Know If And When You Need An Air Purifier
There are several factors you need to consider when asking yourself if you need an air purifier.
Reaction to Weather
No doubt you hear "Vermont" and think clean mountain air. Guess again! Vermont has many issues that require an air purifier. Perhaps more so due to the extreme weather conditions the in the area. It can be sixty degrees one day and zero the next. Three systems become important: air purifier systems, humidifier systems, and dehumidifier systems.
Problems with Basements
One thing most Vermont homes have that most southerners may not be used to is a basement. A basement can host a multitude of mold spores, mildew spores, and even radon. All three of these can cause health problems. Radon is a radioactive gas found in the earth that can cause lung cancer. In order to get rid of radon, you'll need a top-notch air purifier system. And presence of radon should sent you searching for the right air cleaners.
In a typical Vermont home, the basement is usually home to the laundry room. You know how much time you can spend doing laundry on a weekly basis. All the time you are down there, you are breathing in these molds and possibly radon gases.
Basements can be very damp year round. Controlling your air quality is essential. A dehumidifier can help take the excess moisture out of the air, which will reduce some molds and mildews, but a dehumidifier will not help with radon. This leaves you with a humidifier or air purifier.
Troubles with Upstairs
Upstairs, just the opposite occurs, and it's not any better. The air above ground level can be extremely dry, especially in the winter. You can either get used to zapping everyone you meet or purchase a humidifier to add moisture back to the air. Again, radon is still in the air. You really need an air purifier.
Nonetheless, neither the dehumidifier nor the humidifier will touch the problem of mold spores and radon upstairs. A humidifier or dehumidifier can add or reduce moisture, but they cannot take care of radon. You can't smell or see radon. It's a silent killer. For this most important issue, again you need to look into an air purifier.
Looking for Signs
Sure, it sounds hard. How do you know if an air purifier is really the appliance you need? It's actually quite simple. Look around your home. Do you fight mildew battles from time to time? Is dusting a daily routine? Do your windows steam up frequently when you cook or when the shower has been on? Do you have mushrooms growing in your basement despite your use of a dehumidifier? These are all critical warning signs and should be taken seriously.
Radon is another issue. You should start by contacting the state. They have many brochures on air purifier systems. They also offer free radon test kits. In six months time, you will know if you are at risk for radon. Once you know for sure, you will know how much of an air purifier system you need to purchase.
Once you know, an air purifier should be your next step. You may just need an air purifier for mold and mildew spores. You also might be one of the few who need something capable of removing radon as well. Either way, your health is worth it!
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