Clean Air Blog

Choosing an air purifier can feel overwhelming. Every brand highlights different features; sensors, modes, filters, apps. However, not all of them actually improve your air quality in a meaningful way. At its core, an air purifier does one job: move air through a filter and remove particles. How well it does that depends far more on airflow and filter quality than flashy features. This guide breaks down the features that genuinely matter when choosing an air purifier for NZ homes. We'll also show you where it’s easy to be misled by specs that look good on paper but don’t translate to cleaner air. Table of contents 1. HEPA Filtration: The Foundation of Clean Air 2. Carbon Filters: Odours, VOCs & Why Weight Matters 3. CADR: The Most Important Number on the Spec Sheet 4. Sizing a Purifier Properly: CADR, Room Size & Noise i. Why Manufacturer Room Size Claims Can Be Confusing ii. Noise levels: What to look for in real use 5. Extra features: what to be cautious of (and why) Ionisers (negative ion/plasma modes) UV Lights Auto modes and built-in sensors Wi-Fi and app control (nice to have, not essential) 6. Wrap-up: Focus on the simple features Looking for an air purifier that ticks all the boxes? Quick guide: what actually matters HEPA filtration matters more than fancy features CADR (airflow) is the most important performance number Room size claims vary, CADR makes comparison easier Bigger units can run quieter on lower speeds Carbon filters only help if they use real carbon pellets Ionisers and “active” tech often add complexity, not performance 1. HEPA Filtration: The Foundation of Clean Air HEPA filtration is the most important part of any effective air purifier. A HEPA filter works by physically trapping fine particles as air passes through it. These include dust, pollen, smoke, PM2.5 and many airborne allergens. These are the particles most commonly linked to respiratory issues and poor indoor air quality. HEPA grades and what really matters You’ll often see H13 promoted as the gold standard, and it is excellent. But lower grades like H12 and even H11 can still perform extremely well, provided the purifier has high CADR. A slightly lower-grade HEPA filter moving a lot of air will outperform a higher-grade filter with weaker airflow. What matters most is: HEPA filtration (not “HEPA-like” or proprietary names) Enough airflow to cycle the room regularly Avoid vague terms like: “HEPA-style” “HEPA-type” If a manufacturer won’t clearly state the HEPA grade, it’s usually a red flag. 2. Carbon Filters: Odours, VOCs & Why Weight Matters Carbon filtration plays a different role to HEPA. While HEPA filters remove particles, activated carbon helps absorb gases and odours, such as: Cooking smells Smoke odours Chemical fumes VOCs from furniture, paints or cleaning products Not all carbon filters are equal Many air purifiers advertise carbon or VOC filtration, but include only a thin carbon-coated sheet. These filters saturate quickly and have limited ability to absorb gases. What actually makes carbon effective: Carbon pellets or granules, not just a coating More carbon weight, which increases effectiveness and lifespan A light carbon layer may slightly reduce smells, but it won’t meaningfully address ongoing odours or VOCs. Carbon filtration is optional for many homes.  If particles are the main concern, HEPA does the heavy lifting. 3. CADR: The Most Important Number on the Spec Sheet If there’s one specification to pay attention to when choosing an air purifier, it’s CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate). CADR tells you how much clean, filtered air a purifier can deliver per hour. In simple terms, it measures how quickly a purifier can remove particles like dust, pollen and PM2.5 from a room. Higher CADR means: Faster removal of particles Better performance in larger rooms More flexibility to run at lower, quieter speeds A purifier with high CADR will always outperform a weaker one in real-world use. 4. Sizing a Purifier Properly: CADR, Room Size & Noise Most people start by thinking about the size of the room, which is exactly the right place to begin. A simple, practical rule of thumb is: Multiply your room size (m²) by 7.5 to estimate the CADR (m³/h) you need This gives you a target CADR that will deliver around 3 air changes per hour in a standard-height room. Example: 20 m² bedroom × 7.5 = 150 m³/h CADR required 65 m² living area × 7.5 = 488 m³/h CADR required This approach makes it much easier to compare purifiers objectively. Need 500+ CADR? High power, and perfect for rooms up to 65m² Key features: Runs as quiet as 16 dB on low, suitable for bedroom usage Scales up to cover living areas up to around 65 m² Reaches 51 dB at full power when maximum airflow is needed Uses true HEPA filtration for dust, pollen and PM2.5 Includes a built-in carbon filter for everyday odours No ionisers or ozone-producing technologies Shop Smart Air SA600 i. Why Manufacturer Room Size Claims Can Be Confusing You’ll often see air purifiers in NZ advertised with room size ratings that don’t line up with this rule at all. That’s because: There is no single standard for how room size is calculated Some ratings assume very low air changes per hour (even less than 1!) As a result, two purifiers both advertised for “40m² rooms" can perform very differently in practice. Looking at CADR lets you cut through this and compare models on equal footing. ii. Noise levels: What to look for in real use Noise matters because air purifiers work best when they run for long periods, not just short bursts. Living rooms, offices and daytime use In shared or daytime spaces, a bit of background noise is usually acceptable if it means better air cleaning. As a general guide: Around 50 dB is typically fine TVs, conversation and appliances often mask purifier noise Medium fan speeds often give the best balance of airflow and noise Bedrooms and overnight use In bedrooms, purifiers often run for long periods while you sleep, so lower noise becomes much more important. As a guide: Under 30 dB is ideal for overnight use Lower is better if you are noise-sensitive Avoid any with lights that may be distracting Learn More About Air Purifiers & Sleep What to be aware of for real-world quiet performance: Some brands only quote noise at the lowest fan speed That lowest speed may deliver very little CADR Quiet on paper doesn’t always mean effective in practice Important: What matters is how much CADR the purifier delivers at a quiet setting, not just the decibel number. A well-sized purifier can often deliver enough airflow for a bedroom at around 16–25 dB, allowing it to run all night without disturbance. 