Introduction

With the recent outbreak of Covid-19, many people have been buying air purifiers in the hopes of killing viruses and bacteria in their homes. But the question is, can they really kill viruses?

How air purifiers work

Air purifiers use filters to remove pollutants such as dust, pollen, and smoke from the air. Some air purifiers also use UV-C lights which can kill bacteria and viruses. HEPA filters are the most common type of filter used in air purifiers. They can capture particles as small as 0.3 microns, which includes most viruses.

Effectiveness of air purifiers against viruses

While air purifiers with HEPA filters can capture most viruses, they do not necessarily kill them. The virus remains on the filter, and if the filter is not disposed of properly, the virus can still find its way back into the air. Air purifiers with UV-C lights can kill viruses, but the effectiveness depends on the length of exposure time and how close the virus is to the light.

Limitations of air purifiers in killing viruses

It is important to note that air purifiers are not a substitute for good hygiene practices and social distancing. While they can capture and kill some viruses, they cannot remove all viruses from the air. Additionally, air purifiers cannot kill viruses on surfaces, so it is important to continue to clean surfaces regularly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, air purifiers can capture most viruses using HEPA filters, and some air purifiers with UV-C lights can also kill viruses. However, they should not be relied upon as the only defense against viruses. It is critical to continue practicing good hygiene habits and social distancing to reduce the spread of viruses.