer spices.Place spices such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg in a pot of water and let it simmer on the stove.
\nCreate potpourri.Dried items such as flowers, berries, fruit rinds, wood chips, and spices can be placed in bowls or fabric bags and placed around your home.

The takeaway

Lighting scented candles may seem like a relaxing way to enjoy your home. But burning scented candles releases VOC pollutants and worsens your home’s indoor air quality. Although fragrances from safer alternatives like essential oils can be pleasant, trulyclean air smells like nothing at all.

","hidden-dangers-scented-candles","gid://shopify/Article/606869127467","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/hidden-dangers-scented-candles","2016-12-04T22:35:53Z",[568,569],"The hidden dangers of scented candles",{"_53":565,"_210":566,"_208":567,"_212":443,"_214":444},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/405721284982","Two lit candles","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/49_scented_desktop_RE_3518d342-9492-4308-82e5-ee4111074a17.jpg?v=1749633010","Health and Wellness","Popular articles",{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"They look great on your nightstand, but are they worth their salt as air purifiers? Learn more.","Himalayan salt lamps DO NOT purify indoor air.These trendy little lamps consist of a light bulb placed inside a chunk of pink Himalayan salt. They’re easily recognized by their hand-carved, often stylized shapes and dim, pinkish glow they emit when light shines through them.They’ve been gaining popularity for years, mostly because their distinct color and unique appearance make them attractive objects for interior decoration, and their glow can add a pleasing atmosphere to a room.But their recent rise in popularity as “natural” air purifiers should trouble you.A host of (often misleading) studies supporting the use of salt in treating respiratory conditions have escalated demand for these little pink things, especially within the well-primed alternative medicine market, full of people who may already be seeking home remedies for all sorts of health conditions and indoor environmental issues when modern medicine hasn’t seemed to help.And you shouldn’t buy a Himalayan salt lamp to purify your air for one major reason: they’re negative ionizers, and negative ionization is one of the most absurd air purification myths ever devised.Why are Himalayan salt lamps bad for air quality?Again, two words: negative ionization.If you ever hear the words “ionization” (in one form or another) and “air purification” in the same sentence, you should run in the opposite direction.In the context of air purification, negative ionization happens when negatively charged particles attach themselves, or “charge,” pollutant particles in the air, effectively removing them from ambient air by causing them to stick to nearby surfaces.This phenomenon also occurs in nature – know that distinct smell in the air after a thunderstorm? That’s the result of “atmospheric space charge” as air ions are generated by the electric fields of storms.1 Many air purifiers and purification devices sold in stores, including Himalayan salt lamps and a variety of “air ionizers,” artificially produce high voltage to achieve this same effect.The problem with negative ionization, though, is that it doesn’t actually remove pollutants from your indoor air – it just causes the particles to adhere themselves to nearby surfaces, where they’re easily stirred up by indoor activities like dusting, vacuuming, and ventilation.Charged particles can also stick to your respiratory tract, where charged particles can settle in your windpipe and lungs and cause even more harm that if they’d just remained in the air. Studies show that these particles can penetrate deep into your respiratory system and cause both heart and lung conditions.2The average, nightstand-sized Himalayan salt lamp generates only a small number of negative ions into the air, so you may not notice any tangible change in your air quality or health, at least immediately. But these lamps can be huge: you can buy salt lamps that weight up to 300 pounds for thousands of dollars, and their ionization effects may have a more noticeable effect on your air, especially if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have a much harder time getting out.And negative ionizers have another dark secret: they can also create indoor ozone (O3).There are two main types of ozone: Stratospheric ozone: Alayer of ozone occurs naturally several miles up in the atmosphere, where it protects the surface of the earth (and people’s skin) from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Tropospheric ozone: Also called ground-level ozone or smog, ground-level ozone tends to develop when heat from sunlight reacts with chemicals near the ground, many of which are produced by emissions from vehicle exhaust and factory smoke. Negative ionization can generate tropospheric ozone indoors. While stratospheric ozone has no interaction with us in the lower atmosphere, ground-level ozone is far more harmful when it builds up to high levels. And perhaps one of the starkest examples of ground-level ozone is one that millions of us know very well – the smog that forms in major cities during rush hour.If you live near a freeway, dense urban center, or even at a high elevation where you can see the area around an urban area. A few hours or less after rush hour begins and the sun begins to rise, you’ll start to notice a visible layer of haze build up. This is ground-level ozone, and even though it’s a typical feature of modern life, extensive research shows that it causes a plethora of immediate symptoms, including: Coughing Wheezing Trouble breathing Stuffy nose Dizziness Tingling in arms and legs Fever3,4 Further research suggests that ozone is also responsible for long-term health problems, such as asthma, heart disease, and lung disease. Emerging studies on rats also suggest that ozone could cause seizures and blindness.So even though you may not get rush-hour levels of ozone in your home from a salt lamp, indoor ozone buildup can indeed cause some disruptive health effects if you don’t follow best practices for good Indoor Air Quality.So what’s so special about Himalayan salt?So how did someone come up with the idea that Himalayan salt lamps have any health effects at all?The story stretches back millennia. Truly authentic Himalayan salt comes from the Khewra salt reserves in the Punjab region of Pakistan. Salt mined here is thought to be millions of years old and contain numerous minerals.Salt lamps have been proposed for use in treatments for conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) because of their purported therapeutic effects on your respiratory system. This treatment even has a clinical term: halotherapy, based on an ages-old respiratory treatment technique known as speleotherapy. First used in Eastern Europe, speleotherapy consists of spending time in a salt cave, where four environmental conditions are thought to help reduce symptoms of respiratory illness:5 Stable air temperature Moderate to high humidity Presence of aerosol elements, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium Lack of airborne pollutants Halotherapy takes the notion that salt cave environments are good for respiratory health by having people inhale small amounts of salt particles that are released into the ambient air of a controlled room to “reproduce” a salt cave’s microclimate. But there’s no conclusive evidence that either speleotherapy or halotherapy actually relieve respiratory symptoms.6Take the claims with a grain of...well, saltSo here’s the takeaway: We’re not saying you shouldn’t get a Himalayan salt lamp. Their dim glow can be quite soothing at night when you’re trying to fall asleep.But they don’t purify air. And “air purifiers” that emits ions and ozone may make your indoor air quality worse, introduce new health problems, and exacerbate existing ones.You can take many precautions to monitorand keep your indoor air clean, but buying a salt lamp isn’t one of them. Try these proven methods instead: Be aware of your indoor air quality. The AirVisual Series consists of portable air quality monitors that use cutting-edge laser technology to give you real-time measurements of key pollutants, including particulate matter. AirVisual Series also provides 72-hour historical and forecast data so that you can know exactly when and why your indoor air quality changes. Control sources of poor indoor air quality. If you’re thinking about buying a salt lamp to purify your air, chances are that you do have air quality issues that you may be able to do something about. The first step to improving your indoor indoor air quality is source control.This means eliminating individual sources of pollution or reducing their emissions. Regularly clean your HVAC system ducts. Install a whole-house air purifier into your HVAC system to reduce indoor pollutants by up to 95%. Replace water-damaged areas of your home to prevent mold and dust mites. Keep paints, solvents, and other chemicals in well-ventilated areas. Ventilate your home. Let in fresh air regularly to lower the concentrations of indoor air pollutants. This is especially important if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have nowhere to go and thus build up to dangerous levels. Open doors and windows when outdoor air quality is good. Use a range hood for your stove to capture gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cooking. Use an air purifier with HyperHEPA technology. The IQAir HealthPro Plusis the best air purifier for even the smallest pollutant particles, removing up to 99.5% of particulates down to 0.003 microns, like viruses and ultrafine particles from vehicle exhaust. The Atempersonal air purifier can also provide pure, pollutant-free air directly into your personal breathing zone. Sure, a salt lamp can be a nice accessory and bring some calm into your home. But there’s plenty you can do to actually keep your indoor air clean and bring yourself some peace of mind knowing that your home is a clean air sanctuary.","

Himalayan salt lamps DO NOT purify indoor air.

These trendy little lamps consist of a light bulb placed inside a chunk of pink Himalayan salt. They’re easily recognized by their hand-carved, often stylized shapes and dim, pinkish glow they emit when light shines through them.

They’ve been gaining popularity for years, mostly because their distinct color and unique appearance make them attractive objects for interior decoration, and their glow can add a pleasing atmosphere to a room.

But their recent rise in popularity as “natural” air purifiers should trouble you.

A host of (often misleading) studies supporting the use of salt in treating respiratory conditions have escalated demand for these little pink things, especially within the well-primed alternative medicine market, full of people who may already be seeking home remedies for all sorts of health conditions and indoor environmental issues when modern medicine hasn’t seemed to help.

And you shouldn’t buy a Himalayan salt lamp to purify your air for one major reason: they’re negative ionizers, and negative ionization is one of the most absurd air purification myths ever devised.

Why are Himalayan salt lamps bad for air quality?

Again, two words: negative ionization.

If you ever hear the words “ionization” (in one form or another) and “air purification” in the same sentence, you should run in the opposite direction.

In the context of air purification, negative ionization happens when negatively charged particles attach themselves, or “charge,” pollutant particles in the air, effectively removing them from ambient air by causing them to stick to nearby surfaces.

This phenomenon also occurs in nature – know that distinct smell in the air after a thunderstorm? That’s the result of “atmospheric space charge” as air ions are generated by the electric fields of storms.¹ Many air purifiers and purification devices sold in stores, including Himalayan salt lamps and a variety of “air ionizers,” artificially produce high voltage to achieve this same effect.

The problem with negative ionization, though, is that it doesn’t actually remove pollutants from your indoor air – it just causes the particles to adhere themselves to nearby surfaces, where they’re easily stirred up by indoor activities like dusting, vacuuming, and ventilation.

Charged particles can also stick to your respiratory tract, where charged particles can settle in your windpipe and lungs and cause even more harm that if they’d just remained in the air. Studies show that these particles can penetrate deep into your respiratory system and cause both heart and lung conditions.²

The average, nightstand-sized Himalayan salt lamp generates only a small number of negative ions into the air, so you may not notice any tangible change in your air quality or health, at least immediately. But these lamps can be huge: you can buy salt lamps that weight up to 300 pounds for thousands of dollars, and their ionization effects may have a more noticeable effect on your air, especially if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have a much harder time getting out.

And negative ionizers have another dark secret: they can also create indoor ozone (O₃).

There are two main types of ozone:

\nStratospheric ozone: Alayer of ozone occurs naturally several miles up in the atmosphere, where it protects the surface of the earth (and people’s skin) from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
\nTropospheric ozone: Also called ground-level ozone or smog, ground-level ozone tends to develop when heat from sunlight reacts with chemicals near the ground, many of which are produced by emissions from vehicle exhaust and factory smoke.

Negative ionization can generate tropospheric ozone indoors. While stratospheric ozone has no interaction with us in the lower atmosphere, ground-level ozone is far more harmful when it builds up to high levels. And perhaps one of the starkest examples of ground-level ozone is one that millions of us know very well – the smog that forms in major cities during rush hour.

If you live near a freeway, dense urban center, or even at a high elevation where you can see the area around an urban area. A few hours or less after rush hour begins and the sun begins to rise, you’ll start to notice a visible layer of haze build up. This is ground-level ozone, and even though it’s a typical feature of modern life, extensive research shows that it causes a plethora of immediate symptoms, including:

Coughing
Wheezing
Trouble breathing
Stuffy nose
Dizziness
Tingling in arms and legs
Fever^3,4\n

Further research suggests that ozone is also responsible for long-term health problems, such as asthma, heart disease, and lung disease. Emerging studies on rats also suggest that ozone could cause seizures and blindness.

So even though you may not get rush-hour levels of ozone in your home from a salt lamp, indoor ozone buildup can indeed cause some disruptive health effects if you don’t follow best practices for good Indoor Air Quality.

So what’s so special about Himalayan salt?

So how did someone come up with the idea that Himalayan salt lamps have any health effects at all?

The story stretches back millennia. Truly authentic Himalayan salt comes from the Khewra salt reserves in the Punjab region of Pakistan. Salt mined here is thought to be millions of years old and contain numerous minerals.

Salt lamps have been proposed for use in treatments for conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) because of their purported therapeutic effects on your respiratory system. This treatment even has a clinical term: halotherapy, based on an ages-old respiratory treatment technique known as speleotherapy. First used in Eastern Europe, speleotherapy consists of spending time in a salt cave, where four environmental conditions are thought to help reduce symptoms of respiratory illness:⁵

Stable air temperature
Moderate to high humidity
Presence of aerosol elements, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium
Lack of airborne pollutants

Halotherapy takes the notion that salt cave environments are good for respiratory health by having people inhale small amounts of salt particles that are released into the ambient air of a controlled room to “reproduce” a salt cave’s microclimate. But there’s no conclusive evidence that either speleotherapy or halotherapy actually relieve respiratory symptoms.⁶

Take the claims with a grain of...well, salt

So here’s the takeaway: We’re not saying you shouldn’t get a Himalayan salt lamp. Their dim glow can be quite soothing at night when you’re trying to fall asleep.

But they don’t purify air. And “air purifiers” that emits ions and ozone may make your indoor air quality worse, introduce new health problems, and exacerbate existing ones.

You can take many precautions to monitorand keep your indoor air clean, but buying a salt lamp isn’t one of them. Try these proven methods instead:

\nBe aware of your indoor air quality. The AirVisual Series consists of portable air quality monitors that use cutting-edge laser technology to give you real-time measurements of key pollutants, including particulate matter. AirVisual Series also provides 72-hour historical and forecast data so that you can know exactly when and why your indoor air quality changes.
\nControl sources of poor indoor air quality. If you’re thinking about buying a salt lamp to purify your air, chances are that you do have air quality issues that you may be able to do something about. The first step to improving your indoor indoor air quality is source control.This means eliminating individual sources of pollution or reducing their emissions.\n\n\t
- Regularly clean your HVAC system ducts. Install a whole-house air purifier into your HVAC system to reduce indoor pollutants by up to 95%.
- Replace water-damaged areas of your home to prevent mold and dust mites.
- Keep paints, solvents, and other chemicals in well-ventilated areas.
\n\n\t
\nVentilate your home. Let in fresh air regularly to lower the concentrations of indoor air pollutants. This is especially important if you live in an airtight, energy-efficient home in which indoor pollutants have nowhere to go and thus build up to dangerous levels.\n\n\t
- Open doors and windows when outdoor air quality is good.
- Use a range hood for your stove to capture gases and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cooking.
\n\n\t
\nUse an air purifier with HyperHEPA technology. The IQAir HealthPro Plusis the best air purifier for even the smallest pollutant particles, removing up to 99.5% of particulates down to 0.003 microns, like viruses and ultrafine particles from vehicle exhaust. The Atempersonal air purifier can also provide pure, pollutant-free air directly into your personal breathing zone.

Sure, a salt lamp can be a nice accessory and bring some calm into your home. But there’s plenty you can do to actually keep your indoor air clean and bring yourself some peace of mind knowing that your home is a clean air sanctuary.
\n\n

","himalayan-salt-lamp-debunked","gid://shopify/Article/606869356843","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/himalayan-salt-lamp-debunked","2019-06-17T13:49:29Z",[446,568,569],"Himalayan salt lamps: Worth their salt?",{"_53":582,"_210":583,"_208":584,"_212":443,"_214":444},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/406288400758","Why are Himalayan salt lamps bad for air quality?","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_HimalayanSalt_061419_750_ebdb5244-3cb4-49a7-b887-47de5134ba96.jpg?v=1751543557",{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"How can you know what air purifier manufacturers to trust? Let's look more critically at air purification.","The home air purifier market has undergone many shifts and starts in its decades-long history as an affordable solution for indoor air quality. Along with those shifts have been seemingly ground breaking advancements in filtration technologies that may seem like the next revolution in air purification. But not all air purifiers safely clean the air. Not all air purifiers safely clean the air. Let's take an evidence-based approach to the industry and separate the fact from the fiction. What should I look for in an air purifier? Before we examine the various air purifiers on the market with a critical eye, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of what does make a good air purifier. 1. HEPA filters are the standard for the industry. What is a HEPA filter? High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters capture airborne particles from moving air using a dense, random arrangement of fibers. HEPA filters use the physics of particles moving through air to yank them out of the air flow. Their operation is simple but extremely effective, and HEPA filters are now standard issue for almost every air purifier on the market. But it wasn’t always that way. Air purifiers have been around for well over a century. The first air purification systems appeared in the 1850s in charcoal-based masks used by coal miners. They were designed to keep toxic dust out of their lungs. The technology was so successful that, less than twenty years later, respirators were added to these types of masks to protect firefighters from breathing in smoke chemicals and pollutants (1). Beginning in the 1940s, the United States Atomic Energy Commission started experimenting with high-efficiency particulate arrestance, better known now as HEPA, as a method of shielding soldiers from atomic radiation on World War II battlefields (2). HEPA filters did nothing to filter radiation particles, but researchers quickly learned that HEPA filters could filter out many harmful pollutants. In 1963, Manfred and Klaus Hammes, the founders of IQAir, introduced the world’s first residential air filter based on HEPA technology, helping reduce indoor pollution as well as chronic asthma symptoms. Not long after, HEPA became so widespread that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) required that all filters sold under the name “HEPA” must filter at least 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns (3). Since then, HEPA air purification has become the standard for the air purification industry. HEPA is now thrown around as a generic term for air filters, but HEPA filters continue to filter 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns. The HyperHEPA filter builds upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems. Many manufacturers, including IQAir, have built upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems. IQAir’s patented HyperHEPAfilter is one such filter. HyperHEPA filters remove 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, which are 100 times smaller than the DOE’s required 0.3-micron particle size. 2. Not all air purifier designs are created equal. All air purifier manufacturers know that their filters need to live up to this HEPA standard. But long-standing, strict guidelines around air filters can provide a false sense of security in HEPA. To advertise an air purifier as HEPA, it only needs to contain HEPA paper, the paper used to construct a HEPA filter. Whether the air purifier’s Total System Efficiency meets HEPA requirements is another story. In fact, most HEPA air purifiers are not tested for total efficiency (4). The hidden factor at work here is leakage. Despite the high efficiency of many HEPA filters, the housing designs of many air purifiers are not airtight. This means that dirty, unfiltered air passes around the HEPA filter through tiny openings, cracks, and space around the frame of the HEPA filter itself or between the frame and the purifier housing (5). So even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, they’re only telling part of the story. In some cases, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less (6). Even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less. Some air purifier manufacturers have resolved this issue with designs that are built to minimize or eliminate leakage. IQAir uses patented 3D UltraSeal knife-edge-in-groove sealing between the filter frame and the purifier housing to guarantee the full efficiency of our HyperHEPA filtration media. 3. Concerned about gas and odors? Go beyond HEPA. While HyperHEPA filters are great at getting particles out of the air, they do NOT take gases and odors out of the air. Unlike particles, the molecules that comprise gases, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are not solid and will float through even the densest HyperHEPA filters. That’s where activated carbon filters come in. How do these filters work? It’s simpler than you might think: Chunks of carbon material (like charcoal) are exposed to high concentrations of oxygen. Countless pores open on the carbon surface, increasing the carbon surface area enormously. At this point, a pound of activated carbon can have the same surface area as 100 football fields. Several pounds of activated carbon are arranged in a flat “bed” and packaged in a proprietary filter design (such as IQAir’s V5 Cell gas and odor control filter). Air passes through the activated carbon bed. Gas, chemical, and VOC molecules are adsorbed into the carbon pores, meaning that they chemically bond to the extensive charcoal surface area. Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes (7)(8). Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes. Some air purifiers are designed to maximize activated carbon in case you’re more concerned about, for example, gases from cooking or odors from pets than about particle pollution in your home. IQAir’s GC MultiGas is built for such a purpose—while carbon filters generally use a few pounds of carbon, the GC MultiGas contains 12 pounds of activated carbon as well as impregnated alumina, providing well over 1200 football fields worth of surface area for gas and VOC molecules to adsorb to. The takeaway Now you know that the elements of a good air purifier are: HyperHEPA media for particle filtration No system leakage due to sealed filter and purifier housing Activated carbon for gas and odor filtration But we're not done yet. Just as important to know is what not to look for in an air purifier. What should I avoid in an air purifier? When considering air purifiers, some people wonder about their effectiveness and even potential risks. Question often arise, such as \"Do air purifiers work?\" or \"Are air purifiers effective?\" The answer is that while some air cleaning methods can remove particles and pollutants from the air, their capabilities are often limited. But it's not just about effectiveness. People also ask, \"Are air purifiers bad for you?\" This concern arises from potential hidden costs to your health. It's important to be aware of inefficiencies and any potential risks associated with the air purifier you're considering before making a purchase. So, if you're in the market for an air purifier, remember to ask yourself whether it will be effective at removing pollutants and particles from the air, and whether it poses any risks to your health. Ionizer air purifiers Ionizers are purported to purify air by sending out negatively charged ions (anions) that attract positively charged pollution particles (cations), causing them to leave the air and stick to surfaces like ceilings, walls, and furniture. Many popular air purifiers use ionization technology, also called negative ionization, as a central component of their operation. Research suggests that ionizers can help stop potentially infectious molds and bacteria from spreading in sterile environments like dental clinics and hospitals (9)(10). But there are two critical downsides to ionization (11)(12): Ionizer air purifiersdon’t get rid of pollutants. Particles charged by negative ions aren’t removed from the air—they merely stick to surfaces nearby. This includes surfaces inside your airways, such as your windpipe and alveoli, the sacs of air in your lungs. Pollutant build-up can cause heart, lung, and other respiratory conditions. Ionizer air purifierscan generate harmful ozone. Ionizers produce ozone (O3) that can build up to dangerous levels indoors. At even low levels, indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb (the organ that helps your brain process odors), and even be fatal at high concentrations. Indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb, and even be fatal at high concentrations. Verdict Don't buy an ionizer air purifier.They don’t remove particles from the air, and the ozone they produce can have harmful side effects, even if the purifier claims that they only charge the particles “a little bit.” Ozone Generators It’s worth saying again: ozone is TERRIBLE for you, especially indoor ozone build-up. The health concerns are serious enough that in 2017, California banned the use of ozonehome air purifiers (13). Ozone generators use a process called corona discharge to release ozone molecules into the air. When an ozone molecule intermingles with a particle or gas molecule, an ozone atom clings to the other molecule and blows it up in a process known as oxidation. Oxidation in the atmosphere after a lightning strike is also what makes the air smell so distinct after a thunderstorm. However, ozone generators do little to clean air and are quite bad for you. Here’s just a short (and far from complete) list of reasons why (14)(15)(16)(17)(18): Ozone can take years to fully clear even a small room of gases. Ozone reactions can introduce ultrafine particles (UFPs) into the air.UFPs can get into your lungs and your bloodstream, causing heart disease and even stunting lung development in children. Indoor ozone levels can rise five to ten times above recommended limits,which range from 0.05 to 0.1 parts per million (ppm), because of a lack of ventilation and in combination with outdoor ozone that seeps indoors.To put this in perspective, those who are sensitive to ozone, such as children, people with asthma, and pets, start experiencing health effects at only 0.01 ppm. Even a “safe” ozone generator that emits a small amount of ozone can quickly trigger potentially life-threatening ailments like asthma attacks. Verdict Don’t buy an ozone generator. They’re NOT air purifiers. Not only do they fail to clean your air, they hurt you and the most vulnerable in your home: your children and your pets. UV Light Purifiers Ultraviolet (UV) light is often used to disinfect equipment in hospitals and prevent the spread of harmful strains of bacteria and viruses (19)(20). One of the most common UV purification methods is called ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, or UVGI. In UVGI, intense UV lights are shined on bacteria and viruses, damaging their DNA beyond repair. Bacterial cells and viruses then shut themselves down because they can no longer function. This is called apoptosis, or programmed cell death, which effectively destroys their ability to cause infections (21). But UV air purification isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Here’s why(22) (23) (24) (25) (26): Bacteria and viruses need to be exposed to UV light for a certain amount of timebefore they’re rendered harmless: some strains need to be treated with UV for several hours in direct UV light before they’re destroyed.Home UV air purifiers don’t shine UV light on them long enough to be genuinely useful. Some bacteria can come back to life and become infectious again even after being disinfected by UV light. UV lights do nothing for pollutant particles.Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter, like PM10 and PM2.5. Many UV air purifiers produce ozone. UV light can burn your skin and damage your eyes. Sure, most UV purifiers block the light from shining out of the purifier, but even brief UV exposure can cause permanent skin and eye damage as well as cancer. Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter. Verdict Don’t buy a UV light air purifier. UV light somewhat disinfects but doesn’t purify air, and research shows that UV’s disinfection potential for air may be exaggerated. What do I do now? At this point, you should feel like you have a good sense of what’s fact and what’s fiction when it comes to a truly effective air purification system. So, what should you do now, armed with your knowledge of what makes a good air purifier? You have a multitude of options for maximizing your indoor air quality: Get a HyperHEPA air purifier. Patented HyperHEPA filtration technology removes 99.5% of pollutant particles down to 0.003 microns, the smallest particles in existence. Use advanced gas-phase filtration. Patented V5 Cell gas and odor control filters, used in HealthPro Series air purifiers, eliminateharmful chemicals and compounds with five pounds of activated carbon. The GC MultiGas features 12 pounds of activated carbon and impregnated alumina to help protect you against indoor gases and chemicals, in addition to our powerful HyperHEPA particle filtration. Use a personal air purifier. Atem Series personal air purifiers are equipped with HyperHEPA filtration technology and a PureJet diffuser that instantly blankets you in clean air. They’re sleek, compact, and portable, allowing you to breathe virtually pure air anytime, anywhere. Install a whole-house air purifier. Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system at home uses outdoor air to heat and cool your home, so even with an indoor air purifier, your air still might become polluted by outdoor particulates on days with poor air quality. The PerfectPro Series whole-house air purifier is equipped with the most powerful HyperHEPA filters available for a residential air purification systems. It fits seamlessly into your existing HVAC system, ensuring that air entering your home is always up to the highest possible standard of quality. Still not sure? Read about some of the misconceptions that surround air purification technology. Use our Help Me Choose tool to see what air purifier may work best for your indoor air quality needs. The most capable air purification technology is always backed by evidence-based facts and science. When it comes to choosing the best air purifier, science has got your back.","

The home air purifier market has undergone many shifts and starts in its decades-long history as an affordable solution for indoor air quality. Along with those shifts have been seemingly ground breaking advancements in filtration technologies that may seem like the next revolution in air purification.

But not all air purifiers safely clean the air.

Not all air purifiers safely clean the air.

Let's take an evidence-based approach to the industry and separate the fact from the fiction.

What should I look for in an air purifier?

Before we examine the various air purifiers on the market with a critical eye, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of what does make a good air purifier.

$\"Air$

1. HEPA filters are the standard for the industry.

What is a HEPA filter?

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters capture airborne particles from moving air using a dense, random arrangement of fibers. HEPA filters use the physics of particles moving through air to yank them out of the air flow. Their operation is simple but extremely effective, and HEPA filters are now standard issue for almost every air purifier on the market.

But it wasn’t always that way.

Air purifiers have been around for well over a century. The first air purification systems appeared in the 1850s in charcoal-based masks used by coal miners. They were designed to keep toxic dust out of their lungs. The technology was so successful that, less than twenty years later, respirators were added to these types of masks to protect firefighters from breathing in smoke chemicals and pollutants (1).

Beginning in the 1940s, the United States Atomic Energy Commission started experimenting with high-efficiency particulate arrestance, better known now as HEPA, as a method of shielding soldiers from atomic radiation on World War II battlefields (2).

HEPA filters did nothing to filter radiation particles, but researchers quickly learned that HEPA filters could filter out many harmful pollutants.

In 1963, Manfred and Klaus Hammes, the founders of IQAir, introduced the world’s first residential air filter based on HEPA technology, helping reduce indoor pollution as well as chronic asthma symptoms. Not long after, HEPA became so widespread that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) required that all filters sold under the name “HEPA” must filter at least 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns (3).

Since then, HEPA air purification has become the standard for the air purification industry. HEPA is now thrown around as a generic term for air filters, but HEPA filters continue to filter 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns.

The HyperHEPA filter builds upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems.

Many manufacturers, including IQAir, have built upon the HEPA model to create even more efficient filtration systems. IQAir’s patented HyperHEPAfilter is one such filter. HyperHEPA filters remove 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, which are 100 times smaller than the DOE’s required 0.3-micron particle size.

2. Not all air purifier designs are created equal.

All air purifier manufacturers know that their filters need to live up to this HEPA standard. But long-standing, strict guidelines around air filters can provide a false sense of security in HEPA.

To advertise an air purifier as HEPA, it only needs to contain HEPA paper, the paper used to construct a HEPA filter. Whether the air purifier’s Total System Efficiency meets HEPA requirements is another story. In fact, most HEPA air purifiers are not tested for total efficiency (4).

The hidden factor at work here is leakage. Despite the high efficiency of many HEPA filters, the housing designs of many air purifiers are not airtight. This means that dirty, unfiltered air passes around the HEPA filter through tiny openings, cracks, and space around the frame of the HEPA filter itself or between the frame and the purifier housing (5).

So even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, they’re only telling part of the story. In some cases, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less (6).

Even though many air purifiers claim that their HEPA filters remove nearly 100% of particles from the air that passes through them, the actual efficiency of the whole air purifier design, with leakage considered, is closer to 80% or less.

Some air purifier manufacturers have resolved this issue with designs that are built to minimize or eliminate leakage. IQAir uses patented 3D UltraSeal knife-edge-in-groove sealing between the filter frame and the purifier housing to guarantee the full efficiency of our HyperHEPA filtration media.

3. Concerned about gas and odors? Go beyond HEPA.

While HyperHEPA filters are great at getting particles out of the air, they do NOT take gases and odors out of the air.

Unlike particles, the molecules that comprise gases, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are not solid and will float through even the densest HyperHEPA filters. That’s where activated carbon filters come in.

How do these filters work? It’s simpler than you might think:

Chunks of carbon material (like charcoal) are exposed to high concentrations of oxygen.
Countless pores open on the carbon surface, increasing the carbon surface area enormously. At this point, a pound of activated carbon can have the same surface area as 100 football fields.
Several pounds of activated carbon are arranged in a flat “bed” and packaged in a proprietary filter design (such as IQAir’s V5 Cell gas and odor control filter).
Air passes through the activated carbon bed.
Gas, chemical, and VOC molecules are adsorbed into the carbon pores, meaning that they chemically bond to the extensive charcoal surface area.

Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes (7)(8).

Activated carbon adsorption is the go-to method of filtration for gases as well as chemical pollutants from vehicle emissions and combustion processes.

Some air purifiers are designed to maximize activated carbon in case you’re more concerned about, for example, gases from cooking or odors from pets than about particle pollution in your home. IQAir’s GC MultiGas is built for such a purpose—while carbon filters generally use a few pounds of carbon, the GC MultiGas contains 12 pounds of activated carbon as well as impregnated alumina, providing well over 1200 football fields worth of surface area for gas and VOC molecules to adsorb to.

The takeaway

Now you know that the elements of a good air purifier are:

\nHyperHEPA media for particle filtration
\nNo system leakage due to sealed filter and purifier housing
\nActivated carbon for gas and odor filtration

But we're not done yet. Just as important to know is what not to look for in an air purifier.

What should I avoid in an air purifier?

When considering air purifiers, some people wonder about their effectiveness and even potential risks. Question often arise, such as \"Do air purifiers work?\" or \"Are air purifiers effective?\" The answer is that while some air cleaning methods can remove particles and pollutants from the air, their capabilities are often limited.

But it's not just about effectiveness. People also ask, \"Are air purifiers bad for you?\" This concern arises from potential hidden costs to your health. It's important to be aware of inefficiencies and any potential risks associated with the air purifier you're considering before making a purchase.

So, if you're in the market for an air purifier, remember to ask yourself whether it will be effective at removing pollutants and particles from the air, and whether it poses any risks to your health.

Ionizer air purifiers

Ionizers are purported to purify air by sending out negatively charged ions (anions) that attract positively charged pollution particles (cations), causing them to leave the air and stick to surfaces like ceilings, walls, and furniture.

Many popular air purifiers use ionization technology, also called negative ionization, as a central component of their operation. Research suggests that ionizers can help stop potentially infectious molds and bacteria from spreading in sterile environments like dental clinics and hospitals (9)(10).

But there are two critical downsides to ionization (11)(12):

\nIonizer air purifiersdon’t get rid of pollutants. Particles charged by negative ions aren’t removed from the air—they merely stick to surfaces nearby. This includes surfaces inside your airways, such as your windpipe and alveoli, the sacs of air in your lungs. Pollutant build-up can cause heart, lung, and other respiratory conditions.
\nIonizer air purifierscan generate harmful ozone. Ionizers produce ozone (O3) that can build up to dangerous levels indoors. At even low levels, indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb (the organ that helps your brain process odors), and even be fatal at high concentrations. \n

Indoor ozone can irritate your airways, trigger asthma attacks, damage your olfactory bulb, and even be fatal at high concentrations.

Verdict

Don't buy an ionizer air purifier.They don’t remove particles from the air, and the ozone they produce can have harmful side effects, even if the purifier claims that they only charge the particles “a little bit.”

Ozone Generators

It’s worth saying again: ozone is TERRIBLE for you, especially indoor ozone build-up. The health concerns are serious enough that in 2017, California banned the use of ozonehome air purifiers (13).

Ozone generators use a process called corona discharge to release ozone molecules into the air. When an ozone molecule intermingles with a particle or gas molecule, an ozone atom clings to the other molecule and blows it up in a process known as oxidation. Oxidation in the atmosphere after a lightning strike is also what makes the air smell so distinct after a thunderstorm.

However, ozone generators do little to clean air and are quite bad for you. Here’s just a short (and far from complete) list of reasons why (14)(15)(16)(17)(18):

\nOzone can take years to fully clear even a small room of gases.
\nOzone reactions can introduce ultrafine particles (UFPs) into the air.UFPs can get into your lungs and your bloodstream, causing heart disease and even stunting lung development in children.
\nIndoor ozone levels can rise five to ten times above recommended limits,which range from 0.05 to 0.1 parts per million (ppm), because of a lack of ventilation and in combination with outdoor ozone that seeps indoors.To put this in perspective, those who are sensitive to ozone, such as children, people with asthma, and pets, start experiencing health effects at only 0.01 ppm. Even a “safe” ozone generator that emits a small amount of ozone can quickly trigger potentially life-threatening ailments like asthma attacks.

Verdict

Don’t buy an ozone generator. They’re NOT air purifiers. Not only do they fail to clean your air, they hurt you and the most vulnerable in your home: your children and your pets.

UV Light Purifiers

Ultraviolet (UV) light is often used to disinfect equipment in hospitals and prevent the spread of harmful strains of bacteria and viruses (19)(20).

One of the most common UV purification methods is called ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, or UVGI.

In UVGI, intense UV lights are shined on bacteria and viruses, damaging their DNA beyond repair. Bacterial cells and viruses then shut themselves down because they can no longer function. This is called apoptosis, or programmed cell death, which effectively destroys their ability to cause infections (21).

But UV air purification isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Here’s why(22) (23) (24) (25) (26):

\nBacteria and viruses need to be exposed to UV light for a certain amount of timebefore they’re rendered harmless: some strains need to be treated with UV for several hours in direct UV light before they’re destroyed.Home UV air purifiers don’t shine UV light on them long enough to be genuinely useful.
\nSome bacteria can come back to life and become infectious again even after being disinfected by UV light.
\nUV lights do nothing for pollutant particles.Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter, like PM10 and PM2.5.
Many UV air purifiers produce ozone.
\nUV light can burn your skin and damage your eyes. Sure, most UV purifiers block the light from shining out of the purifier, but even brief UV exposure can cause permanent skin and eye damage as well as cancer.

Air treated with UV light can still be full of harmful particulate matter.

Verdict

Don’t buy a UV light air purifier. UV light somewhat disinfects but doesn’t purify air, and research shows that UV’s disinfection potential for air may be exaggerated.

What do I do now?

At this point, you should feel like you have a good sense of what’s fact and what’s fiction when it comes to a truly effective air purification system.

So, what should you do now, armed with your knowledge of what makes a good air purifier? You have a multitude of options for maximizing your indoor air quality:

\nGet a HyperHEPA air purifier. Patented HyperHEPA filtration technology removes 99.5% of pollutant particles down to 0.003 microns, the smallest particles in existence.
\nUse advanced gas-phase filtration.\n
- Patented V5 Cell gas and odor control filters, used in HealthPro Series air purifiers, eliminateharmful chemicals and compounds with five pounds of activated carbon.
- The GC MultiGas features 12 pounds of activated carbon and impregnated alumina to help protect you against indoor gases and chemicals, in addition to our powerful HyperHEPA particle filtration.
\n
\nUse a personal air purifier. Atem Series personal air purifiers are equipped with HyperHEPA filtration technology and a PureJet diffuser that instantly blankets you in clean air. They’re sleek, compact, and portable, allowing you to breathe virtually pure air anytime, anywhere.
\nInstall a whole-house air purifier. Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system at home uses outdoor air to heat and cool your home, so even with an indoor air purifier, your air still might become polluted by outdoor particulates on days with poor air quality. The PerfectPro Series whole-house air purifier is equipped with the most powerful HyperHEPA filters available for a residential air purification systems. It fits seamlessly into your existing HVAC system, ensuring that air entering your home is always up to the highest possible standard of quality.

Still not sure? Read about some of the misconceptions that surround air purification technology. Use our Help Me Choose tool to see what air purifier may work best for your indoor air quality needs.

The most capable air purification technology is always backed by evidence-based facts and science. When it comes to choosing the best air purifier, science has got your back.