5. Extra features: what to be cautious of (and why) Many air purifiers include additional features that sound appealing; UV lights, ionisers, smart sensors, Wi-Fi apps and automatic modes.  Some of these can be useful in the right context, but many don’t meaningfully improve air cleaning for most homes. This doesn’t mean these features are “bad”, but it’s worth understanding what they do, and what they don’t. Common features that don't always help: Ionisers or negative ion generators UV lights Auto modes based on built in sensors App control and Wi-Fi connectivity Ionisers (negative ion/plasma modes) Ionisers (sometimes called negative ion or plasma technologies) work by electrically charging particles in the air so they clump together or settle onto nearby surfaces. This can make particle levels drop faster in CADR lab tests, but it doesn’t necessarily mean those particles are being removed from your environment. In real homes, they can end up on floors, furniture, or walls instead of being trapped in the filter. Because of this, ionisers can make performance numbers look better without improving actual filtration. Some ionising technologies can also produce small amounts of ozone as a by-product, which is why many people prefer not to introduce additional substances into their indoor air. Learn More About Ionisers Important: Some purifiers allow the ioniser to be switched off (which we'd recommend), but manufacturers rarely publish the CADR with the ioniser disabled. That makes it difficult to know the purifier’s true, filter-only performance. UV Lights UV lights are often marketed as a way to neutralise bacteria and viruses in the air. In most consumer air purifiers, however, air normally passes the UV source too quickly for meaningful disinfection to occur. It’s also worth noting that HEPA filtration already captures the vast majority of airborne particles, including dust, pollen, PM2.5, and virus-containing aerosols. For everyday indoor air quality, a well-sized HEPA purifier is already doing the most important part of the job. UV tends to add cost and complexity without improving real-world air cleaning in most homes. Auto modes and built-in sensors Automatic modes sound convenient, but how effective they are depends heavily on the quality of the sensor and where it’s located inside the purifier. Things to be aware of: Built-in sensors vary widely in accuracy Many use very low-cost sensors that can be unreliable Readings are taken at a single point, where the air is cleanest on the purifier Air quality can be poor without triggering a noticeable fan response Because of this, an auto mode may leave the purifier running slowly even when air quality isn’t ideal. Many people prefer to run purifiers at a consistent manual speed, or use a separate, dedicated air quality monitor for better insight. Wi-Fi and app control (nice to have, not essential) Wi-Fi and app control can be convenient, but they don’t make a purifier clean the air any better. They also tend to add: Extra cost More complexity Another system that can fail or become unsupported over time The need to create and manage yet another app or account For many people, this ends up being a feature that’s rarely used after the initial setup. Our purifiers don’t rely on Wi-Fi or apps, but they work well with a simple Wi-Fi smart plug if you want basic scheduling or remote on/off control, without the complexity. 6. Wrap-up: Focus on the simple features Choosing an air purifier doesn’t need to be complicated. Most of the real-world performance comes down to a few core factors, not a long list of extra features. If you focus on: Proper HEPA filtration Enough CADR for your room size Noise levels that suit how you’ll actually use it You’ll usually get better results than chasing advanced modes or add-ons that look good on a spec sheet but don’t improve day-to-day air cleaning. Simple, well-sized purifiers that move plenty of air through a good filter tend to be quieter, more predictable, and easier to live with over the long term. Looking for an air purifier that ticks all the boxes? Explore HEPA air purifiers designed for real NZ homes. Quiet enough for bedrooms, powerful enough for living spaces, and free from unnecessary gimmicks. See Product See Product Is a higher HEPA grade always better? Higher HEPA grades (like H13/H14) are most critical in settings such as hospitals, clean rooms, or labs, where air may only get a single pass through the filter. In homes, air is continuously recirculated, so airflow (CADR) and regular air changes often matter more than filter grade alone. Well-designed purifiers using H12 or even H11 filters can perform extremely well when paired with sufficient airflow. How many air changes per hour should I aim for? As a baseline, we generally recommend at least 3 air changes per hour for homes. In busier or higher-risk environments, such as schools, offices, clinics, or shared spaces, this is often increased to 4–6 air changes per hour, depending on activity levels and occupancy. Are ionisers or UV lights needed for everyday use? For most homes, no. A properly sized HEPA purifier already captures fine particles, including smoke and virus-containing aerosols. Extra technologies may sound reassuring but often add cost and complexity without improving everyday air cleaning. Should I rely on auto mode or control the purifier manually? Auto modes can be convenient, but their effectiveness depends on sensor quality and placement. In many cases, running a purifier at a consistent manual speed that delivers enough airflow for the room provides more predictable results. Relevant Articles: The Best Air Purifiers in New Zealand: 2025 Comparison Read more Ionisers Explained: Why We Don’t Use Them (and Why Some Brands Do) Read more The Misleading Room Size Claims of Air Purifier Brands Read more

