Delhi Air Pollution 2025: 5 Things To Check Before Buying An Air Purifier

As the capital gasps for breath under a thick blanket of smog, the urgency to protect oneself indoors has never been more pressing. With the Air Quality Index (AQI) hovering between 'very poor' and 'severe' across Delhi-NCR, and Anand Vihar peaking at a staggering 429 recently, air purifiers have become more than just a lifestyle accessory. They are now a necessity.

Smart features can make air purifiers more efficient for your home
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The Delhi government's recent cloud seeding experiment, aimed at inducing artificial rain to combat pollution is yet to show results. And despite efforts like deploying anti-smog guns and restricting non-BS-VI vehicles, the toxic air persists. Health experts warn of rising respiratory illnesses, irritations, and even more serious health complications due to prolonged exposure to PM2.5 and PM10 particles, dust and other toxins.

Also Read: Delhi Pollution Returns: Here Are 5 Things You Should Buy To Keep You Safe

So, if you're considering buying an air purifier to shield your home from Delhi's worsening air, here are five critical factors to check before making that investment:

5 Things To Check Before Buying An Air Purifier

1. Go For True HEPA + Activated Carbon Filter

Delhi's air is laden with fine particulate matter, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and allergens. A True HEPA filter (preferably H13 or H14 grade) can trap 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including PM 2.5, pollen, and smoke. Pair this with an activated carbon filter to neutralise odours and harmful gases like formaldehyde and nitrogen dioxide.

Avoid purifiers labelled “HEPA-like” or “HEPA-type”, they're less effective and often misleading.

2. Match Air Purifier To Your Room Size

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) indicates how quickly a purifier can clean the air. For Delhi's pollution levels, a higher CADR is essential. As a rule of thumb, the CADR should be at least two-thirds of your room's square footage. For example, a 300 sq. ft. room needs a CADR of around 200. Models like the Coway Airmega 150 and Levoit Core300-P have received praise for their high CADR and efficiency in urban homes.

Choose a purifier that suits your room size.
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3. Air Purifier Noise Levels And Sleep Mode

Pollution peaks during early mornings and late evenings. If you plan to run your purifier overnight, look for models with low noise levels (under 50 dB) and a sleep mode. Devices like the Servotech Mini Air Purifier and MOOKA HEPA models offer silent operation, ideal for bedrooms.

4. Filter Replacement Cost And Availability

A purifier is only as good as its filter. Check how often filters need replacing and whether they're easily available. Some brands offer vacuum-cleanable pre-filters or long-life HEPA filters (up to 8,500 hours), reducing maintenance costs. Also, beware of hidden costs; some replacement filters can cost nearly half the price of the purifier itself.

Continuous use is advisable to avoid pollution peaks in your home
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5. Air Purifier with Smart Features And Real-Time AQI Monitoring

With Delhi's AQI fluctuating wildly, from 275 to over 400 in some areas, having a purifier that adjusts automatically is a game-changer. Look for models with smart sensors, Wi-Fi connectivity, and real-time AQI displays. These features help optimise performance and energy use.

Don't Forget Ventilation and Masks

While air purifiers help indoors, experts still recommend N95 masks for outdoor exposure and proper ventilation to prevent indoor pollutant buildup. Also, avoid incense sticks and candles, which can worsen indoor air quality.

Delhi's pollution crisis is not seasonal anymore; it's a year-round health hazard. With the government's mitigation efforts still in experimental stages and AQI levels breaching safe limits daily, protecting your indoor air is paramount. Investing in the right air purifier is not just about comfort; it's about survival. Choose wisely, breathe safely.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the most important feature in an air purifier for Delhi pollution?

The most crucial feature is a True HEPA filter combined with an activated carbon filter, which effectively removes PM2.5 particles and harmful gases.

2. How do I know if an air purifier suits my room size?

Check the CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate). It should be at least two-thirds of your room's square footage for effective purification.

3. Can air purifiers help with indoor pollution caused by cooking or candles?

Yes, especially those with activated carbon filters. However, reducing indoor sources like incense and candles is also recommended.

4. Do I need to run my air purifier all day?

During high pollution days, continuous use is advisable, especially during early mornings and evenings when pollution peaks.

5. Are smart features in air purifiers worth it?

Yes. Real-time AQI monitoring and auto-adjustment features help optimise performance and energy usage based on indoor air quality.