","do-air-purifiers-work-air-purifier-myths-and-facts-debunked","gid://shopify/Article/606869193003","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/do-air-purifiers-work-air-purifier-myths-and-facts-debunked","2022-01-02T14:14:32Z",[600,568,569],"Do air purifiers work? Air purifier myths and facts debunked",{"_53":597,"_210":598,"_208":599,"_212":443,"_214":444},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/408358224246","Close-up of what appears to be a room air purifier with some plants in the background (another indoor air purifying tool that has been shown to be ineffective in improving indoor air quality).","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_misconceptions-about-air-purifiers_5058ed72-2e8d-4b0f-9570-93510f9f1f89.jpg?v=1758212336","Air Cleaning Technology",{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"Learn why wildfire smoke poses a health risk to people living far downwind and what you can do to help protect yourself.","When considering the dangers of wildfires, thoughts of fleeing your home while a raging wildfire rapidly approaches can easily consume your imagination. However, the number one cause of death from fires is smoke inhalation. The primary cause of death from wildfires is smoke inhalation. 50 to 80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation. Inhaling smoke damages your body in one or both of the following ways: by robbing it of oxygen through particulate matter irritation Smoke inhalation is particularly dangerous because you may not show symptoms until 24 to 48 hours after exposure. 50–80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation.1 Read on to learn how to help protect the health of yourself and your loved ones, and learn some wildfire smoke safety tips to rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary wildfire safety precautions to reduce the consequences of toxic wildfire smoke. What’s in wildfire smoke? Wildfire smoke is a mixture of thousands of individual compounds, including harmful particles and gases that pose a severe health risk to anyone (including pets) nearby and downwind from a fire. Wildfire smoke often contains: water vapor particulate matter trace minerals carbon dioxide carbon monoxide nitrogen oxides hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide compounds that contribute to elevated ozone (O3) levels volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including acrolein and formaldehyde (potent respiratory irritants) Wildfire smoke often contains fine (PM2.5) and ultrafine particles that can be absorbed directly into your blood stream and reach any organ or area of your body. Pictured: The typical contents of wildfire smoke, including ultrafine particles (≤ 0.3 microns), PM2.5 (2.5-10 microns), acrolein, PM10 (> 10 microns), formaldehyde, carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. Source: IQAir Wildfire smoke composition depends upon multiple factors, including: the types of wood and vegetation burning the moisture content the fire temperature wind conditions other weather-related influences The primary pollutant threatening the health of those nearby and downwind of a wildfire is particulate matter. Wildfire smoke often contains fine (or PM2.5) and ultrafine particles. These tiny airborne particles are the most dangerous to your health. Fine particles (smaller than 2.5 microns) penetrate deeply into your lungs. The most dangerous are ultrafine particles (smaller than 0.1 microns), which represent 90% of all airborne particles. These particles are tiny and can be absorbed directly into your bloodstream. Once in your blood, they can reach any organ or area of your body. Clean the air with high-performance air filtration Learn more about our wildfire smoke air purifiers Click here Wildfire smoke and at-risk populations Most healthy adults will recover from smoke exposure. However, certain individuals are more at risk for severe health consequences, including:2 Young children. Children whose lungs are still developing are considered more vulnerable, regardless of whether they have a pre-existing condition. Pregnant women. Wildfire smoke inhalation puts pregnant women and their unborn children at a higher risk than the general population. Older adults. This population is at-risk due to an increased rate of pre-existing heart and lung disease. Anyone with a respiratory disease. Individuals with emphysema, chronic bronchitis, COPD, asthma, or another respiratory disease are at-risk. Individuals with heart disease. Circulatory diseases include high blood pressure, vascular diseases, heart failure, and cerebrovascular conditions. These conditions make sufferers susceptible to heart attacks, transient chest pain, heart failure, stroke, and sudden death from cardiac arrhythmia. Young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with respiratory and cardiovascular pre-existing conditions may find that they experience more severe symptoms and find it harder to breathe.3 The full impact of wildfire smoke is not yet fully understood. A 2017 review in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology found that there are still important study opportunities for exploring the long-term health implications of smoke exposure, smoke exposure recovery, and additional smoke inhalation health impacts for children.4 Exposure to smoke can be dangerous simply due to the microorganisms within the smoke. A 2020 study in Science magazine noted that microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke.5 The study theorizes that infectious disease may be spread as bacteria and fungi become part of smoke’s particulate composition. Microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke, and infectious disease may be spread as they become part of the smoke’s particulate composition. How wildfire smoke behaves Many factors affect wildfire smoke behavior, such as: weather geographical terrain the stage of the fire wind Use the live, interactive air quality map below to see how weather, wind, and location can impact the behavior of wildfire smoke near you. Windy conditions generally cause smoke to mix with larger volumes of air to lower smoke concentrations. However, strong winds also can spread fires more quickly, causing larger fires with greater impact. Regional weather can be the dominant determinant in how a fire behaves as well as how smoke affects surrounding areas. However, regional weather systems can spread fires quickly and result in larger fires with more smoke generated, creating the potential for even greater impacts. Strong regional weather systems can also dominate a fire’s behavior for days and be the determining factor of where and how smoke will affect an area. Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the Western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe. Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.6 Wildfire safety tips Wildfire smoke events can occur seemingly without warning. But there are steps you can take to prepare yourself using appropriate safety precautions for wildfires. Keep the air clean in your home. Keep windows and doors closed closed and seal off any openings to the outside, including vents, to help prevent outdoor smoke from getting in. When using an air conditioner, be sure to set it to re-circulate and close the fresh-air intake. Filter the air when ventilating the space. An air purifier for wildfire smoke, will help remove smoke particles of all sizes down to 0.003 microns from the indoor air and help control ozone levels. This is critical if you live in an urban area downwind (even remotely) from wildfires. Stay indoors as much as possible. This tactic is most useful in buildings that effectively stop outdoor air from getting inside. If you need to travel by car to leave or evacuate an area affected by wildfire smoke, use a car air purifier to help keep your vehicle interior air clean as you pass through smoky or polluted areas. You can also use a portable, personal air purifier to access clean air where other air filtration systems are not available. Wear a mask outdoors. Only use an air pollution mask with an N95, KN95, N100, or FFP2 rating to help. Avoid activities that further pollute the indoor air. Avoid burning candles, using the fireplace, or even vacuuming unless you own a high-performance HEPA vacuum cleaner. All of these activities can otherwise become additional sources of indoor air pollutants. Monitor your indoor air quality. Use an air quality monitor to track levels of indoor pollutants like PM2.5 and CO2 from smoke and other indoor pollution sources. Take action if indoor air pollutants rise to dangerous levels by running an air purifier, circulating fresh air through your HVAC system, or leaving your home temporarily if indoor air becomes unsafe to breathe or your home is threatened by wildfire. Use an air quality monitoring app to keep track of pollutants in your environment. The AirVisual app displays real-time hyperlocal data from over 80,000 sensors around the world. The app also tracks up to six key wildfire pollutants, such as PM2.5, CO2, and NO2, so that you have the best picture of your local air quality during a wildfire and can take action to help protect your health. Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. Learn to protect the health of yourself and your family, and rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary precautions. During a wildfire, it’s also important to monitor your local air quality to see how wildfire smoke will affect your outdoor air. The takeaway Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. And while wildfire smoke may be a warning sign of imminent fires, smoke also delivers its own set of risks for people living miles beyond the source. Though smoke pollutants carried on the wind may be invisible, their impacts are felt by those most at risk. Smoke pollutants pose health threats that range from irritation and cough to more serious respiratory and cardiac risks. By helping control smoke pollutants that threaten our indoor air quality through monitoring and air purification, it's possible to help manage wildfire smoke health risks.","

When considering the dangers of wildfires, thoughts of fleeing your home while a raging wildfire rapidly approaches can easily consume your imagination. However, the number one cause of death from fires is smoke inhalation.

The primary cause of death from wildfires is smoke inhalation. 50 to 80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation.

Inhaling smoke damages your body in one or both of the following ways:

by robbing it of oxygen
through particulate matter irritation

Smoke inhalation is particularly dangerous because you may not show symptoms until 24 to 48 hours after exposure. 50–80 percent of fire deaths are from smoke inhalation.¹

Read on to learn how to help protect the health of yourself and your loved ones, and learn some wildfire smoke safety tips to rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary wildfire safety precautions to reduce the consequences of toxic wildfire smoke.

What’s in wildfire smoke?

Wildfire smoke is a mixture of thousands of individual compounds, including harmful particles and gases that pose a severe health risk to anyone (including pets) nearby and downwind from a fire.

Wildfire smoke often contains:

\n
water vapor
\n
\n
particulate matter
\n
\n
trace minerals
\n
\n
carbon dioxide
\n
\n
carbon monoxide
\n
\n
nitrogen oxides
\n
\n
hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide compounds that contribute to elevated ozone (O₃) levels
\n
\n
volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including acrolein and formaldehyde (potent respiratory irritants)
\n

Wildfire smoke often contains fine (PM2.5) and ultrafine particles that can be absorbed directly into your blood stream and reach any organ or area of your body.

$\"What's$

Pictured: The typical contents of wildfire smoke, including ultrafine particles (≤ 0.3 microns), PM2.5 (2.5-10 microns), acrolein, PM10 (> 10 microns), formaldehyde, carbon dioxide (CO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. Source: IQAir

Wildfire smoke composition depends upon multiple factors, including:

\n
the types of wood and vegetation burning
\n

\n
the moisture content
\n
\n
the fire temperature
\n
\n
wind conditions
\n
\n
other weather-related influences
\n

The primary pollutant threatening the health of those nearby and downwind of a wildfire is particulate matter. Wildfire smoke often contains fine (or PM2.5) and ultrafine particles. These tiny airborne particles are the most dangerous to your health.

Fine particles (smaller than 2.5 microns) penetrate deeply into your lungs.

The most dangerous are ultrafine particles (smaller than 0.1 microns), which represent 90% of all airborne particles. These particles are tiny and can be absorbed directly into your bloodstream. Once in your blood, they can reach any organ or area of your body.

Clean the air with high-performance air filtration
Learn more about our wildfire smoke air purifiers

Click here

Wildfire smoke and at-risk populations

Most healthy adults will recover from smoke exposure. However, certain individuals are more at risk for severe health consequences, including:²

\n
Young children. Children whose lungs are still developing are considered more vulnerable, regardless of whether they have a pre-existing condition.
\n
\n
Pregnant women. Wildfire smoke inhalation puts pregnant women and their unborn children at a higher risk than the general population.
\n
\n
Older adults. This population is at-risk due to an increased rate of pre-existing heart and lung disease.
\n
\n
Anyone with a respiratory disease. Individuals with emphysema, chronic bronchitis, COPD, asthma, or another respiratory disease are at-risk.
\n
\n
Individuals with heart disease. Circulatory diseases include high blood pressure, vascular diseases, heart failure, and cerebrovascular conditions. These conditions make sufferers susceptible to heart attacks, transient chest pain, heart failure, stroke, and sudden death from cardiac arrhythmia.
\n

Young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with respiratory and cardiovascular pre-existing conditions may find that they experience more severe symptoms and find it harder to breathe.³

The full impact of wildfire smoke is not yet fully understood. A 2017 review in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology found that there are still important study opportunities for exploring the long-term health implications of smoke exposure, smoke exposure recovery, and additional smoke inhalation health impacts for children.⁴

Exposure to smoke can be dangerous simply due to the microorganisms within the smoke. A 2020 study in Science magazine noted that microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke.⁵ The study theorizes that infectious disease may be spread as bacteria and fungi become part of smoke’s particulate composition.

 Microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungal spores, comprise some of the particulate matter found in smoke, and infectious disease may be spread as they become part of the smoke’s particulate composition.

How wildfire smoke behaves

Many factors affect wildfire smoke behavior, such as:

\n
weather
\n
\n
geographical terrain
\n
\n
the stage of the fire
\n
\n
wind
\n

Use the live, interactive air quality map below to see how weather, wind, and location can impact the behavior of wildfire smoke near you.

$\"placeholder$

Windy conditions generally cause smoke to mix with larger volumes of air to lower smoke concentrations. However, strong winds also can spread fires more quickly, causing larger fires with greater impact.

Regional weather can be the dominant determinant in how a fire behaves as well as how smoke affects surrounding areas. However, regional weather systems can spread fires quickly and result in larger fires with more smoke generated, creating the potential for even greater impacts.

Strong regional weather systems can also dominate a fire’s behavior for days and be the determining factor of where and how smoke will affect an area.

Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the Western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.

Smoke can travel for miles beyond its source. In 2020, smoke from wildfires in the western United States drifted for nearly 5,000 miles, eventually being detected in Europe.⁶

Wildfire safety tips

Wildfire smoke events can occur seemingly without warning. But there are steps you can take to prepare yourself using appropriate safety precautions for wildfires.

\n
Keep the air clean in your home. Keep windows and doors closed closed and seal off any openings to the outside, including vents, to help prevent outdoor smoke from getting in. When using an air conditioner, be sure to set it to re-circulate and close the fresh-air intake. Filter the air when ventilating the space. An air purifier for wildfire smoke, will help remove smoke particles of all sizes down to 0.003 microns from the indoor air and help control ozone levels. This is critical if you live in an urban area downwind (even remotely) from wildfires.
\n
\n
Stay indoors as much as possible. This tactic is most useful in buildings that effectively stop outdoor air from getting inside. If you need to travel by car to leave or evacuate an area affected by wildfire smoke, use a car air purifier to help keep your vehicle interior air clean as you pass through smoky or polluted areas. You can also use a portable, personal air purifier to access clean air where other air filtration systems are not available.
\n
\n
Wear a mask outdoors. Only use an air pollution mask with an N95, KN95, N100, or FFP2 rating to help.
\n
\n
Avoid activities that further pollute the indoor air. Avoid burning candles, using the fireplace, or even vacuuming unless you own a high-performance HEPA vacuum cleaner. All of these activities can otherwise become additional sources of indoor air pollutants.
\n
\n
Monitor your indoor air quality. Use an air quality monitor to track levels of indoor pollutants like PM2.5 and CO₂ from smoke and other indoor pollution sources. Take action if indoor air pollutants rise to dangerous levels by running an air purifier, circulating fresh air through your HVAC system, or leaving your home temporarily if indoor air becomes unsafe to breathe or your home is threatened by wildfire.
\n
\n
Use an air quality monitoring app to keep track of pollutants in your environment. The AirVisual app displays real-time hyperlocal data from over 80,000 sensors around the world. The app also tracks up to six key wildfire pollutants, such as PM2.5, CO₂, and NO₂, so that you have the best picture of your local air quality during a wildfire and can take action to help protect your health.
\n

$\"Google$ $\"App$ $\"Android\"$

Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. Learn to protect the health of yourself and your family, and rest assured that you’ve taken the necessary precautions.

During a wildfire, it’s also important to monitor your local air quality to see how wildfire smoke will affect your outdoor air.

The takeaway

Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity. Wildfire smoke can negatively affect your health, even if you’re far away from the actual fire. And while wildfire smoke may be a warning sign of imminent fires, smoke also delivers its own set of risks for people living miles beyond the source.

Though smoke pollutants carried on the wind may be invisible, their impacts are felt by those most at risk. Smoke pollutants pose health threats that range from irritation and cough to more serious respiratory and cardiac risks.

By helping control smoke pollutants that threaten our indoor air quality through monitoring and air purification, it's possible to help manage wildfire smoke health risks.

","how-to-protect-yourself-from-wildfire-smoke","gid://shopify/Article/606869291307","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/how-to-protect-yourself-from-wildfire-smoke","2025-07-01T20:46:00Z",[446,616,569,447],"How to protect yourself from wildfire smoke",{"_53":613,"_210":614,"_208":615,"_212":443,"_214":444},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/415911739766","Wildfire at night in hills","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/AQL_21_WildfireDesktop_a_eab3c656-163e-406c-84fa-969d40e0f981.jpg?v=1779917280","Climate",{"_101":479,"_82":706,"_11":707,"_72":708,"_483":709,"_74":710,"_76":711,"_66":712,"_53":713,"_488":714,"_114":-5,"_78":715,"_80":716,"_70":717,"_84":718},{"_101":479,"_82":690,"_11":691,"_72":692,"_483":693,"_74":694,"_76":695,"_66":696,"_53":697,"_488":698,"_114":-5,"_78":699,"_80":700,"_70":701,"_84":702},{"_101":479,"_82":675,"_11":676,"_72":677,"_483":678,"_74":679,"_76":680,"_66":681,"_53":682,"_488":683,"_114":-5,"_78":684,"_80":685,"_70":686,"_84":687},{"_101":479,"_82":659,"_11":660,"_72":661,"_483":662,"_74":663,"_76":664,"_66":665,"_53":666,"_488":667,"_114":-5,"_78":668,"_80":669,"_70":670,"_84":671},{"_101":479,"_82":641,"_11":642,"_72":643,"_483":644,"_74":645,"_76":646,"_66":647,"_53":648,"_488":649,"_114":-5,"_78":650,"_80":651,"_70":652,"_84":653},{"_101":479,"_82":623,"_11":624,"_72":625,"_483":626,"_74":627,"_76":628,"_66":629,"_53":630,"_488":631,"_114":-5,"_78":632,"_80":633,"_70":634,"_84":635},{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"Heavy rainfall is bringing flooding and dangerous runoff to the Southwest USA. Find out more about the affected areas and latest alerts.","

Heavy rainfall is bringing flooding and dangerous runoff to the Southwest USA. Find out more about the affected areas and latest alerts.

","What is the location of the flooding? As of October 22, 2026, a Pacific storm interacting with tropical moisture is bringing heavy rainfall and flash flooding to parts of the Southwest USA and Four Corners region. The broader flood threat includes Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah (1). Flooding has been reported near Chinle and Canyon de Chelly National Monument in northeastern Arizona. In southern Utah, flood warnings cover areas around Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, including the Paria River, Wahweap Creek, and the Escalante River Basin. Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding? Cities and areas affected by flooding or at risk include: Arizona: Canyon de Chelly, Chinle, Flagstaff, Glen Canyon, Phoenix, Sedona, and Tucson. California: Bakersfield, Malibu, Santa Barbara coast, Santa Ynez Valley, and Tehachapi. Colorado: Cortez and Durango. Nevada: Las Vegas. New Mexico: Albuquerque, Farmington, Gallup, Silver City, and Zuni Pueblo. Utah: Big Water, Cannonville, Escalante, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Moab, St. George, and Tropic. What is the current containment status of the flooding? As of October 22, 2026, flooding remains a threat across parts of the Southwest USA as continued rainfall increases runoff and raises water levels. At Chinle Creek, the river gauge recorded 3.4 feet at 3 a.m. MDT, below the 4-foot flood stage. However, the National Weather Service warned that dangerous flooding remained a threat downstream of Canyon de Chelly through the morning (2). In southern Utah, saturated soils and continued rainfall are increasing flows through rivers, normally dry washes, and slot canyons. Some backcountry roads may become impassable. Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? Flood and severe weather alerts are in effect across parts of the Southwest USA: Chinle and Canyon de Chelly, Arizona: A flash flood warning remains in effect until 9:15 a.m. MDT on October 22, with dangerous flooding threatening nearby waterways. Southern Utah: A flood warning remains in effect until 12:15 p.m. MDT on October 22 for parts of Garfield, Kane, and San Juan counties, including the Glen Canyon area. Arizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah: Flood watches extend through October 23 in some areas, with expiration times varying by location. Parts of Arizona: Severe thunderstorm watches are also in effect on October 22, with damaging winds and hail possible. Residents and visitors should monitor local alerts, avoid flooded roads and low-water crossings, and stay away from swollen waterways, slot canyons, and flood-prone backcountry routes (3). How can I protect myself from mold after flooding? It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood. Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage. Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores. If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water. Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth. Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic. Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas. Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work. If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration. Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.","

What is the location of the flooding?

As of October 22, 2026, a Pacific storm interacting with tropical moisture is bringing heavy rainfall and flash flooding to parts of the Southwest USA and Four Corners region. The broader flood threat includes Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah (1).

Flooding has been reported near Chinle and Canyon de Chelly National Monument in northeastern Arizona. In southern Utah, flood warnings cover areas around Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, including the Paria River, Wahweap Creek, and the Escalante River Basin.

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

Cities and areas affected by flooding or at risk include:

\nArizona: Canyon de Chelly, Chinle, Flagstaff, Glen Canyon, Phoenix, Sedona, and Tucson.
\nCalifornia: Bakersfield, Malibu, Santa Barbara coast, Santa Ynez Valley, and Tehachapi.
\nColorado: Cortez and Durango.
\nNevada: Las Vegas.
\nNew Mexico: Albuquerque, Farmington, Gallup, Silver City, and Zuni Pueblo.
\nUtah: Big Water, Cannonville, Escalante, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Moab, St. George, and Tropic.

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

As of October 22, 2026, flooding remains a threat across parts of the Southwest USA as continued rainfall increases runoff and raises water levels.

At Chinle Creek, the river gauge recorded 3.4 feet at 3 a.m. MDT, below the 4-foot flood stage. However, the National Weather Service warned that dangerous flooding remained a threat downstream of Canyon de Chelly through the morning (2).

In southern Utah, saturated soils and continued rainfall are increasing flows through rivers, normally dry washes, and slot canyons. Some backcountry roads may become impassable.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Flood and severe weather alerts are in effect across parts of the Southwest USA:

Chinle and Canyon de Chelly, Arizona: A flash flood warning remains in effect until 9:15 a.m. MDT on October 22, with dangerous flooding threatening nearby waterways.
Southern Utah: A flood warning remains in effect until 12:15 p.m. MDT on October 22 for parts of Garfield, Kane, and San Juan counties, including the Glen Canyon area.
Arizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah: Flood watches extend through October 23 in some areas, with expiration times varying by location.
Parts of Arizona: Severe thunderstorm watches are also in effect on October 22, with damaging winds and hail possible.

Residents and visitors should monitor local alerts, avoid flooded roads and low-water crossings, and stay away from swollen waterways, slot canyons, and flood-prone backcountry routes (3).

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
\nRun a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.

","indoor-air-quality-alert-southwest-usa-flooding-10-22-2026","gid://shopify/Article/1003567513974","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/indoor-air-quality-alert-southwest-usa-flooding-10-22-2026","2026-10-22T12:45:10Z",[446,616,640],"Indoor Air Quality Alert: Southwest USA flooding",{"_53":636,"_210":637,"_208":638,"_212":639,"_214":444},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/421292867958","Flooded gas station.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Flooding2Desktop.jpg?v=1792674407",2800,"Molds",{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"Singapore’s air quality remains unhealthy as transboundary haze from Indonesian forest and peatland fires blankets the city-state. Learn more about the causes and when conditions may improve.","

Singapore’s air quality remains unhealthy as transboundary haze from Indonesian forest and peatland fires blankets the city-state. Learn more about the causes and when conditions may improve.

","Is the air quality good in Singapore? As of October 23, 2026, air quality in Singapore remains poor, with AQI above 150, classified as \"unhealthy,\" driven by PM2.5 from transboundary wildfire smoke from Indonesia. These conditions pose serious health risks, especially for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors. By comparison, Singapore's annual average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 11.9 µg/m³, equivalent to 2.4 times the World Health Organization's annual guideline of 5 µg/m³. While this reflects typical annual exposure, current wildfire smoke is causing significantly worse conditions than the annual average. Air quality conditions can change throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see Singapore's air quality map. Air quality map of Singapore, as of 5:00 PM (SGT) on October 23, 2026. Source: IQAir. Singapore ranked among the world's most polluted major cities as of 5:00 PM (SGT) on October 23, 2026. Source: IQAir. When will the air quality improve in Singapore? Sustained improvement depends on wind patterns shifting away from Indonesian fire zones and increased rainfall as the northeast monsoon develops, typically from late October into November. However, dry conditions across parts of Indonesia could allow fires and transboundary haze to persist into November (1). Why is there an air quality alert in Singapore? Singapore's National Environment Agency has attributed the transboundary haze to forest and peatland fires in Sumatra and West Kalimantan, Indonesia. Smoke from these fires is carried toward Singapore by prevailing winds, increasing PM2.5 concentrations and worsening air quality (2). Prolonged drought associated with El Niño and a positive Indian Ocean Dipole has dried out peatlands across parts of Indonesia, increasing their susceptibility to fires. Burning peat releases substantial amounts of smoke and fine particulate matter, which can travel across national borders (3). How can I protect myself from poor air quality? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.","

Is the air quality good in Singapore?

As of October 23, 2026, air quality in Singapore remains poor, with AQI above 150, classified as \"unhealthy,\" driven by PM2.5 from transboundary wildfire smoke from Indonesia. These conditions pose serious health risks, especially for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors.

By comparison, Singapore's annual average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 11.9 µg/m³, equivalent to 2.4 times the World Health Organization's annual guideline of 5 µg/m³. While this reflects typical annual exposure, current wildfire smoke is causing significantly worse conditions than the annual average.

Air quality conditions can change throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see Singapore's air quality map.

$\"Air$ Air quality map of Singapore, as of 5:00 PM (SGT) on October 23, 2026. Source: IQAir.

$\"Singapore$ Singapore ranked among the world's most polluted major cities as of 5:00 PM (SGT) on October 23, 2026. Source: IQAir.

When will the air quality improve in Singapore?

Sustained improvement depends on wind patterns shifting away from Indonesian fire zones and increased rainfall as the northeast monsoon develops, typically from late October into November. However, dry conditions across parts of Indonesia could allow fires and transboundary haze to persist into November (1).

Why is there an air quality alert in Singapore?

Singapore's National Environment Agency has attributed the transboundary haze to forest and peatland fires in Sumatra and West Kalimantan, Indonesia. Smoke from these fires is carried toward Singapore by prevailing winds, increasing PM2.5 concentrations and worsening air quality (2).

Prolonged drought associated with El Niño and a positive Indian Ocean Dipole has dried out peatlands across parts of Indonesia, increasing their susceptibility to fires. Burning peat releases substantial amounts of smoke and fine particulate matter, which can travel across national borders (3).

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.

","singapore-air-quality-alert-transboundary-haze","gid://shopify/Article/1003228234102","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/singapore-air-quality-alert-transboundary-haze","2026-10-23T09:47:21Z",[446,616,447],"Singapore Air Quality Alert: Transboundary Haze",{"_53":654,"_210":655,"_208":656,"_212":657,"_214":658},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/421177327990","The most famous statue in Singapore, the Merlion.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/SingaporeMobile_32511e9c-e989-43dd-a309-eeedee105dc9.jpg?v=1792748741",840,700,{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"China’s air quality deteriorates every autumn and winter as coal-fired heating, temperature inversions, and industrial emissions push PM2.5 into unhealthy ranges across northern cities. Learn more about the affected regions, causes, and when conditions may improve.","

China’s air quality deteriorates every autumn and winter as coal-fired heating, temperature inversions, and industrial emissions push PM2.5 into unhealthy ranges across northern cities. Learn more about the affected regions, causes, and when conditions may improve.

","Is the air quality good in China? As of October 23, 2026, air quality in northern China is poor, with major cities experiencing air quality in the \"unhealthy\" range and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing serious health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly. By 8:00 PM (Chinese Standard Time, GMT+8), several urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 200, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors. While conditions remain poor, China’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 29.6 µg/m3, equivalent to an AQI of 87, classified as \"moderate\". This level is nearly 5.92 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m3, placing China among the world’s 20 most polluted countries in 2025. Air quality map of China and neighboring countries as of 8:00 PM (CST) on October 23, 2026. Source: IQAir. Which cities are affected by bad air quality in China? On October 23, 2026, several major cities across China are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include: Baoding Beijing Shijiazhuang Xi'an Xingtai Air quality conditions can change throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see China's air quality map. Beijing ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of 8:00 PM (CST) on October 23, 2026. Source: IQAir. When will the air quality improve in China? China’s PM2.5 concentrations follow a well-documented U-shaped seasonal pattern, peaking in winter from December through February and reaching their lowest point in summer. October marks the beginning of this seasonal deterioration, as autumn cooling and increasing stagnation begin to raise air pollution across northern China ahead of the official coal-fired heating season starting November (1). Short-term improvement depends on wind, rain, and stronger atmospheric mixing. Lasting progress depends on continued enforcement of China’s clean energy transition and emission controls (2). What is causing poor air quality in China? The root causes of air pollution in China include dependence on fossil fuels, coal combustion, biomass burning, traffic and waste incineration emissions, industrial pollution, and soil dust, with coal and other fossil fuels exploited despite renewable investments (3). As temperatures drop, residential coal combustion becomes the dominant driver of PM2.5 across northern China, contributing approximately 46% of concentrations in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. Temperature inversions and air stagnation further trap emissions from coal-fired power plants, industrial zones, and vehicle exhaust near the surface, amplifying pollution across major cities (4). How can I protect myself from poor air quality? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.","

Is the air quality good in China?

As of October 23, 2026, air quality in northern China is poor, with major cities experiencing air quality in the \"unhealthy\" range and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing serious health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly.

By 8:00 PM (Chinese Standard Time, GMT+8), several urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 200, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors.

While conditions remain poor, China’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 29.6 µg/m3, equivalent to an AQI of 87, classified as \"moderate\". This level is nearly 5.92 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m3, placing China among the world’s 20 most polluted countries in 2025.

$\"Air$ Air quality map of China and neighboring countries as of 8:00 PM (CST) on October 23, 2026. Source: IQAir.

Which cities are affected by bad air quality in China?

On October 23, 2026, several major cities across China are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include:

Air quality conditions can change throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see China's air quality map.

$\"Beijing$ Beijing ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of 8:00 PM (CST) on October 23, 2026. Source: IQAir.

When will the air quality improve in China?

China’s PM2.5 concentrations follow a well-documented U-shaped seasonal pattern, peaking in winter from December through February and reaching their lowest point in summer. October marks the beginning of this seasonal deterioration, as autumn cooling and increasing stagnation begin to raise air pollution across northern China ahead of the official coal-fired heating season starting November (1).

Short-term improvement depends on wind, rain, and stronger atmospheric mixing. Lasting progress depends on continued enforcement of China’s clean energy transition and emission controls (2).

What is causing poor air quality in China?

The root causes of air pollution in China include dependence on fossil fuels, coal combustion, biomass burning, traffic and waste incineration emissions, industrial pollution, and soil dust, with coal and other fossil fuels exploited despite renewable investments (3).

As temperatures drop, residential coal combustion becomes the dominant driver of PM2.5 across northern China, contributing approximately 46% of concentrations in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. Temperature inversions and air stagnation further trap emissions from coal-fired power plants, industrial zones, and vehicle exhaust near the surface, amplifying pollution across major cities (4).

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.

","china-air-quality-alert","gid://shopify/Article/999656948086","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/china-air-quality-alert","2026-10-23T12:56:58Z",[446,616],"China Air Quality Alert",{"_53":672,"_210":673,"_208":674,"_212":443,"_214":444},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/415039652214","Aerial view of Houses covered in haze.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/BeijingDesktop_d39ae4b6-7a1a-4abe-8415-9345b4efd9b8.jpg?v=1792760188",{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"Evacuations and community shelters are in place as the Norte Fire burns in Orange County, California. Find out more about the Norte Fire.","

Evacuations and community shelters are in place as the Norte Fire burns in Orange County, California. Find out more about the Norte Fire.

","What is the name and location of the wildfire? As of October 23, 2026, the Norte Fire burned in southern Orange County, California, near Portico Del Norte and Eminencia Del Norte, close to the Interstate 5 Freeway (1). Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire? The Norte Fire was a fast-moving wildfire that impacted communities primarily located in Orange County, such as San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, and nearby communities and neighborhoods in the southern part of the county (2). What is the current containment status of the wildfire? As of October 23, 2026, the Norte Fire burned 570 acres and is 100% contained. The fire initially started as a brush fire and spread, burning homes and nearby structures. Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place? All evacuation orders associated with the Norte Fire have been lifted (3). How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke? Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke. Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. As of October 23, 2026, the Norte Fire is 100% contained.","

What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of October 23, 2026, the Norte Fire burned in southern Orange County, California, near Portico Del Norte and Eminencia Del Norte, close to the Interstate 5 Freeway (1).

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The Norte Fire was a fast-moving wildfire that impacted communities primarily located in Orange County, such as San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, and nearby communities and neighborhoods in the southern part of the county (2).

What is the current containment status of the wildfire?

As of October 23, 2026, the Norte Fire burned 570 acres and is 100% contained. The fire initially started as a brush fire and spread, burning homes and nearby structures.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

All evacuation orders associated with the Norte Fire have been lifted (3).

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n

As of October 23, 2026, the Norte Fire is 100% contained.

","wildfire-map-spotlight-norte-fire-california","gid://shopify/Article/1003462951286","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/wildfire-map-spotlight-norte-fire-california","2026-10-23T13:14:13Z",[446,447],"Wildfire Map Spotlight: Norte Fire, California",{"_53":688,"_210":-5,"_208":689,"_212":547,"_214":548},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/421316591990","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Wildfire24Desktop.jpg?v=1792761668",{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"India's air quality deteriorates every winter as stubble burning, temperature inversions, and urban emissions push AQI into unhealthy ranges across major cities. Learn more about the affected regions, causes, and when conditions may improve.","

India's air quality deteriorates every winter as stubble burning, temperature inversions, and urban emissions push AQI into unhealthy ranges across major cities. Learn more about the affected regions, causes, and when conditions may improve.

","Is the air quality good in India? As of October 25, 2026, air quality in India remains poor, with major cities experiencing air quality in the unhealthy range and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly. By 10:00 PM IST (Indian Standard Time, GMT+5:30), many urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 200, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors. While conditions remain poor, India’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 48.9 µg/m3, equivalent to an AQI of 134, classified as \"unhealthy for sensitive groups\". This level is nearly 9.8 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m3, placing India sixth globally in the 2025 World Air Quality Report. Which cities are affected by bad air quality in India? As of October 25, 2026, several major cities across India are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include: Agra Asansol Delhi Kolkata Mumbai Patna Air quality conditions can change throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see India's air quality map. Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of 10:00 PM (IST), October 25, 2026. Source: IQAir. When will the air quality improve in India? As the monsoon withdraws in October, India's air quality enters its most challenging seasonal period. Temperature inversions and a shallow planetary boundary layer trap pollutants near the surface, sustaining poor to severe AQI categories across India from October through February. Short-term improvements depend on favorable weather, with winds and rain helping to disperse pollutants. Full relief will not arrive until the following monsoon season, and lasting improvement requires stronger policy enforcement and effective regulation of stubble burning. What is causing poor air quality in India? The root causes of air pollution in India include household emissions, power sector emissions, industrial activities, transportation, open burning of crops and waste, and dust, with household emissions contributing about 30 to 50% of ambient PM2.5 levels year-round (1). As autumn transitions into winter, stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana peaks between late October and mid-November, explaining 78% of Delhi's aerosol variance during this period (2). Post-monsoon temperature inversions intensify pollution further, with Diwali fireworks adding a sharp additional spike, pushing 80% of cities into severe or hazardous air quality categories on festival nights (3). How can I protect myself from poor air quality? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.","

Is the air quality good in India?

As of October 25, 2026, air quality in India remains poor, with major cities experiencing air quality in the unhealthy range and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly.

By 10:00 PM IST (Indian Standard Time, GMT+5:30), many urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 200, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors.

While conditions remain poor, India’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 48.9 µg/m3, equivalent to an AQI of 134, classified as \"unhealthy for sensitive groups\". This level is nearly 9.8 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m3, placing India sixth globally in the 2025 World Air Quality Report.

Which cities are affected by bad air quality in India?

As of October 25, 2026, several major cities across India are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include:

Agra
Asansol
Delhi
Kolkata
Mumbai
Patna

Air quality conditions can change throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see India's air quality map.

$\"Delhi,$ Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai ranked among the most polluted major cities globally, as of 10:00 PM (IST), October 25, 2026. Source: IQAir.

When will the air quality improve in India?

As the monsoon withdraws in October, India's air quality enters its most challenging seasonal period. Temperature inversions and a shallow planetary boundary layer trap pollutants near the surface, sustaining poor to severe AQI categories across India from October through February.

Short-term improvements depend on favorable weather, with winds and rain helping to disperse pollutants. Full relief will not arrive until the following monsoon season, and lasting improvement requires stronger policy enforcement and effective regulation of stubble burning.

What is causing poor air quality in India?

The root causes of air pollution in India include household emissions, power sector emissions, industrial activities, transportation, open burning of crops and waste, and dust, with household emissions contributing about 30 to 50% of ambient PM2.5 levels year-round (1).

As autumn transitions into winter, stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana peaks between late October and mid-November, explaining 78% of Delhi's aerosol variance during this period (2). Post-monsoon temperature inversions intensify pollution further, with Diwali fireworks adding a sharp additional spike, pushing 80% of cities into severe or hazardous air quality categories on festival nights (3).

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.

","india-air-quality-alert","gid://shopify/Article/999673004406","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/india-air-quality-alert","2026-10-25T16:53:02Z",[446,616],"India Air Quality Alert",{"_53":703,"_210":704,"_208":705,"_212":443,"_214":444},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/420848140662","Small group of people cycling in morning smog.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/DelhiDesktop_6b288fdd-302c-4914-95d5-a86bfdada392.jpg?v=1792640574",{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"Pakistan's air quality deteriorates every winter as crop burning, temperature inversions, and urban emissions drive AQI into hazardous ranges. Learn more about the causes and when conditions may improve.","

Pakistan's air quality deteriorates every winter as crop burning, temperature inversions, and urban emissions drive AQI into hazardous ranges. Learn more about the causes and when conditions may improve.

","Is the air quality good in Pakistan? As of October 25, 2026, air quality in Pakistan remains poor, with major cities experiencing air quality in the \"unhealthy\" to \"very unhealthy\" range and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly. By 10:30 PM (Pakistan Standard Time, GMT+5), some urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 300, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors. While conditions remain poor, Pakistan’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 67.3 µg/m³, nearly 14 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³. This level corresponds to an AQI of 156, classified as “unhealthy,” making Pakistan the most polluted country globally in the 2025 World Air Quality Report. Air quality map of Pakistan and neighboring countries, as of 10:30 PM (PST) on October 25, 2026. Source: IQAir. Which cities are affected by bad air quality in Pakistan? As of October 25, 2026, several major cities across Pakistan are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include: Faisalabad Gujranwala Karachi Lahore Multan Peshawar Air quality conditions can change throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see Pakistan's air quality map. Lahore and Karachi ranked among the world's most polluted major cities as of 10:30 PM (PST) on October 25, 2026. Source: IQAir. When will the air quality improve in Pakistan? Pakistan's air quality follows a well-documented seasonal pattern, with pollution peaking from October through February as temperature inversions and stagnant cold air trap pollutants near the surface. Spring months from March through May see a secondary elevation driven by dust and wheat harvesting, while the monsoon season from June through September provides the only period of meaningful relief. Short-term improvement depends on wind, rain, and stronger atmospheric mixing. Lasting improvement requires effective enforcement of anti-smog regulations and regulation of crop residue burning across Punjab (1). What is causing poor air quality in Pakistan? The root causes of air pollution in Pakistan include industrial emissions, vehicular exhaust, agricultural practices like overuse of fertilizers and crop residue burning, biomass and waste burning, domestic fires, and urbanization (2). As autumn transitions into winter, temperature inversions begin to trap pollutants near the surface, preventing dispersal. Crop residue burning from both Pakistani and Indian Punjab peaks between late October and mid-November, adding dense smoke to an already polluted atmosphere, while increasing use of heating fuels and brick kilns further intensifies the pollution burden across major cities (3). How can I protect myself from poor air quality? Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts. Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode. Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data. Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask. Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.","

Is the air quality good in Pakistan?

As of October 25, 2026, air quality in Pakistan remains poor, with major cities experiencing air quality in the \"unhealthy\" to \"very unhealthy\" range and high PM2.5 concentrations, posing health risks to residents, especially children and the elderly.

By 10:30 PM (Pakistan Standard Time, GMT+5), some urban centers have recorded AQI readings between 100 and 300, prompting health warnings. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, keep windows closed, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors.

While conditions remain poor, Pakistan’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2025 was 67.3 µg/m³, nearly 14 times higher than the WHO annual guideline of 5 µg/m³. This level corresponds to an AQI of 156, classified as “unhealthy,” making Pakistan the most polluted country globally in the 2025 World Air Quality Report.

$\"Air$ Air quality map of Pakistan and neighboring countries, as of 10:30 PM (PST) on October 25, 2026. Source: IQAir.

Which cities are affected by bad air quality in Pakistan?

As of October 25, 2026, several major cities across Pakistan are reporting poor air quality. Some of the affected cities include:

Air quality conditions can change throughout the day. For a complete, real-time overview of pollution levels nationwide, see Pakistan's air quality map.

$\"Lahore$ Lahore and Karachi ranked among the world's most polluted major cities as of 10:30 PM (PST) on October 25, 2026. Source: IQAir.

When will the air quality improve in Pakistan?