Smoke can affect air quality in New Zealand at any time of year, not just during summer wildfires. Winter woodburners, controlled burns, industrial or vehicle fires, building fires, and even smoke drifting over from Australia can all push PM2.5 levels up. Events like the Port Hills Fire in Christchurch (Feb 2024) show how quickly air quality can change and how important it is to know what to do. Whether smoke is coming from your neighbour’s chimney, a nearby scrub fire, or a major incident, the aim is the same: keep PM2.5 out of your lungs and out of your home as much as possible. 1. Why Smoke Is Harmful, Understanding PM2.5 Smoke contains a mix of gases and particles, but the main concern is PM2.5: particles small enough to enter deep into the lungs and even the bloodstream. PM2.5 can: Irritate the throat, nose and eyes Worsen asthma and allergies Aggravate heart and lung conditions Cause headaches and poor sleep Build up indoors unless removed In NZ, winter woodburners regularly cause PM2.5 spikes — especially on still nights that trap smoke near the ground. Large events like the Port Hills Fire or Australian bushfire drift can cause very high short-term levels as well. If you can see or smell smoke, assume PM2.5 is elevated. 2. Keeping Smoke Out of Your Home Health NZ’s general advice during smoke events is simple: Stay indoors if possible Close all windows and doors Reduce outdoor air getting inside You can see their full guidance here → Here’s how to put that into practice at home: Close and seal your home Shut windows and doors Use curtains, door snakes, or towels to block gaps Avoid creating drafts Turn off ventilation systems that pull in outdoor air Systems such as HRV or positive-pressure ventilation often draw outside air in, and most cannot effectively filter out PM2.5. Turn these off during smoke events unless your system has a HEPA intake filter. Heat pumps are fine, they recirculate indoor air and don't draw in smoke. Reduce indoor PM2.5 contributors These activities make indoor smoke levels worse: Frying or grilling Burning candles or incense Vacuuming (which stirs up dust) Smoking indoors Keep indoor air as stable as possible. Create a Cleaner Air Space Indoors Pick a room (often a bedroom or living area) and keep the air in there as clean as possible by: Keeping windows and doors shut Reducing drafts Avoiding dust-creating activities Running a HEPA purifier This room becomes your safest indoor space during heavy smoke. 3. Checking Air Quality in NZ Smoke levels can shift quickly, whether from woodburners, fires, or drifting smoke. Checking air quality helps you know when to seal the home and when to ventilate. One challenge is that air-quality monitoring in NZ is limited.Even with community networks like PurpleAir and AirGradient, many towns and rural areas have no sensors at all. Official monitoring is even more restricted. These are the most useful tools: IQAir (best real-time map — aggregates multiple sources) IQAir combines: Official regional council monitors PurpleAir community sensors AirGradient sensors Other public/global data sources It’s often the most complete real-time view in NZ, especially if your town has no official station. View the map here → LAWA Air Quality (official NZ data + long-term trends) LAWA provides verified PM2.5 and PM10 readings where regional councils have monitors, plus: Recent hourly data Long-term and seasonal trends Annual exceedances of NZ standards Great for understanding typical patterns, coverage varies. View the map here → Indoor air-quality monitors Outdoor data doesn’t always reflect what’s happening inside your home.An indoor PM2.5 monitor helps you see: How much smoke is leaking in When levels rise How effective your purifier is This is especially useful in older NZ homes that naturally draw in outdoor air. We have a selection of Air Quality Monitors here → 4. Air Purifiers: The Most Effective Way to Reduce PM2.5 Indoors A HEPA air purifier is the most effective tool for lowering PM2.5 indoors during smoke events. Whether it’s from wildfires, woodburners, industrial fires, or long-range smoke drift. Why HEPA works best HEPA filters are extremely effective at physically trapping fine smoke particles. Their very fine weave and fibrous nature means particles big and small are captured and removed from the air. Most home ventilation systems cannot properly remove PM2.5 unless upgraded with a HEPA-grade filter, which normally isn't done as it restricts airflow significantly. What to look for HEPA filtration, H11/H12/H13 grades will be very effective High CADR / strong airflow No ionisers or plasma systems (they can create harmful byproducts) How to use your purifier During major smoke events: Run on medium–high Keep doors closed Focus on rooms you’re actively using A purifier can quickly bring PM2.5 under control even in older or draughty homes. 5. Do Carbon Filters Help? HEPA removes harmful particles. Carbon filters help with: Smoke odour VOCs from woodburners Lingering wildfire smells Fumes from industrial fires Carbon is optional for comfort, but HEPA is essential for safety. 6. Final Thoughts Smoke can impact New Zealand homes any time of year, whether from winter woodburners, wildfires, industrial incidents or far-travelled smoke. The most effective approach is: Keep smoke out Turn off systems that bring outdoor air inside Use a HEPA purifier to reduce PM2.5 Monitor air quality inside and out These simple steps help keep your indoor air healthier during smoke events. Our store contains a selection of effective and affordable air purifiers and air quality monitors designed to keep you safe from smoke.