Pakistan's air quality follows a well-documented seasonal pattern, with pollution peaking from October through February as temperature inversions and stagnant cold air trap pollutants near the surface. Spring months from March through May see a secondary elevation driven by dust and wheat harvesting, while the monsoon season from June through September provides the only period of meaningful relief.

Short-term improvement depends on wind, rain, and stronger atmospheric mixing. Lasting improvement requires effective enforcement of anti-smog regulations and regulation of crop residue burning across Punjab (1).

What is causing poor air quality in Pakistan?

The root causes of air pollution in Pakistan include industrial emissions, vehicular exhaust, agricultural practices like overuse of fertilizers and crop residue burning, biomass and waste burning, domestic fires, and urbanization (2).

As autumn transitions into winter, temperature inversions begin to trap pollutants near the surface, preventing dispersal. Crop residue burning from both Pakistani and Indian Punjab peaks between late October and mid-November, adding dense smoke to an already polluted atmosphere, while increasing use of heating fuels and brick kilns further intensifies the pollution burden across major cities (3).

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

\nGet a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.\n
Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.

","pakistan-air-quality-alert","gid://shopify/Article/999612154230","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/pakistan-air-quality-alert","2026-10-25T17:31:13Z",[446,616],"Pakistan Air Quality Alert",{"_53":719,"_210":720,"_208":721,"_212":443,"_214":444},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/420949033334","Multiple buildings aerial shot","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/KarachiDesktop_7c321413-3ca0-4446-a29b-4d869d0b8a0e.jpg?v=1792221675",{"_101":479,"_82":741,"_11":742,"_72":743,"_483":744,"_74":745,"_76":746,"_66":747,"_53":748,"_488":749,"_114":-5,"_78":750,"_80":751,"_70":752,"_84":753},{"_101":479,"_82":724,"_11":725,"_72":726,"_483":727,"_74":728,"_76":729,"_66":730,"_53":731,"_488":732,"_114":-5,"_78":733,"_80":734,"_70":735,"_84":736},{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"Extreme climate events can elevate pollutant activity and cause unhealthy airborne particles to spread. Learn how to reduce disaster risks and secure clean air quality.","

Extreme climate events can elevate pollutant activity and cause unhealthy airborne particles to spread. Learn how to reduce disaster risks and secure clean air quality.

","A wildfire can burn through a town in hours. Its smoke can circle the planet in weeks and affect human health long after the fires have been contained. As global temperatures rise due to human-caused climate change, international disaster risks are fluctuating and leading to increasingly frequent environmental events. Natural disasters and extreme weather conditions can occur anywhere, greatly impacting surrounding environments and communities. These events can cause structural damage within communities, compromise personal health, and generate microscopic airborne pollutants. According to a 2015 research study, natural disasters can create both direct and indirect sources of airborne pollutants (1). From wildfire smoke and volcanic ash, natural disasters can produce a wide range of airborne pollutants. Long-term exposure to these pollutants can cause elevated health risks, including asthmatic symptoms, respiratory irritation, and cancer. Indoor air quality can be easily compromised during major floods or dust storms. These natural disasters create pollutant particles that linger for multiple days even after events have concluded, degrading breathing environments (2). Cleanup in the aftermath of natural disasters can also lead to prolonged pollutant exposure through poor indoor air quality conditions. Extreme weather events and natural disasters can greatly impact air quality levels as airborne pollutants are released through structural damage and environmental conditions. By understanding the global impacts of natural disasters and risk reduction methods, climate resilience and environmental protection can be reinforced to keep communities and air quality safe. What kinds of disasters affect air quality, and where? The type of disaster a community faces depends heavily on geography and so does the pollution it produces. Wildfires: The U.S., Canada, Australia, Europe, and Southeast Asia are just of the countries and regions that face wildfire seasons that emit PM2.5, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds. Smoke plumes drift thousands of miles downwind. Canadian wildfire smoke regularly degrades air quality across Europe, while Indonesia's underground peatland fires release dense PM2.5 haze that blankets neighboring countries (3). Tornadoes: The Great Plains, Midwest, and Southeast U.S. experience roughly 1,200 tornadoes per year (4). Their winds loft dust and debris into the air, along with asbestos from damaged older buildings and VOCs from ruptured vehicles and chemical storage. Hurricanes and tropical storms: These strike the U.S. Gulf Coast and Southeast, as well as coastal regions worldwide. Beyond wind damage, storm surge and prolonged flooding fuel indoor mold growth, while flooded industrial sites and saltwater intrusion add chemical fumes and particulates to the mix. Flooding: River flooding across Europe and the U.S. Midwest drives indoor mold and microbial pollution. When floodwater saturates buildings, mold spores linger for days or weeks after the water recedes. Volcanic activity: Volcanoes in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Rim emit ash and sulfur dioxide, degrading both indoor and outdoor air quality. One 2015 study found around 750 active and potentially active volcanoes in Southeast Asia (5). What types of pollutants occur during extreme weather events? Natural disasters can produce a variety of airborne pollutants that can be inhaled without being seen or smelled. Tornadoes and flood events often carry invisible, ultrafine particles that penetrate the lungs and impact personal health. Natural disasters can spread a mix of pollutants, including: Gas-phase: Chemical fumes, gaseous emissions, insecticides Particulates: Wildfire smoke, volcanic ash, mold spores, PM2.5, PM10 Indoor environments and continuous exposure to these pollutants can worsen pre-existing health conditions and symptoms. Depending on the region and the severity of a disaster, some communities could experience unhealthy breathing conditions weeks after the event concludes. How disasters affect air quality in real communities Extreme weather events can strain communities and affect regional air quality. Whether by smoke, dust, or chemical leaks, natural disasters can degrade air quality levels across multiple pollutant sources. In Cedar Rapids, Iowa, a 2008 flood event created elevated levels of airborne mold spores and unhealthy breathing conditions during post-flood home renovations (6). Aside from flooding, a 2025 report also notes worsening air quality conditions during overlapping environmental hazards across the United States, such as extreme heat, wildfires, and urban pollution (7). In Canada, wildfire activity and widespread smoke pollution have been on the rise in recent years, causing poor air quality conditions across North America and beyond. A research study estimates 345 million people within Europe and North America were exposed to ultrafine pollution caused by Canadian wildfires in 2023 (8). Indonesia is experiencing its most extreme wildfire activity since 2015, battling unhealthy air quality exposure and respiratory illnesses. During the 2026 fire season, over 12.5 million Indonesians were exposed to harmful wildfire haze, a figure expected to grow until the fires are fully extinguished (9). Research suggests climate change may be intensifying El Niño conditions, leading to deeper droughts and greater wildfire risks. How communities are adapting and building resilience Some communities are getting ahead of the next disaster. By strengthening infrastructure and planning ahead, communities are protecting both themselves and the air they breathe. In Japan, newly funded initiatives and building security codes reshaped how new buildings are constructed, requiring them to be tsunami and earthquake resistant (10). With integrated underground tunnel systems and stable architecture, the nation is taking simple steps to ensure structural and environmental protection. In Canada, a national infrastructure fund established in 2021 is paving a path towards disaster resistant architecture across the country. Shortly after in 2022, Canada published its first National Adaptation Strategy, targeted towards improving disaster resistant architecture and adapting to extreme climate events (11). Stronger buildings are only part of the solution. Filtered, well-ventilated indoor air keeps people breathing safely through the days and weeks after a disaster passes. What steps can reduce disaster risks and protect air quality? Natural disasters can produce a multitude of environmental and health effects in communities, requiring a mixture of resilient infrastructure and climate awareness to keep individuals safe. However, there are actions that can be taken to reduce and prepare for natural disaster risks. What households and individuals can do Family households and individuals have the power to protect personal health, spread natural disaster risk awareness, and support community-wide initiatives through resilience-strengthening actions, such as (12): Stay informed about local disaster alerts. Install outdoor and indoor air quality monitors to track natural disaster-related pollutant activity. Limit contact with floodwater during flash floods. Keep high-quality face masks handy in the event of wildfire smoke or dust storms. Store natural disaster emergency kits at home or an easily accessible location. Run air purifiers during air quality events. Establish an emergency plan or meeting location for households with multiple individuals. What governments and community organizations can do Government officials and community organization members have the power to enact systematic policies, reduce nationwide pollutant activity, and limit natural disaster-related pollution through actions such as: Support infrastructure funding and emergency relief programs. Enact natural-disaster-related building code policies and architectural standards. Provide families and households with emergency supplies for natural hazards, such as KN95/N95/FFP2 masks, flashlights, and sealed water bottles. Employ HyperHEPA HVAC-based air purifiers in public spaces. Publish natural-disaster-related documents and relief resources on community bulletin boards and online websites. Install indoor and outdoor air quality monitors within public spaces to provide real-time data and active pollutant alerts. Set up designated emergency shelters and clean air spaces for unsafe or unhealthy natural disasters. Conclusion Natural disasters are occurring at increasing rates, with greater environmental change and air quality degradation after each passing climate event. To keep households and communities safe, employing climate resilient designs alongside natural disaster preparation can help secure safe indoor environments. On October 13, the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction encourages natural disaster awareness and safe breathing spaces through localized action. Established by the United Nations, the day celebrates international disaster reduction efforts and safety education (13). A disaster's damage doesn't end when the event does. But with preparation and cleaner indoor air, neither does our ability to recover.","

A wildfire can burn through a town in hours. Its smoke can circle the planet in weeks and affect human health long after the fires have been contained.

As global temperatures rise due to human-caused climate change, international disaster risks are fluctuating and leading to increasingly frequent environmental events. Natural disasters and extreme weather conditions can occur anywhere, greatly impacting surrounding environments and communities. These events can cause structural damage within communities, compromise personal health, and generate microscopic airborne pollutants.

According to a 2015 research study, natural disasters can create both direct and indirect sources of airborne pollutants (1). From wildfire smoke and volcanic ash, natural disasters can produce a wide range of airborne pollutants. Long-term exposure to these pollutants can cause elevated health risks, including asthmatic symptoms, respiratory irritation, and cancer.

Indoor air quality can be easily compromised during major floods or dust storms. These natural disasters create pollutant particles that linger for multiple days even after events have concluded, degrading breathing environments (2). Cleanup in the aftermath of natural disasters can also lead to prolonged pollutant exposure through poor indoor air quality conditions.

Extreme weather events and natural disasters can greatly impact air quality levels as airborne pollutants are released through structural damage and environmental conditions.

By understanding the global impacts of natural disasters and risk reduction methods, climate resilience and environmental protection can be reinforced to keep communities and air quality safe.

What kinds of disasters affect air quality, and where?

The type of disaster a community faces depends heavily on geography and so does the pollution it produces.

\nWildfires: The U.S., Canada, Australia, Europe, and Southeast Asia are just of the countries and regions that face wildfire seasons that emit PM2.5, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds. Smoke plumes drift thousands of miles downwind. Canadian wildfire smoke regularly degrades air quality across Europe, while Indonesia's underground peatland fires release dense PM2.5 haze that blankets neighboring countries (3).
\nTornadoes: The Great Plains, Midwest, and Southeast U.S. experience roughly 1,200 tornadoes per year (4). Their winds loft dust and debris into the air, along with asbestos from damaged older buildings and VOCs from ruptured vehicles and chemical storage.
\nHurricanes and tropical storms: These strike the U.S. Gulf Coast and Southeast, as well as coastal regions worldwide. Beyond wind damage, storm surge and prolonged flooding fuel indoor mold growth, while flooded industrial sites and saltwater intrusion add chemical fumes and particulates to the mix.
\nFlooding: River flooding across Europe and the U.S. Midwest drives indoor mold and microbial pollution. When floodwater saturates buildings, mold spores linger for days or weeks after the water recedes.
\nVolcanic activity: Volcanoes in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Rim emit ash and sulfur dioxide, degrading both indoor and outdoor air quality. One 2015 study found around 750 active and potentially active volcanoes in Southeast Asia (5).

What types of pollutants occur during extreme weather events?

Natural disasters can produce a variety of airborne pollutants that can be inhaled without being seen or smelled. Tornadoes and flood events often carry invisible, ultrafine particles that penetrate the lungs and impact personal health. Natural disasters can spread a mix of pollutants, including:

\nGas-phase: Chemical fumes, gaseous emissions, insecticides
\nParticulates: Wildfire smoke, volcanic ash, mold spores, PM2.5, PM10\n

Indoor environments and continuous exposure to these pollutants can worsen pre-existing health conditions and symptoms. Depending on the region and the severity of a disaster, some communities could experience unhealthy breathing conditions weeks after the event concludes.

How disasters affect air quality in real communities

Extreme weather events can strain communities and affect regional air quality. Whether by smoke, dust, or chemical leaks, natural disasters can degrade air quality levels across multiple pollutant sources.

In Cedar Rapids, Iowa, a 2008 flood event created elevated levels of airborne mold spores and unhealthy breathing conditions during post-flood home renovations (6). Aside from flooding, a 2025 report also notes worsening air quality conditions during overlapping environmental hazards across the United States, such as extreme heat, wildfires, and urban pollution (7).

In Canada, wildfire activity and widespread smoke pollution have been on the rise in recent years, causing poor air quality conditions across North America and beyond. A research study estimates 345 million people within Europe and North America were exposed to ultrafine pollution caused by Canadian wildfires in 2023 (8).

Indonesia is experiencing its most extreme wildfire activity since 2015, battling unhealthy air quality exposure and respiratory illnesses. During the 2026 fire season, over 12.5 million Indonesians were exposed to harmful wildfire haze, a figure expected to grow until the fires are fully extinguished (9). Research suggests climate change may be intensifying El Niño conditions, leading to deeper droughts and greater wildfire risks.

How communities are adapting and building resilience

Some communities are getting ahead of the next disaster. By strengthening infrastructure and planning ahead, communities are protecting both themselves and the air they breathe.

In Japan, newly funded initiatives and building security codes reshaped how new buildings are constructed, requiring them to be tsunami and earthquake resistant (10). With integrated underground tunnel systems and stable architecture, the nation is taking simple steps to ensure structural and environmental protection.

In Canada, a national infrastructure fund established in 2021 is paving a path towards disaster resistant architecture across the country. Shortly after in 2022, Canada published its first National Adaptation Strategy, targeted towards improving disaster resistant architecture and adapting to extreme climate events (11).

Stronger buildings are only part of the solution. Filtered, well-ventilated indoor air keeps people breathing safely through the days and weeks after a disaster passes.

What steps can reduce disaster risks and protect air quality?

Natural disasters can produce a multitude of environmental and health effects in communities, requiring a mixture of resilient infrastructure and climate awareness to keep individuals safe. However, there are actions that can be taken to reduce and prepare for natural disaster risks.

What households and individuals can do

Family households and individuals have the power to protect personal health, spread natural disaster risk awareness, and support community-wide initiatives through resilience-strengthening actions, such as (12):

Stay informed about local disaster alerts.
Install outdoor and indoor air quality monitors to track natural disaster-related pollutant activity.
Limit contact with floodwater during flash floods.
Keep high-quality face masks handy in the event of wildfire smoke or dust storms.
Store natural disaster emergency kits at home or an easily accessible location.
Run air purifiers during air quality events.
Establish an emergency plan or meeting location for households with multiple individuals.

What governments and community organizations can do

Government officials and community organization members have the power to enact systematic policies, reduce nationwide pollutant activity, and limit natural disaster-related pollution through actions such as:

Support infrastructure funding and emergency relief programs.
Enact natural-disaster-related building code policies and architectural standards.
Provide families and households with emergency supplies for natural hazards, such as KN95/N95/FFP2 masks, flashlights, and sealed water bottles.
Employ HyperHEPA HVAC-based air purifiers in public spaces.
Publish natural-disaster-related documents and relief resources on community bulletin boards and online websites.
Install indoor and outdoor air quality monitors within public spaces to provide real-time data and active pollutant alerts.
Set up designated emergency shelters and clean air spaces for unsafe or unhealthy natural disasters.

Conclusion

Natural disasters are occurring at increasing rates, with greater environmental change and air quality degradation after each passing climate event. To keep households and communities safe, employing climate resilient designs alongside natural disaster preparation can help secure safe indoor environments.

On October 13, the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction encourages natural disaster awareness and safe breathing spaces through localized action. Established by the United Nations, the day celebrates international disaster reduction efforts and safety education (13).

A disaster's damage doesn't end when the event does. But with preparation and cleaner indoor air, neither does our ability to recover.

","how-natural-disasters-degrade-air-quality","gid://shopify/Article/1003352195446","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/how-natural-disasters-degrade-air-quality","2026-10-14T03:00:03Z",[446,14,640,447],"How natural disasters degrade air quality",{"_53":737,"_210":-5,"_208":738,"_212":739,"_214":740},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/420987765110","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Disaster_Rise_Reduction_Desktop_NEW.jpg?v=1791567171",1748,1404,{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"Studies show regional air quality levels impact breast cancer risks. Learn how traffic emissions and airborne pollutants can play a role in cancer development.","

Studies show regional air quality levels impact breast cancer risks. Learn how traffic emissions and airborne pollutants can play a role in cancer development.

","Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide. While it's usually treated as a disease of genetics and lifestyle, eighty percent of breast cancer cases can't be explained by family history, age, or lifestyle (1)(2). A growing body of research points to another factor: air quality. The air a woman breathes can shape that risk years before any diagnosis is made. In recent years, a number of research studies have linked long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) to an increased risk of breast cancer. These findings have drawn attention to the potential role of air pollution as an environmental risk factor in breast cancer development. Because exposure to these pollutants can occur in everyday settings, understanding their long-term health effects is an important step toward identifying opportunities for prevention. How researchers linked air pollution with breast cancer Over time, breast cancer and air pollution research has grown to include larger participant pools, differing community environments, and specific analysis of airborne pollutant particles. In 2023, researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a U.S. government agency responsible for biomedical and public health research, found that women living in areas with higher historical PM2.5 concentrations had an 8% increase in breast cancer incidence for every 10 µg/m³ of long-term pollutant exposure (3). The study included one of the largest participant pools for cancer research to date, following 500,000 men and women across the United States. Participants received questionnaires over the course of 20 years, during which 15,870 breast cancer cases were identified. In cities, traffic emissions are one of the biggest contributors to outdoor air pollution. A 2025 research project combining five large U.S. breast cancer studies found that a 10-parts-per-billion increase in NO2, a proxy for vehicle emissions, corresponded to a 3% increase in overall breast cancer incidence. Set against the roughly 316,950 U.S. breast cancer cases expected each year, that increase would account for about 9,500 cases (4). The association between long-term air pollution exposure and breast cancer incidence has also been consistently reported across studies conducted outside the U.S. A 2026 research study observed nearly 100,000 French women through a series of questionnaires over the course of 21 years and identified 5,222 cases of breast cancer. The research analyzed annual PM2.5 and PM10 levels within participant’s regions, linking increased local air pollution to elevated risk rates for breast cancer (5). How can airborne pollutants influence breast tissue and health? Cancer begins with genetic changes and cell signaling gone wrong. Airborne pollutants can contribute to both (6). Fine particulate matter is small enough to be inhaled deep into the lungs, where its chemical cargo of carcinogens, metals, and microplastics can pass into the bloodstream. Inhaled toxicants have been measured in breast fluid – evidence that these compounds physically reach breast tissue and directly impact cell systems (7). The most common outdoor pollutants include: Diesel exhaust Arsenic Nickel Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) PM2.5, particulates measuring 2.5 microns in diameter or smaller PM10, particulates measuring 10 microns in diameter or smaller Once inhaled, these pollutants can disrupt several cellular processes at once, including DNA integrity and hormone signaling. PAHs can bind directly to DNA and form adducts, initiating genetic damage that can start a cell down the path toward cancer. Many of the same pollutants mimic or interfere with estrogen, the hormone that drives the growth of most breast tumors (8). Inflammation plays a role as well. Pollutants drive systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, conditions that damage cells and make tissue more hospitable to tumors (9). Long-term exposure can increase breast cancer risks over time through sustained inflammation and repeated inhalation of pollutants that enter the bloodstream. Where is the risk most visible? The risk does not fall evenly across communities or global environments. Cancer cases often concentrate where traffic, industry, and housing overlap. In a 2025 multiethnic study, which followed more than 58,000 California women for an average of 19 years, satellite-based PM2.5 estimates were associated with a 28% increase in breast cancer incidence per 10 µg/m³ increase (10). African American and Latino participants in the study were at the highest risk for breast cancer. In a 2023 study performed in Denmark, researchers analyzed 55,745 of the nation’s breast cancer cases against annual PM2.5 and NO2 levels in the region. Although the study measured a connection between breast cancer and both types of airborne pollutants, researchers found the strongest risk association to be with atmospheric PM2.5 particles (11). Breast cancer rates vary globally. In a 2024 study performed in Beijing, researchers found a connection between breast cancer cases and regional black carbon exposure from coal burning pollution (12). Breast cancer incidence is rising fastest in low- and middle-income countries, where pollution levels are elevated and air quality regulation is limited. How to promote air quality and breast cancer protection Reducing the risk of pollution-related breast cancer requires action on two levels: individual measures to reduce exposure at home and government policies and regulations to control pollution at its source. What individuals and families can do Households and individuals can cut their own exposure and build community awareness through daily lifestyle choices. A few habits can make the biggest difference: Check local air quality forecasts daily and plan outdoor activities around pollution peaks. Monitor PM2.5 levels inside the home with indoor air quality monitors. Wear masks and use air purifiers during high-pollution days and wildfire smoke events for ultrafine particle protection. Keep windows closed when outdoor air quality is poor and consider upgrading filtration in home air conditioning systems in regions with high concentrations of air pollution. Avoid exercising near high-traffic roads, where NO2 and ultrafine particle concentrations spike. Support cleaner air policies in your community. Keep up regular breast cancer screening, as early detection can improve treatment outcomes. What communities and governments can do The largest impact can be made by governments, health organizations, and community leaders, who can reduce pollution-related breast cancer risk. Several policy choices can help: Enact and enforce stricter air quality standards for PM2.5, NO2, and other pollutants. Invest in public transportation and electric vehicle infrastructure to cut traffic emissions. Create buffer zones between residential areas and high-emission industrial or traffic corridors. Fund continued research into environmental risk factors for breast cancer. Expand access to air quality monitoring networks in underserved communities. Support public health campaigns that educate residents about pollution and cancer risk. Integrate air quality considerations into urban planning and public health policy. Conclusion As awareness of the potential health risks of air pollution grow, individual actions to reduce exposure can help protect women’s health and support breast cancer prevention efforts. Each October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month brings people together to raise awareness, promote early detection, and support those affected by the disease. Although breast cancer has no single cause and genetic factors cannot be changed, reducing exposure to air pollution is one potentially modifiable environmental measure that may help protect women’s health over the long term.","

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide.

While it's usually treated as a disease of genetics and lifestyle, eighty percent of breast cancer cases can't be explained by family history, age, or lifestyle (1)(2). A growing body of research points to another factor: air quality. The air a woman breathes can shape that risk years before any diagnosis is made.

In recent years, a number of research studies have linked long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) to an increased risk of breast cancer. These findings have drawn attention to the potential role of air pollution as an environmental risk factor in breast cancer development. Because exposure to these pollutants can occur in everyday settings, understanding their long-term health effects is an important step toward identifying opportunities for prevention.

How researchers linked air pollution with breast cancer

Over time, breast cancer and air pollution research has grown to include larger participant pools, differing community environments, and specific analysis of airborne pollutant particles.

In 2023, researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a U.S. government agency responsible for biomedical and public health research, found that women living in areas with higher historical PM2.5 concentrations had an 8% increase in breast cancer incidence for every 10 µg/m³ of long-term pollutant exposure (3). The study included one of the largest participant pools for cancer research to date, following 500,000 men and women across the United States. Participants received questionnaires over the course of 20 years, during which 15,870 breast cancer cases were identified.

In cities, traffic emissions are one of the biggest contributors to outdoor air pollution. A 2025 research project combining five large U.S. breast cancer studies found that a 10-parts-per-billion increase in NO2, a proxy for vehicle emissions, corresponded to a 3% increase in overall breast cancer incidence. Set against the roughly 316,950 U.S. breast cancer cases expected each year, that increase would account for about 9,500 cases (4).

The association between long-term air pollution exposure and breast cancer incidence has also been consistently reported across studies conducted outside the U.S. A 2026 research study observed nearly 100,000 French women through a series of questionnaires over the course of 21 years and identified 5,222 cases of breast cancer. The research analyzed annual PM2.5 and PM10 levels within participant’s regions, linking increased local air pollution to elevated risk rates for breast cancer (5).

How can airborne pollutants influence breast tissue and health?

Cancer begins with genetic changes and cell signaling gone wrong. Airborne pollutants can contribute to both (6).

Fine particulate matter is small enough to be inhaled deep into the lungs, where its chemical cargo of carcinogens, metals, and microplastics can pass into the bloodstream. Inhaled toxicants have been measured in breast fluid – evidence that these compounds physically reach breast tissue and directly impact cell systems (7).

The most common outdoor pollutants include:

Diesel exhaust
Arsenic
Nickel
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2)
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
\nPM2.5, particulates measuring 2.5 microns in diameter or smaller
\nPM10, particulates measuring 10 microns in diameter or smaller

Once inhaled, these pollutants can disrupt several cellular processes at once, including DNA integrity and hormone signaling. PAHs can bind directly to DNA and form adducts, initiating genetic damage that can start a cell down the path toward cancer. Many of the same pollutants mimic or interfere with estrogen, the hormone that drives the growth of most breast tumors (8).

Inflammation plays a role as well. Pollutants drive systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, conditions that damage cells and make tissue more hospitable to tumors (9). Long-term exposure can increase breast cancer risks over time through sustained inflammation and repeated inhalation of pollutants that enter the bloodstream.

Where is the risk most visible?

The risk does not fall evenly across communities or global environments. Cancer cases often concentrate where traffic, industry, and housing overlap.

In a 2025 multiethnic study, which followed more than 58,000 California women for an average of 19 years, satellite-based PM2.5 estimates were associated with a 28% increase in breast cancer incidence per 10 µg/m³ increase (10). African American and Latino participants in the study were at the highest risk for breast cancer.

In a 2023 study performed in Denmark, researchers analyzed 55,745 of the nation’s breast cancer cases against annual PM2.5 and NO2 levels in the region. Although the study measured a connection between breast cancer and both types of airborne pollutants, researchers found the strongest risk association to be with atmospheric PM2.5 particles (11).

Breast cancer rates vary globally. In a 2024 study performed in Beijing, researchers found a connection between breast cancer cases and regional black carbon exposure from coal burning pollution (12). Breast cancer incidence is rising fastest in low- and middle-income countries, where pollution levels are elevated and air quality regulation is limited.

How to promote air quality and breast cancer protection

Reducing the risk of pollution-related breast cancer requires action on two levels: individual measures to reduce exposure at home and government policies and regulations to control pollution at its source.

What individuals and families can do

Households and individuals can cut their own exposure and build community awareness through daily lifestyle choices. A few habits can make the biggest difference:

Check local air quality forecasts daily and plan outdoor activities around pollution peaks.
Monitor PM2.5 levels inside the home with indoor air quality monitors.
Wear masks and use air purifiers during high-pollution days and wildfire smoke events for ultrafine particle protection.
Keep windows closed when outdoor air quality is poor and consider upgrading filtration in home air conditioning systems in regions with high concentrations of air pollution.
Avoid exercising near high-traffic roads, where NO2 and ultrafine particle concentrations spike.
Support cleaner air policies in your community.
Keep up regular breast cancer screening, as early detection can improve treatment outcomes.

What communities and governments can do

The largest impact can be made by governments, health organizations, and community leaders, who can reduce pollution-related breast cancer risk. Several policy choices can help:

Enact and enforce stricter air quality standards for PM2.5, NO2, and other pollutants.
Invest in public transportation and electric vehicle infrastructure to cut traffic emissions.
Create buffer zones between residential areas and high-emission industrial or traffic corridors.
Fund continued research into environmental risk factors for breast cancer.
Expand access to air quality monitoring networks in underserved communities.
Support public health campaigns that educate residents about pollution and cancer risk.
Integrate air quality considerations into urban planning and public health policy.

Conclusion

As awareness of the potential health risks of air pollution grow, individual actions to reduce exposure can help protect women’s health and support breast cancer prevention efforts.

Each October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month brings people together to raise awareness, promote early detection, and support those affected by the disease.

Although breast cancer has no single cause and genetic factors cannot be changed, reducing exposure to air pollution is one potentially modifiable environmental measure that may help protect women’s health over the long term.

","how-air-quality-affects-breast-cancer","gid://shopify/Article/1003438375286","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/how-air-quality-affects-breast-cancer","2026-10-21T03:00:02Z",[446,14,568],"How air quality affects breast cancer",{"_53":754,"_210":-5,"_208":755,"_212":739,"_214":740},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/421099766134","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/BC_AQ_Desktop_NEW.jpg?v=1792016321","Air Quality News - Featured articles","https://www.iqair.com/la-en/newsroom?tag=Featured+articles","jsonLd",{"_760":761,"_762":763,"_55":756,"_106":482,"_208":757},"@context","https://schema.org","@type","Blog","Air Quality News",{"_70":-5,"_106":-5},"articles",{"_97":768,"_769":770},[778,779,780,781,782,783,784,785,786,787,788,789],"pageInfo",{"_771":772,"_773":772,"_774":775,"_776":777},"hasPreviousPage",false,"hasNextPage","endCursor","eyJsYXN0X2lkIjoxMDAyNDMwMjAyMjMwLCJsYXN0X3ZhbHVlIjoxNzg2NjM3Mjg3MDAwLCJvZmZzZXQiOjExfQ==","startCursor","eyJsYXN0X2lkIjoxMDAzNDM4Mzc1Mjg2LCJsYXN0X3ZhbHVlIjoxNzkyNTUxNjAyMDAwLCJvZmZzZXQiOjB9",{"_101":479,"_82":951,"_11":952,"_72":743,"_483":744,"_74":745,"_76":746,"_66":747,"_53":748,"_488":749,"_114":-5,"_78":750,"_80":953,"_70":752,"_84":954},{"_101":479,"_82":947,"_11":948,"_72":726,"_483":727,"_74":728,"_76":729,"_66":730,"_53":731,"_488":732,"_114":-5,"_78":733,"_80":949,"_70":735,"_84":950},{"_101":479,"_82":932,"_11":933,"_72":934,"_483":935,"_74":936,"_76":937,"_66":938,"_53":939,"_488":940,"_114":-5,"_78":941,"_80":942,"_70":943,"_84":944},{"_101":479,"_82":917,"_11":918,"_72":919,"_483":920,"_74":921,"_76":922,"_66":923,"_53":924,"_488":925,"_114":-5,"_78":926,"_80":927,"_70":928,"_84":929},{"_101":479,"_82":901,"_11":902,"_72":903,"_483":904,"_74":905,"_76":906,"_66":907,"_53":908,"_488":909,"_114":-5,"_78":910,"_80":911,"_70":912,"_84":913},{"_101":479,"_82":885,"_11":886,"_72":887,"_483":888,"_74":889,"_76":890,"_66":891,"_53":892,"_488":893,"_114":-5,"_78":894,"_80":895,"_70":896,"_84":897},{"_101":479,"_82":869,"_11":870,"_72":871,"_483":872,"_74":873,"_76":874,"_66":875,"_53":876,"_488":877,"_114":-5,"_78":878,"_80":879,"_70":880,"_84":881},{"_101":479,"_82":852,"_11":853,"_72":854,"_483":855,"_74":856,"_76":857,"_66":858,"_53":859,"_488":860,"_114":-5,"_78":861,"_80":862,"_70":863,"_84":864},{"_101":479,"_82":837,"_11":838,"_72":839,"_483":840,"_74":841,"_76":842,"_66":843,"_53":844,"_488":845,"_114":-5,"_78":846,"_80":847,"_70":848,"_84":849},{"_101":479,"_82":821,"_11":822,"_72":823,"_483":824,"_74":825,"_76":826,"_66":827,"_53":828,"_488":829,"_114":-5,"_78":830,"_80":831,"_70":832,"_84":833},{"_101":479,"_82":805,"_11":806,"_72":807,"_483":808,"_74":809,"_76":810,"_66":811,"_53":812,"_488":813,"_114":-5,"_78":814,"_80":815,"_70":816,"_84":817},{"_101":479,"_82":790,"_11":791,"_72":792,"_483":793,"_74":794,"_76":795,"_66":796,"_53":797,"_488":798,"_114":-5,"_78":799,"_80":800,"_70":801,"_84":802},{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"Air changes per hour – why should this matter to you? Read and find out before you invest in an air purifier.","

Air changes per hour – why should this matter to you? Read and find out before you invest in an air purifier.

","Air changes per hour (ACH) is a ventilation metric that measures how frequently indoor air is replaced and filtered within a 60-minute time period. When choosing an air purifier, ACH values can play an important role in determining air cleaning efficiency and filtration power. Understanding ACH values, metric calculations, and associated symptom relief is key to guarantee maximum air quality protection and fast filtration efficiency within indoor spaces. What does ACH mean? Air changes per hour is a metric system utilized to measure how often indoor air particles are cleaned and filtered within one hour in a controlled indoor space, meaning an ACH value of 2 equals to air particles being replaced 2 times in an hour. ACH values commonly range on a scale of 1-6; however, exceptional air quality filtering and ventilation can produce higher ACH levels (1). For air purifiers, the higher the ACH calculated value, the higher the indication that air particles within a room have been replaced through filter circulation. Low ACH values could determine stagnant air or a lack of proper ventilation in an enclosed space. Therefore, by calculating ACH levels for air purifiers or air cleaning systems, families and homeowners can gain a better understanding of the air filtration efficiency surrounding them. How do you measure ACH? Air changes per hour is calculated through a simple equation combining system airflow in cubic feet per minute (CFM) with timespan divided by the room dimensions. Check product packaging to see manufacturer labeled ACH values or calculate at home through personal measurements. To measure air changes per hour, utilize the equation: Measuring ACH levels not only allows for an in-depth understanding of the surrounding ventilation and filtration efficiency in a space, but also ensures health symptoms are alleviated and clean air quality is maintained through quantitative data. Most manufacturers provide ACH only for the highest speed setting. Therefore, it’s important to understand ACH, so that you are aware how to determine ACH on the speed setting that you will use the air purifier. You will need the CFM for each speed setting to determine this. It’s important to have at least two air changes per hour to make an acceptable difference in air quality in a room or space. What does ACH help with? Air changes per hour measures differences in air quality and pertain associated benefits with higher ACH values that help alleviate health conditions and symptoms. According to a recent study, higher ACH levels have been found to be associated with respiratory symptom relief, reduced allergies, and healthier breathing by eliminating infectious aerosols (2). Rooms with high activity may require higher ACH levels to properly address elevated airborne pollutant activity. Contrastingly, large rooms with low activity or occupancy may not require high ACH levels to sufficiently provide clean air ventilation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends an ACH level of 7 or higher for the “best” ventilation efficiency, labeling an ACH value of 4 as “good” and a 6 as “better” (3). Why does ACH matter when choosing an air purifier? Air changes per hour is an important measurement tool and scale for determining air filtration efficiency, ensuring proper circulation and ventilation is actively cleaning the air. Selecting an air purifier with a high ACH value ensures maximum filtration efficiency while improving health conditions and symptoms. By utilizing ACH values to choose clean air systems, efficient ventilation and filtration power can be guaranteed for indoor spaces. Individuals with asthma, eczema, and respiratory difficulties also experienced an improvement of symptoms through ACH measurements and stability. Elevated ACH levels can substantially reduce the time to remove airborne pollutants, creating a high-filtration-efficiency environment and limiting exposure to harmful particles. Check for “Shortcutting” in air purifier design In air purification, \"shortcutting\" is an airflow design flaw where an air cleaner's intake and exhaust are too close, causing freshly filtered air to re-enter the machine immediately instead of circulating through the room. IQAir systems prevents shortcutting by placing intakes and outputs at opposite ends with its Swiss Design and manufacturing. Understanding Shortcutting: The Problem: Poorly designed purifiers pull clean air right back in, wasting energy and reducing effective room cleaning. The IQAir Design: Units like the HealthPro series separate intake (bottom) and outflow (top/opposite ends) to force complete room air mixing. Result: Maximizes air changes per hour (ACH) without recycling already-purified air. How to increase ACH levels Air changes per hour values are not set in stone and are influenced by the actual speed setting being used and if the air purifier is designed to prevent shortcutting. High ACH levels have been linked to allergen symptom relief, the dilution of indoor airborne pollutants, and reduced exposure to harmful particles. ACH levels can be elevated within indoor spaces through additional air cleaning technology and daily ventilation practices, such as: Air cleaning technology: Utilize multiple HyperHEPA air purifiers in high activity spaces, rely on HVAC filtration to increase airflow, and install an air quality monitor to know when outdoor ventilation is safe Daily practices: Open windows during periods of low outdoor activity, employ fans to increase air circulation throughout rooms, and routinely clean surfaces to limit airborne pollutants Employing additional air quality metrics could help further contextualize the filtration and ventilation efficiency within indoor air, such as CADR and CCM. The Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) measures how fast an air purifier can produce clean air, while Cumulative Clean Mass (CCM) determines how much pollutants an air purifier can capture before losing efficiency. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Is ACH important?Yes, air changes per hour (ACH) is an important metric system for determining clean air ventilation and filtration efficiency. ACH measures how often an air cleaning system can clean and replace the air particles in a room. Specific ACH values detail how efficiently and effectively an air purifier system functions within the hour timeframe. By quantifying performance results, the air purifier selection process is simplified and ensures the most optimal decision can be made. Where can I find my ACH level?Check the air cleaning device’s product packaging for a listed ACH value or ranking. If no ACH value is listed, utilize the ACH equation to calculate at home and determine a device’s ventilation efficiency. What does ACH stand for?ACH is an acronym for air changes per hour, meaning this metric measures how many times air particles can be replaced within an hour in an indoor space. How do CCM and CADR relate to ACH?Cumulative Clean Mass (CCM), Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR), and Air Changes per Hour (ACH) are all metrics measuring specific aspects of clean air quality, such as ventilation, filtration, and healthy particle production. These metrics help quantify air purifier capabilities to find the best air cleaning results through proven data collection. Employ CCM, CADR, and ACH calculations to ensure maximum pollutant protection and filtration efficiency is achieved between every air cleaning device. Conclusion Air changes per hour (ACH) is an essential metric tool that allows us to understand ventilation efficiency, symptom relief, and clean air filtration through quantitative, tangible data values and levels. Without understanding ACH, health risks and invisible pollutants may unknowingly prevail within indoor spaces. Employ clean air technology and filtration practices to achieve high ACH levels for maximum ventilation efficiency and harmful pollutant reduction.","

Air changes per hour (ACH) is a ventilation metric that measures how frequently indoor air is replaced and filtered within a 60-minute time period. When choosing an air purifier, ACH values can play an important role in determining air cleaning efficiency and filtration power.

Understanding ACH values, metric calculations, and associated symptom relief is key to guarantee maximum air quality protection and fast filtration efficiency within indoor spaces.

What does ACH mean?

Air changes per hour is a metric system utilized to measure how often indoor air particles are cleaned and filtered within one hour in a controlled indoor space, meaning an ACH value of 2 equals to air particles being replaced 2 times in an hour. ACH values commonly range on a scale of 1-6; however, exceptional air quality filtering and ventilation can produce higher ACH levels (1).