We’ve expanded our air quality monitor range to include Temtop. Like our existing models from Qingping, Temtop has a reputation for well-priced products with high levels of accuracy. Accuracy is non-negotiable for us, so we started with models that already have independent test results and used those as anchors in a simple, real-world comparison. We then co-located all six monitors (Qingping and Temtop) and aligned the data over several days. The curves moved together, and the typical gaps were small. That gives us confidence that the new additions sit in line with our verified units. Independent Testing Anchors Southcoast AQMD, based in California has a program where they compare air quality monitors with high grade reference equipment. This provides independent test data for dozens of models, from low cost ones like the QP Lite to ones costing thousands of dollars. For PM2.5, all the results are published here. Several of our units already have results available from Southcoast AQMD. All showed strong correlations with the reference equipment for PM2.5 measurements, and low mean errors - often beating monitors costing thousands of dollars!  Model Field R2 (Correlation) Field MAE (Absolute Error) Qingping Lite 0.85 to 0.93 1.8 to 3.6 Qingping Pro 0.86 to 0.90 1.8 to 2.3 Temtop LKC-1000S+ 0.91 to 0.92 3.1 to 3.6 Note, original model of Pro and Temtop LKC were tested, updated models used for our comparison testing. Why PM2.5 Matters PM2.5 are tiny particles that can reach deep into the lungs and even the bloodstream. When air pollution is talked about, it typically refers to levels of PM2.5, due to the serious health impacts. In New Zealand, indoor levels can often be higher than outdoors. Seeing the levels and changes in your home or workplace can help you decide if interventions such as ventilation or air purification is required.  What we tested   Models: Qingping Lite, Qingping Pro 2, Temtop M10i, Temtop M10+, Temtop S1+ and Temtop LKC-1000S+ 2nd. Environment: Same bench in an apartment (Christchurch), co-located and away from air vents. Period: 14 - 18 August 2025, hourly measurement results Objective: Check how closely the models track together in real conditions, using indepdently tested units as the benchmark Method and limitations Recording frequency: We aligned measurements to the unit with the lowest recording frequency (M10+), so all results are reported hourly.  Time adjustments: Not all units were recording exactly on the hour, so the closest recording to the hour was used. In some cases this was 5mins before or after the hour. Units plugged in: All units were plugged in to ensure regular readings and updating PM2.5 Exposure: Two spikes occured due to cooking with the frypan. No air cleaning was used, in order to keep levels high for longer. Results By the numbers Most pairs have correlations between 0.95 and 0.99, indicating very high levels of correlation Typical difference: Around ~1 µg/m³ when averaged over the period Mean reading: Small spread across devices, mean PM2.5 reading for the each device across the entire period was between 3.2 and 5.0 µg/m³. Variances observed during initial PM2.5 spikes, due to timing of readings. What this means for buyers We can confidently say the PM2.5 readings on our units are all accurate and reliable! Models we have which haven't got independent Southcoast AQMD reports very closely track those that do. This is as good as it gets for air quality monitors! If you're looking for affordable and accurate air quality monitors, look no further than our range of PM2.5 capable monitors! A note about PM10 One of the reasons we focus on PM2.5 is that PM10 numbers from low-cost optical sensors are generally less reliable than PM2.5. This is shown in the Southcoast AQMD results, where PM10 accuracies were always quite a bit lower than for PM2.5. This essentially boils down it it being more complex to measure for PM10 sized particles. If you'd like to learn more, there's a great writeup about this here.

It's hard to beat the aroma of garlic or steak sizzling away on the frypan as it fills your kitchen with flavour. But under those delicious scents lies fine particles called PM2.5, that can travel deep into your lungs and affect your indoor air quality. In a test in a Christchurch apartment in May 2025, cooking on a front burner pushed PM2.5 levels throughout the apartment into the hazardous range, even with the rangehood set to full power. In this article we'll show you exactly how we measured those spikes, how bad it got and how much of a difference using Air Purifiers made. Armed with this information, you can ensure you keep your air clean, whatever you're cooking! Figure 1: Rough Layout of Apartment + Positions of Monitors and Purifiers First Test: Baseline (No Air Cleaning) This experiment actually started accidentally, after noticing the air quality as measured on my QP Pro units was at very concerning levels. It turned out that even at full power, my rangehood barely captured smoke from the front two hobs. This is definitely a bit of a surprise given this is a relatively new apartment.After frying for about 15 minutes, it seemed a little hazy and smokey inside. I checked my air quality monitors in both the lounge and separate bedroom, and both showed very high readings! With PM2.5 counts of over 300 µg/m³, you really want to limit your exposure to this. For perspective, this is about three times higher than the average pollution level in Delhi, and is well into 'hazardous' air quality levels.  If you stop cooking, you immediately remove the PM2.5 source. But on a chilly day with windows closed, those particles can linger for hours. While the rangehood extractor fan was used, it hadn't effectively drawn out the cooking smoke. Being a chilly day, no windows or doors were opened. Here is how the air quality looked over the evening: Figure 2: PM2.5 Readings in Bedroom and Lounge from Cooking Note: PM2.5 to air quality ratings sourced from EPA AQI breakpoints. As you can see, the PM2.5 levels shot up very quickly when the cooking started. For several hours the air quality was at or above unhealthy levels, even lingering at hazardous amounts for awhile! What does this mean? Basically the equivalent of smoking about 1.3 cigarettes! Definitely not something you want to be regularly exposed to. Especially if you have asthma or other breathing sensitivities. Second Test: With Air Purifiers This time, our accidental experiment was repeated with one key tweak, switching on air purifiers when the concentrations peaked. The apartment is well covered on that front, with a Smart Air Sqair in the bedroom and a Smart Air SA600 in the main living/kitchen area.You'll notice from the layout graphic earlier, we've also placed the purifiers away from the air quality monitors. This helps ensure the readings are representative of the actual air quality in the apartment, and not just the air quality around the purifier.Now the big reveal, how much of a difference can the air purifiers make? We allowed the PM2.5 concentrations to reach similar levels to our baseline test, and then turned both purifiers on at their max power settings. Figure 3: PM2.5 Readings in Bedroom and Lounge from Cooking, using Air Purifiers The outcome? In just 30mins, PM2.5 concentrations had dropped by over 90% - this is compared to between 25% and 29% when we didn't use them. Air quality reached the optimal 'Good' level within 45mins in the bedroom and within 1 hour in the main living area!Why are these air purifiers so effective at removing cooking pollutants and smoke? It's all thanks to the combination of HEPA filters and high Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR).  The HEPA filters on both units are very effective at absorbing harmful particulate matter in the air, such as from frying and smoke. However, a good HEPA filter won't do much if the purifier isn't able to send much air through it. With CADRs of 315m³/hr and 500m³/hr respectively, the Sqair and SA600 are able to push significant amounts of polluted air through their filters. This makes them best in class when it comes to how effectively they purify air. As you can see, we can back this claim up with real data! Smart Air Sqair Smart Air SA600 Stylish, powerful and quiet at a great price. Perfect for the bedroom, or any space up to 43m². Dual inlets with filters on each side. Serious cleaning power for larger spaces up to 60m², while remaining quiet. Other air quality measures you can take: Ensuring your rangehood is working effectively will certainly help reduce the amount of PM2.5 in the air. Mechanical ventilation i.e. HRV/DVS etc if you have it. This will bring in air from outside or the roof space which should be much less polluted. Finally opening windows and doors to let a breeze through, even if for just a short while will also quickly help lower the amount of pollutants.

Like many Kiwis, I used to never give a second thought to the air I'm breathing. Our landscape isn't covered in polluting factories or coal plants and we're known for our (relative) clean air. However, after learning more about indoor air quality, I decided to start monitoring the air inside and was surprised by what I discovered! How do you Monitor the Air? While it's not an uncommon thing to do overseas, monitoring air quality is still something not many Kiwis are familiar with. While it's possible to pay professionals to come in and do a detailed report, there is a much easier (and cheaper) way. Enter the Indoor Air Quality Monitor, a device with sensors to measure air quality issues such as PM2.5, CO2, VOCs and more. For the past 2 years I've used a QP Lite, QP Pro and Smart Air CO2 Monitor to keep tabs on the air in my home. With an affordable price, high accuracy and data download ability, they're some of the best options on the market and we're pleased to stock them here at Snap Air. First Surprise: CO2 Levels While Sleeping Like many of us, I took it for granted that sometimes we'll wake up feeling groggy, tired and maybe with a bit of a headache. While there are many possible causes for this, have you ever considered CO2 might be behind it? Bedrooms are small spaces and if you close the door and windows, where does fresh air come from? As we breathe oxygen is converted to CO2 and without ventilation the levels can rise surprisingly fast! Especially if you have a partner in the same bedroom. CO2 levels are reported in parts per million, with outdoor air being around 420ppm. Once the air reaches 1000-2000ppm you'll typically experience drowsiness and from 2000-5000ppm headaches and other complaints can occur. I was very surprised to see the levels for my bedroom at night regularly reach over 3000ppm! Once I improved the ventilation, I noticed I'd wake up feeling less groggy and more alert.  