For air purifiers, the higher the ACH calculated value, the higher the indication that air particles within a room have been replaced through filter circulation. Low ACH values could determine stagnant air or a lack of proper ventilation in an enclosed space.

Therefore, by calculating ACH levels for air purifiers or air cleaning systems, families and homeowners can gain a better understanding of the air filtration efficiency surrounding them.

How do you measure ACH?

Air changes per hour is calculated through a simple equation combining system airflow in cubic feet per minute (CFM) with timespan divided by the room dimensions. Check product packaging to see manufacturer labeled ACH values or calculate at home through personal measurements. To measure air changes per hour, utilize the equation:
$\"\"$

Measuring ACH levels not only allows for an in-depth understanding of the surrounding ventilation and filtration efficiency in a space, but also ensures health symptoms are alleviated and clean air quality is maintained through quantitative data.

Most manufacturers provide ACH only for the highest speed setting. Therefore, it’s important to understand ACH, so that you are aware how to determine ACH on the speed setting that you will use the air purifier. You will need the CFM for each speed setting to determine this. It’s important to have at least two air changes per hour to make an acceptable difference in air quality in a room or space.

What does ACH help with?

Air changes per hour measures differences in air quality and pertain associated benefits with higher ACH values that help alleviate health conditions and symptoms.

According to a recent study, higher ACH levels have been found to be associated with respiratory symptom relief, reduced allergies, and healthier breathing by eliminating infectious aerosols (2). Rooms with high activity may require higher ACH levels to properly address elevated airborne pollutant activity. Contrastingly, large rooms with low activity or occupancy may not require high ACH levels to sufficiently provide clean air ventilation.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends an ACH level of 7 or higher for the “best” ventilation efficiency, labeling an ACH value of 4 as “good” and a 6 as “better” (3).

Why does ACH matter when choosing an air purifier?

Air changes per hour is an important measurement tool and scale for determining air filtration efficiency, ensuring proper circulation and ventilation is actively cleaning the air. Selecting an air purifier with a high ACH value ensures maximum filtration efficiency while improving health conditions and symptoms. By utilizing ACH values to choose clean air systems, efficient ventilation and filtration power can be guaranteed for indoor spaces.

Individuals with asthma, eczema, and respiratory difficulties also experienced an improvement of symptoms through ACH measurements and stability. Elevated ACH levels can substantially reduce the time to remove airborne pollutants, creating a high-filtration-efficiency environment and limiting exposure to harmful particles.

Check for “Shortcutting” in air purifier design

In air purification, \"shortcutting\" is an airflow design flaw where an air cleaner's intake and exhaust are too close, causing freshly filtered air to re-enter the machine immediately instead of circulating through the room.

IQAir systems prevents shortcutting by placing intakes and outputs at opposite ends with its Swiss Design and manufacturing.

Understanding Shortcutting:

The Problem: Poorly designed purifiers pull clean air right back in, wasting energy and reducing effective room cleaning.
The IQAir Design: Units like the HealthPro series separate intake (bottom) and outflow (top/opposite ends) to force complete room air mixing.
Result: Maximizes air changes per hour (ACH) without recycling already-purified air.

How to increase ACH levels

Air changes per hour values are not set in stone and are influenced by the actual speed setting being used and if the air purifier is designed to prevent shortcutting. High ACH levels have been linked to allergen symptom relief, the dilution of indoor airborne pollutants, and reduced exposure to harmful particles. ACH levels can be elevated within indoor spaces through additional air cleaning technology and daily ventilation practices, such as:

Air cleaning technology: Utilize multiple HyperHEPA air purifiers in high activity spaces, rely on HVAC filtration to increase airflow, and install an air quality monitor to know when outdoor ventilation is safe
Daily practices: Open windows during periods of low outdoor activity, employ fans to increase air circulation throughout rooms, and routinely clean surfaces to limit airborne pollutants

Employing additional air quality metrics could help further contextualize the filtration and ventilation efficiency within indoor air, such as CADR and CCM. The Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) measures how fast an air purifier can produce clean air, while Cumulative Clean Mass (CCM) determines how much pollutants an air purifier can capture before losing efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is ACH important?
Yes, air changes per hour (ACH) is an important metric system for determining clean air ventilation and filtration efficiency. ACH measures how often an air cleaning system can clean and replace the air particles in a room. Specific ACH values detail how efficiently and effectively an air purifier system functions within the hour timeframe.

By quantifying performance results, the air purifier selection process is simplified and ensures the most optimal decision can be made.

Where can I find my ACH level?
Check the air cleaning device’s product packaging for a listed ACH value or ranking. If no ACH value is listed, utilize the ACH equation to calculate at home and determine a device’s ventilation efficiency.

What does ACH stand for?
ACH is an acronym for air changes per hour, meaning this metric measures how many times air particles can be replaced within an hour in an indoor space.

How do CCM and CADR relate to ACH?
Cumulative Clean Mass (CCM), Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR), and Air Changes per Hour (ACH) are all metrics measuring specific aspects of clean air quality, such as ventilation, filtration, and healthy particle production. These metrics help quantify air purifier capabilities to find the best air cleaning results through proven data collection.

Employ CCM, CADR, and ACH calculations to ensure maximum pollutant protection and filtration efficiency is achieved between every air cleaning device.

Conclusion

Air changes per hour (ACH) is an essential metric tool that allows us to understand ventilation efficiency, symptom relief, and clean air filtration through quantitative, tangible data values and levels. Without understanding ACH, health risks and invisible pollutants may unknowingly prevail within indoor spaces.

Employ clean air technology and filtration practices to achieve high ACH levels for maximum ventilation efficiency and harmful pollutant reduction.

","what-is-ach-and-why-it-matters-for-air-purifiers","gid://shopify/Article/1002430202230","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/what-is-ach-and-why-it-matters-for-air-purifiers","2026-08-13T16:08:07Z",[600,14],"What is ACH and why it matters for air purifiers",{"_53":803,"_210":-5,"_208":804,"_212":547,"_214":548},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/420418683254","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/article_purifierHVAC.jpg?v=1790095274",{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"If you’re already running an air purifier, is ventilation even necessary? Get the answer and learn more about the principles of air purification now.","

If you’re already running an air purifier, is ventilation even necessary? Get the answer and learn more about the principles of air purification now.

","Yes, active open-air ventilation within indoor spaces is a key clean air method that should be practiced alongside air purifier utilization. Ventilation is important for two purposes: Maintaining adequate oxygen levels. Purification does not restore oxygen levels, only ventilation can introduce oxygen rich outdoor air into an indoor space to increase oxygen levels and lower carbon dioxide levels. And ventilation can also help reduce indoor pollution levels through dilution. Dilution ventilation works by introducing clean outdoor air into a space to mix with and lower the concentration of indoor airborne contaminants. To achieve and maintain good air quality, understanding how ventilation works, its impacts on airborne pollutants, and following best practices can help ensure proper airflow while minimizing harmful particle exposure. How does ventilation work? Air ventilation is the process of replacing indoor air particles and pollutants with outdoor air through consistent airflow and circulation. Some indoor spaces may have more efficient, direct ventilation compared to others, like exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms. Indoor ventilation can occur naturally or through mechanical means, such as (1): Natural ventilation: Naturally occurring instances of ventilation, such as open windows, doors, and outdoor winds. Mechanical ventilation: Ventilation produced with mechanical assistance, such as HVAC systems, air conditioning systems, fans, and air cleaning devices. Hybrid ventilation: A combined utilization of naturally occurring and mechanical ventilation methods. Ventilation practices alongside air cleaning technology utilization can deliver clean air quality. Even if air purifiers are used, ventilation methods can still increase new airflow and improve overall air quality by diluting airborne pollutants. Does ventilation impact air quality? Active dilution ventilation with high airflow can greatly reduce airborne pollutant exposure, creating a cleaner indoor environment and improved air quality conditions. Indoor air contains higher levels of pollutants compared to outdoor particles. These pollutants can be microscopic and infiltrate spaces undetected, including: Pet dander Dust Smoke PM2.5, particulate matter as small as 2.5 microns in diameter PM10, particulate matter as small as 10 microns in diameter Volatile organic compounds (VOCS) By introducing active ventilation, consistent airflow dilutes these pollutant particles and decreases risks of harmful exposure. Increased ventilation helps prevent the spread of airborne viruses and mold growth, protecting long-term health and personal well-being (2). Without ventilation, indoor air could become stagnant and accumulate airborne pollutant particles. How can I tell if a room has poor ventilation? Indoor spaces with poor ventilation may accumulate increasing amounts of airborne pollutants, creating a harmful enclosed space that could spread and affect additional rooms within a home. To examine if a room has poor ventilation, look for common indicators such as persistent odors, high carbon dioxide levels, stagnant dry air or increased medical symptoms. During wet seasons or rainy weather, the added moisture combined with poor ventilation could lead to mold growth or elevated indoor humidity. For spaces with air cleaning devices, utilize air metrics, such as Air Changes per Hour (ACH) to measure and quantify clean air ventilation and filtration rates. ACH measures how often air particles are replaced within an indoor space – an ideal metric for determining system performance and ventilation capabilities. Is ventilation needed indoors when I have an air purifier? Yes, ventilation is a key clean air method that should be practiced alongside air purifier usage to achieve maximized pollutant exposure protection. While air purifiers are excellent air cleaning devices for suctioning air through advanced filters, they cannot ventilate or bring in fresh, oxygen rich air on their own. Without proper ventilation, air purifiers would be recycling old air and filtrating through elevated amounts of airborne pollutants and carbon dioxide. Routine ventilation into outdoor air helps prevent moisture build-up and the spread of viral particles indoors. Opening windows and circulating air can also assist in diluting indoor smoke and odors during food preparation – a clean air task that could take longer if an air purifier is employed on its own. Clean air methods alongside ventilation Ventilation is an effective clean air method to stop the spread of pollutants, but only when paired with air quality monitoring and daily practices. Comprehensive air quality care requires a mixture of air cleaning technology and routine cleaning to ensure harmful exposure is minimized and particle filtration is maximized, such as (3): Advanced filtration: Employ HyperHEPA air purifiers for ultrafine particle collection, run air cleaning devices throughout the day, and rely on HVAC systems to bring clean outdoor air particles indoors. Air quality awareness: Install an air quality monitor to keep watch on outdoor pollutant levels, close windows during air quality events, and place air cleaning devices in rooms with high daily activity. With an air quality monitor, you can also watch indoor pollution and carbon dioxide levels. Pollutant source control: Avoid scented aerosol products, routinely disinfect surface areas, and vacuum carpets to remove excess particulate matter. Employing powerful air cleaning tools alongside daily practices and air quality monitoring leads to reformed air quality conditions and a pathway to long-term health stability. Conclusion Ventilation is a powerful clean air asset that replaces indoor air with outdoor air, diluting pollutants and creating a refreshed open-air environment. Even if air purifiers are already running, added ventilation can amplify air cleaning productivity and improve indoor air quality. Employing air cleaning technology alongside ventilation methods and clean air practices helps keep the maximum amount of pollutants outside of homes, allowing for a safe breathing environment for everyone in the household. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What is the difference between ventilation and air conditioning?Ventilation is the act of introducing fresh outdoor air into a new indoor space, removing stagnant air particles and lingering odors. Air conditioning is the process of changing indoor temperature and humidity levels but does not necessarily produce clean air or introduce outdoor particles. Why is ventilation important?Ventilation is a key clean air method that introduces fresh air particles, dilutes indoor pollutants, and minimizes airborne particle exposure. Without ventilation, harmful particles and odors could linger, leading to elevated health risks and accumulated levels of indoor pollutants. Does ventilation help with humidity?Yes, proper ventilation can help reduce excess indoor humidity by removing moist airborne particles and introducing drier outdoor air when conditions allow. Outdoor ventilation can help prevent condensation, mold growth, and moisture-related damages within indoor spaces. Can outdoor air pollution affect ventilation?Yes, outdoor air quality can impact the effectiveness of ventilation methods as fresh air may contain pollutants including smoke, pollen, or dust. Especially during air quality events, such as wildfires and industrial fuel burning, these particles could be greatly elevated and affect indoor air quality. For proper clean air awareness, install an air quality monitor to know when outdoor air is safe to ventilate. Air quality monitors can help inform individuals about the status of ongoing air quality events and sudden shifts in outdoor pollutant levels, ensuring safe ventilation practices.","

Yes, active open-air ventilation within indoor spaces is a key clean air method that should be practiced alongside air purifier utilization. Ventilation is important for two purposes:

Maintaining adequate oxygen levels. Purification does not restore oxygen levels, only ventilation can introduce oxygen rich outdoor air into an indoor space to increase oxygen levels and lower carbon dioxide levels.
And ventilation can also help reduce indoor pollution levels through dilution. Dilution ventilation works by introducing clean outdoor air into a space to mix with and lower the concentration of indoor airborne contaminants.

To achieve and maintain good air quality, understanding how ventilation works, its impacts on airborne pollutants, and following best practices can help ensure proper airflow while minimizing harmful particle exposure.

How does ventilation work?

Air ventilation is the process of replacing indoor air particles and pollutants with outdoor air through consistent airflow and circulation. Some indoor spaces may have more efficient, direct ventilation compared to others, like exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms. Indoor ventilation can occur naturally or through mechanical means, such as (1):

\nNatural ventilation: Naturally occurring instances of ventilation, such as open windows, doors, and outdoor winds.
\nMechanical ventilation: Ventilation produced with mechanical assistance, such as HVAC systems, air conditioning systems, fans, and air cleaning devices.
\nHybrid ventilation: A combined utilization of naturally occurring and mechanical ventilation methods.

Ventilation practices alongside air cleaning technology utilization can deliver clean air quality. Even if air purifiers are used, ventilation methods can still increase new airflow and improve overall air quality by diluting airborne pollutants.

Does ventilation impact air quality?

Active dilution ventilation with high airflow can greatly reduce airborne pollutant exposure, creating a cleaner indoor environment and improved air quality conditions. Indoor air contains higher levels of pollutants compared to outdoor particles. These pollutants can be microscopic and infiltrate spaces undetected, including:

Pet dander
Dust
Smoke
\nPM2.5, particulate matter as small as 2.5 microns in diameter
\n
\nPM10, particulate matter as small as 10 microns in diameter
Volatile organic compounds (VOCS)

By introducing active ventilation, consistent airflow dilutes these pollutant particles and decreases risks of harmful exposure. Increased ventilation helps prevent the spread of airborne viruses and mold growth, protecting long-term health and personal well-being (2). Without ventilation, indoor air could become stagnant and accumulate airborne pollutant particles.

How can I tell if a room has poor ventilation?

Indoor spaces with poor ventilation may accumulate increasing amounts of airborne pollutants, creating a harmful enclosed space that could spread and affect additional rooms within a home.

To examine if a room has poor ventilation, look for common indicators such as persistent odors, high carbon dioxide levels, stagnant dry air or increased medical symptoms. During wet seasons or rainy weather, the added moisture combined with poor ventilation could lead to mold growth or elevated indoor humidity.

For spaces with air cleaning devices, utilize air metrics, such as Air Changes per Hour (ACH) to measure and quantify clean air ventilation and filtration rates. ACH measures how often air particles are replaced within an indoor space – an ideal metric for determining system performance and ventilation capabilities.

Is ventilation needed indoors when I have an air purifier?

Yes, ventilation is a key clean air method that should be practiced alongside air purifier usage to achieve maximized pollutant exposure protection. While air purifiers are excellent air cleaning devices for suctioning air through advanced filters, they cannot ventilate or bring in fresh, oxygen rich air on their own. Without proper ventilation, air purifiers would be recycling old air and filtrating through elevated amounts of airborne pollutants and carbon dioxide.

Routine ventilation into outdoor air helps prevent moisture build-up and the spread of viral particles indoors. Opening windows and circulating air can also assist in diluting indoor smoke and odors during food preparation – a clean air task that could take longer if an air purifier is employed on its own.

Clean air methods alongside ventilation

Ventilation is an effective clean air method to stop the spread of pollutants, but only when paired with air quality monitoring and daily practices. Comprehensive air quality care requires a mixture of air cleaning technology and routine cleaning to ensure harmful exposure is minimized and particle filtration is maximized, such as (3):

\nAdvanced filtration: Employ HyperHEPA air purifiers for ultrafine particle collection, run air cleaning devices throughout the day, and rely on HVAC systems to bring clean outdoor air particles indoors.
\nAir quality awareness: Install an air quality monitor to keep watch on outdoor pollutant levels, close windows during air quality events, and place air cleaning devices in rooms with high daily activity. With an air quality monitor, you can also watch indoor pollution and carbon dioxide levels.
\nPollutant source control: Avoid scented aerosol products, routinely disinfect surface areas, and vacuum carpets to remove excess particulate matter.

Employing powerful air cleaning tools alongside daily practices and air quality monitoring leads to reformed air quality conditions and a pathway to long-term health stability.

Conclusion

Ventilation is a powerful clean air asset that replaces indoor air with outdoor air, diluting pollutants and creating a refreshed open-air environment. Even if air purifiers are already running, added ventilation can amplify air cleaning productivity and improve indoor air quality.

Employing air cleaning technology alongside ventilation methods and clean air practices helps keep the maximum amount of pollutants outside of homes, allowing for a safe breathing environment for everyone in the household.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between ventilation and air conditioning?
Ventilation is the act of introducing fresh outdoor air into a new indoor space, removing stagnant air particles and lingering odors. Air conditioning is the process of changing indoor temperature and humidity levels but does not necessarily produce clean air or introduce outdoor particles.

Why is ventilation important?
Ventilation is a key clean air method that introduces fresh air particles, dilutes indoor pollutants, and minimizes airborne particle exposure. Without ventilation, harmful particles and odors could linger, leading to elevated health risks and accumulated levels of indoor pollutants.

Does ventilation help with humidity?
Yes, proper ventilation can help reduce excess indoor humidity by removing moist airborne particles and introducing drier outdoor air when conditions allow. Outdoor ventilation can help prevent condensation, mold growth, and moisture-related damages within indoor spaces.

Can outdoor air pollution affect ventilation?
Yes, outdoor air quality can impact the effectiveness of ventilation methods as fresh air may contain pollutants including smoke, pollen, or dust. Especially during air quality events, such as wildfires and industrial fuel burning, these particles could be greatly elevated and affect indoor air quality.

For proper clean air awareness, install an air quality monitor to know when outdoor air is safe to ventilate. Air quality monitors can help inform individuals about the status of ongoing air quality events and sudden shifts in outdoor pollutant levels, ensuring safe ventilation practices.

","do-you-still-need-to-ventilate-if-you-use-an-air-purifier","gid://shopify/Article/1002642440566","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/do-you-still-need-to-ventilate-if-you-use-an-air-purifier","2026-09-08T15:00:03Z",[600,14,640],"Do you still need to ventilate if you use an air purifier?",{"_53":818,"_210":819,"_208":820,"_212":547,"_214":548},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/419930014070","Atem Eco near a window","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Article_DoNeedVentilateUsePurifier_Desk_8624268f-f31b-442b-b747-b31418d3a404.jpg?v=1788880146",{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"Medical facilities have historically seen an increase in airborne bacteria exposures. Learn about the importance of patient safety and how to create healthy breathing spaces.","

Medical facilities have historically seen an increase in airborne bacteria exposures. Learn about the importance of patient safety and how to create healthy breathing spaces.

","Air quality is an influential health factor that can impact daily lives, routine schedules, and patient safety without individuals knowing. From pollutant emissions to airborne bacteria and viruses, these microscopic particles can elevate respiratory health risks and exacerbate pre-existing medical symptoms. Poorly ventilated indoor environments can continuously collect viral particles, leading to compromised air quality and increased infection rates. Securing clean air quality and medical-grade filtration is important for personal health protection and maximized safety. Understanding airborne viral and bacterial risks, associated medical illnesses, and optimal clean air filtration methods is the key to healthy air quality. How does air quality impact health? Compromised air quality containing heightened pollutant levels can ignite or worsen respiratory symptoms and long-term exposure can introduce prolonged medical conditions. Airborne pollutants can range from seasonal bacterial and viral particles to outdoor traffic emissions and ultrafine particulate matter. If left untreated, these pollutants can lead to (1)(2): Asthmatic flare-ups Internal tissue damage Respiratory irritation Heart disease Lung cancer Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) symptoms Additional chemicals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) could be hidden within pollutant exposures, causing unhealthy exposure if inhaled. Without source control, proper ventilation, and air filtration, pollutants can linger, further compromising air quality and impacting those with pre-existing medical conditions. Can poor air quality spread infections? Bacteria and infectious viruses do not stay grounded. Viral and bacterial particles can become airborne, causing frequent illness through unhealthy exposure and proximity to multiple individuals. For medical facilities and busy offices, person-to-person contact is heightened, and it can take only one individual to cause widespread viral air contamination. Airborne viruses and bacteria range in producing common health conditions from the flu to long-term illnesses, such as (3): Influenza COVID-19 Measles Whooping cough Chickenpox Tuberculosis If air quality is left untreated, these infectious illnesses could continue to manifest and progress into worsening symptoms or health conditions. Even for large buildings or hospitals, built-in HVAC systems alone can be insufficient in properly protecting against airborne pollutants. Infectious airborne exposure can occur anywhere Indoor environments with limited ventilation and filtration have been found to harbor elevated amounts of airborne pollutant particles and increase the likelihood of infectious bacterial exposures. A 2016 research study found indoor spaces often perpetuate close contact to multiple individuals and contain limited free flowing air. These indoor conditions can cause coughs and sneezes to spread easily without any inhibiting factors, creating contagious environments (4). Aerosols from indoor water supplies, such as sinks and toilets, can also transfer hidden airborne bacterial particles and cause infectious exposures without individuals knowing. According to the Lawrence Berkley National Laboratory, elevated traces of airborne SARS-CoV-2 particles were found in hospitals and indoor bathrooms, leading to increased exposure and health risks (5). SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that leads to the COVID-19 disease.SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that leads to the COVID-19 disease. Bacterial and viral contact increases in medical settings With numerous rotating patients and limited open air flow, medical facilities can become hotspots for airborne bacterial and viral infections. Hospitals and medical spaces combine the generally limited ventilation within indoor spaces with heightened patient bacterial exposure, producing unhealthy air quality conditions and elevated exposure levels. A 2026 study found increases in healthcare-related bacterial transmissions and viral infections through airborne exposure in medical facilities across Europe. Researchers noted mixed ventilation systems between patient rooms and lack of standardized filtration measures could be influential factors causing the elevated unhealthy exposure cases (6). Air quality protection and patient safety have been recurring concerns for healthcare providers and researchers globally. A 2009 study found heightened cases of hospital-acquired infections causing increased mortality rates in the U.S. due to shared patient rooms and lack of proper clean air technology. Researchers called for reformed air quality environments within hospitals to protect patient health and decrease mortality rates (7). With a mixture of patients and staff, hospitals offer a uniquely challenging pollutant environment requiring individualized ventilation, advanced filtration, and personal air flow. Optimized air cleaning and viral filtration For patients in medical care settings, full-coverage air quality protection and healthy breathing conditions are dependent on multistage clean air technology to provide personalized filtration and ventilation. Air cleaning tools, such as air purifiers and HVAC filtration attachments, are designed to capture airborne pollutants at high-efficiency rates to create indoor clean air environments. For bacteria and viruses specifically, HyperHEPA air purifiers provide optimal filtration, removing 99.5% of viral particles down to 0.003 microns in size. HyperHEPA filtration can also trap a wide range of ultrafine pollutants and common allergens, including: Smoke Pollen Pet dander Traffic emissions PM2.5, particulate matter down to 2.5 microns in diameter PM10, particulate matter down to 10 microns in diameter Multistage filtration alongside activated carbon technology can also help reduce gaseous emissions, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Air cleaning tools help significantly reduce airborne pollutants, but in conjunction with daily sanitization and routine monitoring, viral and bacterial particles can be prevented from forming in the first place (8). How to prevent airborne bacteria and virus exposure Advanced multistage filtration helps create clean air environments; however, optimal monitoring, sanitization, and ventilation is needed to maintain the healthy air quality within these spaces. Daily clean air practices and routines help reduce bacterial and viral particles through preventative measures that stop pollutants at the source. Increased monitoring and sanitization can be easily built into hospital schedules for seamless air quality security and patient care, such as: Air quality monitoring: Install an indoor air quality monitor to know when pollutants could be elevated, check daily AQI levels for patient activity scheduling, and increase air purifier fan speeds during periods of high pollutant activity. Advanced ventilation: Install HVAC-based air purifiers for protection within multiple enclosed patient rooms, employ fans to increase personal air flow, and open windows for fresh air circulation. Daily infection control: Routinely disinfect commonly used surfaces, avoid scented chemical cleaning products, and employ HyperHEPA air purifiers for extended daily runtimes. By employing air quality monitoring and sanitization alongside multistage filtration, clean air environments and healthy breathing conditions can be achieved. Conclusion Indoor air environments can harbor increasing levels of bacterial and viral particles without the proper air cleaning technology. Even in hospitals and medical spaces, where patient safety can be vital, air quality conditions have historically been found to be compromised with airborne pollutants and viruses. Observed each year on September 17, World Patient Safety Day highlights prioritizing the well-being of patients in medical spaces and how air quality can play an influential role in healthy recovery (9). Air quality monitoring and routine practices pave the road for patients to experience healthy breathing environments with minimized pollutant exposures. By securing daily source control, proper ventilation and advanced air purification, patient safety and clean air quality among enclosed examination rooms can be achieved.","

Air quality is an influential health factor that can impact daily lives, routine schedules, and patient safety without individuals knowing. From pollutant emissions to airborne bacteria and viruses, these microscopic particles can elevate respiratory health risks and exacerbate pre-existing medical symptoms. Poorly ventilated indoor environments can continuously collect viral particles, leading to compromised air quality and increased infection rates.

Securing clean air quality and medical-grade filtration is important for personal health protection and maximized safety. Understanding airborne viral and bacterial risks, associated medical illnesses, and optimal clean air filtration methods is the key to healthy air quality.

How does air quality impact health?

Compromised air quality containing heightened pollutant levels can ignite or worsen respiratory symptoms and long-term exposure can introduce prolonged medical conditions. Airborne pollutants can range from seasonal bacterial and viral particles to outdoor traffic emissions and ultrafine particulate matter. If left untreated, these pollutants can lead to (1)(2):

Asthmatic flare-ups
Internal tissue damage
Respiratory irritation
Heart disease
Lung cancer
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) symptoms

Additional chemicals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) could be hidden within pollutant exposures, causing unhealthy exposure if inhaled. Without source control, proper ventilation, and air filtration, pollutants can linger, further compromising air quality and impacting those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Can poor air quality spread infections?

Bacteria and infectious viruses do not stay grounded. Viral and bacterial particles can become airborne, causing frequent illness through unhealthy exposure and proximity to multiple individuals. For medical facilities and busy offices, person-to-person contact is heightened, and it can take only one individual to cause widespread viral air contamination. Airborne viruses and bacteria range in producing common health conditions from the flu to long-term illnesses, such as (3):

Influenza
COVID-19
Measles
Whooping cough
Chickenpox
Tuberculosis

If air quality is left untreated, these infectious illnesses could continue to manifest and progress into worsening symptoms or health conditions. Even for large buildings or hospitals, built-in HVAC systems alone can be insufficient in properly protecting against airborne pollutants.

Infectious airborne exposure can occur anywhere

Indoor environments with limited ventilation and filtration have been found to harbor elevated amounts of airborne pollutant particles and increase the likelihood of infectious bacterial exposures.

A 2016 research study found indoor spaces often perpetuate close contact to multiple individuals and contain limited free flowing air. These indoor conditions can cause coughs and sneezes to spread easily without any inhibiting factors, creating contagious environments (4).

Aerosols from indoor water supplies, such as sinks and toilets, can also transfer hidden airborne bacterial particles and cause infectious exposures without individuals knowing. According to the Lawrence Berkley National Laboratory, elevated traces of airborne SARS-CoV-2 particles were found in hospitals and indoor bathrooms, leading to increased exposure and health risks (5). SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that leads to the COVID-19 disease.SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that leads to the COVID-19 disease.

Bacterial and viral contact increases in medical settings

With numerous rotating patients and limited open air flow, medical facilities can become hotspots for airborne bacterial and viral infections. Hospitals and medical spaces combine the generally limited ventilation within indoor spaces with heightened patient bacterial exposure, producing unhealthy air quality conditions and elevated exposure levels.

A 2026 study found increases in healthcare-related bacterial transmissions and viral infections through airborne exposure in medical facilities across Europe. Researchers noted mixed ventilation systems between patient rooms and lack of standardized filtration measures could be influential factors causing the elevated unhealthy exposure cases (6).

Air quality protection and patient safety have been recurring concerns for healthcare providers and researchers globally. A 2009 study found heightened cases of hospital-acquired infections causing increased mortality rates in the U.S. due to shared patient rooms and lack of proper clean air technology. Researchers called for reformed air quality environments within hospitals to protect patient health and decrease mortality rates (7).

With a mixture of patients and staff, hospitals offer a uniquely challenging pollutant environment requiring individualized ventilation, advanced filtration, and personal air flow.

Optimized air cleaning and viral filtration

For patients in medical care settings, full-coverage air quality protection and healthy breathing conditions are dependent on multistage clean air technology to provide personalized filtration and ventilation.

Air cleaning tools, such as air purifiers and HVAC filtration attachments, are designed to capture airborne pollutants at high-efficiency rates to create indoor clean air environments. For bacteria and viruses specifically, HyperHEPA air purifiers provide optimal filtration, removing 99.5% of viral particles down to 0.003 microns in size. HyperHEPA filtration can also trap a wide range of ultrafine pollutants and common allergens, including:

Smoke
Pollen
Pet dander
Traffic emissions
\nPM2.5, particulate matter down to 2.5 microns in diameter
\nPM10, particulate matter down to 10 microns in diameter

Multistage filtration alongside activated carbon technology can also help reduce gaseous emissions, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Air cleaning tools help significantly reduce airborne pollutants, but in conjunction with daily sanitization and routine monitoring, viral and bacterial particles can be prevented from forming in the first place (8).

How to prevent airborne bacteria and virus exposure

Advanced multistage filtration helps create clean air environments; however, optimal monitoring, sanitization, and ventilation is needed to maintain the healthy air quality within these spaces. Daily clean air practices and routines help reduce bacterial and viral particles through preventative measures that stop pollutants at the source. Increased monitoring and sanitization can be easily built into hospital schedules for seamless air quality security and patient care, such as:

Air quality monitoring: Install an indoor air quality monitor to know when pollutants could be elevated, check daily AQI levels for patient activity scheduling, and increase air purifier fan speeds during periods of high pollutant activity.
Advanced ventilation: Install HVAC-based air purifiers for protection within multiple enclosed patient rooms, employ fans to increase personal air flow, and open windows for fresh air circulation.
Daily infection control: Routinely disinfect commonly used surfaces, avoid scented chemical cleaning products, and employ HyperHEPA air purifiers for extended daily runtimes.

By employing air quality monitoring and sanitization alongside multistage filtration, clean air environments and healthy breathing conditions can be achieved.

Conclusion

Indoor air environments can harbor increasing levels of bacterial and viral particles without the proper air cleaning technology. Even in hospitals and medical spaces, where patient safety can be vital, air quality conditions have historically been found to be compromised with airborne pollutants and viruses.

Observed each year on September 17, World Patient Safety Day highlights prioritizing the well-being of patients in medical spaces and how air quality can play an influential role in healthy recovery (9).

Air quality monitoring and routine practices pave the road for patients to experience healthy breathing environments with minimized pollutant exposures. By securing daily source control, proper ventilation and advanced air purification, patient safety and clean air quality among enclosed examination rooms can be achieved.

","can-air-quality-influence-patient-safety","gid://shopify/Article/1002919133558","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/can-air-quality-influence-patient-safety","2026-09-16T03:00:04Z",[600,836,14,568],"Can air quality influence patient safety?",{"_53":834,"_210":-5,"_208":835,"_212":739,"_214":740},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/420149395830","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/WorldPatientSafetyDay_Desktop_NEW_d0b38d7e-5978-4d04-8f79-12f68685803c.jpg?v=1789402312","Allergies and Asthma",{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"Unlock the differences between air purifier and HVAC filter technologies before your next clean air tech purchase.","

Unlock the differences between air purifier and HVAC filter technologies before your next clean air tech purchase.

","Air purifiers are air cleaning devices that capture microscopic pollutants and produce clean air quality, while HVAC filters remove larger particles to protect internal machinery and air ducts. Although both tools help filtrate airborne pollutants, air purifiers and HVAC filters have vastly different purposes and capture different sized particles. Understanding the types of pollutants air purifiers and HVAC filters remove, their filtration efficiency rates, and optimal environments allows for comprehensive air quality protection. What particles does an HVAC filter remove? HVAC filters are key filtration components primarily built to prevent particulate matter and debris from entering HVAC wiring and machinery. As a byproduct, the filters also provide indoor filtration of airborne particles through airducts (1). However, the efficiency rate and types of particles captured can vary greatly between different HVAC systems and filters. Base tier HVAC filters typically remove larger sized pollutants that commonly reach air grates, such as: Dust Human hair Dirt Food particles Lint HVAC filters are excellent filtration tools to ensure HVAC systems and air ducts run smoothly, but these filters often miss ultrafine particles. Harmful microscopic pollutants can be invisible to the naked eye and seep through standard filters, increasing exposure levels and impacting health risks, especially for sensitive or allergy-prone populations (2). What particles does an air purifier remove? Air purifiers are powerful air cleaning tools specifically designed to target microscopic pollutants and allergens, removing these particles through advanced, high-density filters. HyperHEPA air purifiers are built to filtrate the smallest of particles, capturing 99.5% of airborne pollutants 0.003 microns in size. These pollutants can impact health risks and breathing conditions, ranging in various particle type and size, such as: Pollen Ultrafine particles Bacteria Viruses Smoke Pet hair and dander PM2.5, particulate matter down to 2.5 microns in diameter PM10, particulate matter down to 10 microns in diameter Air purifiers with advanced, multilayered filtration systems, such as activated carbon pre-filters, can reduce gaseous emissions, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for full for full coverage pollutant control. By eliminating airborne pollutants, air purifiers minimize exposure to airborne pollutants, leading to reduced asthmatic symptoms, allergy flare-ups, and respiratory risks. What’s the difference between an air purifier and an HVAC filter? The core differences between air purifier and HVAC filters are the primary purposes for each device, the various pollutants they capture, and particle removal efficiency rates. HVAC filters are designed to filtrate and capture larger airborne pollutants to prevent malfunctions within the internal HVAC system. HVAC filters have no standardized efficiency rates, leading to gaps in pollutant protection and elevated health risks. Compared to air purifiers, HVAC filters alone capture lower amounts of airborne pollutants. Air purifiers are specifically built to be air cleaning devices and address harmful microscopic particles that could be lingering indoors. HyperHEPA filters are lab-tested and science-backed to ensure maximum efficiency, capturing 99.5% of particles as small as 0.003 microns. With additional pre-filters and optional odor and gas filtration, air purifiers can remove an expansive number of pollutants compared to HVAC filters, creating a safe indoor breathing environment. Do you need both an air purifier and an HVAC filter? Yes. Air purifiers and HVAC filters provide vastly different protection purposes and should be utilized together for maximum filtration efficiency. HVAC filters are essential to keep internal HVAC machinery running smoothly and maintain whole-house filtration, while air purifiers provide targeted pollutant removal and air quality control. Comprehensively clean air quality depends on multilayered filtration systems and effective air cleaning technology. To achieve maximized pollutant protection, additional filtration technology can be installed within HVAC systems for a full coverage air quality solution. Some air cleaning devices, such as the PerfectPro Whole House Air Purifier, can connect seamlessly to existing airducts and in-house ventilation to provide ultrafine particle filtration in every room. Clean air methods alongside filtration Air purifiers and HVAC systems provide essential filtration for indoor spaces to achieve clean indoor air quality, though routine cleaning and daily practices can stop pollutant exposure at its source. Safe breathing conditions can be easily maintained and secured throughout all enclosed rooms with added ventilation methods and air quality awareness, such as: Air quality awareness: Install an air quality monitor to plan daily schedules, close windows during air quality events, and utilize multiple air cleaning devices for comprehensive protection. Active ventilation: Open windows during food preparation, utilize fans to increase air circulation, and employ long HVAC system runtimes during high-pollutant seasons. Pollutant source control: Avoid scented chemical cleaning sprays, routinely disinfect surfaces to prevent pollutant particles from spreading, and employ HyperHEPA air purifiers for ultrafine particle removal Advanced filtration in conjunction with daily clean air methods help ensure the maximum number of harmful particles are eliminated and health risks are minimized, creating a pollutant-free breathing environment. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) How often should I change an air purifier filter? Air purifier filters should be changed routinely every 6 months to 4 years depending on environment conditions and daily utilization. Check air purifier or filter packaging for suggested lifespans and routinely examine active filters for build-up or blockages. How often should I change an HVAC filter? HVAC filters should be replaced every 2 to 3 months depending on filter density and environment conditions. Check manufacturer guides for suggested lifespans and routinely examine active filters for build-up or blockages. Can I install multiple HVAC filters? Yes, multiple filters and air cleaners can be installed into HVAC systems with pre-existing filters. However, multiple filters should never be stacked on top of each other, as it could cause restrictive airflow and improper circulation. For safe, multilayered HVAC filtration, utilize whole house air purifiers to ensure clean air quality while maintaining proper airflow. The PerfectPro whole house air purifier seamlessly attaches to pre-existing HVAC systems and provides ultrafine particle control that trap pollutants standard filters can’t capture, such as smoke, bacteria, and viruses. smoke, bacteria, and viruses. Do HVAC filters remove gas or odors? No, HVAC filters are designed to block large particle debris from internal machinery and do not specifically remove gases or odors. If an HVAC filter is employed alone, gaseous emissions and odors could still invade indoor air spaces. Air purifiers with activated carbon filtration are key to capturing indoor gases and odors. The carbon filter’s unique porous structure allows for gaseous emissions and indoor odors to get trapped and filtrated, providing clean air quality from invisible pollutants. Conclusion Air purifiers are specifically designed to improve indoor air quality, defending against ultrafine pollutants and targeting harmful viruses, while HVAC filters filtrate larger particles to protect internal machinery. Whole house air purifiers and HVAC filter attachments provide key air quality protection against the particles missed by HVAC filters alone. Dual utilization of air purification devices and HVAC filters can lead to pathways for healthy, comfortable breathing throughout any household.","

Air purifiers are air cleaning devices that capture microscopic pollutants and produce clean air quality, while HVAC filters remove larger particles to protect internal machinery and air ducts. Although both tools help filtrate airborne pollutants, air purifiers and HVAC filters have vastly different purposes and capture different sized particles.

Understanding the types of pollutants air purifiers and HVAC filters remove, their filtration efficiency rates, and optimal environments allows for comprehensive air quality protection.

What particles does an HVAC filter remove?

HVAC filters are key filtration components primarily built to prevent particulate matter and debris from entering HVAC wiring and machinery. As a byproduct, the filters also provide indoor filtration of airborne particles through airducts (1). However, the efficiency rate and types of particles captured can vary greatly between different HVAC systems and filters. Base tier HVAC filters typically remove larger sized pollutants that commonly reach air grates, such as:

Dust
\n
Human hair
\n
Dirt
\n
Food particles
\n
Lint

HVAC filters are excellent filtration tools to ensure HVAC systems and air ducts run smoothly, but these filters often miss ultrafine particles. Harmful microscopic pollutants can be invisible to the naked eye and seep through standard filters, increasing exposure levels and impacting health risks, especially for sensitive or allergy-prone populations (2).

What particles does an air purifier remove?

Air purifiers are powerful air cleaning tools specifically designed to target microscopic pollutants and allergens, removing these particles through advanced, high-density filters. HyperHEPA air purifiers are built to filtrate the smallest of particles, capturing 99.5% of airborne pollutants 0.003 microns in size. These pollutants can impact health risks and breathing conditions, ranging in various particle type and size, such as:

Pollen
\n
Ultrafine particles
\n
Bacteria
\n
Viruses
\n
Smoke
\n
\nPet hair and dander
\n
\nPM2.5, particulate matter down to 2.5 microns in diameter
\n
\nPM10, particulate matter down to 10 microns in diameter
\n

Air purifiers with advanced, multilayered filtration systems, such as activated carbon pre-filters, can reduce gaseous emissions, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for full for full coverage pollutant control. By eliminating airborne pollutants, air purifiers minimize exposure to airborne pollutants, leading to reduced asthmatic symptoms, allergy flare-ups, and respiratory risks.

What’s the difference between an air purifier and an HVAC filter?

The core differences between air purifier and HVAC filters are the primary purposes for each device, the various pollutants they capture, and particle removal efficiency rates.

HVAC filters are designed to filtrate and capture larger airborne pollutants to prevent malfunctions within the internal HVAC system. HVAC filters have no standardized efficiency rates, leading to gaps in pollutant protection and elevated health risks. Compared to air purifiers, HVAC filters alone capture lower amounts of airborne pollutants.

Air purifiers are specifically built to be air cleaning devices and address harmful microscopic particles that could be lingering indoors. HyperHEPA filters are lab-tested and science-backed to ensure maximum efficiency, capturing 99.5% of particles as small as 0.003 microns. With additional pre-filters and optional odor and gas filtration, air purifiers can remove an expansive number of pollutants compared to HVAC filters, creating a safe indoor breathing environment.

Do you need both an air purifier and an HVAC filter?

Yes. Air purifiers and HVAC filters provide vastly different protection purposes and should be utilized together for maximum filtration efficiency. HVAC filters are essential to keep internal HVAC machinery running smoothly and maintain whole-house filtration, while air purifiers provide targeted pollutant removal and air quality control. Comprehensively clean air quality depends on multilayered filtration systems and effective air cleaning technology.

To achieve maximized pollutant protection, additional filtration technology can be installed within HVAC systems for a full coverage air quality solution. Some air cleaning devices, such as the PerfectPro Whole House Air Purifier, can connect seamlessly to existing airducts and in-house ventilation to provide ultrafine particle filtration in every room.

Clean air methods alongside filtration

Air purifiers and HVAC systems provide essential filtration for indoor spaces to achieve clean indoor air quality, though routine cleaning and daily practices can stop pollutant exposure at its source.

Safe breathing conditions can be easily maintained and secured throughout all enclosed rooms with added ventilation methods and air quality awareness, such as:

\nAir quality awareness: Install an air quality monitor to plan daily schedules, close windows during air quality events, and utilize multiple air cleaning devices for comprehensive protection.
\n
\nActive ventilation: Open windows during food preparation, utilize fans to increase air circulation, and employ long HVAC system runtimes during high-pollutant seasons.
\n
\nPollutant source control: Avoid scented chemical cleaning sprays, routinely disinfect surfaces to prevent pollutant particles from spreading, and employ HyperHEPA air purifiers for ultrafine particle removal

Advanced filtration in conjunction with daily clean air methods help ensure the maximum number of harmful particles are eliminated and health risks are minimized, creating a pollutant-free breathing environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often should I change an air purifier filter?

Air purifier filters should be changed routinely every 6 months to 4 years depending on environment conditions and daily utilization. Check air purifier or filter packaging for suggested lifespans and routinely examine active filters for build-up or blockages.

How often should I change an HVAC filter?

HVAC filters should be replaced every 2 to 3 months depending on filter density and environment conditions. Check manufacturer guides for suggested lifespans and routinely examine active filters for build-up or blockages.

Can I install multiple HVAC filters?

Yes, multiple filters and air cleaners can be installed into HVAC systems with pre-existing filters. However, multiple filters should never be stacked on top of each other, as it could cause restrictive airflow and improper circulation.

For safe, multilayered HVAC filtration, utilize whole house air purifiers to ensure clean air quality while maintaining proper airflow. The PerfectPro whole house air purifier seamlessly attaches to pre-existing HVAC systems and provides ultrafine particle control that trap pollutants standard filters can’t capture, such as smoke, bacteria, and viruses. smoke, bacteria, and viruses.

Do HVAC filters remove gas or odors?

No, HVAC filters are designed to block large particle debris from internal machinery and do not specifically remove gases or odors. If an HVAC filter is employed alone, gaseous emissions and odors could still invade indoor air spaces.

Air purifiers with activated carbon filtration are key to capturing indoor gases and odors. The carbon filter’s unique porous structure allows for gaseous emissions and indoor odors to get trapped and filtrated, providing clean air quality from invisible pollutants.

Conclusion

Air purifiers are specifically designed to improve indoor air quality, defending against ultrafine pollutants and targeting harmful viruses, while HVAC filters filtrate larger particles to protect internal machinery. Whole house air purifiers and HVAC filter attachments provide key air quality protection against the particles missed by HVAC filters alone.

Dual utilization of air purification devices and HVAC filters can lead to pathways for healthy, comfortable breathing throughout any household.

","air-purifier-vs-hvac-filter-whats-the-difference","gid://shopify/Article/1002983752054","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/air-purifier-vs-hvac-filter-whats-the-difference","2026-09-22T16:37:52Z",[600,14],"Air purifier vs HVAC filter: What’s the difference?",{"_53":850,"_210":-5,"_208":851,"_212":547,"_214":548},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/420418519414","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/article_purifierHVAC_a963e119-6c84-4c13-b60d-cc0d6572b31e.jpg?v=1790095074",{"_55":868},{"_66":64},"Wildfires produce immense smoke and chemicals that can impact the health of individuals across cities. Discover global wildfire trends and how to prepare for elevated smoke pollution.","

Wildfires produce immense smoke and chemicals that can impact the health of individuals across cities. Discover global wildfire trends and how to prepare for elevated smoke pollution.

","Wildfire season is supposed to have an early autumn ending. But increasingly, that timeline extends, as wildfire season is becoming longer and more severe due to the impacts of climate change. Despite already being in late September, the traditional end of wildfire season in much of the Northern Hemisphere, communities may still be dealing with active fires, hazardous smoke and weeks of accumulated exposure. In 2026, that reality is already visible across continents. Europe had already surpassed 600,000 hectares burned, making 2026 its third-worst wildfire season on record. Canada has recorded around 5,000 wildfires and over 4 million hectares burned so far this year. In Indonesia, at least 285,000 hectares had burned as fires sent hazardous haze across national borders into Malaysia and Brunei. The question we should be asking is no longer simply about how we prevent and fight wildfires. It is: How do we protect public health from the widespread, toxic smoke they produce? That distinction matters. Wildfire smoke is no longer an occasional side effect of a natural disaster. It is becoming a recurring, large-scale source of air pollution that can affect millions of people far from the flames, and public health systems need to be able to immediately respond to protect human health. The Fire May Be Local. The Smoke Is Not. Wildfires have traditionally been treated as a geographic emergency: a fire threatens a community, authorities issue evacuation orders, firefighters respond and residents return when the flames are gone. Smoke does not follow that model. Wildfire smoke can travel hundreds or thousands of kilometers, crossing cities, regions and national borders. The World Health Organization now explicitly identifies wildfire smoke as a severe global health burden and says the public health sector has a key role in prevention, preparedness and response. The 2023 Canadian wildfire season provides perhaps the clearest illustration. Canada’s fires burned approximately 15 million hectares, more than seven times the average over the previous forty years. Researchers found that 354 million people in North America and Europe were exposed to at least one day when Canadian wildfire smoke pushed PM2.5 above the WHO’s 24-hour guideline. An estimated 5,400 acute deaths and 64,300 chronic deaths in North America and Europe were attributable to that smoke exposure. Globally, the researchers estimated approximately 82,100 premature deaths associated with chronic exposure to smoke from those Canadian fires alone. That is not simply a wildfire problem. It is an air pollution problem and a public health crisis. Smoke Needs the Same Response as Any Other Health Hazard The primary public health threat from wildfire smoke is fine particulate matter, or PM2.5. These particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, contributing to respiratory and cardiovascular health effects. Smoke exposure can worsen asthma, increase respiratory symptoms and contribute to hospital admissions and premature death. Children, older adults, pregnant people and those with existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable. Yet preparedness often remains heavily focused on the fire itself: evacuation routes, defensible space, fuel reduction, firefighting capacity and emergency response. While the fire itself is important and needs to be contained, that response does not address the human health crisis. How do we protect human health when the fire is hundreds of miles away and the air is still unhealthy? A modern wildfire smoke strategy should include: Continuous air quality monitoring Smoke forecasting Public alerts Clean air shelters and buildings Filtration standards Healthcare preparedness Workplace protections and Clear guidance for schools, businesses, and vulnerable populations This is especially important because smoke exposure is not limited to people who live in wildfire prone areas. The 2023 Canadian fires increased annual PM2.5 exposure not only in Canada and the United States, but also in Europe. Researchers found that 90% of Europe’s population—approximately 620 million people—experienced some increase in annual PM2.5 exposure from those fires. Earlier this summer in July 2026, smoke from wildfires in Canada blanketed several major U.S. cities, causing them to experience hazardous air quality for days despite being hundreds of miles away from the flames. Climate Change Is Increasing the Risk and Exposure Climate change is making wildfire smoke more difficult to address as an occasional emergency. The WHO says wildfires are increasing globally in frequency and severity, with fire season beginning earlier and ending later as warmer temperatures, drought, and changing weather patterns alter fire conditions. It estimates that extreme wildfires could become up to 50% more frequent by the end of the century. The consequences are already measurable. In Canada, a 2026 health impact analysis found that more than 80% of the population experienced an average seasonal wildfire PM2.5 exposure of at least 1 microgram per cubic meter over the 2013–2023 period. Researchers estimated approximately 1,900 premature deaths and US$18 billion annual economic health burden associated with that long-term exposure. Meanwhile, IQAir’s 2025 World Air Quality Report found that only 14% of global cities met the WHO annual PM2.5 guideline, down from 17% the previous year. Wildfires are only one source of pollution, but they are increasingly capable of overwhelming normal air quality conditions and reversing progress in regions that might otherwise be improving in air quality. We Need to Make Smoke Preparedness Permanent Governments and public health agencies should treat wildfire smoke as a predictable, recurring environmental health hazard, one that deserves permanent infrastructure rather than temporary emergency measures. That means: Establishing dense, reliable air quality monitoring networks Integrating smoke forecasts into public health warning systems Creating clean air spaces before smoke arrives Ensuring schools, hospitals, and workplaces can maintain healthy indoor air Making clear, localized health guidance available before exposure reaches dangerous levels It also means recognizing that the people most affected by wildfire smoke may not be those closest to the fire. Communities with older housing, limited access to air conditioning or filtration, outdoor workers, children, and people who cannot afford to relocate or create cleaner indoor environments can face a disproportionate burden. We should continue investing in forest management, fire prevention, resilient infrastructure and climate mitigation. But those efforts must be paired with something equally important: smoke preparedness. Because the defining public health challenge of the next wildfire era may not be how many acres burn. It may be how many people breathe the smoke. Wildfire smoke is becoming a structural public health issue. Our collective response needs to be structural as well.","

Wildfire season is supposed to have an early autumn ending. But increasingly, that timeline extends, as wildfire season is becoming longer and more severe due to the impacts of climate change.

Despite already being in late September, the traditional end of wildfire season in much of the Northern Hemisphere, communities may still be dealing with active fires, hazardous smoke and weeks of accumulated exposure. In 2026, that reality is already visible across continents. Europe had already surpassed 600,000 hectares burned, making 2026 its third-worst wildfire season on record. Canada has recorded around 5,000 wildfires and over 4 million hectares burned so far this year. In Indonesia, at least 285,000 hectares had burned as fires sent hazardous haze across national borders into Malaysia and Brunei.

The question we should be asking is no longer simply about how we prevent and fight wildfires. It is: How do we protect public health from the widespread, toxic smoke they produce?

That distinction matters. Wildfire smoke is no longer an occasional side effect of a natural disaster. It is becoming a recurring, large-scale source of air pollution that can affect millions of people far from the flames, and public health systems need to be able to immediately respond to protect human health.

The Fire May Be Local. The Smoke Is Not.

Wildfires have traditionally been treated as a geographic emergency: a fire threatens a community, authorities issue evacuation orders, firefighters respond and residents return when the flames are gone.

Smoke does not follow that model.

Wildfire smoke can travel hundreds or thousands of kilometers, crossing cities, regions and national borders. The World Health Organization now explicitly identifies wildfire smoke as a severe global health burden and says the public health sector has a key role in prevention, preparedness and response.

The 2023 Canadian wildfire season provides perhaps the clearest illustration. Canada’s fires burned approximately 15 million hectares, more than seven times the average over the previous forty years. Researchers found that 354 million people in North America and Europe were exposed to at least one day when Canadian wildfire smoke pushed PM2.5 above the WHO’s 24-hour guideline. An estimated 5,400 acute deaths and 64,300 chronic deaths in North America and Europe were attributable to that smoke exposure. Globally, the researchers estimated approximately 82,100 premature deaths associated with chronic exposure to smoke from those Canadian fires alone.

That is not simply a wildfire problem. It is an air pollution problem and a public health crisis.

Smoke Needs the Same Response as Any Other Health Hazard

The primary public health threat from wildfire smoke is fine particulate matter, or PM2.5. These particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, contributing to respiratory and cardiovascular health effects. Smoke exposure can worsen asthma, increase respiratory symptoms and contribute to hospital admissions and premature death. Children, older adults, pregnant people and those with existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable.

Yet preparedness often remains heavily focused on the fire itself: evacuation routes, defensible space, fuel reduction, firefighting capacity and emergency response.

While the fire itself is important and needs to be contained, that response does not address the human health crisis. How do we protect human health when the fire is hundreds of miles away and the air is still unhealthy?

A modern wildfire smoke strategy should include:

Continuous air quality monitoring
Smoke forecasting
Public alerts
Clean air shelters and buildings
Filtration standards
Healthcare preparedness
Workplace protections and
Clear guidance for schools, businesses, and vulnerable populations

This is especially important because smoke exposure is not limited to people who live in wildfire prone areas. The 2023 Canadian fires increased annual PM2.5 exposure not only in Canada and the United States, but also in Europe. Researchers found that 90% of Europe’s population—approximately 620 million people—experienced some increase in annual PM2.5 exposure from those fires. Earlier this summer in July 2026, smoke from wildfires in Canada blanketed several major U.S. cities, causing them to experience hazardous air quality for days despite being hundreds of miles away from the flames.

Climate Change Is Increasing the Risk and Exposure

Climate change is making wildfire smoke more difficult to address as an occasional emergency.

The WHO says wildfires are increasing globally in frequency and severity, with fire season beginning earlier and ending later as warmer temperatures, drought, and changing weather patterns alter fire conditions. It estimates that extreme wildfires could become up to 50% more frequent by the end of the century.

The consequences are already measurable.

In Canada, a 2026 health impact analysis found that more than 80% of the population experienced an average seasonal wildfire PM2.5 exposure of at least 1 microgram per cubic meter over the 2013–2023 period. Researchers estimated approximately 1,900 premature deaths and US$18 billion annual economic health burden associated with that long-term exposure.

Meanwhile, IQAir’s 2025 World Air Quality Report found that only 14% of global cities met the WHO annual PM2.5 guideline, down from 17% the previous year. Wildfires are only one source of pollution, but they are increasingly capable of overwhelming normal air quality conditions and reversing progress in regions that might otherwise be improving in air quality.

We Need to Make Smoke Preparedness Permanent

Governments and public health agencies should treat wildfire smoke as a predictable, recurring environmental health hazard, one that deserves permanent infrastructure rather than temporary emergency measures.

That means:

Establishing dense, reliable air quality monitoring networks
Integrating smoke forecasts into public health warning systems
Creating clean air spaces before smoke arrives
Ensuring schools, hospitals, and workplaces can maintain healthy indoor air
Making clear, localized health guidance available before exposure reaches dangerous levels

It also means recognizing that the people most affected by wildfire smoke may not be those closest to the fire. Communities with older housing, limited access to air conditioning or filtration, outdoor workers, children, and people who cannot afford to relocate or create cleaner indoor environments can face a disproportionate burden.

We should continue investing in forest management, fire prevention, resilient infrastructure and climate mitigation. But those efforts must be paired with something equally important: smoke preparedness.

Because the defining public health challenge of the next wildfire era may not be how many acres burn. It may be how many people breathe the smoke.

Wildfire smoke is becoming a structural public health issue. Our collective response needs to be structural as well.

","wildfire-smoke-is-an-escalating-public-health-crisis","gid://shopify/Article/1002985390454","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/wildfire-smoke-is-an-escalating-public-health-crisis","2026-09-23T16:15:13Z",[446,14,867,447],"Wildfire Smoke Is an Escalating Public Health Crisis",{"_53":865,"_210":-5,"_208":866,"_212":547,"_214":548},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/420460462454","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/article_WildfireHealth-b_7a363f6e-6e4c-4c1e-ba8f-c9705d9e8931.jpg?v=1790180115","Thought Leadership","Frank Hammes",{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"Airborne pollutants can distract in-school learning and compromise student health. Learn about the far-reaching effects of poor air quality in classrooms internationally.","

Airborne pollutants can distract in-school learning and compromise student health. Learn about the far-reaching effects of poor air quality in classrooms internationally.

","As autumn approaches and schools are preparing to begin sessions, air quality can be a hidden deterrent, impacting student learning and engagement globally. Depending on school location and regional environment, airborne pollutants could be produced at elevated levels and invade indoor classroom air. Protecting student health through clean indoor air secures productive learning spaces. By understanding the different types of classroom pollutants, associated health implications, and joint parent-educator clean air efforts, students can breathe healthier air with no learning disruptions. What airborne pollutants can be found in classrooms? School location and the surrounding outside air quality environment can have a great impact on various levels of airborne pollutants. For instance, daycares located in populous urban cities may experience heightened levels of traffic emissions, while schools neighboring rural areas could see increased wildfire risk and allergen activity. These air quality events can harbor a wide range of unhealthy pollutant particles, such as: Smoke Pollen Pet dander Gases Odors Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) PM2.5, particulate matter down to 2.5 microns in size PM10, particulate matter down to 10 microns in size With multiple students per class and multiple classrooms within schools, airborne pollutants can be easily knocked into the air throughout the day and transferred from one individual to the next. According to Harvard University, synthetic carpets and dyes schools commonly use have been known to release airborne chemicals, impacting student health (1). CO2, an odorless invisible gas, can also be released through vehicle exhausts in neighboring streets, wildfire smoke, and indoor building vents. Air quality can be infectious as well. Bacterial and viral particles can pass between individuals and cause elevated risks for illness within larger crowds. Airborne viruses, such as SARS- CoV-2 and influenza, can spread through close-contact exposure, especially in stale indoor environments. SARS- CoV-2 is the virus that leads to the COVID-19 disease. How does air pollution impact learning? Air pollution impacts critical areas of student learning, including attendance levels, cognitive function, and test scores. In a survey of studies mostly drawn from urban schools in countries including the U.S., the UK, Sweden, and Brazil, it was found that long-term exposure and higher peaks in pollution could impact school performance and outcomes. This was especially true in schools affected by socioeconomic factors (2). A paper published in 2025 found that a 10 µg/m3 increase in PM2.5 exposure in an urban California school district caused a 5.7% increase in full-day student absences and a 28% increase in office referrals over a three-day window (3). The same rise in pollution levels also increased teacher absences due to illness by 13.1%. A study published in the European Journal of Pediatrics reviewed cognitive function in school age children at schools affected by traffic-related pollutants (4). Analysis found that exposure to these pollutants resulted in lower verbal comprehension in girls, while boys experienced a reduced working memory. Between 2001 and 2018, researchers tracked 2.8 million public school students in North Carolina. This large representation of students spanning the student’s entire time in public schools confirmed that exposure to PM2.5 played a negative role in standardized test scoring (5). Can airborne pollutants impact adolescent health? Yes. Aside from bacterial and viral illnesses, airborne pollutants have been linked to elevated health risks and symptoms that disrupt personal learning and productivity. A 2019 study found that even short-term exposure to airborne pollutants increased the risk for adolescent youth to be hospitalized for mental health concerns, such as intense stress, sadness, anxiety, and harmful thoughts or behaviors (6). Air pollution has a demonstrated, strong impact on children’s lung development. Children living London were found to have much smaller lungs than those of their peers living in Luton, England due to exposure to traffic-sourced air pollution. However, a 2026 study found a decline in childhood lung impairment following the establishment of London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). Children ages 6-9 years old in London were found to have seen accelerated lung growth compared to the control group in Luton. The London children also experienced an improvement in clinically impaired lung function, dropping from 14% to 9%. Poor air quality can have prolonged effects on developing children and sensitive groups, exacerbating pre-existing symptoms and conditions. Another 2019 research study discovered a link between school absences and asthma, specifically noting urban locations and pollution (7). In the U.S. alone, almost 8,000 public schools are within 500 feet of highways, truck routes, and other traffic-heavy roads, elevating PM2.5 levels within the region of these learning spaces (8). School staff health is also impacted by airborne pollutants. Teachers and staff may experience short- and long-term health problems from poor indoor air quality, ranging from coughing, sneezing, and headaches to more serious health outcomes, like respiratory tract infection and disease and asthma (9). Air pollution affects schools internationally Air pollution is a global issue and schools can experience exacerbated pollutants levels by environmental factors unique to the location. In Delhi, India, some schools reported a shift to hybrid learning systems due to elevated unhealthy pollutant levels from ongoing traffic emissions and urbanization (10). On the days kids are in-person for school, bus transportation could be barred completely, and outdoor recess time can be limited (11). City-wide pollution depends on systematic change and community action for air quality improvements. In Beijing, China, persistent urban air pollution concerns from parents pushed several schools to adopt air cleaning technology. The Beijing Municipal Education Commission came to the decision in 2017 to implement air purifiers across the school district, as several private schools within the city already had integrated clean air systems built (12). In Ontario, Canada, modern federal government aid has supported the reformation of ventilation systems in 72 school boards within the province, as a response from COVID-19 resilience programs (13). According to a 2011 research study, about 16% of primary public schools across Canada’s 10 most populous cities were located near major highways (14). In Melbourne, Australia, in-school programs and new government support opportunities are driving air quality changes within local communities (15)(16). According to a 2024 climate report, one in six Australian schools and childcare centers were located in close proximity to busy roadways, increasing premature health risks and respiratory symptoms (17). How to reduce unhealthy pollutants Air cleaning tools provide optimized support in minimizing airborne pollutant exposure and contagious spread of viral particles. HyperHEPA air purifiers contain maximized filtration, capturing 99.5% of ultrafine pollutants down to 0.003 microns in size, such as smoke, pollen, and particulate matter. Extended runtimes and automated air cleaning devices can be effective for learning spaces as airborne pollutants can disrupt teaching at any time. Schools can join the Clean Air Schools program to help foster safer, healthier learning environments for students. In California, home to the largest number of Clean Air Schools in the country, some students are already benefitting from cleaner air. A pilot study by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) demonstrated that low-cost, high efficiency HVAC filters removed up to 90% of ultrafine particles and diesel particulate matter from indoor air in three schools near refineries, freeways, and industrial facilities. Cleaner indoor air means reduced absenteeism as well. Through a combination of source control, proper ventilation, and effective air filtration, schools can increase classroom attendance. This can mean increased school funding where funds are linked to lowered absenteeism and better Average Daily Attendance (ADA) (18). Socio-economic disadvantaged and pollution impacted schools can also apply for grant funding, through the Clean Air for Kids initiative from the Foundation for Clean Air. What can schools doSchool staff and district officials can make an impactful difference in student health between every classroom with the proper integrated air cleaning technology and awareness. Implementing advanced school-wide filtration alongside air quality event awareness can help protect student and staff well-being, such as: Join the Schools4Earth program Become a Clean Air School Apply for Clean Air for Kids funding if applicable Open school-wide windows and doors for maximized ventilation when the air is clean Host district meetings or open inquiry drop boxes to collect student health questions and air quality concerns Routinely sanitize commonly used surfaces Avoid scented chemical cleaning aerosols Open classroom windows for maximized airflow ventilation, when the outdoor air is clean Incorporate air quality monitoring and pollutant effects into educational lessons plans What can educators do Teachers and educators have the power to enact positive air quality changes within classrooms and learning spaces. By utilizing air quality innovations and daily clean air methods, students can feel inspired and learn more about environmental awareness, such as: Apply for Clean Air for Kids funding Equip indoor air quality monitors with real-time visual maps Utilize HyperHEPA air cleaning devices for maximized pollutant filtration Routinely sanitize commonly used surfaces Avoid scented chemical cleaning aerosols Open classroom windows for maximized air flow ventilation Incorporate air quality monitoring and pollutant effects into educational lessons plans What can parents doParents, relatives, and community members can take initiatives and plan ahead for students to transition smoothly and safely into new indoor environments. Practicing air-conscious lifestyle choices alongside at-home filtration ensures students feel prepared and aware of air quality conditions, including: Ensure schools are equipped with indoor and outdoor air quality monitors to spread awareness Keep KN95 masks on hand during wildfire smoke events Donate air purification devices to classrooms in public schools Routinely sanitize school backpacks and clothes that can track in pollutants Discuss specific air quality or health needs with educators to ensure proper childcare Drive an electric vehicle or utilize school bus drop-offs to limit traffic emissions Attend school district meetings to contribute to air quality improvements Clean air preparation and lifestyle choices for students can help build environmental awareness and secure healthy breathing conditions both in school and at home. Conclusion Schools should feel like safe, productive learning spaces no matter the location or city it resides in. Securing clean air quality and practicing air-conscious choices can be impactful steps to creating a healthy environment for students this upcoming school year. With the Clean Air School certification with monitoring tools, air quality can be implemented within daily schedules or even educational lesson plans. By leveraging air quality data, technology, and filtration, student health protection can be maximized and fit seamlessly into environmental education.","

As autumn approaches and schools are preparing to begin sessions, air quality can be a hidden deterrent, impacting student learning and engagement globally. Depending on school location and regional environment, airborne pollutants could be produced at elevated levels and invade indoor classroom air. Protecting student health through clean indoor air secures productive learning spaces.

By understanding the different types of classroom pollutants, associated health implications, and joint parent-educator clean air efforts, students can breathe healthier air with no learning disruptions.

What airborne pollutants can be found in classrooms?

School location and the surrounding outside air quality environment can have a great impact on various levels of airborne pollutants. For instance, daycares located in populous urban cities may experience heightened levels of traffic emissions, while schools neighboring rural areas could see increased wildfire risk and allergen activity. These air quality events can harbor a wide range of unhealthy pollutant particles, such as:

Smoke
Pollen
Pet dander
Gases
Odors
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)\n
\nPM2.5, particulate matter down to 2.5 microns in size
\nPM10, particulate matter down to 10 microns in size
\n

With multiple students per class and multiple classrooms within schools, airborne pollutants can be easily knocked into the air throughout the day and transferred from one individual to the next. According to Harvard University, synthetic carpets and dyes schools commonly use have been known to release airborne chemicals, impacting student health (1). CO2, an odorless invisible gas, can also be released through vehicle exhausts in neighboring streets, wildfire smoke, and indoor building vents.

Air quality can be infectious as well. Bacterial and viral particles can pass between individuals and cause elevated risks for illness within larger crowds. Airborne viruses, such as SARS- CoV-2 and influenza, can spread through close-contact exposure, especially in stale indoor environments. SARS- CoV-2 is the virus that leads to the COVID-19 disease.

How does air pollution impact learning?

Air pollution impacts critical areas of student learning, including attendance levels, cognitive function, and test scores. In a survey of studies mostly drawn from urban schools in countries including the U.S., the UK, Sweden, and Brazil, it was found that long-term exposure and higher peaks in pollution could impact school performance and outcomes. This was especially true in schools affected by socioeconomic factors (2).

A paper published in 2025 found that a 10 µg/m3 increase in PM2.5 exposure in an urban California school district caused a 5.7% increase in full-day student absences and a 28% increase in office referrals over a three-day window (3). The same rise in pollution levels also increased teacher absences due to illness by 13.1%.

A study published in the European Journal of Pediatrics reviewed cognitive function in school age children at schools affected by traffic-related pollutants (4). Analysis found that exposure to these pollutants resulted in lower verbal comprehension in girls, while boys experienced a reduced working memory.

Between 2001 and 2018, researchers tracked 2.8 million public school students in North Carolina. This large representation of students spanning the student’s entire time in public schools confirmed that exposure to PM2.5 played a negative role in standardized test scoring (5).

Can airborne pollutants impact adolescent health?

Yes. Aside from bacterial and viral illnesses, airborne pollutants have been linked to elevated health risks and symptoms that disrupt personal learning and productivity. A 2019 study found that even short-term exposure to airborne pollutants increased the risk for adolescent youth to be hospitalized for mental health concerns, such as intense stress, sadness, anxiety, and harmful thoughts or behaviors (6).

Air pollution has a demonstrated, strong impact on children’s lung development. Children living London were found to have much smaller lungs than those of their peers living in Luton, England due to exposure to traffic-sourced air pollution. However, a 2026 study found a decline in childhood lung impairment following the establishment of London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). Children ages 6-9 years old in London were found to have seen accelerated lung growth compared to the control group in Luton. The London children also experienced an improvement in clinically impaired lung function, dropping from 14% to 9%.

Poor air quality can have prolonged effects on developing children and sensitive groups, exacerbating pre-existing symptoms and conditions. Another 2019 research study discovered a link between school absences and asthma, specifically noting urban locations and pollution (7). In the U.S. alone, almost 8,000 public schools are within 500 feet of highways, truck routes, and other traffic-heavy roads, elevating PM2.5 levels within the region of these learning spaces (8).

School staff health is also impacted by airborne pollutants. Teachers and staff may experience short- and long-term health problems from poor indoor air quality, ranging from coughing, sneezing, and headaches to more serious health outcomes, like respiratory tract infection and disease and asthma (9).

Air pollution affects schools internationally

Air pollution is a global issue and schools can experience exacerbated pollutants levels by environmental factors unique to the location.

In Delhi, India, some schools reported a shift to hybrid learning systems due to elevated unhealthy pollutant levels from ongoing traffic emissions and urbanization (10). On the days kids are in-person for school, bus transportation could be barred completely, and outdoor recess time can be limited (11). City-wide pollution depends on systematic change and community action for air quality improvements.

In Beijing, China, persistent urban air pollution concerns from parents pushed several schools to adopt air cleaning technology. The Beijing Municipal Education Commission came to the decision in 2017 to implement air purifiers across the school district, as several private schools within the city already had integrated clean air systems built (12).

In Ontario, Canada, modern federal government aid has supported the reformation of ventilation systems in 72 school boards within the province, as a response from COVID-19 resilience programs (13). According to a 2011 research study, about 16% of primary public schools across Canada’s 10 most populous cities were located near major highways (14).

In Melbourne, Australia, in-school programs and new government support opportunities are driving air quality changes within local communities (15)(16). According to a 2024 climate report, one in six Australian schools and childcare centers were located in close proximity to busy roadways, increasing premature health risks and respiratory symptoms (17).

How to reduce unhealthy pollutants

Air cleaning tools provide optimized support in minimizing airborne pollutant exposure and contagious spread of viral particles. HyperHEPA air purifiers contain maximized filtration, capturing 99.5% of ultrafine pollutants down to 0.003 microns in size, such as smoke, pollen, and particulate matter. Extended runtimes and automated air cleaning devices can be effective for learning spaces as airborne pollutants can disrupt teaching at any time.

Schools can join the Clean Air Schools program to help foster safer, healthier learning environments for students. In California, home to the largest number of Clean Air Schools in the country, some students are already benefitting from cleaner air. A pilot study by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) demonstrated that low-cost, high efficiency HVAC filters removed up to 90% of ultrafine particles and diesel particulate matter from indoor air in three schools near refineries, freeways, and industrial facilities.

Cleaner indoor air means reduced absenteeism as well. Through a combination of source control, proper ventilation, and effective air filtration, schools can increase classroom attendance. This can mean increased school funding where funds are linked to lowered absenteeism and better Average Daily Attendance (ADA) (18).

Socio-economic disadvantaged and pollution impacted schools can also apply for grant funding, through the Clean Air for Kids initiative from the Foundation for Clean Air.

What can schools do
School staff and district officials can make an impactful difference in student health between every classroom with the proper integrated air cleaning technology and awareness. Implementing advanced school-wide filtration alongside air quality event awareness can help protect student and staff well-being, such as:

Join the Schools4Earth program
Become a Clean Air School\n
Apply for Clean Air for Kids funding if applicable
Open school-wide windows and doors for maximized ventilation when the air is clean
Host district meetings or open inquiry drop boxes to collect student health questions and air quality concerns
Routinely sanitize commonly used surfaces
Avoid scented chemical cleaning aerosols
Open classroom windows for maximized airflow ventilation, when the outdoor air is clean
Incorporate air quality monitoring and pollutant effects into educational lessons plans
\n

What can educators do
Teachers and educators have the power to enact positive air quality changes within classrooms and learning spaces. By utilizing air quality innovations and daily clean air methods, students can feel inspired and learn more about environmental awareness, such as:

Apply for Clean Air for Kids funding
Equip indoor air quality monitors with real-time visual maps
Utilize HyperHEPA air cleaning devices for maximized pollutant filtration
Routinely sanitize commonly used surfaces
Avoid scented chemical cleaning aerosols
Open classroom windows for maximized air flow ventilation
Incorporate air quality monitoring and pollutant effects into educational lessons plans

What can parents do
Parents, relatives, and community members can take initiatives and plan ahead for students to transition smoothly and safely into new indoor environments. Practicing air-conscious lifestyle choices alongside at-home filtration ensures students feel prepared and aware of air quality conditions, including:

Ensure schools are equipped with indoor and outdoor air quality monitors to spread awareness
Keep KN95 masks on hand during wildfire smoke events
Donate air purification devices to classrooms in public schools
Routinely sanitize school backpacks and clothes that can track in pollutants
Discuss specific air quality or health needs with educators to ensure proper childcare
Drive an electric vehicle or utilize school bus drop-offs to limit traffic emissions
Attend school district meetings to contribute to air quality improvements

Clean air preparation and lifestyle choices for students can help build environmental awareness and secure healthy breathing conditions both in school and at home.

Conclusion

Schools should feel like safe, productive learning spaces no matter the location or city it resides in. Securing clean air quality and practicing air-conscious choices can be impactful steps to creating a healthy environment for students this upcoming school year. With the Clean Air School certification with monitoring tools, air quality can be implemented within daily schedules or even educational lesson plans.

By leveraging air quality data, technology, and filtration, student health protection can be maximized and fit seamlessly into environmental education.

","classroom-air-quality-impacts-students-globally","gid://shopify/Article/1002953572726","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/classroom-air-quality-impacts-students-globally","2026-09-28T19:02:42Z",[600,446,14,884],"Classroom air quality impacts learning",{"_53":882,"_210":-5,"_208":883,"_212":547,"_214":548},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/420687413622","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/ProtectingKidsClassroomAir_AtemX_Desk_07c518d3-07c5-4625-935c-8acf37a38d6d.jpg?v=1790694896","Parents",{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"Not sure where your air purifier should go in the living room? The answer depends less on the spot and more on whether it's properly sized for the space. Here's how to get both right.","

Not sure where your air purifier should go in the living room? The answer depends less on the spot and more on whether it's properly sized for the space. Here's how to get both right.

","Where you put an air purifier in a living room matters, but not as much as whether the unit is properly sized and running at an adequate fan speed for the room. Get sizing right, and placement has real flexibility. Get it wrong, and where you put the purifier becomes the deciding factor in whether you're breathing cleaner air at all, because an undersized or under-powered unit can't rely on general circulation to reach the whole room. In that case, the fix isn't a better spot on the wall; it's moving the purifier closer to where people actually sit. That relationship is the starting point for figuring out where a living room air purifier belongs. Why does air purifier placement matter in a living room? Living rooms are usually the largest, most heavily used room in the home, and increasingly, they flow directly into kitchens and dining areas with no wall to separate them. That combination of size, activity, and open layout is exactly what makes sizing worth settling before placement. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends placing a portable air cleaner in the room where occupants spend the most time (1), which for many households is the living room. A few placement habits work against that regardless of sizing: a purifier tucked into a corner, wedged behind a sofa, or placed too close to a wall has its airflow restricted no matter how powerful it is on paper. Where exactly should you put an air purifier in the living room? Start by confirming the air purifier is a good match for the room. If it's correctly sized and running at an adequate fan speed, general best practices apply: Use the longest open wall. Position the purifier along the room's longest unobstructed wall, facing into the room, for the most even reach in both directions. Give it breathing room. Furniture, curtains, or a wall pressed too close to the intake or output vents restricts circulation and reduces performance. Stay out of the walkway. A central, open position works better than a high-traffic path, where the purifier is more likely to be bumped, blocked, or unplugged. If the air purifier is undersized or running on a lower fan speed, prioritize proximity instead: position it within a few feet of your main seating area, and check whether raising the fan speed solves the problem before assuming a different spot will. How do open floor plans affect air purifier placement in the living room? Open floor plans raise the sizing stakes. When a living room flows into a kitchen or dining area with no dividing wall, the effective space the purifier needs to clean is larger than the living room alone, so a purifier well-matched to the living room by itself may be undersized once the adjoining space is factored in. If it's sized for the combined square footage, positioning it near the boundary between the two areas lets it serve both. If not, the same proximity rule from above applies: keep it close to where people actually sit. This is also a whole-room ventilation question. The EPA notes that homes should aim for a baseline air exchange rate under ASHRAE residential ventilation standards, and larger, merged living spaces naturally require more air movement to maintain consistent air quality throughout (2). What pollution sources could influence air purifier placement in the living room? Within whatever flexibility sizing allows, specific pollutants common to a living room can help fine-tune exactly where the purifier goes: Pets. Position the purifier nearer a pet's favorite spot to help capture dander and hair before it spreads. Fireplaces or wood stoves. Keep a reasonable distance from direct heat, but stay within range to help capture soot and smoke. Windows and entryways. Place the purifier nearer a window or entry point if outdoor pollution is a regular concern, keeping windows closed during pollution spikes. Cooking odors from an open kitchen. Positioning near the kitchen-living room boundary can help capture cooking smoke too, provided sizing supports covering that combined area. How should you size an air purifier for a large or open-concept living room? Since sizing is what determines how much freedom you have with placement, it's worth knowing what to look for. Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) measures how quickly a purifier can produce clean air in a room, but it only reflects short-term, initial performance. It doesn't indicate how well a purifier will keep performing as it accumulates pollutants over weeks and months. Cumulative Clean Mass (CCM) is a better indicator of long-term performance, measuring how much particulate matter and gas a filter can capture before its efficiency starts to decline, rated in tiers from P1 to P4 for particles and F1 to F4 for gases. For a large or open-concept living room, an air purifier with both an appropriate room-size rating and a high CCM tier, run at a matched fan speed, is what earns you placement flexibility in the first place. What to avoid when placing a living room air purifier A few placement habits work against performance no matter how the purifier is sized: Tucking it behind or under furniture, TV consoles, or entertainment centers Pushing it directly against a wall or into a corner Placing it beneath curtains or behind floor-length drapes Setting it directly beside heat sources like a fireplace, radiator, or sun-exposed window Positioning it in a doorway or walkway where airflow, and foot traffic, gets blocked Conclusion Placement isn't the first question to ask about a living room air purifier; sizing is. A properly sized purifier running at an adequate fan speed can go almost anywhere, and a central, unobstructed spot along the room's longest wall is a sound default. A purifier that's undersized or running too low doesn't have that flexibility and belongs as close to your seating area as possible instead. Settle sizing first, and placement becomes fine-tuning, not a fix for a problem the purifier itself can't solve. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) Should I put my air purifier in the corner of the living room?It's best to avoid corners regardless of sizing. Corners restrict airflow on two sides at once, creating a dead zone that reduces circulation. Can one air purifier cover an open living room and kitchen?Yes, if it's sized for the combined square footage and run at an adequate fan speed. If not, keep it near your main seating area instead. How far should an air purifier be from the couch?A properly sized, adequately powered air purifier has flexibility, and a nearby wall position works well. An undersized or low-speed purifier should stay within a few feet of your seating area. Should I run my living room air purifier all day?Many air purifiers are designed for continuous operation and running one consistently at a fan speed matched to the room helps maintain more stable air quality in a high-traffic space. Does a fireplace affect where I should place my air purifier?Yes. Keep a reasonable distance from direct heat and flames but stay positioned to help capture smoke and soot particles that drift into the room when the fireplace is in use.","

Where you put an air purifier in a living room matters, but not as much as whether the unit is properly sized and running at an adequate fan speed for the room. Get sizing right, and placement has real flexibility. Get it wrong, and where you put the purifier becomes the deciding factor in whether you're breathing cleaner air at all, because an undersized or under-powered unit can't rely on general circulation to reach the whole room. In that case, the fix isn't a better spot on the wall; it's moving the purifier closer to where people actually sit.