Below is an example comparing relatively good ventilation in a bedroom (initially) then poor ventilation later in the week. You can also see just how quickly the CO2 levels drop when ventilation is introduced (opening the door) in the morning! CO2 Concentration Levels: Measured with Smart Air CO2 Monitor Second Surprise: VOC Levels in a New Apartment Having moved into a newly built apartment for a period of time in 2023, I found the 'new building smell' very powerful and I would often get headaches. Unfortunately this is a common experience for many new home owners, as the off gassing from paint, flooring and fabrics etc. produces VOCs like Formaldehyde and Benzene. These can cause symptoms like headaches, respiratory issues, dizziness and throat irritations. There was a sharp increase in average VOC levels reported on my QP Pro after moving into the apartment, compared to an older existing house.  Previously, measurements were around 0.3-0.4 mg of TVOC per m³. In the new building, it was 10 times higher and would be between 3 and 4mg per m³. This puts it in the potentially dangerous threshold. Luckily there is action that can be taken to help reduce these levels. The most effective measure is introducing fresh air by opening doors and/or windows. You can also achieve this with mechanical ventilation. If neither of these options are possible, consider an Air Purifier with Activated Carbon Filter. Here are some readings from the apartment showing the slow rise of VOC levels, then how quickly they get eliminated by opening windows and allowing a breeze through! TVOC Concentrations: Measured by QP Pro Air Quality Monitor Third Surprise: PM2.5 Levels from Vaping While there has been a surge in vaping in recent years, we're still learning about its potential impacts. Having lived with someone who vapes in their room, I've been able to see how it impacts on air quality - especially when ventilation is limited. While it produces a fine mist and sends chemicals into the air, the process of vaporising the liquid also sends particulate matter into the air, including harmful PM2.5. To learn more about PM2.5, see the below video: While I wasn't surprised to see vaping having an impact on air quality, I was surprised at just how high the PM2.5 levels would get - even while in a different room. We've had reports from some of our customers about being impacted by others in their household vaping, which isn't surprising given these results! On the plus side, levels do drop fairly quickly back to normal once the vaping stops. However, peak concentrations ended up at levels you'd see in the most polluted cities in the world, at their absolute worst! The below graph shows the levels of PM2.5 measured from an adjacent room to the one being vaped in. PM2.5 Levels: Measured with QP Pro Air Quality Monitor: Wrapping Up Ready to make your own discoveries in air quality? We've got you covered with accurate and affordable air quality monitors! Feel free to leave a comment below if you found anything interesting when you started monitoring your air!

Whether it's moving into a new home or doing some DIY renovations, many of us will be familiar with that 'new home smell'. Unfortunately, behind that smell are a number of potentially dangerous chemicals or VOCs such as formaldehyde! For some this may cause headaches, dizziness and other health issues. This brings us to the question: How do you keep yourself safe from these VOCs and can an air purifier help? The good news is there are ways to mitigate these VOCs and the right air purifier can definitely help! Understanding VOCs and Their Sources VOCs are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids. Common sources in new builds and renovations include: Formaldehyde: Found in building materials like plywood, particleboard, and adhesives. Benzene: Emitted from paints, glues, and cleaning products. Toluene: Present in paints, paint thinners, and adhesives. Health Impacts Exposure to VOCs can cause, amongst other things: Headaches Dizziness Respiratory issues Eye, nose, and throat irritation Monitoring VOC levels with an Air Quality Monitor Using an air quality monitor with a TVOC sensor, like our QP Pro 2 or the Temtop M10 can help you gauge VOC levels in your home. While you won't see levels of each specific chemicals, measuring the VOCs will help give a picture of baseline levels of VOCs in the air and can show the effectiveness of different tactics in reducing VOCs. Effective Strategies for Reducing VOCs Ventilation The most effective way to reduce VOCs is through ventilation: Mechanical Ventilation: Use exhaust fans or air exchangers like HRV systems. Natural Ventilation: Open windows and doors to create a strong cross breeze. Formaldehyde Cookouts These are a way to force more formaldehyde from building materials, furniture etc. in a shorter period of time. Note you should avoid being inside when the cookout is run. Smart Air have written a detailed guide here, however the basic process is: 1. Close windows/doors and increase temperature, through heating or naturally with sunlight. Aim for 30+ degrees if possible. 2. Keep the temperature up for a few hours, ideally 6-8 if possible. 3. When you return, open windows and doors to remove the formaldehyde from the air and return the space to a normal temperature. 4. Repeat this several times  Air Purifiers with Activated Carbon Filters An air purifier with a carbon (VOC) filter can provide additional assistance, especially when ventilation isn't possible. Key Factors to Consider: Amount of Carbon: This determines the amount of VOCs which can be filtered before the filter becomes saturated. Some mesh-style "carbon filters" may last only a few minutes in high VOC environments. Separate Carbon Filter: Allows for easy replacement when needed, as in high VOC situations the Carbon Filter will likely need replacing well before the HEPA filter. Our Recommended Purifiers: Sqair: 120g of activated carbon per filter. SA600: 140g per filter (2 per purifier). Blast Mini: 650g of activated carbon per filter (optional extra). Blast: 1.06kg of activated carbon per filter (optional extra). For additional VOC cleaning power, you can remove the HEPA filter and use multiple carbon filters in our purifiers.   Wrapping Up VOCs are an unfortunate reality in newly built or renovated homes. It's essential to tackle these to maintain good indoor air quality and health. Ventilation, both mechanical and natural, is the most effective strategy. Additionally, using air purifiers with plenty of activated carbon can provide assistance, especially when ventilation is not possible. Formaldehyde Cookouts are an additional tool to help lower the levels of formaldehyde being released.