That relationship is the starting point for figuring out where a living room air purifier belongs.

Why does air purifier placement matter in a living room?

Living rooms are usually the largest, most heavily used room in the home, and increasingly, they flow directly into kitchens and dining areas with no wall to separate them. That combination of size, activity, and open layout is exactly what makes sizing worth settling before placement.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends placing a portable air cleaner in the room where occupants spend the most time (1), which for many households is the living room. A few placement habits work against that regardless of sizing: a purifier tucked into a corner, wedged behind a sofa, or placed too close to a wall has its airflow restricted no matter how powerful it is on paper.

Where exactly should you put an air purifier in the living room?

Start by confirming the air purifier is a good match for the room. If it's correctly sized and running at an adequate fan speed, general best practices apply:

\nUse the longest open wall. Position the purifier along the room's longest unobstructed wall, facing into the room, for the most even reach in both directions.
\nGive it breathing room. Furniture, curtains, or a wall pressed too close to the intake or output vents restricts circulation and reduces performance.
\nStay out of the walkway. A central, open position works better than a high-traffic path, where the purifier is more likely to be bumped, blocked, or unplugged.

If the air purifier is undersized or running on a lower fan speed, prioritize proximity instead: position it within a few feet of your main seating area, and check whether raising the fan speed solves the problem before assuming a different spot will.

How do open floor plans affect air purifier placement in the living room?

Open floor plans raise the sizing stakes. When a living room flows into a kitchen or dining area with no dividing wall, the effective space the purifier needs to clean is larger than the living room alone, so a purifier well-matched to the living room by itself may be undersized once the adjoining space is factored in.

If it's sized for the combined square footage, positioning it near the boundary between the two areas lets it serve both. If not, the same proximity rule from above applies: keep it close to where people actually sit.

This is also a whole-room ventilation question. The EPA notes that homes should aim for a baseline air exchange rate under ASHRAE residential ventilation standards, and larger, merged living spaces naturally require more air movement to maintain consistent air quality throughout (2).

What pollution sources could influence air purifier placement in the living room?

Within whatever flexibility sizing allows, specific pollutants common to a living room can help fine-tune exactly where the purifier goes:

\nPets. Position the purifier nearer a pet's favorite spot to help capture dander and hair before it spreads.
\nFireplaces or wood stoves. Keep a reasonable distance from direct heat, but stay within range to help capture soot and smoke.
\nWindows and entryways. Place the purifier nearer a window or entry point if outdoor pollution is a regular concern, keeping windows closed during pollution spikes.
\nCooking odors from an open kitchen. Positioning near the kitchen-living room boundary can help capture cooking smoke too, provided sizing supports covering that combined area.
\n

How should you size an air purifier for a large or open-concept living room?

Since sizing is what determines how much freedom you have with placement, it's worth knowing what to look for.

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) measures how quickly a purifier can produce clean air in a room, but it only reflects short-term, initial performance. It doesn't indicate how well a purifier will keep performing as it accumulates pollutants over weeks and months.

Cumulative Clean Mass (CCM) is a better indicator of long-term performance, measuring how much particulate matter and gas a filter can capture before its efficiency starts to decline, rated in tiers from P1 to P4 for particles and F1 to F4 for gases. For a large or open-concept living room, an air purifier with both an appropriate room-size rating and a high CCM tier, run at a matched fan speed, is what earns you placement flexibility in the first place.

What to avoid when placing a living room air purifier

A few placement habits work against performance no matter how the purifier is sized:

Tucking it behind or under furniture, TV consoles, or entertainment centers
Pushing it directly against a wall or into a corner
Placing it beneath curtains or behind floor-length drapes
Setting it directly beside heat sources like a fireplace, radiator, or sun-exposed window
Positioning it in a doorway or walkway where airflow, and foot traffic, gets blocked
\n

Conclusion

Placement isn't the first question to ask about a living room air purifier; sizing is. A properly sized purifier running at an adequate fan speed can go almost anywhere, and a central, unobstructed spot along the room's longest wall is a sound default. A purifier that's undersized or running too low doesn't have that flexibility and belongs as close to your seating area as possible instead.

Settle sizing first, and placement becomes fine-tuning, not a fix for a problem the purifier itself can't solve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Should I put my air purifier in the corner of the living room?
It's best to avoid corners regardless of sizing. Corners restrict airflow on two sides at once, creating a dead zone that reduces circulation.

Can one air purifier cover an open living room and kitchen?
Yes, if it's sized for the combined square footage and run at an adequate fan speed. If not, keep it near your main seating area instead.

How far should an air purifier be from the couch?
A properly sized, adequately powered air purifier has flexibility, and a nearby wall position works well. An undersized or low-speed purifier should stay within a few feet of your seating area.

Should I run my living room air purifier all day?
Many air purifiers are designed for continuous operation and running one consistently at a fan speed matched to the room helps maintain more stable air quality in a high-traffic space.

Does a fireplace affect where I should place my air purifier?
Yes. Keep a reasonable distance from direct heat and flames but stay positioned to help capture smoke and soot particles that drift into the room when the fireplace is in use.

","best-place-to-put-an-air-purifier-in-a-living-room","gid://shopify/Article/1003178525046","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/best-place-to-put-an-air-purifier-in-a-living-room","2026-09-29T15:00:07Z",[600,14],"Best place to put an air purifier in a living room",{"_53":898,"_210":899,"_208":900,"_212":547,"_214":548},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/420686791030","Atem Eco in a living room","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Article_BestPlacePutAirPurifierLiving_Desk_ee6fbee2-dbe1-4a58-9351-a9b21dc77b87.jpg?v=1790694510",{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"As autumn approaches and temperatures drop, pollutant activity is on the rise. Learn about the impacts of seasonal allergens on health and how to reduce unhealthy exposure.","

As autumn approaches and temperatures drop, pollutant activity is on the rise. Learn about the impacts of seasonal allergens on health and how to reduce unhealthy exposure.

","A single ragweed plant can release one billion grains of pollen in a season. Even a fraction of that, drifting indoors, is enough to turn a home into a source of prolonged exposure. As the weather begins to cool and autumn approaches, increased allergens and outdoor pollutants are on the rise. Moist climates and elevated pollen activity can invade homes, compromising air quality and pre-existing health conditions. Without proper dehumidification, air purification, and ventilation, allergens can linger and stick to common surfaces. By understanding autumn environmental conditions, allergen activity, and optimal pollutant prevention methods, clean air quality indoors can be maintained throughout seasonal changes. Where and why do air quality events and allergies rise in autumn? During the early weeks of autumn, global plant growth and environmental changes create conditions for pollutants to thrive and produce at elevated levels. Ragweed pollination produces up to one billion grains of pollen per weed during one growth season in the United States (1). Ragweed plants are common weeds that can grow anywhere, with early growth stages beginning in March and pollen typically released starting late August. In Canada, ragweed pollen is the main cause of seasonal rhinitis, impacting every 1 in 5 people in Québec (2). In Europe, ongoing climate change and warming temperatures may elevate ragweed pollination. According to a 2017 study, researchers are estimating ragweed sensitivities to double from 33 to 77 million people affected by 2060 due to prolonged pollination seasons (3). Global climate change could further delay frosty climates; therefore, prolonging pollen activity within certain regions depending on weather. In Korea, invasive Japanese hop plants cause increased pollen activity and autumn allergies across the country. According to a 2013 study, consistent exposure to Japanese hop pollen particles can lead to increased hospitalization rates and allergic reactions (4). The Japanese hop follows similar growth patterns as ragweeds, producing pollen up until the first frost over in October or November. Autumn pollination can invade homes and create poor indoor air conditions for allergies sufferers, leading to prolonged exposure and elevated health risks. How do seasonal allergens impact health? Seasonal allergens can cause allergy flare-ups and respiratory irritation, especially for those with pre-existing medical conditions and predisposed immune systems. According to a 2025 research study, ragweeds have been linked to asthma and allergic rhinitis. Poor ventilation can exacerbate these conditions. Health risks associated with seasonal allergens can range from allergy-based inflammation to feverish symptoms, such as (5): Hay fever Sinus infections Asthmatic flare-ups Allergy symptoms Respiratory complications As cool rainy climates increase during autumn, excessive indoor moisture and mold spores can also be common within poorly ventilated spaces. Numerous studies have linked long-term mold spore exposure to both physical and mental health complications, from increased levels of depression and anxiety to biological changes within the immune system (6). Without proper ventilation, dehumidification, or air purification, moist climates can lead to mold growth indoors, especially within dark enclosed spaces such as closets, cabinets, and furniture. How to reduce exposure to autumn allergens In conjunction with active ventilation, advanced multistage air purification can help prevent airborne pollutants and allergies from circulating indoors. HyperHEPA ultrafine filtration provides the most optimal purification support, capturing 99.5% of airborne pollutants down to 0.003 microns in size. Room air purifiers specifically target seasonal pollutants and trap a wide range of microscopic particles, such as: Pollen Wildfire smoke Mold spores Dust Bacteria Viruses PM2.5, particulate matter less than 2.5 microns in diameter PM10, particulate matter less than 10 microns in diameter HVAC air purifiers can provide comprehensive whole house air quality protection. HVAC air purifiers utilize existing heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems to remove ultrafine particles from indoor air. Air purifiers can be valuable tools for managing seasonal allergies and indoor mold spores. Air purification systems can be paired either with indoor air quality monitoring to determine how clean the air in a room is in real-time. Tips for a pollutant-free autumn Air purification devices and active ventilation are key for reducing pollutants, but air quality monitoring and source control can prevent unhealthy exposure from occurring at all. By being mindful of seasonal climate changes and monitoring pollutants, ventilation practices can be performed optimally and produce positive air quality changes. To limit pollen and mold exposures indoors, daily clean air methods can have immense impact alongside air purification, such as: Pollutant source control: Avoid scented chemical cleaning aerosols, limit humidifier utilization during moist weather conditions, and routinely disinfect commonly used surfaces and enclosed spaces. Because allergens may be brought in from outdoors, leave shoes by the door and consider changing clothes when coming inside (8). Active ventilation: Open windows to prevent indoor moisture buildup, utilize fans to increase airflow between rooms, and employ an HVAC-based air purifier for dual ventilation and filtration action. Air quality awareness: Close windows during air quality events, utilize multistage HyperHEPA air purifiers for maximized filtration, and employ indoor and outdoor air quality monitors to track pollutant activity. Seasonal allergies and rainy climates do not have to overwhelm indoor spaces. Advanced air purification in conjunction with clean air methods can create healthy breathing spaces and protect personal health from irritable allergies. Conclusion Seasonal changes bring different air quality events and airborne pollutants that can invade homes and impact health through prolonged exposure. But with the proper ventilation practices, dehumidification, and advanced air purification, airborne pollutants do not have to overwhelm personal health symptoms. Ultrafine air purification and localized air monitoring can help filtrate unhealthy pollutants, supporting allergy and respiratory symptom relief. Employing air quality monitoring and ultrafine filtration this autumn can help ensure at-home autumn festivities and quality family moments go uninterrupted.","

A single ragweed plant can release one billion grains of pollen in a season. Even a fraction of that, drifting indoors, is enough to turn a home into a source of prolonged exposure.

As the weather begins to cool and autumn approaches, increased allergens and outdoor pollutants are on the rise. Moist climates and elevated pollen activity can invade homes, compromising air quality and pre-existing health conditions. Without proper dehumidification, air purification, and ventilation, allergens can linger and stick to common surfaces.

By understanding autumn environmental conditions, allergen activity, and optimal pollutant prevention methods, clean air quality indoors can be maintained throughout seasonal changes.

Where and why do air quality events and allergies rise in autumn?

During the early weeks of autumn, global plant growth and environmental changes create conditions for pollutants to thrive and produce at elevated levels.

Ragweed pollination produces up to one billion grains of pollen per weed during one growth season in the United States (1). Ragweed plants are common weeds that can grow anywhere, with early growth stages beginning in March and pollen typically released starting late August. In Canada, ragweed pollen is the main cause of seasonal rhinitis, impacting every 1 in 5 people in Québec (2).

In Europe, ongoing climate change and warming temperatures may elevate ragweed pollination. According to a 2017 study, researchers are estimating ragweed sensitivities to double from 33 to 77 million people affected by 2060 due to prolonged pollination seasons (3). Global climate change could further delay frosty climates; therefore, prolonging pollen activity within certain regions depending on weather.

In Korea, invasive Japanese hop plants cause increased pollen activity and autumn allergies across the country. According to a 2013 study, consistent exposure to Japanese hop pollen particles can lead to increased hospitalization rates and allergic reactions (4). The Japanese hop follows similar growth patterns as ragweeds, producing pollen up until the first frost over in October or November.

Autumn pollination can invade homes and create poor indoor air conditions for allergies sufferers, leading to prolonged exposure and elevated health risks.

How do seasonal allergens impact health?

Seasonal allergens can cause allergy flare-ups and respiratory irritation, especially for those with pre-existing medical conditions and predisposed immune systems. According to a 2025 research study, ragweeds have been linked to asthma and allergic rhinitis. Poor ventilation can exacerbate these conditions. Health risks associated with seasonal allergens can range from allergy-based inflammation to feverish symptoms, such as (5):

Hay fever
Sinus infections
Asthmatic flare-ups
Allergy symptoms
Respiratory complications

As cool rainy climates increase during autumn, excessive indoor moisture and mold spores can also be common within poorly ventilated spaces. Numerous studies have linked long-term mold spore exposure to both physical and mental health complications, from increased levels of depression and anxiety to biological changes within the immune system (6). Without proper ventilation, dehumidification, or air purification, moist climates can lead to mold growth indoors, especially within dark enclosed spaces such as closets, cabinets, and furniture.

How to reduce exposure to autumn allergens

In conjunction with active ventilation, advanced multistage air purification can help prevent airborne pollutants and allergies from circulating indoors. HyperHEPA ultrafine filtration provides the most optimal purification support, capturing 99.5% of airborne pollutants down to 0.003 microns in size. Room air purifiers specifically target seasonal pollutants and trap a wide range of microscopic particles, such as:

Pollen
Wildfire smoke
Mold spores
Dust
Bacteria
Viruses
\nPM2.5, particulate matter less than 2.5 microns in diameter
\nPM10, particulate matter less than 10 microns in diameter

HVAC air purifiers can provide comprehensive whole house air quality protection. HVAC air purifiers utilize existing heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems to remove ultrafine particles from indoor air.

Air purifiers can be valuable tools for managing seasonal allergies and indoor mold spores. Air purification systems can be paired either with indoor air quality monitoring to determine how clean the air in a room is in real-time.

Tips for a pollutant-free autumn

Air purification devices and active ventilation are key for reducing pollutants, but air quality monitoring and source control can prevent unhealthy exposure from occurring at all. By being mindful of seasonal climate changes and monitoring pollutants, ventilation practices can be performed optimally and produce positive air quality changes. To limit pollen and mold exposures indoors, daily clean air methods can have immense impact alongside air purification, such as:

\nPollutant source control: Avoid scented chemical cleaning aerosols, limit humidifier utilization during moist weather conditions, and routinely disinfect commonly used surfaces and enclosed spaces. Because allergens may be brought in from outdoors, leave shoes by the door and consider changing clothes when coming inside (8).
\nActive ventilation: Open windows to prevent indoor moisture buildup, utilize fans to increase airflow between rooms, and employ an HVAC-based air purifier for dual ventilation and filtration action.
\nAir quality awareness: Close windows during air quality events, utilize multistage HyperHEPA air purifiers for maximized filtration, and employ indoor and outdoor air quality monitors to track pollutant activity.

Seasonal allergies and rainy climates do not have to overwhelm indoor spaces. Advanced air purification in conjunction with clean air methods can create healthy breathing spaces and protect personal health from irritable allergies.

Conclusion

Seasonal changes bring different air quality events and airborne pollutants that can invade homes and impact health through prolonged exposure. But with the proper ventilation practices, dehumidification, and advanced air purification, airborne pollutants do not have to overwhelm personal health symptoms. Ultrafine air purification and localized air monitoring can help filtrate unhealthy pollutants, supporting allergy and respiratory symptom relief.

Employing air quality monitoring and ultrafine filtration this autumn can help ensure at-home autumn festivities and quality family moments go uninterrupted.

","autumn-allergens-and-ventilation-influence-indoor-air-quality-levels","gid://shopify/Article/1003072881014","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/autumn-allergens-and-ventilation-influence-indoor-air-quality-levels","2026-10-05T15:33:52Z",[600,836,14,640],"How to protect yourself from autumn allergens in your home",{"_53":914,"_210":915,"_208":916,"_212":547,"_214":548},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/420876484982","Man using nasal spray near an open window in autumn.","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/Article_SeasonalTipsAutumnAllergens_Desk_5ca6c83d-c880-43e7-9c35-c06fe03bfcee.jpg?v=1791214434",{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"Living near busy roads can affect the air inside your home. Learn how traffic pollution gets indoors and whether air purifiers can help reduce your exposure.","

Living near busy roads can affect the air inside your home. Learn how traffic pollution gets indoors and whether air purifiers can help reduce your exposure.

","Yes, air purifiers can help reduce indoor exposure to traffic-related pollution, though how well they work depends on the type of filtration used, how the purifier is sized for the space, and a few complementary habits like keeping windows closed during peak traffic hours. Traffic pollution isn't confined to the outdoors. Homes near busy roads regularly experience elevated indoor concentrations of vehicle-related pollutants, particularly in buildings without adequate filtration or sealing (1). Understanding what traffic pollution contains, how it makes its way indoors, and what an air purifier can and can't do about it helps homeowners near high-traffic areas make more informed decisions about protecting their indoor air. How does traffic pollution affect indoor air quality? Outdoor pollutants generated by vehicle traffic can enter homes in several ways, most commonly through open windows and doors, HVAC intake systems, and small gaps or cracks in a building's walls and window seals (2). The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has found that pollutant concentrations near major roadways are generally elevated compared to background levels, with the highest concentrations typically occurring within roughly 500 to 1,000 feet of heavy-traffic roads. Beyond that range, concentrations tend to decrease, though the rate depends on wind patterns, terrain, building density, and traffic volume. Indoor pollutant levels near busy roads often follow outdoor traffic patterns, with concentrations rising during morning and evening rush hours and tapering off as traffic and wind activity change throughout the day. Because ventilation and building tightness vary widely from home to home, some households near roadways experience a closer link between outdoor and indoor pollutant levels than others. What pollutants come from traffic exhaust? Traffic-related air pollution isn't a single pollutant, it's a mixture of several particle types and gases, each with different health implications and different filtration requirements: PM2.5 and PM10: Fine and coarse particulate matter from combustion, as well as tire and brake wear Ultrafine particles (UFPs): Particles 0.1 microns or smaller, small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream Black carbon: Soot generated primarily by diesel engines and other combustion sources Nitrogen dioxide (NO2): A gas pollutant that particulate filters alone cannot capture Volatile organic compounds (VOCs): Gaseous compounds released during fuel combustion Exposure to this mixture has been linked to a range of health effects. A study of residents in Guangzhou found that proximity to busy roads was an independent risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with higher detection rates among those living or spending time closest to major roads (3). Research on near-highway populations has also linked traffic pollution exposure to cardiovascular disease and, in some studies, cognitive outcomes such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease risk factors (4). How close to traffic is considered high risk for indoor air quality? The EPA's near-roadway guidance places the zone of elevated pollutant concentrations within roughly 500 to 1,000 feet of heavy-traffic roads. The Guangzhou COPD study found that residents whose outdoor activities occurred within 50 meters, and 50 to 199 meters, of busy roads had meaningfully higher odds of COPD compared to those more than 200 meters away. Homes within these distances tend to show elevated indoor PM2.5, NO2, and black carbon levels compared to homes farther from roadways, since outdoor-sourced pollutants infiltrate more readily the closer a home sits to the source (5). Can air purifiers filter out traffic-related pollutants? Particulate matter, PM2.5, PM10, black carbon, and ultrafine particles, can be captured through HEPA or HyperHEPA filtration. Gases like NO2 and VOCs, however, require activated carbon or another gas-phase filtration method, since particulate filters are not designed to capture gas molecules. For an air purifier to meaningfully address traffic-related pollution, it generally needs both particulate and gas-phase filtration working together. Research supports this combined approach. A study on portable HEPA purifiers found removal efficiencies for traffic-related combustion particles reaching up to 57% for PM2.5, 34% for PM10, 70% for PM1, and 58% for black carbon, depending on the air purification technology used (6). In a real-world study of low-income homes in Lowell, Massachusetts, HEPA/carbon filter air purifiers reduced indoor NO2 concentrations by 36% on average, alongside measurable PM2.5 reductions (7), a useful demonstration that combined filtration can meaningfully lower both gas and particulate pollutants tied to combustion sources like traffic and gas appliances. A randomized crossover trial of air purifiers in homes near a major highway also found that nearly all 150 participants ran their purifiers close to 24 hours a day in both their living rooms and bedrooms, reflecting how seriously near-highway residents treated continuous filtration as part of managing their exposure (8). What features matter most in an air purifier for traffic pollution? A few features make the biggest difference for homes dealing with traffic-related pollution: HyperHEPA or True HEPA filtration to capture ultrafine particles and black carbon Activated carbon or gas-phase filtration to address NO2 and VOCs, since standard HEPA filtration alone won't remove gases A high Cumulative Clean Mass (CCM) rating. Rather than relying primarily on Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR), which measures how quickly a purifier can filter air in the short term, CCM (rated in P1–P4 or F1–F4 tiers) reflects how much pollutant mass a filter can capture over time before losing efficiency. This is especially relevant for homes near busy roads, where continuous pollutant exposure can load up filters faster than in lower-traffic environments Continuous or near-continuous operation, consistent with how residents in near-highway trials actually used their purifiers Traffic pollution exposure isn't limited to time spent at home, either. Commuters are directly exposed to tailpipe emissions and traffic-related pollutants while driving, often in an enclosed cabin with limited air exchange. A portable air purifier, such as the Atem Car, extends filtration into the vehicle, helping address this additional exposure window during daily commutes near the same traffic sources affecting the home. Where should you place an air purifier in a home near a busy road? Position air purifiers in the rooms where household members spend the most time, typically bedrooms and living areas, placing them a few feet from exterior walls and windows rather than directly beside them, so airflow isn't restricted and outdoor-sourced pollutants are captured before spreading through the room. Keep windows closed during rush hour (typically early morning and early evening) and other peak-traffic periods. Once traffic eases, for example, around midday or late evening, outdoor pollutant levels are more likely to have dropped, making it a better time to open windows and ventilate. If the home has an attached garage, avoid placing a purifier directly next to the garage entry point, idling vehicles and exhaust can introduce a concentrated, secondary source of pollutants into that part of the home. What else can you do to reduce indoor exposure to traffic pollution? Indoor air quality is shaped by a combination of pollutant sources, ventilation, and filtration, so filtration works best as part of a broader approach (9): Seal gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and building foundations to reduce pollutant infiltration Time ventilation to lower-traffic hours rather than rush periods Use an air quality monitor to track indoor PM2.5 and NO2 trends and identify when levels spike Consider vegetation or green infrastructure as a supplementary outdoor barrier. Green infrastructure can reduce nearby concentrations of PM10, NO2, ozone, black carbon, and particle number counts, though this addresses outdoor levels rather than replacing indoor filtration Conclusion Traffic pollution can meaningfully affect indoor air quality in homes located near busy roads, introducing a mixture of particulate matter and gases, including PM2.5, ultrafine particles, black carbon, and NO2, that infiltrate indoor spaces through windows, doors, and building gaps. Air purifiers that combine HyperHEPA or True HEPA filtration with activated carbon, sized appropriately and run consistently, can help reduce this exposure, particularly when paired with smart ventilation timing and indoor air quality monitoring. Since traffic exposure often continues beyond the home during daily commutes, a portable option like the Atem Car can extend that same protection into the vehicle, addressing exposure across the full daily routine. Frequently Asked Questions Do air purifiers remove NO2 from traffic? Not on their own if they rely solely on HEPA filtration. NO2 is a gas, and standard particulate filters aren't designed to capture it. An air purifier needs activated carbon or another gas-phase filtration layer to meaningfully reduce NO2 alongside particulate matter. How do I know if my home has an indoor traffic pollution problem? Homes within roughly 500 to 1,000 feet of heavy-traffic roads are more likely to experience elevated indoor pollutant levels. An indoor air quality monitor can help confirm whether PM2.5 or NO2 levels are elevated in your specific home. Can I use an air purifier instead of closing my windows during rush hour? Air purifiers are most effective when paired with smart ventilation timing, not as a replacement for it. Keeping windows closed during peak traffic hours and running a purifier continuously offers stronger protection than either approach alone. Is traffic pollution worse indoors or outdoors? Outdoor concentrations near busy roads are typically higher than indoor concentrations, since some filtration occurs naturally through walls and building materials. However, indoor levels in near-road homes can still reach a meaningful share of outdoor levels, particularly in older or less airtight homes.","

Yes, air purifiers can help reduce indoor exposure to traffic-related pollution, though how well they work depends on the type of filtration used, how the purifier is sized for the space, and a few complementary habits like keeping windows closed during peak traffic hours.

Traffic pollution isn't confined to the outdoors. Homes near busy roads regularly experience elevated indoor concentrations of vehicle-related pollutants, particularly in buildings without adequate filtration or sealing (1). Understanding what traffic pollution contains, how it makes its way indoors, and what an air purifier can and can't do about it helps homeowners near high-traffic areas make more informed decisions about protecting their indoor air.

How does traffic pollution affect indoor air quality?

Outdoor pollutants generated by vehicle traffic can enter homes in several ways, most commonly through open windows and doors, HVAC intake systems, and small gaps or cracks in a building's walls and window seals (2). The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has found that pollutant concentrations near major roadways are generally elevated compared to background levels, with the highest concentrations typically occurring within roughly 500 to 1,000 feet of heavy-traffic roads. Beyond that range, concentrations tend to decrease, though the rate depends on wind patterns, terrain, building density, and traffic volume.

Indoor pollutant levels near busy roads often follow outdoor traffic patterns, with concentrations rising during morning and evening rush hours and tapering off as traffic and wind activity change throughout the day. Because ventilation and building tightness vary widely from home to home, some households near roadways experience a closer link between outdoor and indoor pollutant levels than others.

What pollutants come from traffic exhaust?

Traffic-related air pollution isn't a single pollutant, it's a mixture of several particle types and gases, each with different health implications and different filtration requirements:

\nPM2.5 and PM10: Fine and coarse particulate matter from combustion, as well as tire and brake wear
\nUltrafine particles (UFPs): Particles 0.1 microns or smaller, small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream
\nBlack carbon: Soot generated primarily by diesel engines and other combustion sources
\nNitrogen dioxide (NO2): A gas pollutant that particulate filters alone cannot capture
\nVolatile organic compounds (VOCs): Gaseous compounds released during fuel combustion

Exposure to this mixture has been linked to a range of health effects. A study of residents in Guangzhou found that proximity to busy roads was an independent risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with higher detection rates among those living or spending time closest to major roads (3). Research on near-highway populations has also linked traffic pollution exposure to cardiovascular disease and, in some studies, cognitive outcomes such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease risk factors (4).

How close to traffic is considered high risk for indoor air quality?

The EPA's near-roadway guidance places the zone of elevated pollutant concentrations within roughly 500 to 1,000 feet of heavy-traffic roads. The Guangzhou COPD study found that residents whose outdoor activities occurred within 50 meters, and 50 to 199 meters, of busy roads had meaningfully higher odds of COPD compared to those more than 200 meters away. Homes within these distances tend to show elevated indoor PM2.5, NO2, and black carbon levels compared to homes farther from roadways, since outdoor-sourced pollutants infiltrate more readily the closer a home sits to the source (5).

Can air purifiers filter out traffic-related pollutants?

Particulate matter, PM2.5, PM10, black carbon, and ultrafine particles, can be captured through HEPA or HyperHEPA filtration. Gases like NO2 and VOCs, however, require activated carbon or another gas-phase filtration method, since particulate filters are not designed to capture gas molecules. For an air purifier to meaningfully address traffic-related pollution, it generally needs both particulate and gas-phase filtration working together.

Research supports this combined approach. A study on portable HEPA purifiers found removal efficiencies for traffic-related combustion particles reaching up to 57% for PM2.5, 34% for PM10, 70% for PM1, and 58% for black carbon, depending on the air purification technology used (6). In a real-world study of low-income homes in Lowell, Massachusetts, HEPA/carbon filter air purifiers reduced indoor NO2 concentrations by 36% on average, alongside measurable PM2.5 reductions (7), a useful demonstration that combined filtration can meaningfully lower both gas and particulate pollutants tied to combustion sources like traffic and gas appliances.

A randomized crossover trial of air purifiers in homes near a major highway also found that nearly all 150 participants ran their purifiers close to 24 hours a day in both their living rooms and bedrooms, reflecting how seriously near-highway residents treated continuous filtration as part of managing their exposure (8).

What features matter most in an air purifier for traffic pollution?

A few features make the biggest difference for homes dealing with traffic-related pollution:

HyperHEPA or True HEPA filtration to capture ultrafine particles and black carbon
Activated carbon or gas-phase filtration to address NO2 and VOCs, since standard HEPA filtration alone won't remove gases
A high Cumulative Clean Mass (CCM) rating. Rather than relying primarily on Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR), which measures how quickly a purifier can filter air in the short term, CCM (rated in P1–P4 or F1–F4 tiers) reflects how much pollutant mass a filter can capture over time before losing efficiency. This is especially relevant for homes near busy roads, where continuous pollutant exposure can load up filters faster than in lower-traffic environments
Continuous or near-continuous operation, consistent with how residents in near-highway trials actually used their purifiers

Traffic pollution exposure isn't limited to time spent at home, either. Commuters are directly exposed to tailpipe emissions and traffic-related pollutants while driving, often in an enclosed cabin with limited air exchange. A portable air purifier, such as the Atem Car, extends filtration into the vehicle, helping address this additional exposure window during daily commutes near the same traffic sources affecting the home.

Where should you place an air purifier in a home near a busy road?

Position air purifiers in the rooms where household members spend the most time, typically bedrooms and living areas, placing them a few feet from exterior walls and windows rather than directly beside them, so airflow isn't restricted and outdoor-sourced pollutants are captured before spreading through the room.

Keep windows closed during rush hour (typically early morning and early evening) and other peak-traffic periods. Once traffic eases, for example, around midday or late evening, outdoor pollutant levels are more likely to have dropped, making it a better time to open windows and ventilate. If the home has an attached garage, avoid placing a purifier directly next to the garage entry point, idling vehicles and exhaust can introduce a concentrated, secondary source of pollutants into that part of the home.

What else can you do to reduce indoor exposure to traffic pollution?

Indoor air quality is shaped by a combination of pollutant sources, ventilation, and filtration, so filtration works best as part of a broader approach (9):

Seal gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and building foundations to reduce pollutant infiltration
\n
Time ventilation to lower-traffic hours rather than rush periods
\n
Use an air quality monitor to track indoor PM2.5 and NO2 trends and identify when levels spike
\n
Consider vegetation or green infrastructure as a supplementary outdoor barrier. Green infrastructure can reduce nearby concentrations of PM10, NO2, ozone, black carbon, and particle number counts, though this addresses outdoor levels rather than replacing indoor filtration
\n

Conclusion

Traffic pollution can meaningfully affect indoor air quality in homes located near busy roads, introducing a mixture of particulate matter and gases, including PM2.5, ultrafine particles, black carbon, and NO2, that infiltrate indoor spaces through windows, doors, and building gaps. Air purifiers that combine HyperHEPA or True HEPA filtration with activated carbon, sized appropriately and run consistently, can help reduce this exposure, particularly when paired with smart ventilation timing and indoor air quality monitoring. Since traffic exposure often continues beyond the home during daily commutes, a portable option like the Atem Car can extend that same protection into the vehicle, addressing exposure across the full daily routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do air purifiers remove NO2 from traffic?

Not on their own if they rely solely on HEPA filtration. NO2 is a gas, and standard particulate filters aren't designed to capture it. An air purifier needs activated carbon or another gas-phase filtration layer to meaningfully reduce NO2 alongside particulate matter.

How do I know if my home has an indoor traffic pollution problem?

Homes within roughly 500 to 1,000 feet of heavy-traffic roads are more likely to experience elevated indoor pollutant levels. An indoor air quality monitor can help confirm whether PM2.5 or NO2 levels are elevated in your specific home.

Can I use an air purifier instead of closing my windows during rush hour?

Air purifiers are most effective when paired with smart ventilation timing, not as a replacement for it. Keeping windows closed during peak traffic hours and running a purifier continuously offers stronger protection than either approach alone.

Is traffic pollution worse indoors or outdoors?

Outdoor concentrations near busy roads are typically higher than indoor concentrations, since some filtration occurs naturally through walls and building materials. However, indoor levels in near-road homes can still reach a meaningful share of outdoor levels, particularly in older or less airtight homes.

","can-air-purifiers-help-with-indoor-air-quality-from-traffic-pollution","gid://shopify/Article/1003203658102","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/can-air-purifiers-help-with-indoor-air-quality-from-traffic-pollution","2026-10-06T16:17:08Z",[600,14,568],"Can air purifiers help with indoor air quality from traffic pollution?",{"_53":930,"_210":-5,"_208":931,"_212":547,"_214":548},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/420923343222","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/article_CarPollutionIndoors_866ffcdf-cbbc-4d5f-974c-b213082a7f6b.jpg?v=1791307730",{"_55":445},{"_66":64},"Discover how Southern California summer campers used real-time air quality sensors to measure pollution in their own homes and communities.","

Discover how Southern California summer campers used real-time air quality sensors to measure pollution in their own homes and communities.

","Air pollution can frequently impact air quality during Southern California summers. Wildfire smoke, dust storms, and vehicle emissions can impact kids’ breathing and health both indoors and outdoors. For young people, especially those in pollution-affected communities, understanding what's in the air is an opportunity to think about how they can contribute to improving air quality in their communities. The Southern California Chinese-American Environmental Protection Association (SCCAEPA) has spent six years giving young learners hands-on exposure to environmental science alongside working professionals (1). Three years ago, it added a dedicated air quality course to learn about air pollution and put sensors in students' hands so they can measure and analyze the air they breathe every day. Development of the environmental camp The SCCAEPA summer camp was built to cover \"all different kinds of topics for environmental studies,\" said Dr. Xiang Li, who joined the camp's organizing association, SCCAEPA, in 2024. Topics of study included healthy water, the human impact on river antibiotic resistance, and turning waste into solutions. But when he looked at the lineup that year, something stood out. \"There were no topics in this summer camp specifically focusing on air quality.\" Dr. Li felt that for an environmental program in Southern California, this was an educational opportunity worth advancing. Dr. Li, a program supervisor at the South Coast Air Quality Management District (South Coast AQMD), saw an opportunity to make air quality personal for students by putting sensors in their hands—specifically, by having them deploy monitors at home. \"We thought about giving students a few sensors for them to deploy at home, at least one outdoor sensor and one indoor sensor,\" Dr. Li recalled. Low-cost air sensors bridged classroom fundamentals and the air that the students breathe by allowing them to apply what they learned to real-world air quality measurements. He identified this as \"another pretty important aspect of environmental studies.” AirVisual Pro Indoor Monitor. Source: IQAir. How the camp structure spurred student engagement The air quality program “Air Quality in Our Community” ran as a six-week camp, in June and July, with two-hour sessions held at South Coast AQMD’s headquarters. Classes met from the morning until noon, pausing for the July 4th weekend. That break became a useful measurement window for students collecting data at home. The first session was instructor-led. Dr. Li covered air quality fundamentals along with sensor components, operation, and home setup. \"I was trying to give them some air quality fundamentals,” he explained. “We talk about the air sensor fundamentals, tell them about the sensor components, how they operate, how to set up the sensors at home, and how to collect data.\" The students then took the lead from the second class onward. Throughout the remaining sessions, students gave their own presentations by researching topics like indoor ventilation, reading a sensor-based research paper on wildfire events, and ultimately presenting findings from their own at-home sensor deployments. Event banner for SCCAEPA. Source: IQAir. The program concluded with a group student presentation given to peers, parents, and members of SCCAEPA, held at South Coast AQMD’s headquarters (2). Dr. Li hopes students walk away with skills they can carry into adulthood. He hopes that learning how to read a scientific publication, give presentations, conduct data analysis, and communicate research findings will be highly useful during their college years and throughout their future professional lives. Collaboration through a shared air quality mission This year marked the first time IQAir sponsored sensors for the camp, a step up from the previous two years, when the team used IQAir AirVisual Pro units sourced internally from South Coast AQMD's own group. IQAir's sponsorship involved providing technical support and resources, including the indoor air quality monitors and providing an online dashboard and API access so students could download their sensor data for analysis. The camp's curriculum, structure, and educational goals were designed and delivered independently by SCCAEPA and its volunteer team. Volunteer collaboration has been the key to the camp’s sustained mission. The SCCAEPA team spans distinct but complementary roles. For instance, Dr. Kun Liu, a committee member since 2021, handled the camp's operations, including syllabus design, outreach, marketing, and recruiting both students and coaches. Like many involved in the camp, she brings her own expertise to the experience. Her subject expertise ranges from soil and plant science to waste reduction; this year she coached the camp's waste solutions track. Dr. Zihan Zhu, a member of SCCAEPA since graduate school, co-coached the camp by helping develop student projects and the indoor-outdoor sensor initiative. \"The summer camp is actually a really good opportunity for us to just to get to know these teenagers; to listen to them, to know what they care about, and apply this to our daily work,” said Dr. Zhu. What the sensors revealed The July 4th weekend and its accompanying fireworks became a natural focal point for student research. Fireworks made the holiday \"one of the worst PM 2.5 days in the region\" observed by the students, Li explained, and they used their home sensors to capture the levels of pollution during this event. Because students came from across Orange and Los Angeles Counties, the class produced a comparative picture of how pollution moves through the region. \"Students living in Santa Clarita and students living in Irvine probably saw the lowest PM 2.5 increase during July 4th and the 5th,\" Dr. Li said, \"but students living in more inland areas saw a greater and delayed PM 2.5 increase.\" That spatial pattern lined up with what students were learning about meteorology. Because the dominant onshore winds in Southern California carry air from the coast inland, students could see that mechanism reflected in their own data. The indoor-outdoor sensor pairs produced a second strand of findings that hit closer to home. By comparing readings from both monitors, students could see how well their own homes were sealed against outdoor pollution. Some students found indoor-outdoor PM 2.5 ratios near one-to-one, suggesting open windows or poor sealing. Others found ratios closer to 50%, indicating a home better protected from outdoor air. From those comparisons came a practical takeaway: opening windows can improve indoor ventilation but knowing what air quality is like outdoors is a necessary first step. Conclusion The SCCAEPA environment camp’s air quality program was effective because it treated students as capable investigators of their own environment. Over six weeks, students moved from air quality fundamentals to deploying sensors in their own homes, analyzing real pollution events, and presenting findings to their peers. The camp's model of putting science fundamental first, then fostering student-led inquiry with air quality monitoring tools, helped ground the students’ understanding of the air they breathe.","

Air pollution can frequently impact air quality during Southern California summers. Wildfire smoke, dust storms, and vehicle emissions can impact kids’ breathing and health both indoors and outdoors. For young people, especially those in pollution-affected communities, understanding what's in the air is an opportunity to think about how they can contribute to improving air quality in their communities.