Note: The QP Pro has now been replaced by the QP Pro 2 - the same trusted accuracy, in an even better package! Air quality is an often overlooked yet important aspect of our daily lives, especially given that most of us spend the bulk of our time indoors. How do you measure and ensure the cleanliness of the air you breathe? Even in New Zealand, clean air is not always a given. Enter: indoor air quality monitors. In today's article, we'll delve deep into two standout models – the QP Pro and QP Lite. Why You Should Care About Indoor Air Quality Understanding the quality of the air within your living spaces is essential. Poor indoor air quality can lead to headaches, tiredness, and even respiratory problems. While we may consider ourselves an outdoorsy nation, the reality is we spend a significant amount of time indoors. Given this, it's important to ensure our air is clean and healthy for ourselves and loved ones. Poor indoor air quality doesn't just mean a bad smell; it poses real health concerns. Factors like poor ventilation, gas stoves, fireplaces, and even outdoor pollutants like pollen and dust can compromise the air we breathe indoors. Curious about the broader implications of air quality and its importance, especially in the New Zealand context? Dive deep into our guide on air quality to understand this topic in more detail. The Need for an Air Quality Monitor As mentioned in our guide on the Importance of Owning an Air Quality Monitor, these devices allow us to gauge indoor air quality, allowing you to take corrective actions when necessary. Air quality monitors measure the concentration of pollutants like volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon dioxide, and particulate matter. The true value of air quality monitoring lies in the peace of mind it provides. Assuring you that you're breathing clean air, and avoiding potential health issues down the road. Moreover, when paired with an air purifier, an air quality monitor offers a comprehensive solution for to both monitor and clean your air. Understanding Key Pollutants: Particulate Matter, tVOC, and CO2 Particulate Matter (PM): These are tiny particles suspended in the air, and their potential health effects depend on their size. PM2.5 and PM10, for instance, refer to particulate matter with diameters of 2.5 micrometers and 10 micrometers, respectively. They can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, posing health risks. Total Volatile Organic Compounds (tVOCs): VOCs are organic chemicals that become vapors or gases at room temperature. They are emitted from certain solids or liquids, including paints, cleaning supplies, and even some air fresheners. High concentrations can lead to eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, and more. Carbon Dioxide (CO2): A natural component of the air, elevated indoor CO2 levels can indicate poor ventilation. While not directly harmful in usual indoor concentrations, high levels can cause headaches, dizziness, shortness of breath, and impaired cognition. Comparing the QP Pro and QP Lite While the choices in New Zealand for indoor air quality monitors are limited, luckily we have the QP Pro and QP Lite which are some of the most accurate air quality monitors in the world! QP Lite: A portable and lightweight monitor, it measures PM2.5, PM10, CO2, temperature, and humidity. It stands out for its long battery life and remote monitoring capabilities via the Qingping+ app. It also integrates seamlessly with Apple HomeKit or Mi home/Mijia for smart home automation. QP Pro: More than just a monitor, the Pro offers an HD Retina display and tracks a wider range of metrics, including tVOCs. It also provides outdoor environment data like weather forecasts, AQI, and UV index. Like its Lite counterpart, the Pro connects to Mi home/Mijia and offers remote monitoring via the Qingping+ app.   Accuracy Matters: Outstanding Test Results Both QP models come backed by Smart Air’s third-party tests, emphasising their reliability. Tests by Smart Air found the QP Pro and Lite to be impressively accurate for their budget-friendly price. In extensive testing, the QP Pro deviated by only 7.9 micrograms on average from official monitors, while the QP Lite was off by just 8.9 micrograms. Further validation comes from independent third-party tests conducted by the South Coast AQMD, part of the California Government's testing program. Both QP models earned a top 10 spot among 82 monitors tested, with accuracy rates reaching a remarkable 97%. Final Thoughts Considering the importance of indoor air quality, having a reliable and accurate monitor becomes an important investment for New Zealanders. The QP Pro and Lite are not only affordable but are also backed by robust testing, ensuring that we get accurate readings to make informed decisions about our indoor environments. Interested in enhancing your home's air quality? Explore our QP Air Quality Monitors and embark on a journey toward a healthier indoor environment. Stay informed, and breathe easy.

Considering the hours we spend at work, maintaining a clean and healthy office environment is a necessity, not a luxury.  One might wonder, can an air purifier make a significant difference in the office? The answer is a resounding yes! Introducing the best office air purifier into your workspace can be a game-changer in enhancing the office air quality, thereby reducing the spread of illnesses like COVID-19 and flu, which is key in ensuring the productivity and well-being of the staff, especially those with allergies or respiratory issues such as asthma. Key Considerations for getting an Office Air Purifier: Preventing Illness: Air purifiers can significantly reduce the spread of airborne diseases like COVID-19, thereby keeping your staff healthier. Supporting Allergy Sufferers: They are great for staff with allergies or respiratory issues, making the work environment more comfortable & safe. Noise Levels: Choose a purifier with noise levels around or below 50dB to maintain a quiet work environment. Budget and Value: Consider not only the upfront cost but also the long-term expenses like filter replacements. Suitability: Ensure the air purifier’s CADR is suitable for your office size to get the most out of your investment. The Importance of Clean Air in Offices When we think of air pollution, it's easy to picture smog and outdoor emissions. However, the reality is, indoor air pollution often surpasses what we encounter outdoors, particularly in office environments. The very places we spend a large chunk of our days may harbor a cocktail of airborne pollutants, potentially harming our health and dampening our productivity. Mechanical ventilation systems in commercial setups are not always up to the task. Sometimes, they could be circulating, rather than eliminating, pollutants like dust, mould spores, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and allergens. This circulatory action of pollutants could lead to what is termed 'sick building syndrome,' where occupants experience an array of symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. The impacts can be broad-ranging, affecting not just the health but also the morale and productivity of employees. Research underpins the importance of good air quality on cognitive function and overall productivity. This study highlighted that improved ventilation in office spaces could lead to an 8% boost in employee performance. That's a significant uptick, underscoring the important role of clean air in enhancing work efficiency and creating a healthy environment for staff. The drive towards ensuring clean air in offices isn't just a matter of adhering to health standards; it's about creating a space where employees can thrive, innovate and contribute to their full potential. Hence, aiming for better air quality in New Zealand offices isn't a luxury; it's a necessity which both helps workers and the business.  Choosing the Best Office Air Purifier: Factors to Consider Noise Levels When it comes to offices, a quiet environment is normally best for productivity. It's advisable to opt for air purifiers with noise levels around or below 50dB to ensure that normal communication and concentration aren’t hampered. Budgeting and Value An air purifier is an investment in health. While considering the cost, it's wise to look beyond the initial price. Evaluate the long-term expenses like filter replacement costs, availability, and lifespan. Our air purifiers boast long filter lifespans due to their large surface area, offering you better value for your money. Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) CADR is the key factor in determining the effectiveness of an air purifier. While it seems simple enough to look at the recommended room sizes provided by manufacturers, unfortunately these can often be misleading. The best way is to compare the CADR values, which provide a more accurate indication of the air purifier's capability. Top Picks: Tailored for Office Spaces Among the large number air purifiers on the market, the Smart Air Blast Mini and Smart Air Blast excel in office environments. With a proven track record, these air purifiers have been embraced by offices overseas, showcasing their effectiveness in enhancing indoor air quality. Now, they are available to improve the air quality in New Zealand offices too. Their performance stats are impressive, aligning with the diverse needs of various office sizes in New Zealand. Smart Air Blast Mini Mk II: Max Noise Level: 49dB Room Suitability: Up to 85m² CADR: 740m³/hour The Blast Mini provides a quiet yet efficient air purification solution, ensuring a comfortable and healthy workspace without disturbing the peace. Smart Air Blast Mk II: Max Noise Level: 43dB Room Suitability: Up to 130m² CADR: 950m³/hour Wrapping Up Investing in a high-quality air purifier is a great step towards creating a healthier and more productive office environment in New Zealand. By considering factors like noise levels, budget, and CADR, you can choose an air purifier that best fits your office needs. Explore our range and take a step towards a healthier, more productive workspace today!

Maintaining good indoor air quality is an important and often overlooked aspect for your health and well-being. With the right strategies and tools, you can significantly improve the air you breathe inside your home. Understanding Indoor Air Quality We've written a post which goes into detail about indoor air quality which you can read here. However for a quick reference, Indoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the condition of the air within and around your home. Poor IAQ can lead to health issues such as allergies, asthma, and respiratory infections. Common indoor pollutants include dust, pet dander, mould, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particulate matter (PM). Simple Steps to Improve Indoor Air Quality   1. Ventilation: Open Windows: Regularly open windows to let in fresh air and reduce indoor pollutant levels. Exhaust Fans: Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove moisture and pollutants. 2. Air Purifiers: HEPA Filters: Invest in air purifiers with HEPA filters to capture fine particles and allergens. Activated Carbon Filters: These are excellent for removing odours and VOCs. When it comes to selecting an air purifier, consider factors like room size, CADR and noise levels. We've detailed everything you need to know in a guide here. 3. Humidity Control: Dehumidifiers: Keep humidity levels between 30-50% to prevent mould growth. Houseplants: Certain plants can help maintain indoor humidity and filter air. 4. Regular Cleaning: Vacuuming: Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to reduce dust and pet dander. Dusting: Frequently dust surfaces to minimize allergens. 5. Avoid Indoor Pollutants: Smoke-Free Home: Prohibit smoking indoors to avoid harmful chemicals. Natural Cleaning Products: Use natural or non-toxic cleaning products to reduce VOC emissions. Monitor the Air with an Air Quality Monitor Features: Look for monitors that measure PM2.5, CO2, temperature, and humidity. Smart Integration: Choose devices that connect to your smartphone for real-time monitoring and alerts. Accuracy: Research the accuracy, as the very cheap ones tend to be wildly inaccurate. By using high-quality sensors, air quality monitors provide accurate data to help you understand and manage your indoor air quality effectively.  We have a small selection of Air Quality Monitors chosen due to their accuracy and affordability, making it easier to maintain a healthy environment. Wrapping Up Improving your indoor air quality is a key for maintaining a healthy living environment. By adopting these strategies and using the right tools, you can ensure that the air in your home is clean and safe to breathe. Want to learn more about air quality, air quality monitors or air purifiers? Keep browsing our site or get in touch!