The Southern California Chinese-American Environmental Protection Association (SCCAEPA) has spent six years giving young learners hands-on exposure to environmental science alongside working professionals (1). Three years ago, it added a dedicated air quality course to learn about air pollution and put sensors in students' hands so they can measure and analyze the air they breathe every day.

Development of the environmental camp

The SCCAEPA summer camp was built to cover \"all different kinds of topics for environmental studies,\" said Dr. Xiang Li, who joined the camp's organizing association, SCCAEPA, in 2024. Topics of study included healthy water, the human impact on river antibiotic resistance, and turning waste into solutions.

But when he looked at the lineup that year, something stood out.

\"There were no topics in this summer camp specifically focusing on air quality.\" Dr. Li felt that for an environmental program in Southern California, this was an educational opportunity worth advancing.

Dr. Li, a program supervisor at the South Coast Air Quality Management District (South Coast AQMD), saw an opportunity to make air quality personal for students by putting sensors in their hands—specifically, by having them deploy monitors at home.

\"We thought about giving students a few sensors for them to deploy at home, at least one outdoor sensor and one indoor sensor,\" Dr. Li recalled. Low-cost air sensors bridged classroom fundamentals and the air that the students breathe by allowing them to apply what they learned to real-world air quality measurements. He identified this as \"another pretty important aspect of environmental studies.”

$\"\"$

AirVisual Pro Indoor Monitor. Source: IQAir.

How the camp structure spurred student engagement

The air quality program “Air Quality in Our Community” ran as a six-week camp, in June and July, with two-hour sessions held at South Coast AQMD’s headquarters. Classes met from the morning until noon, pausing for the July 4th weekend. That break became a useful measurement window for students collecting data at home.

The first session was instructor-led. Dr. Li covered air quality fundamentals along with sensor components, operation, and home setup.

\"I was trying to give them some air quality fundamentals,” he explained. “We talk about the air sensor fundamentals, tell them about the sensor components, how they operate, how to set up the sensors at home, and how to collect data.\"

The students then took the lead from the second class onward. Throughout the remaining sessions, students gave their own presentations by researching topics like indoor ventilation, reading a sensor-based research paper on wildfire events, and ultimately presenting findings from their own at-home sensor deployments.

$\"\"$

Event banner for SCCAEPA. Source: IQAir.

The program concluded with a group student presentation given to peers, parents, and members of SCCAEPA, held at South Coast AQMD’s headquarters (2).

Dr. Li hopes students walk away with skills they can carry into adulthood. He hopes that learning how to read a scientific publication, give presentations, conduct data analysis, and communicate research findings will be highly useful during their college years and throughout their future professional lives.

Collaboration through a shared air quality mission

This year marked the first time IQAir sponsored sensors for the camp, a step up from the previous two years, when the team used IQAir AirVisual Pro units sourced internally from South Coast AQMD's own group.

IQAir's sponsorship involved providing technical support and resources, including the indoor air quality monitors and providing an online dashboard and API access so students could download their sensor data for analysis. The camp's curriculum, structure, and educational goals were designed and delivered independently by SCCAEPA and its volunteer team.

Volunteer collaboration has been the key to the camp’s sustained mission. The SCCAEPA team spans distinct but complementary roles. For instance, Dr. Kun Liu, a committee member since 2021, handled the camp's operations, including syllabus design, outreach, marketing, and recruiting both students and coaches. Like many involved in the camp, she brings her own expertise to the experience. Her subject expertise ranges from soil and plant science to waste reduction; this year she coached the camp's waste solutions track.

Dr. Zihan Zhu, a member of SCCAEPA since graduate school, co-coached the camp by helping develop student projects and the indoor-outdoor sensor initiative.

\"The summer camp is actually a really good opportunity for us to just to get to know these teenagers; to listen to them, to know what they care about, and apply this to our daily work,” said Dr. Zhu.

What the sensors revealed

The July 4th weekend and its accompanying fireworks became a natural focal point for student research.

Fireworks made the holiday \"one of the worst PM 2.5 days in the region\" observed by the students, Li explained, and they used their home sensors to capture the levels of pollution during this event.

Because students came from across Orange and Los Angeles Counties, the class produced a comparative picture of how pollution moves through the region.

\"Students living in Santa Clarita and students living in Irvine probably saw the lowest PM 2.5 increase during July 4th and the 5th,\" Dr. Li said, \"but students living in more inland areas saw a greater and delayed PM 2.5 increase.\"

That spatial pattern lined up with what students were learning about meteorology. Because the dominant onshore winds in Southern California carry air from the coast inland, students could see that mechanism reflected in their own data.

The indoor-outdoor sensor pairs produced a second strand of findings that hit closer to home. By comparing readings from both monitors, students could see how well their own homes were sealed against outdoor pollution. Some students found indoor-outdoor PM 2.5 ratios near one-to-one, suggesting open windows or poor sealing. Others found ratios closer to 50%, indicating a home better protected from outdoor air.

From those comparisons came a practical takeaway: opening windows can improve indoor ventilation but knowing what air quality is like outdoors is a necessary first step.

Conclusion

The SCCAEPA environment camp’s air quality program was effective because it treated students as capable investigators of their own environment.

Over six weeks, students moved from air quality fundamentals to deploying sensors in their own homes, analyzing real pollution events, and presenting findings to their peers. The camp's model of putting science fundamental first, then fostering student-led inquiry with air quality monitoring tools, helped ground the students’ understanding of the air they breathe.

","socal-aqmd-summer-campers-explore-air-quality-science","gid://shopify/Article/1003296817526","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/blogs/news/socal-aqmd-summer-campers-explore-air-quality-science","2026-10-09T03:00:02Z",[497,14],"California summer camp explores air quality science",{"_53":945,"_210":-5,"_208":946,"_212":739,"_214":740},"gid://shopify/ArticleImage/420924162422","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/articles/SCCAEPA_Camp_Desktop_a9e8c236-6c96-46d7-95f1-58f1a1ce029f.jpg?v=1791312849",{"_55":445},{"_66":64},[446,14,640,447],{"_53":737,"_210":-5,"_208":738,"_212":739,"_214":740},{"_55":445},{"_66":64},[446,14,568],{"_53":754,"_210":-5,"_208":755,"_212":739,"_214":740},"customer","shopData",{"_972":2128,"_2129":2130},"layout",{"_1092":1093,"_1094":1095,"_1096":1097,"_1098":1099,"_1100":1101},"giftWrappingMenu",{"_70":1054,"_106":1055,"_66":1056,"_208":757,"_758":1057,"_1058":-7},"notFoundTitle","Page not found","notFoundDescription","Sorry, the page you're looking for can't be found. Visit our homepage to find what you need.","requestInfo",{"_1029":1030,"_1031":1032},"cart",["P",969],"ENV",{"_998":999,"_1000":1001,"_1002":1003,"_1004":1005,"_1006":1007,"_1008":1009,"_1010":1011,"_1012":1013,"_1014":-7,"_1015":1016,"_1017":1018,"_1019":1020,"_1021":1022,"_1023":1020,"_1024":1025,"_1026":-7,"_1027":1028},"shop",["P",973],"consent",{"_994":995,"_996":997},"selectedLocale",{"_275":979,"_986":987,"_988":989,"_990":205,"_991":992,"_993":482},"countryName","Latin America","userAgent","Mozilla/5.0 AppleWebKit/537.36 (KHTML, like Gecko; compatible; ClaudeBot/1.0; +claudebot@anthropic.com)","dismissedCountryBanner","dismissedCountryBannerProductPgs","requestOrigin","https://www.iqair.com","language","EN","country","BB","currency","flag","/dl/assets/svg/ic-worlwide.svg","pathPrefix","checkoutDomain","shop-gl-eur.iqair.com","storefrontAccessToken","cc75eb5159fc569ed0c0f968a231755c","MODE","production","GOOGLE_TAG_MANAGER_ID","GTM-PPQMD6","FACEBOOK_LOGIN_APP_ID","398656046993675","GOOGLE_LOGIN_CLIENT_ID","351521898-5bj7u78k0elfc3pod2gkejvfnju8hncf.apps.googleusercontent.com","APPLE_LOGIN_CLIENT_ID","4235W294QP.com.airvisual.airvisual","PUBLIC_STORE_DOMAIN","iqair-global-eur.myshopify.com","PUBLIC_SHOP_ID","67740598571","IQAIR_DASHBOARD_DOMAIN","dashboard.iqair.com","WAF_SDK","CUSTOM_EMBEDDABLE_MAP_CONSTANTS_HOST","https://www.airvisual.com","AIRVISUAL_CDN_DOMAIN","https://cdn.airvisual.net","AIRVISUAL_OSM_DOMAIN","https://osm.airvisual.net","AIRVISUAL_OSM_BASEMAP_DOMAIN","https://basemap.iqair.com","AIRVISUAL_OSM_HEATMAP_DOMAIN","AIRVISUAL_WIND_URL","https://cdn.airvisual.net/prod/current-wind-surface-level-gfs-1.0.json","AIRVISUAL_EARTH_URL","VERCEL","1","userPreferences",{"_1043":1044,"_1045":1034,"_1040":1041},"userLocation",{"_1033":1034,"_978":1035,"_1036":1037,"_1038":1039,"_1040":1041,"_45":46,"_1042":48},"countryCode","US","United States","countryRegion","OH","city","Columbus","timezone","America/New_York","lng","units",{"_1046":1047,"_1048":1049,"_1050":1051,"_1052":1053},"AQI","distance","kilometer","temperature","celsius","pressure","millibar","system","metric","IQAir: Live updates, news and high-performance products | IQAir","Stay updated with live air quality data and news for cities and neighborhoods. Explore air quality monitors, masks, and air purifiers.","@airvisual",{"_760":761,"_762":1059,"_55":1060,"_1061":1062,"_1063":1064,"_1065":1066,"_208":757,"_1067":1068},"robots","Organization","IQAir","logo","https://www.iqair.com/dl/web/logos/ic-logo-iq-air-blue.svg","sameAs",[1084,1085,1086,1087,1088,1089,1090,1091],"contactPoint",[1074,1075],"potentialAction",{"_762":1069,"_1070":1071,"_1072":1073},"SearchAction","target","https://www.iqair.com/search-results?q={search_term}","query","required name='search_term'",{"_762":1076,"_1077":1083,"_1079":1080,"_1081":1034},{"_762":1076,"_1077":1078,"_1079":1080,"_1081":1082},"ContactPoint","telephone","+86-400-108-5117","contactType","customer service","areaServed","CN","+1-866-488-1918","https://www.facebook.com/iqair","https://twitter.com/IQAir","https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-iqair-group","https://www.instagram.com/iqair/","https://www.youtube.com/IQAir","https://www.pinterest.com/IQAir/","https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.airvisual&hl=en_US&gl=US","https://apps.apple.com/us/app/iqair-airvisual-air-quality/id1048912974","headerGroup",[1847,1848],"footerGroup",[1746,1747],"overlayGroup",[1607,1608,1609,1610],"headerMenu",{"_53":1404,"_1103":1405},"footerMenu",{"_53":1102,"_1103":1104},"gid://shopify/Menu/210335334699","items",[1105,1106,1107,1108,1109,1110,1111],{"_53":1359,"_80":1360,"_70":1361,"_59":1115,"_208":1116,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1362},{"_53":1325,"_80":1326,"_70":1327,"_59":1115,"_208":1116,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1328},{"_53":1272,"_80":1273,"_70":1274,"_59":1115,"_208":1116,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1275},{"_53":1234,"_80":1235,"_70":1236,"_59":1115,"_208":1116,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1237},{"_53":1195,"_80":1196,"_70":446,"_59":1115,"_208":1116,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1197},{"_53":1161,"_80":1162,"_70":1163,"_59":1115,"_208":1116,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1164},{"_53":1112,"_80":1113,"_70":1114,"_59":1115,"_208":1116,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1118},"gid://shopify/MenuItem/792389091702",[],"Shop Our Solutions","HTTP","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com#","resource",[1119,1120,1121,1122,1123,1124,1125],{"_53":1156,"_80":1157,"_70":1158,"_59":1115,"_208":1159,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1160},{"_53":1151,"_80":1152,"_70":1153,"_59":1115,"_208":1154,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1155},{"_53":1146,"_80":1147,"_70":1148,"_59":1115,"_208":1149,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1150},{"_53":1141,"_80":1142,"_70":1143,"_59":1115,"_208":1144,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1145},{"_53":1136,"_80":1137,"_70":1138,"_59":1115,"_208":1139,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1140},{"_53":1131,"_80":1132,"_70":1133,"_59":1115,"_208":1134,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1135},{"_53":1126,"_80":1127,"_70":1128,"_59":1115,"_208":1129,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1130},"gid://shopify/MenuItem/792390336886",[],"Air Purifiers for Wildfire Smoke","https://www.iqair.com/eu/products/air-purifiers-for-wildfire-smoke",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/792390304118",[],"Air Purifiers for Odor","https://www.iqair.com/products/air-purifiers-for-odor",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/792390271350",[],"Air Purifiers for Dust","https://www.iqair.com/products/air-purifiers-for-dust",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/792390238582",[],"Air Purifiers for Pets","https://www.iqair.com/products/air-purifiers-for-pets",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/792390205814",[],"Air Purifiers for Smoke","https://www.iqair.com/products/air-purifiers-for-cigarette-smoke",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/792390173046",[],"Air Purifiers for Mold","https://www.iqair.com/products/air-purifiers-for-mold",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/792390140278",[],"Air Purifiers for Asthma","https://www.iqair.com/products/air-purifiers-for-asthma",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779353817462",[],"Shop Our Products",[1165,1166,1167,1168,1169],{"_53":1190,"_80":1191,"_70":1192,"_59":1115,"_208":1193,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1194},{"_53":1185,"_80":1186,"_70":1187,"_59":1115,"_208":1188,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1189},{"_53":1180,"_80":1181,"_70":1182,"_59":1115,"_208":1183,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1184},{"_53":1175,"_80":1176,"_70":1177,"_59":1115,"_208":1178,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1179},{"_53":1170,"_80":1171,"_70":1172,"_59":1115,"_208":1173,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1174},"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779360469366",[],"Shop All Air Purifiers","https://www.iqair.com/products/air-purifiers",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779360502134",[],"Replacement Filters","https://www.iqair.com/products/replacement-filters",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779355259254",[],"Air Quality Monitors","https://www.iqair.com/products/air-quality-monitors",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779360534902",[],"Face Masks","https://www.iqair.com/products/air-purifiers/kn95-ffp2-face-mask",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779360633206",[],"About IQAir Air Purifiers","https://www.iqair.com/air-purifiers",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779353850230",[],[1198,1199,1200,1201,1202,1203],{"_53":1229,"_80":1230,"_70":1231,"_59":1115,"_208":1232,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1233},{"_53":1224,"_80":1225,"_70":1226,"_59":1115,"_208":1227,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1228},{"_53":1219,"_80":1220,"_70":1221,"_59":1115,"_208":1222,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1223},{"_53":1214,"_80":1215,"_70":1216,"_59":1115,"_208":1217,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1218},{"_53":1209,"_80":1210,"_70":1211,"_59":1115,"_208":1212,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1213},{"_53":1204,"_80":1205,"_70":1206,"_59":1115,"_208":1207,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1208},"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779360829814",[],"World Air Quality","https://www.iqair.com/world-air-quality",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779360764278",[],"World Air Quality Report","https://www.iqair.com/world-air-quality-report",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779360731510",[],"Live AQI⁺ City Ranking","https://www.iqair.com/world-air-quality-ranking",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779360698742",[],"Historical Air Quality Data","https://www.iqair.com/world-most-polluted-cities",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779355292022",[],"AirVisual Platform","https://www.iqair.com/us/commercial-air-quality-monitors/airvisual-platform",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779360797046",[],"Air Quality App","https://www.iqair.com/air-quality-monitors/air-quality-app",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/780153389430",[],"For Organizations",[1238,1239,1240,1241,1242,1243],{"_53":1268,"_80":1269,"_70":158,"_59":1115,"_208":1270,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1271},{"_53":1263,"_80":1264,"_70":1265,"_59":1115,"_208":1266,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1267},{"_53":1259,"_80":1260,"_70":1261,"_59":1115,"_208":278,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1262},{"_53":1254,"_80":1255,"_70":1256,"_59":1115,"_208":1257,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1258},{"_53":1249,"_80":1250,"_70":1251,"_59":1115,"_208":1252,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1253},{"_53":1244,"_80":1245,"_70":1246,"_59":1115,"_208":1247,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1248},"gid://shopify/MenuItem/780153586038",[],"Dashboard","https://www.iqair.com/commercial-air-quality-monitors/enterprise-dashboard",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/780153553270",[],"Clean Air School","https://www.iqair.com/commercial-applications/clean-air-school",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/780153520502",[],"Clean Air Facility","https://www.iqair.com/commercial-applications/clean-air-facilities",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/780153487734",[],"Chat with an Expert",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/780153454966",[],"Request a Bid","https://www.iqair.com/commercial/request-a-bid",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/780153422198",[],"https://www.iqair.com/commercial-air-purifiers",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/780153651574",[],"News",[1276,1277,1278,1279,1280,1281,1282,1283,1284],{"_53":1321,"_80":1322,"_70":764,"_59":1115,"_208":1323,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1324},{"_53":1317,"_80":1318,"_70":497,"_59":1115,"_208":1319,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1320},{"_53":1312,"_80":1313,"_70":1314,"_59":1115,"_208":1315,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1316},{"_53":1307,"_80":1308,"_70":1309,"_59":1115,"_208":1310,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1311},{"_53":1303,"_80":1304,"_70":568,"_59":1115,"_208":1305,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1306},{"_53":1299,"_80":1300,"_70":499,"_59":1115,"_208":1301,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1302},{"_53":1294,"_80":1295,"_70":1296,"_59":1115,"_208":1297,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1298},{"_53":1289,"_80":1290,"_70":1291,"_59":1115,"_208":1292,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1293},{"_53":1285,"_80":1286,"_70":600,"_59":1115,"_208":1287,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1288},"gid://shopify/MenuItem/800711770486",[],"https://www.iqair.com/newsroom?tag=Air%20Cleaning%20Technology",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/800711737718",[],"Press Releases","https://www.iqair.com/newsroom?tag=Press%20Releases",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/780153880950",[],"Awards and Reviews","https://www.iqair.com/newsroom?tag=Awards%20And%20Reviews",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/780153848182",[],"https://www.iqair.com/newsroom?tag=Success%20Stories",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/780153815414",[],"https://www.iqair.com/newsroom?tag=Health%20And%20Wellness",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/780153782646",[],"Featured Contributors","https://www.iqair.com/newsroom?tag=Featured%20Contributor",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/780153749878",[],"Air Quality Resources","https://www.iqair.com/newsroom?tag=Resources",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/780153717110",[],"https://www.iqair.com/newsroom?tag=Community",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/780153684342",[],"https://www.iqair.com/newsroom?tag=Air%20Quality",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779353915766",[],"Support",[1329,1330,1331,1332,1333],{"_53":1354,"_80":1355,"_70":1356,"_59":1115,"_208":1357,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1358},{"_53":1349,"_80":1350,"_70":1351,"_59":1115,"_208":1352,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1353},{"_53":1344,"_80":1345,"_70":1346,"_59":1115,"_208":1347,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1348},{"_53":1339,"_80":1340,"_70":1341,"_59":1115,"_208":1342,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1343},{"_53":1334,"_80":1335,"_70":1336,"_59":1115,"_208":1337,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1338},"gid://shopify/MenuItem/800711704950",[],"Return Policy","https://www.iqair.com/us/support/iqair-warranty-coverage",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779361124726",[],"Knowledge Base","https://www.iqair.com/support/knowledge-base",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779361091958",[],"Warranty Registration","https://www.iqair.com/support/warranty",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/826844348790",[],"IQAir Rewards","https://www.iqair.com/loyalty-program",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779361026422",[],"Product Support","https://www.iqair.com/support",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779353784694",[],"About IQAir",[1363,1364,1365,1366,1367,1368,1369],{"_53":1399,"_80":1400,"_70":1401,"_59":1115,"_208":1402,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1403},{"_53":1395,"_80":1396,"_70":1397,"_59":1115,"_208":278,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1398},{"_53":1390,"_80":1391,"_70":1392,"_59":1115,"_208":1393,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1394},{"_53":1385,"_80":1386,"_70":1387,"_59":1115,"_208":1388,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1389},{"_53":1380,"_80":1381,"_70":1382,"_59":1115,"_208":1383,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1384},{"_53":1375,"_80":1376,"_70":1377,"_59":1115,"_208":1378,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1379},{"_53":1370,"_80":1371,"_70":1372,"_59":1115,"_208":1373,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1374},"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779360338294",[],"Experience Center","https://www.iqair.com/experience-center",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779355226486",[],"Awards and Partnerships","https://www.iqair.com/about-iqair/awards-partnerships",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/800711672182",[],"Foundation for Clean Air","https://www.foundationforcleanair.org/",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/800711639414",[],"Media Inquiries","https://www.iqair.com/media-contact",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779360436598",[],"Careers","https://jobs.iqair.com/",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779360403830",[],"Contact us",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/779355193718",[],"About us","https://www.iqair.com/about-iqair",[],"gid://shopify/Menu/210335301931",[1406,1407,1408,1409,1410,1411],{"_53":1565,"_80":1566,"_70":1567,"_59":1115,"_208":1207,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1568},{"_53":1542,"_80":1543,"_70":1544,"_59":1115,"_208":1545,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1546},{"_53":1505,"_80":1506,"_70":1274,"_59":1115,"_208":1507,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1508},{"_53":1466,"_80":1467,"_70":1468,"_59":1115,"_208":1469,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1470},{"_53":1438,"_80":1439,"_70":1327,"_59":1115,"_208":1357,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1440},{"_53":1412,"_80":1413,"_70":1414,"_59":1115,"_208":1173,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1415},"gid://shopify/MenuItem/764201402742",[],"Shop",[1416,1417,1418,1419,1420],{"_53":1435,"_80":1436,"_70":308,"_59":1115,"_208":1173,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1437},{"_53":1432,"_80":1433,"_70":1182,"_59":1115,"_208":1183,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1434},{"_53":1428,"_80":1429,"_70":1187,"_59":1115,"_208":1430,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1431},{"_53":1425,"_80":1426,"_70":1177,"_59":1115,"_208":1178,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1427},{"_53":1421,"_80":1422,"_70":1423,"_59":1115,"_208":1232,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1424},"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767600787830",[],"IQAir AirVisual App",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767600722294",[],[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767600689526",[],"https://www.iqair.com/products/air-purifiers/kn95-ffp2-face-mask?Quantity=12+Pack",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767600656758",[],[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767600623990",[],[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/794165248374",[],[1441,1442,1443,1444,1445],{"_53":1461,"_80":1462,"_70":1463,"_59":1115,"_208":1464,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1465},{"_53":1458,"_80":1459,"_70":1341,"_59":1115,"_208":1342,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1460},{"_53":1455,"_80":1456,"_70":1356,"_59":1115,"_208":1357,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1457},{"_53":1450,"_80":1451,"_70":1452,"_59":1115,"_208":1453,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1454},{"_53":1446,"_80":1447,"_70":1448,"_59":1115,"_208":278,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1449},"gid://shopify/MenuItem/794179699062",[],"Contact Support",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/794165379446",[],"User Guide Videos","https://www.iqair.com/start",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/794165346678",[],[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/794165313910",[],[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/794165281142",[],"Warranty Overview","https://www.iqair.com/support/iqair-warranty-coverage",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/489746399531",[],"Impact","https://www.iqair.com/about-iqair/our-causes",[1471,1472,1473,1474,1475,1476],{"_53":1501,"_80":1502,"_70":1503,"_59":1115,"_208":1469,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1504},{"_53":1496,"_80":1497,"_70":1498,"_59":1115,"_208":1499,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1500},{"_53":1491,"_80":1492,"_70":1493,"_59":1115,"_208":1494,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1495},{"_53":1486,"_80":1487,"_70":1488,"_59":1115,"_208":1489,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1490},{"_53":1482,"_80":1483,"_70":1484,"_59":1115,"_208":1383,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1485},{"_53":1477,"_80":1478,"_70":1479,"_59":1115,"_208":1480,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1481},"gid://shopify/MenuItem/806048858486",[],"Public-Private Partnerships","https://www.iqair.com/how-iqair-partners-with-cities",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767594168694",[],"The Foundation for Clean Air",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767594135926",[],"ESG Initiatives","https://www.iqair.com/about-iqair/ESG-initiatives",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767593316726",[],"Schools4Earth","https://www.iqair.com/schools4earth",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767593382262",[],"Environmental Justice","https://www.iqair.com/about-iqair/our-causes#section-timeline_XBCMEg",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767593349494",[],"Climate Justice ",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/764204646774",[],"https://www.iqair.com/newsroom",[1509,1510,1511,1512,1513,1514,1515],{"_53":1539,"_80":1540,"_70":764,"_59":1115,"_208":1323,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1541},{"_53":1535,"_80":1536,"_70":616,"_59":1115,"_208":1537,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1538},{"_53":1532,"_80":1533,"_70":497,"_59":1115,"_208":1319,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1534},{"_53":1529,"_80":1530,"_70":498,"_59":1115,"_208":1310,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1531},{"_53":1525,"_80":1526,"_70":568,"_59":1115,"_208":1527,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1528},{"_53":1521,"_80":1522,"_70":1523,"_59":1115,"_208":1315,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1524},{"_53":1516,"_80":1517,"_70":1518,"_59":1115,"_208":1519,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1520},"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767598788982",[],"Wildfire","https://www.iqair.com/newsroom?tag=Wildfires",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767598756214",[],"Resources",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767598723446",[],"https://www.iqair.com/newsroom?tag=Health%20and%20Wellness",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767598690678",[],[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767598657910",[],[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767598625142",[],"https://www.iqair.com/newsroom?tag=Climate",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767598592374",[],[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/764204614006",[],"Learn","https://www.iqair.com/air-quality-monitors",[1547,1548,1549],{"_53":1560,"_80":1561,"_70":1562,"_59":1115,"_208":1563,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1564},{"_53":1555,"_80":1556,"_70":1557,"_59":1115,"_208":1558,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1559},{"_53":1550,"_80":1551,"_70":1552,"_59":1115,"_208":1553,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1554},"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767590269302",[],"Community Air Monitoring","https://www.iqair.com/community-air-quality-monitoring",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767589581174",[],"Improve Air Quality","https://www.iqair.com/improve-air-quality",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767590236534",[],"Measure Air Quality","https://www.iqair.com/measure-air-quality",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/489746366763",[],"Air Quality Data",[1569,1570,1571,1572,1573,1574,1575],{"_53":1602,"_80":1603,"_70":1604,"_59":1115,"_208":1605,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1606},{"_53":1598,"_80":1599,"_70":1600,"_59":1115,"_208":1217,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1601},{"_53":1593,"_80":1594,"_70":1595,"_59":1115,"_208":1596,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1597},{"_53":1589,"_80":1590,"_70":1591,"_59":1115,"_208":1222,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1592},{"_53":1584,"_80":1585,"_70":1586,"_59":1115,"_208":1587,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1588},{"_53":1581,"_80":1582,"_70":1231,"_59":1115,"_208":1232,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1583},{"_53":1576,"_80":1577,"_70":1578,"_59":1115,"_208":1579,"_1117":-5,"_1103":1580},"gid://shopify/MenuItem/814195638646",[],"Contributor Recognition","https://shop-gl-eur.iqair.com/top-contributors",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/798951735670",[],[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767570248054",[],"Air Quality API","https://www.iqair.com/air-quality-monitors/api",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767570215286",[],"Historical PM 2.5 Data",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767570149750",[],"Live Air Quality Map","https://www.iqair.com/air-quality-map",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767570182518",[],"Live Air Quality Ranking",[],"gid://shopify/MenuItem/767569789302",[],"Air Quality Near Me","https://www.iqair.com/air-quality-near-me",[],{"_59":1717,"_1616":1718,"_53":1717},{"_59":1715,"_1616":1716,"_53":1715},{"_59":1659,"_1612":1660,"_1614":1661,"_1616":1662,"_53":1659},{"_59":1611,"_1612":1613,"_1614":1615,"_1616":1617,"_53":1611},"mobile-dock","blocks",{"_1628":1634,"_1629":1635,"_1630":1636,"_1631":1637,"_1632":1638,"_1633":1639},"block_order",[1628,1629,1630,1631,1632,1633],"settings",{"_1618":1619,"_1620":1621,"_1622":482,"_1623":1624,"_1625":1624,"_1626":116,"_1627":116},"color_text","#000000","color_background","#ffffff","gradient_background","padding_top",8,"padding_bottom","divider","rounded","mobile-dock-0","mobile-dock-1","mobile-dock-2","mobile-dock-3","mobile-dock-4","mobile-dock-5",{"_59":1656,"_1616":1657},{"_59":1653,"_1616":1654},{"_59":1650,"_1616":1651},{"_59":1646,"_1616":1647},{"_59":968,"_1616":1644},{"_59":1640,"_1616":1641},"account",{"_1642":482,"_70":1643},"custom_icon","Account",{"_1642":482,"_70":1645},"Cart","link",{"_1642":482,"_70":1414,"_1646":1648,"_1649":772},"shopify://collections/all","external","search",{"_1642":482,"_70":1652},"Search","menu",{"_1642":482,"_70":1655},"Menu","home",{"_1642":482,"_70":1658},"Home","cookie-banner",{"_1679":1683,"_1680":1684,"_1681":1685,"_1682":1686},[1679,1680,1681,1682],{"_1663":1664,"_1665":1666,"_1667":1668,"_1669":1670,"_1671":1672,"_1673":1621,"_1674":1675,"_1676":1621,"_1677":1672,"_1678":482},"mode","enabled","delay",5,"text_alignment","center","content_position","left-0","color_drawer_text","#171717","color_drawer_background","color_drawer_highlight","#ffddbf","color_drawer_button_text","color_drawer_button_background","color_drawer_button_gradient","heading","text","spacing","buttons",{"_59":1679,"_1616":1709},{"_59":1680,"_1616":1696},{"_59":1681,"_1616":1692},{"_59":1682,"_1616":1687},{"_1688":1689,"_1690":1691},"button_label_1","Accept","button_label_2","Decline",{"_214":1693,"_1694":1695},16,"height_mobile",12,{"_1680":1697,"_1698":1699,"_1700":1701,"_1702":1703,"_1704":772,"_1705":1706,"_1707":1708},"

This site uses cookies for better user experience and analytics.

","text_size","text-base","text_max_size",32,"text_font","body","secondary_color","highlighted_text","none","highlighted_scribble","circle",{"_1679":1710,"_1711":1712,"_1713":1714,"_1705":1706,"_1707":1708},"We use cookies","heading_size","text-lg-2xl","heading_tag","h2","search-drawer",{},"cart-drawer",{"_1719":772,"_1720":772,"_1721":772,"_1722":772,"_1723":116,"_1724":772,"_1725":1726,"_1727":772,"_1728":1729,"_1730":1666,"_1731":772,"_1732":116,"_1733":1734,"_1735":1736,"_1737":1738,"_1739":772,"_1740":1741,"_1742":1666,"_1743":772,"_1744":116},"show_vendor","show_cart_note","show_shipping_calculator","show_view_cart_button","show_checkout_button","show_free_shipping_bar","free_shipping_minimum_amount","1000","cart_recommendations_enabled","cart_recommendations_heading","You may also like","cart_recommendations_limit","show_cart_recommendations_vendor","show_cart_recommendations_price","cart_recommendations_products",[],"empty_cart_message","

Not sure where to start?
Try these collections:

","empty_cart_collections",[1745],"recent_products_enabled","recent_products_heading","Recently viewed","recent_products_limit","show_recent_products_vendor","show_recent_products_price","air-quality-solutions",{"_59":1760,"_1612":1761,"_1614":1762,"_1763":1764,"_1616":1765,"_53":1760},{"_59":1748,"_1616":1749,"_53":1748},"footer-copyright",{"_1750":116,"_1751":116,"_1752":116,"_1753":772,"_1754":772,"_1755":116,"_1756":1757,"_1618":1621,"_1620":1672,"_1622":482,"_1626":116,"_1758":116,"_1627":116,"_1759":772},"enable_language_selector","enable_country_selector","show_policy","show_payment_icons","monochrome_payment_icons","show_copyright","copyright_text","© 2025 IQAir. All rights reserved ","full_width","enable_parallax","footer",{"_1783":1793,"_1784":1794,"_1785":1795,"_1786":1796,"_1787":1797,"_1788":1798,"_1789":1799,"_1790":1800,"_1791":1801,"_1792":1802},[1783,1784,1785,1786,1787,1788,1789,1790,1791,1792],"custom_css",[1782],{"_1766":116,"_1767":116,"_1768":1769,"_1770":1771,"_1772":482,"_1773":1774,"_1775":772,"_1776":772,"_1618":1621,"_1620":1777,"_1622":482,"_1778":1619,"_1779":1621,"_1780":482,"_1623":1781,"_1625":1781,"_1626":772,"_1758":116,"_1627":116,"_1759":772},"invert_newsletter_others","enable_newsletter","newsletter_heading","Stay in the loop with our newsletter","newsletter_heading_size","md:title-lg","newsletter_text","newsletter_logo_height",48,"show_social","enable_follow_on_shop","#1f1f1f","color_button_text","color_button_background","color_button_gradient",72,"div {font-size: 18px;}","link_list_TU7jqX","logo_social","link_list_NhbDbk","link_list_YHawRi","link_list-1","link_list_BR7HnM","link_list_KXxYy7","link_list-2","brand_information","brand_information_bTVPnj",{"_59":1821,"_1616":1845},{"_59":1784,"_1616":1838},{"_59":1821,"_1803":116,"_1616":1836},{"_59":1821,"_1803":116,"_1616":1834},{"_59":1821,"_1803":116,"_1616":1831},{"_59":1821,"_1803":116,"_1616":1827},{"_59":1821,"_1803":116,"_1616":1825},{"_59":1821,"_1803":116,"_1616":1822},{"_59":1791,"_1803":116,"_1616":1818},{"_59":1791,"_1803":116,"_1616":1804},"disabled",{"_1679":482,"_1688":1805,"_1806":1807,"_1690":1808,"_1809":1810,"_1811":482,"_1812":482,"_1813":482,"_1814":482,"_1815":1816,"_1817":772},"+49 752 02024646","button_link_1","https://wa.me/4975202024646","hello@domain.com","button_link_2","mailto:hello@domain.com","button_label_3","button_link_3","button_label_4","button_link_4","container_width",95,"opened",{"_1679":482,"_1688":1819,"_1806":1820,"_1690":1808,"_1809":1810,"_1811":482,"_1812":482,"_1813":482,"_1814":482,"_1815":1816,"_1817":772},"+41 71 844 70 01","https://wa.me/41718447001","link_list",{"_1679":1823,"_1653":1760,"_1815":1824,"_1817":772},"Site Navigation",45,{"_1679":1327,"_1653":1826,"_1815":1824,"_1817":116},"support",{"_1679":1828,"_1653":1829,"_1815":1830,"_1817":116},"Our Air Purifier Solutions","our-air-purifier-solutions",50,{"_1679":1832,"_1653":1833,"_1815":1824,"_1817":116},"Our Products","our-products",{"_1679":446,"_1653":1835,"_1815":1824,"_1817":116},"air-quality",{"_1679":1361,"_1653":1837,"_1815":1824,"_1817":116},"about-iqair",{"_1061":1839,"_1840":1830,"_1775":772,"_1776":772},{"_53":1841,"_210":482,"_214":1842,"_208":1843,"_212":1844},"logo_height","gid://shopify/ImageSource/65814229877110",256,"https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/files/IQAir_WEB_Red-White_2019.svg?v=1750881603",646,{"_1679":1846,"_1653":1760,"_1815":1830,"_1817":772},"Quick links",{"_59":2090,"_1612":2091,"_1614":2092,"_1763":2093,"_1616":2094,"_53":2090},{"_59":1849,"_1612":1850,"_1614":1851,"_1763":1852,"_1616":1853,"_53":1849},"header",{"_1872":1882,"_1873":1883,"_1874":1884,"_1875":1885,"_1876":1886,"_1877":1887,"_1878":1888,"_1879":1889,"_1880":1890,"_1881":1891},[1872,1873,1874,1875,1876,1877,1878,1879,1880,1881],[1869,1870,1871],{"_1653":1854,"_1855":482,"_1856":1857,"_1858":116,"_1859":1860,"_1861":1862,"_1863":772,"_1864":772,"_1865":772,"_1866":116,"_1867":1668,"_1775":772,"_1750":772,"_1751":772,"_1868":1672,"_1618":1672,"_1620":1621,"_1623":1701,"_1625":1701,"_1758":116,"_1627":116},"main-menu","menu_mobile","menu_active","block","hover_menu","header_layout","left-center","sticky_header_type","always","enable_language_selector_desktop","enable_country_selector_desktop","show_country_name_dekstop","show_country_flag_desktop","logo_position_mobile","transparent_color_text",".quantity-selector {width: 100%; justify-content: center;}",".product__price {font-weight: 700;}","@media (max-width: 749px) {.product-form__submit, .product-form__submit .btn-text {font-size: 1.1em !important; line-height: 1.2 !important; }}","simple_menu_kaH6iY","mega_menu_zWCDe9","mega_menu_7NnUhK","mega_menu_qJhCWA","mega_menu_yXpU4y","mega_menu_QV3a8H","mega_menu_EqCWG7","mega_menu_3XjFzb","mega_menu_K7eMVG","mega_menu_tab_dAUrxn",{"_59":2081,"_1616":2082},{"_59":2042,"_55":2072,"_1803":116,"_1616":2073},{"_59":2042,"_1803":116,"_1616":2067},{"_59":2042,"_1803":116,"_1616":2066},{"_59":2042,"_1803":116,"_1616":2060},{"_59":2042,"_1803":116,"_1616":2058},{"_59":2042,"_1803":116,"_1616":2056},{"_59":2042,"_1803":116,"_1616":2049},{"_59":2042,"_1803":116,"_1616":2043},{"_59":1892,"_1803":116,"_1616":1893},"mega_menu_tab",{"_1894":972,"_1895":482,"_1896":482,"_1897":482,"_1898":482,"_1719":772,"_1899":116,"_1900":308,"_1901":1902,"_1903":1904,"_1905":1906,"_1907":1908,"_1909":1910,"_1911":1912,"_1913":1914,"_1915":1916,"_1917":116,"_1918":1919,"_1920":482,"_1921":1621,"_1922":1619,"_1923":1924,"_1925":1926,"_1927":1928,"_1929":1930,"_1931":1932,"_1933":1908,"_1934":1912,"_1935":1936,"_1937":1938,"_1939":116,"_1940":482,"_1941":482,"_1942":1621,"_1943":1619,"_1944":1924,"_1945":1187,"_1946":1947,"_1948":1949,"_1950":1951,"_1952":1908,"_1953":1912,"_1954":1955,"_1956":482,"_1957":116,"_1958":482,"_1959":482,"_1960":1621,"_1961":1619,"_1962":1963,"_1964":1965,"_1966":1967,"_1968":1969,"_1970":1971,"_1972":1908,"_1973":1974,"_1975":1912,"_1976":1965,"_1977":482,"_1978":116,"_1979":482,"_1980":482,"_1981":1621,"_1982":1619,"_1983":1963,"_1984":158,"_1985":1986,"_1987":1988,"_1989":1990,"_1991":1908,"_1992":1993,"_1994":1912,"_1995":1996,"_1997":1998,"_1999":116,"_2000":482,"_2001":2002,"_2003":1621,"_2004":1619,"_2005":1963},"menu_title","button_label","button_link","heading_1","heading_2","show_price","tab_target_1","tab_target_link_1","shopify://collections/air-purifiers","tab_products_1",[2037,2038,2039,2040,2041],"tab_icon_1",{"_53":2035,"_210":482,"_214":2010,"_208":2036,"_212":2010},"tab_icon_width_1",42,"promo_image_1",{"_53":2031,"_210":482,"_214":2032,"_208":2033,"_212":2034},"promo_image_ratio_1","square","promo_heading_1","Atem X","promo_subtext_1","Our most energy efficient and quietest room air purifier. Our newest smart air purifier, tailored for allergy sufferers and pet owners alike.","promo_overlay_content_1","promo_link_1","shopify://products/atem-x","promo_tag_1","promo_color_text_1","promo_color_overlay_1","promo_overlay_opacity_1",20,"tab_target_2","Monitors","tab_target_link_2","shopify://collections/air-quality-monitors","tab_products_2",[2029,2030],"tab_icon_2",{"_53":2027,"_210":482,"_214":2010,"_208":2028,"_212":2010},"tab_icon_width_2","promo_image_ratio_2","promo_heading_2","AirVisual Pro","promo_subtext_2","Designed to measure indoor air quality inside homes, businesses, schools and other public facilities. ","promo_overlay_content_2","promo_link_2","promo_tag_2","promo_color_text_2","promo_color_overlay_2","promo_overlay_opacity_2","tab_target_3","tab_target_link_3","shopify://collections/masks","tab_products_3",[104],"tab_icon_3",{"_53":2025,"_210":482,"_214":2010,"_208":2026,"_212":2010},"tab_icon_width_3","promo_image_ratio_3","promo_heading_3","IQAir FFP2 Mask","promo_subtext_3","promo_overlay_content_3","promo_link_3","promo_tag_3","promo_color_text_3","promo_color_overlay_3","promo_overlay_opacity_3",40,"tab_target_4","Filters","tab_target_link_4","shopify://collections/air-purifier-filters","tab_products_4",[2020,2021,2022,2023,2024],"tab_icon_4",{"_53":2018,"_210":482,"_214":2010,"_208":2019,"_212":2010},"tab_icon_width_4","promo_image_4",{"_53":2015,"_210":482,"_214":2016,"_208":2017,"_212":2007},"promo_image_ratio_4","promo_heading_4","promo_subtext_4","promo_overlay_content_4","promo_link_4","promo_tag_4","promo_color_text_4","promo_color_overlay_4","promo_overlay_opacity_4","tab_target_5","tab_target_link_5","shopify://collections/business-solutions","tab_products_5",[2012,2013,2014],"tab_icon_5",{"_53":2009,"_210":482,"_214":2010,"_208":2011,"_212":2010},"tab_icon_width_5","promo_image_5",{"_53":2006,"_210":482,"_214":2007,"_208":2008,"_212":2007},"promo_image_ratio_5","promo_heading_5","AirVisual App","promo_subtext_5","App & Dashboard","promo_overlay_content_5","promo_link_5","promo_tag_5","For Business","promo_color_text_5","promo_color_overlay_5","promo_overlay_opacity_5","gid://shopify/ImageSource/65814233579894",1940,"https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/files/AirVisual-App_1940px.jpg?v=1750881604","gid://shopify/ImageSource/65834045833590",43,"https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/files/ApiDashboard.svg?v=1751063163","gcx-chemisorber","gc-am","cleanroom-h13","gid://shopify/ImageSource/65814204121462",1208,"https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/files/Filters_01_1940x1208_736b7cfa-e411-4b65-a767-8b2c40f94966.png?v=1750881485","gid://shopify/ImageSource/65834054812022","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/files/Filters_160e4cd6-4fb8-402d-b8ce-7b3d2ded6c96.svg?v=1751063187","atem-x-hyperhepa-filter-set","healthpro-plus-3-filter-replacement-bundle","atem-desk-hyperhepa-filter","atem-car-hyperhepa-plus-filter","v5-cell-f2","gid://shopify/ImageSource/65834060153206","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/files/Mask.svg?v=1751063208","gid://shopify/ImageSource/65834060972406","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/files/Monitors.svg?v=1751063208","airvisual-pro-indoor-monitor","airvisual-outdoor-2-pm","gid://shopify/ImageSource/65834059465078",937,"https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/files/IQAir_AtemX_0089_1250px.jpg?v=1751063208",1250,"gid://shopify/ImageSource/65834045440374","https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0677/4059/8571/files/AirPurifiers.svg?v=1751063162","atem-x","atem-desk","atem-car","healthpro-plus-xe","gc-multigas-2","mega_menu",{"_1894":2044,"_2045":2046,"_2047":772,"_1895":482,"_1896":482,"_1911":2048,"_1913":482,"_1915":482,"_1917":116,"_1918":482,"_1920":482,"_1921":1621,"_1922":1619,"_1923":1963,"_1934":2048,"_1935":482,"_1937":482,"_1939":116,"_1940":482,"_1941":482,"_1942":1621,"_1943":1619,"_1944":1963,"_1953":2048,"_1954":482,"_1956":482,"_1957":116,"_1958":482,"_1959":482,"_1960":1621,"_1961":1619,"_1962":1963,"_1975":2048,"_1976":482,"_1977":482,"_1978":116,"_1979":482,"_1980":482,"_1981":1621,"_1982":1619,"_1983":1963,"_1994":2048,"_1995":482,"_1997":482,"_1999":116,"_2000":482,"_2001":482,"_2003":1621,"_2004":1619,"_2005":1963},"Login","menu_width","small","show_menu_image","adapt",{"_1894":1414,"_2045":2046,"_2047":772,"_1895":482,"_1896":482,"_1911":2048,"_1913":1182,"_1915":482,"_1917":116,"_1918":2050,"_1920":482,"_1921":1672,"_1922":1621,"_1923":2051,"_1934":2048,"_1935":308,"_1937":482,"_1939":116,"_1940":2052,"_1941":482,"_1942":1672,"_1943":1621,"_1944":2051,"_1953":2048,"_1954":2053,"_1956":482,"_1957":116,"_1958":482,"_1959":482,"_1960":1672,"_1961":1621,"_1962":2051,"_1975":2048,"_1976":1965,"_1977":482,"_1978":116,"_1979":2054,"_1980":482,"_1981":1672,"_1982":1621,"_1983":1924,"_1994":2048,"_1995":2055,"_1997":482,"_1999":116,"_2000":482,"_2001":482,"_2003":1672,"_2004":1619,"_2005":219},"shopify://pages/air-quality-monitors",15,"shopify://pages/air-purifiers-filters","IQAir Mask","shopify://pages/filters","App & dashboard",{"_1894":1327,"_2045":2057,"_2047":772,"_1895":482,"_1896":482,"_1911":2048,"_1913":482,"_1915":482,"_1917":116,"_1918":482,"_1920":482,"_1921":1621,"_1922":1619,"_1923":1963,"_1934":2048,"_1935":482,"_1937":482,"_1939":116,"_1940":482,"_1941":482,"_1942":1621,"_1943":1619,"_1944":1963,"_1953":2048,"_1954":482,"_1956":482,"_1957":116,"_1958":482,"_1959":482,"_1960":1621,"_1961":1619,"_1962":1963,"_1975":2048,"_1976":482,"_1977":482,"_1978":116,"_1979":482,"_1980":482,"_1981":1621,"_1982":1619,"_1983":1963,"_1994":2048,"_1995":482,"_1997":482,"_1999":116,"_2000":482,"_2001":482,"_2003":1621,"_2004":1619,"_2005":1963},"medium",{"_1894":2059,"_2045":2057,"_2047":772,"_1895":482,"_1896":482,"_1911":2048,"_1913":482,"_1915":482,"_1917":116,"_1918":482,"_1920":482,"_1921":1621,"_1922":1619,"_1923":1963,"_1934":2048,"_1935":482,"_1937":482,"_1939":116,"_1940":482,"_1941":482,"_1942":1621,"_1943":1619,"_1944":1963,"_1953":2048,"_1954":482,"_1956":482,"_1957":116,"_1958":482,"_1959":482,"_1960":1621,"_1961":1619,"_1962":1963,"_1975":2048,"_1976":482,"_1977":482,"_1978":116,"_1979":482,"_1980":482,"_1981":1621,"_1982":1619,"_1983":1963,"_1994":2048,"_1995":482,"_1997":482,"_1999":116,"_2000":482,"_2001":482,"_2003":1621,"_2004":1619,"_2005":1963},"Commercial Solutions",{"_1894":1468,"_2045":2046,"_2047":116,"_1895":482,"_1896":482,"_1911":2048,"_1913":2061,"_1915":482,"_1917":116,"_1918":2062,"_1920":482,"_1921":1621,"_1922":1619,"_1923":1963,"_1934":2048,"_1935":1498,"_1937":482,"_1939":116,"_1940":2063,"_1941":482,"_1942":1621,"_1943":1619,"_1944":1963,"_1953":2048,"_1954":1493,"_1956":482,"_1957":116,"_1958":482,"_1959":482,"_1960":1621,"_1961":1619,"_1962":1963,"_1975":2048,"_1976":1488,"_1977":482,"_1978":116,"_1979":482,"_1980":482,"_1981":1621,"_1982":1619,"_1983":1963,"_1994":2048,"_1995":2064,"_1997":482,"_1999":116,"_2000":2065,"_2001":482,"_2003":1621,"_2004":1619,"_2005":1963},"Climate Justice","shopify://pages/about-iqair","shopify://pages/about-iqair__our-causes","IQAir Foundation","https://www.iqairfoundation.org/",{"_1894":1274,"_2045":2046,"_2047":772,"_1895":482,"_1896":482,"_1911":2048,"_1913":482,"_1915":482,"_1917":116,"_1918":482,"_1920":482,"_1921":1621,"_1922":1619,"_1923":1963,"_1934":2048,"_1935":482,"_1937":482,"_1939":116,"_1940":482,"_1941":482,"_1942":1621,"_1943":1619,"_1944":1963,"_1953":2048,"_1954":482,"_1956":482,"_1957":116,"_1958":482,"_1959":482,"_1960":1621,"_1961":1619,"_1962":1963,"_1975":2048,"_1976":482,"_1977":482,"_1978":116,"_1979":482,"_1980":482,"_1981":1621,"_1982":1619,"_1983":1963,"_1994":2048,"_1995":482,"_1997":482,"_1999":116,"_2000":482,"_2001":482,"_2003":1621,"_2004":1619,"_2005":1963},{"_1894":1544,"_2045":2046,"_2047":772,"_1895":482,"_1896":482,"_1911":2048,"_1913":1562,"_1915":482,"_1917":116,"_1918":2068,"_1920":482,"_1921":1621,"_1922":1619,"_1923":2069,"_1934":2048,"_1935":1557,"_1937":482,"_1939":116,"_1940":2070,"_1941":482,"_1942":1621,"_1943":1619,"_1944":2069,"_1953":2048,"_1954":1552,"_1956":482,"_1957":116,"_1958":2071,"_1959":482,"_1960":1621,"_1961":1619,"_1962":2069,"_1975":2048,"_1976":482,"_1977":482,"_1978":116,"_1979":482,"_1980":482,"_1981":1621,"_1982":1619,"_1983":2069,"_1994":2048,"_1995":482,"_1997":482,"_1999":116,"_2000":482,"_2001":482,"_2003":1621,"_2004":1619,"_2005":2069},"shopify://pages/measure-air-quality",33,"shopify://pages/intl-improve-air-quality","shopify://pages/air-quality-community","Mega menu ",{"_1894":1567,"_2045":2046,"_2047":772,"_1895":482,"_1896":482,"_1911":2048,"_1913":1604,"_1915":482,"_1917":116,"_1918":2074,"_1920":482,"_1921":1621,"_1922":1619,"_1923":219,"_1934":2075,"_1935":2076,"_1937":482,"_1939":116,"_1940":1596,"_1941":482,"_1942":1621,"_1943":1619,"_1944":219,"_1953":2075,"_1954":2077,"_1956":482,"_1957":116,"_1958":1217,"_1959":482,"_1960":1621,"_1961":1619,"_1962":1693,"_1975":2075,"_1976":2078,"_1977":482,"_1978":116,"_1979":1222,"_1980":482,"_1981":1621,"_1982":1619,"_1983":1693,"_1994":2075,"_1995":2079,"_1997":482,"_1999":116,"_2000":2080,"_2001":482,"_2003":1621,"_2004":1619,"_2005":219},"https://www.iqair.com/earth?nav=","wide","Map","Live City Ranking","Historical Data","API","shopify://pages/air-quality-api","simple_menu",{"_1894":1414,"_1895":2083,"_1896":1270,"_2084":2085,"_2086":2087,"_2088":772,"_2089":772},"For Organisations","button_style","secondary","button_size","sm","button_external","button_icon","announcement-bar",{"_2107":2110,"_2108":2111,"_2109":2112},[2107,2108,2109],[2106],{"_1775":772,"_1750":772,"_1751":116,"_2095":772,"_2096":1668,"_2097":116,"_2098":2099,"_2100":772,"_1618":2101,"_1620":2102,"_1622":482,"_2103":1675,"_2104":482,"_2105":772,"_1758":116,"_1627":772},"invert_icons_selectors","announcement_position","autoplay","autoplay_speed",7,"show_navigation","#fafafa","#28282b","color_highlight","gradient_highlight","hide_homepage","p {text-align: center !important;}","announcement_ExWdFE","announcement-1","announcement_pyAfeE",{"_59":2113,"_1616":2125},{"_59":2113,"_1803":116,"_1616":2121},{"_59":2113,"_1803":116,"_1616":2114},"announcement",{"_2115":2116,"_1680":2117,"_1646":2118,"_2119":116,"_2120":482,"_1705":1706,"_1707":1708},"icon","calendar","Contact us on WhatsApp: +971 52 311 9457","https://api.whatsapp.com/send?phone=971523119457","hide_icon_mobile","text_mobile",{"_2115":2122,"_1680":2123,"_1646":2124,"_2119":116,"_2120":482,"_1705":1706,"_1707":1708},"clipboard","Is your indoor air safe? Find out with a 7-Day Evaluation.","https://www.iqair.com/air-quality-consultation",{"_2115":1706,"_1680":2126,"_1646":2127,"_2119":772,"_2120":482,"_1705":1706,"_1707":1708},"Download our 2025 World Air Quality Report now!","https://www.iqair.com/us/world-air-quality-report",{"_53":3005,"_55":3006,"_3007":3008,"_3009":-5,"_3010":-5,"_3011":-5,"_3012":-5,"_3013":116},"localization",{"_2131":2132},"availableCountries",[2133,2134,2135,2136,2137,2138,2139,2140,2141,2142,2143,2144,2145,2146,2147,2148,2149,2150,2151,2152,2153,2154,2155,2156,2157,2158,2159,2160,2161,2162,2163,2164,2165,2166,2167,2168,2169,2170,2171,2172,2173,2174,2175,2176,2177,2178,2179,2180,2181,2182,2183,2184,2185,2186,2187,2188,2189,2190,2191,2192,2193,2194,2195,2196,2197,2198,2199,2200,2201,2202,2203,2204,2205,2206,2207,2208,2209,2210,2211,2212,2213,2214,2215,2216,2217,2218,2219,2220,2221,2222,2223,2224,2225,2226,2227,2228,2229,2230,2231,2232,2233,2234,2235,2236,2237,2238,2239,2240,2241,2242,2243,2244,2245,2246,2247,2248,2249,2250,2251,2252,2253,2254,2255,2256,2257,2258,2259,2260,2261,2262,2263,2264,2265,2266,2267,2268,2269,2270,2271,2272,2273,2274,2275,2276,2277,2278,2279,2280,2281,2282,2283,2284,2285,2286,2287,2288,2289,2290,2291,2292,2293,2294,2295,2296,2297,2298,2299,2300,2301,2302,2303,2304,2305,2306,2307,2308,2309,2310,2311,2312,2313,2314,2315,2316,2317,2318,2319,2320,2321,2322,2323,2324,2325,2326,2327,2328,2329,2330,2331,2332,2333,2334,2335,2336,2337,2338,2339,2340,2341,2342,2343,2344,2345,2346,2347,2348,2349,2350,2351,2352,2353,2354,2355,2356,2357,2358,2359,2360,2361,2362,2363,2364],{"_2365":3003,"_990":3004},{"_2365":3001,"_990":3002},{"_2365":2997,"_990":2998},{"_2365":2993,"_990":2994},{"_2365":2991,"_990":2992},{"_2365":2989,"_990":2990},{"_2365":2986,"_990":2987},{"_2365":2982,"_990":2983},{"_2365":2980,"_990":2981},{"_2365":2978,"_990":2979},{"_2365":2976,"_990":2977},{"_2365":2974,"_990":2975},{"_2365":2971,"_990":2972},{"_2365":2969,"_990":2970},{"_2365":2965,"_990":2966},{"_2365":2961,"_990":2962},{"_2365":989,"_990":2960},{"_2365":2956,"_990":2957},{"_2365":2954,"_990":2955},{"_2365":2952,"_990":2953},{"_2365":2950,"_990":2951},{"_2365":2948,"_990":2949},{"_2365":2945,"_990":2946},{"_2365":2943,"_990":2944},{"_2365":2941,"_990":2942},{"_2365":2939,"_990":2940},{"_2365":2936,"_990":2937},{"_2365":2932,"_990":2933},{"_2365":2930,"_990":2931},{"_2365":2926,"_990":2927},{"_2365":2923,"_990":2924},{"_2365":2921,"_990":2922},{"_2365":2918,"_990":2919},{"_2365":2916,"_990":2917},{"_2365":2913,"_990":2914},{"_2365":2911,"_990":2912},{"_2365":2908,"_990":2909},{"_2365":2906,"_990":2907},{"_2365":2904,"_990":2905},{"_2365":2902,"_990":2903},{"_2365":2900,"_990":2901},{"_2365":2898,"_990":2899},{"_2365":2896,"_990":2897},{"_2365":2894,"_990":2895},{"_2365":2892,"_990":2893},{"_2365":2888,"_990":2889},{"_2365":2885,"_990":2886},{"_2365":2883,"_990":2884},{"_2365":2881,"_990":2882},{"_2365":2879,"_990":2880},{"_2365":2875,"_990":2876},{"_2365":2873,"_990":2874},{"_2365":2869,"_990":2870},{"_2365":2867,"_990":2868},{"_2365":2865,"_990":2866},{"_2365":2862,"_990":2863},{"_2365":2858,"_990":2859},{"_2365":2856,"_990":2857},{"_2365":2854,"_990":2855},{"_2365":2850,"_990":2851},{"_2365":2848,"_990":2849},{"_2365":2846,"_990":2847},{"_2365":2844,"_990":2845},{"_2365":2840,"_990":2841},{"_2365":2838,"_990":2839},{"_2365":2835,"_990":2836},{"_2365":2832,"_990":2833},{"_2365":2830,"_990":2831},{"_2365":2828,"_990":2829},{"_2365":2826,"_990":2827},{"_2365":2824,"_990":2825},{"_2365":2822,"_990":2823},{"_2365":2820,"_990":2821},{"_2365":2818,"_990":2819},{"_2365":2816,"_990":2817},{"_2365":2814,"_990":2815},{"_2365":2810,"_990":2811},{"_2365":2806,"_990":2807},{"_2365":2803,"_990":2804},{"_2365":2801,"_990":2802},{"_2365":2799,"_990":2800},{"_2365":2797,"_990":2798},{"_2365":2795,"_990":2796},{"_2365":2791,"_990":2792},{"_2365":2789,"_990":2790},{"_2365":2786,"_990":2787},{"_2365":2783,"_990":2784},{"_2365":2780,"_990":2781},{"_2365":2778,"_990":2779},{"_2365":2776,"_990":2777},{"_2365":2772,"_990":2773},{"_2365":2768,"_990":2769},{"_2365":2766,"_990":2767},{"_2365":2764,"_990":2765},{"_2365":2762,"_990":2763},{"_2365":2758,"_990":2759},{"_2365":2756,"_990":2757},{"_2365":2754,"_990":2755},{"_2365":2751,"_990":2752},{"_2365":2749,"_990":2750},{"_2365":2747,"_990":2748},{"_2365":2744,"_990":2745},{"_2365":2742,"_990":2743},{"_2365":2738,"_990":2739},{"_2365":2734,"_990":2735},{"_2365":2730,"_990":2731},{"_2365":2728,"_990":2729},{"_2365":2726,"_990":2727},{"_2365":2723,"_990":2724},{"_2365":2721,"_990":2722},{"_2365":2717,"_990":2718},{"_2365":2715,"_990":2716},{"_2365":2712,"_990":2713},{"_2365":2708,"_990":2709},{"_2365":2704,"_990":2705},{"_2365":2700,"_990":2701},{"_2365":2698,"_990":2699},{"_2365":2695,"_990":2696},{"_2365":2692,"_990":2693},{"_2365":2690,"_990":2691},{"_2365":2688,"_990":2689},{"_2365":2686,"_990":2687},{"_2365":2684,"_990":2685},{"_2365":2682,"_990":2683},{"_2365":2680,"_990":2681},{"_2365":2676,"_990":2677},{"_2365":2674,"_990":2675},{"_2365":2670,"_990":2671},{"_2365":2668,"_990":2669},{"_2365":2666,"_990":2667},{"_2365":2664,"_990":2665},{"_2365":2635,"_990":2663},{"_2365":2661,"_990":2662},{"_2365":2658,"_990":2659},{"_2365":2654,"_990":2655},{"_2365":2650,"_990":2651},{"_2365":2648,"_990":2649},{"_2365":2646,"_990":2647},{"_2365":2644,"_990":2645},{"_2365":2642,"_990":2643},{"_2365":2639,"_990":2640},{"_2365":2636,"_990":2637},{"_2365":2632,"_990":2633},{"_2365":2628,"_990":2629},{"_2365":2626,"_990":2627},{"_2365":2624,"_990":2625},{"_2365":2622,"_990":2623},{"_2365":2620,"_990":2621},{"_2365":2618,"_990":2619},{"_2365":2614,"_990":2615},{"_2365":2610,"_990":2611},{"_2365":2608,"_990":2609},{"_2365":2606,"_990":2607},{"_2365":2602,"_990":2603},{"_2365":2600,"_990":2601},{"_2365":2598,"_990":2599},{"_2365":2596,"_990":2597},{"_2365":2594,"_990":2595},{"_2365":2592,"_990":2593},{"_2365":2588,"_990":2589},{"_2365":2586,"_990":2587},{"_2365":2582,"_990":2583},{"_2365":2578,"_990":2579},{"_2365":2574,"_990":2575},{"_2365":2570,"_990":2571},{"_2365":2568,"_990":2569},{"_2365":2566,"_990":2567},{"_2365":2562,"_990":2563},{"_2365":2560,"_990":2561},{"_2365":2556,"_990":2557},{"_2365":2552,"_990":2553},{"_2365":2550,"_990":2551},{"_2365":2546,"_990":2547},{"_2365":2542,"_990":2543},{"_2365":2538,"_990":2539},{"_2365":2534,"_990":2535},{"_2365":2530,"_990":2531},{"_2365":2527,"_990":2528},{"_2365":2525,"_990":2526},{"_2365":2523,"_990":2524},{"_2365":2519,"_990":2520},{"_2365":2516,"_990":2517},{"_2365":2513,"_990":2514},{"_2365":2511,"_990":2512},{"_2365":2509,"_990":2510},{"_2365":2507,"_990":2508},{"_2365":2503,"_990":2504},{"_2365":2501,"_990":2502},{"_2365":2499,"_990":2500},{"_2365":2497,"_990":2498},{"_2365":2495,"_990":2496},{"_2365":2493,"_990":2494},{"_2365":2489,"_990":2490},{"_2365":2487,"_990":2488},{"_2365":2483,"_990":2484},{"_2365":2481,"_990":2482},{"_2365":2477,"_990":2478},{"_2365":2475,"_990":2476},{"_2365":2471,"_990":2472},{"_2365":2469,"_990":2470},{"_2365":2466,"_990":2467},{"_2365":2462,"_990":2463},{"_2365":2458,"_990":2459},{"_2365":2455,"_990":2456},{"_2365":2453,"_990":2454},{"_2365":2451,"_990":2452},{"_2365":2449,"_990":2450},{"_2365":2445,"_990":2446},{"_2365":2441,"_990":2442},{"_2365":2438,"_990":2439},{"_2365":2435,"_990":2436},{"_2365":2432,"_990":2433},{"_2365":2428,"_990":2429},{"_2365":2424,"_990":2425},{"_2365":2420,"_990":2421},{"_2365":2418,"_990":2419},{"_2365":2414,"_990":2415},{"_2365":2410,"_990":2411},{"_2365":2408,"_990":2409},{"_2365":2405,"_990":2406},{"_2365":2403,"_990":2404},{"_2365":2401,"_990":2402},{"_2365":2397,"_990":2398},{"_2365":2393,"_990":2394},{"_2365":2389,"_990":2390},{"_2365":2385,"_990":2386},{"_2365":2383,"_990":2384},{"_2365":2379,"_990":2380},{"_2365":2377,"_990":2378},{"_2365":2375,"_990":2376},{"_2365":2371,"_990":2372},{"_2365":2366,"_990":2367},"isoCode","ZW",{"_2365":2368,"_2369":2370},"USD","symbol","$","ZM",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"EUR","€","ZA",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"YT",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"YE",{"_2365":2381,"_2369":2382},"YER","﷼","XK",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"WS",{"_2365":2387,"_2369":2388},"WST","T","WF",{"_2365":2391,"_2369":2392},"XPF","Fr","VU",{"_2365":2395,"_2369":2396},"VUV","Vt","VN",{"_2365":2399,"_2369":2400},"VND","₫","VG",{"_2365":2368,"_2369":2370},"VE",{"_2365":2368,"_2369":2370},"VC",{"_2365":2407,"_2369":2370},"XCD","VA",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"UZ",{"_2365":2412,"_2369":2413},"UZS","so'm","UY",{"_2365":2416,"_2369":2417},"UYU","$U","UM",{"_2365":2368,"_2369":2370},"UG",{"_2365":2422,"_2369":2423},"UGX","USh","UA",{"_2365":2426,"_2369":2427},"UAH","₴","TZ",{"_2365":2430,"_2369":2431},"TZS","Sh","TW",{"_2365":2434,"_2369":2370},"TWD","TV",{"_2365":2437,"_2369":2370},"AUD","TT",{"_2365":2440,"_2369":2370},"TTD","TR",{"_2365":2443,"_2369":2444},"TRY","₺","TO",{"_2365":2447,"_2369":2448},"TOP","T$","TN",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"TM",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"TL",{"_2365":2368,"_2369":2370},"TK",{"_2365":2457,"_2369":2370},"NZD","TJ",{"_2365":2460,"_2369":2461},"TJS","ЅМ","TH",{"_2365":2464,"_2369":2465},"THB","฿","TG",{"_2365":2468,"_2369":2392},"XOF","TF",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"TD",{"_2365":2473,"_2369":2474},"XAF","CFA","TC",{"_2365":2368,"_2369":2370},"TA",{"_2365":2479,"_2369":2480},"GBP","£","SZ",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"SX",{"_2365":2485,"_2369":2486},"ANG","ƒ","SV",{"_2365":2368,"_2369":2370},"ST",{"_2365":2491,"_2369":2492},"STD","Db","SS",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"SR",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"SO",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"SN",{"_2365":2468,"_2369":2392},"SM",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"SL",{"_2365":2505,"_2369":2506},"SLL","Le","SK",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"SJ",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"SI",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"SH",{"_2365":2515,"_2369":2480},"SHP","SG",{"_2365":2518,"_2369":2370},"SGD","SE",{"_2365":2521,"_2369":2522},"SEK","kr","SD",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"SC",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"SB",{"_2365":2529,"_2369":2370},"SBD","SA",{"_2365":2532,"_2369":2533},"SAR","ر.س","RW",{"_2365":2536,"_2369":2537},"RWF","FRw","RU",{"_2365":2540,"_2369":2541},"RUB","₽","RS",{"_2365":2544,"_2369":2545},"RSD","РСД","RO",{"_2365":2548,"_2369":2549},"RON","Lei","RE",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"QA",{"_2365":2554,"_2369":2555},"QAR","ر.ق","PY",{"_2365":2558,"_2369":2559},"PYG","₲","PT",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"PS",{"_2365":2564,"_2369":2565},"ILS","₪","PN",{"_2365":2457,"_2369":2370},"PM",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"PL",{"_2365":2572,"_2369":2573},"PLN","zł","PK",{"_2365":2576,"_2369":2577},"PKR","₨","PH",{"_2365":2580,"_2369":2581},"PHP","₱","PG",{"_2365":2584,"_2369":2585},"PGK","K","PF",{"_2365":2391,"_2369":2392},"PE",{"_2365":2590,"_2369":2591},"PEN","S/","PA",{"_2365":2368,"_2369":2370},"OM",{"_2365":2368,"_2369":2370},"NZ",{"_2365":2457,"_2369":2370},"NU",{"_2365":2457,"_2369":2370},"NR",{"_2365":2437,"_2369":2370},"NP",{"_2365":2604,"_2369":2605},"NPR","Rs.","NO",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"NL",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"NI",{"_2365":2612,"_2369":2613},"NIO","C$","NG",{"_2365":2616,"_2369":2617},"NGN","₦","NF",{"_2365":2437,"_2369":2370},"NE",{"_2365":2468,"_2369":2392},"NC",{"_2365":2391,"_2369":2392},"NA",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"MZ",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"MY",{"_2365":2630,"_2369":2631},"MYR","RM","MW",{"_2365":2634,"_2369":2635},"MWK","MK","MV",{"_2365":2638,"_2369":2638},"MVR","MU",{"_2365":2641,"_2369":2577},"MUR","MT",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"MS",{"_2365":2407,"_2369":2370},"MR",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"MQ",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"MO",{"_2365":2652,"_2369":2653},"MOP","P","MN",{"_2365":2656,"_2369":2657},"MNT","₮","MM",{"_2365":2660,"_2369":2585},"MMK","ML",{"_2365":2468,"_2369":2392},{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"MG",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"MF",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"ME",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"MD",{"_2365":2672,"_2369":2673},"MDL","L","MC",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"MA",{"_2365":2678,"_2369":2679},"MAD","د.م.","LY",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"LV",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"LU",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"LT",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"LS",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"LR",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"LK",{"_2365":2694,"_2369":2577},"LKR","LI",{"_2365":2697,"_2369":2697},"CHF","LC",{"_2365":2407,"_2369":2370},"LB",{"_2365":2702,"_2369":2703},"LBP","ل.ل","LA",{"_2365":2706,"_2369":2707},"LAK","₭","KZ",{"_2365":2710,"_2369":2711},"KZT","₸","KY",{"_2365":2714,"_2369":2370},"KYD","KW",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"KR",{"_2365":2719,"_2369":2720},"KRW","₩","KN",{"_2365":2407,"_2369":2370},"KM",{"_2365":2725,"_2369":2392},"KMF","KI",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"KH",{"_2365":2368,"_2369":2370},"KG",{"_2365":2732,"_2369":2733},"KGS","som","KE",{"_2365":2736,"_2369":2737},"KES","KSh","JP",{"_2365":2740,"_2369":2741},"JPY","¥","JO",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"JM",{"_2365":2746,"_2369":2370},"JMD","JE",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"IT",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"IS",{"_2365":2753,"_2369":2522},"ISK","IQ",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"IO",{"_2365":2368,"_2369":2370},"IN",{"_2365":2760,"_2369":2761},"INR","₹","IM",{"_2365":2479,"_2369":2480},"IL",{"_2365":2564,"_2369":2565},"IE",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"ID",{"_2365":2770,"_2369":2771},"IDR","Rp","HU",{"_2365":2774,"_2369":2775},"HUF","Ft","HT",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"HR",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"HN",{"_2365":2782,"_2369":2673},"HNL","HK",{"_2365":2785,"_2369":2370},"HKD","GY",{"_2365":2788,"_2369":2370},"GYD","GW",{"_2365":2468,"_2369":2392},"GT",{"_2365":2793,"_2369":2794},"GTQ","Q","GS",{"_2365":2479,"_2369":2480},"GR",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"GQ",{"_2365":2473,"_2369":2474},"GP",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"GN",{"_2365":2805,"_2369":2392},"GNF","GM",{"_2365":2808,"_2369":2809},"GMD","D","GL",{"_2365":2812,"_2369":2813},"DKK","kr.","GH",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"GG",{"_2365":2479,"_2369":2480},"GF",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"GE",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"GD",{"_2365":2407,"_2369":2370},"GB",{"_2365":2479,"_2369":2480},"GA",{"_2365":2468,"_2369":2392},"FR",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"FO",{"_2365":2812,"_2369":2813},"FK",{"_2365":2834,"_2369":2480},"FKP","FJ",{"_2365":2837,"_2369":2370},"FJD","FI",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"ET",{"_2365":2842,"_2369":2843},"ETB","Br","ES",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"ER",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"EH",{"_2365":2678,"_2369":2679},"EG",{"_2365":2852,"_2369":2853},"EGP","ج.م","EE",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"EC",{"_2365":2368,"_2369":2370},"DZ",{"_2365":2860,"_2369":2861},"DZD","د.ج","DO",{"_2365":2864,"_2369":2370},"DOP","DM",{"_2365":2407,"_2369":2370},"DK",{"_2365":2812,"_2369":2813},"DJ",{"_2365":2871,"_2369":2872},"DJF","Fdj","DE",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"CZ",{"_2365":2877,"_2369":2878},"CZK","Kč","CY",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"CX",{"_2365":2437,"_2369":2370},"CW",{"_2365":2485,"_2369":2486},"CV",{"_2365":2887,"_2369":2370},"CVE","CR",{"_2365":2890,"_2369":2891},"CRC","₡","CO",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"CM",{"_2365":2473,"_2369":2474},"CL",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"CK",{"_2365":2457,"_2369":2370},"CI",{"_2365":2468,"_2369":2392},"CH",{"_2365":2697,"_2369":2697},"CG",{"_2365":2473,"_2369":2474},"CF",{"_2365":2473,"_2369":2474},"CD",{"_2365":2910,"_2369":2392},"CDF","CC",{"_2365":2437,"_2369":2370},"BZ",{"_2365":2915,"_2369":2370},"BZD","BY",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"BW",{"_2365":2920,"_2369":2653},"BWP","BT",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"BS",{"_2365":2925,"_2369":2370},"BSD","BR",{"_2365":2928,"_2369":2929},"BRL","R$","BQ",{"_2365":2368,"_2369":2370},"BO",{"_2365":2934,"_2369":2935},"BOB","Bs.","BN",{"_2365":2938,"_2369":2370},"BND","BM",{"_2365":2368,"_2369":2370},"BL",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"BJ",{"_2365":2468,"_2369":2392},"BI",{"_2365":2947,"_2369":2392},"BIF","BH",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"BG",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"BF",{"_2365":2468,"_2369":2392},"BE",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"BD",{"_2365":2958,"_2369":2959},"BDT","৳",{"_2365":205,"_2369":2370},"BA",{"_2365":2963,"_2369":2964},"BAM","КМ","AZ",{"_2365":2967,"_2369":2968},"AZN","₼","AX",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"AW",{"_2365":2973,"_2369":2486},"AWG","AU",{"_2365":2437,"_2369":2370},"AT",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"AR",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"AO",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"AM",{"_2365":2984,"_2369":2985},"AMD","դր.","AL",{"_2365":2988,"_2369":2673},"ALL","AI",{"_2365":2407,"_2369":2370},"AG",{"_2365":2407,"_2369":2370},"AF",{"_2365":2995,"_2369":2996},"AFN","؋","AE",{"_2365":2999,"_2369":3000},"AED","د.إ","AD",{"_2365":2373,"_2369":2374},"AC",{"_2365":2515,"_2369":2480},"gid://shopify/Shop/67740598571","IQAir Global EUR","paymentSettings",{"_204":2373,"_1033":2902},"privacyPolicy","shippingPolicy","refundPolicy","termsOfService","taxesIncluded"]

Featured articles

Trending topics

How air quality affects breast cancer

How natural disasters degrade air quality

California summer camp explores air quality science

Can air purifiers help with indoor air quality from traffic pollution?

How to protect yourself from autumn allergens in your home

Best place to put an air purifier in a living room

Classroom air quality impacts learning

Wildfire Smoke Is an Escalating Public Health Crisis

Air purifier vs HVAC filter: What’s the difference?

Can air quality influence patient safety?

Do you still need to ventilate if you use an air purifier?

What is ACH and why it matters for air purifiers

Connect With IQAir