Clean Air Blog

Springtime in New Zealand brings new growth, vibrant blossoms and finally a warm change to the chilly air. Unfortunately with this change, it’s also the season of sneezes, itchy eyes, and an endless supply of tissues. If you’ve tried everything from allergy meds to dodging outdoor activities during high pollen days, you might be wondering, can an air purifier help with allergies? Absolutely! Moreover, you might also be curious, what do the best air purifiers for allergy relief have in common? From HEPA filters to high CADR ratings, let’s unravel the common features of top-notch air purifiers that could be your allies in battling allergies. What's Ahead: Understanding Allergens: What causes them and their impact. HEPA Filters: Your frontline defense against airborne allergens. CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate): Uncovering why this rating matters for effective allergy relief. Top Picks for Allergy Relief: Some top picks well-suited for New Zealand homes. Maintaining Your Air Purifier: Ensuring your device remains an allergy-fighting powerhouse. Extra Tips for Allergy Relief: Steps beyond air purification to keep those allergens at bay. Avoiding Harmful Features: Knowing what to steer clear of when choosing your air purifier. Spring Allergens Spring in NZ brings about allergens for many of us. Understanding common indoor allergens and how they affect your health is the first step toward better allergy management. Common Indoor Allergens Pet dander, pollen, dust mites, and mould spores are among the usual suspects that trigger indoor allergies. Outdoor allergens like pollen, grass etc will often make their way indoors causing allergic reactions. How Allergens Affect Your Health These airborne particles can cause symptoms ranging from sneezing and itchy eyes to more severe respiratory issues, particularly for asthma sufferers. HEPA Filters: Your Defense Against Airborne Allergens HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are proven champions in trapping airborne allergens. How HEPA Filters Trap Allergens HEPA filters are the gold standard for filtering particles. With their tight weave of random fibers, they can capture particles smaller than 0.01 microns. With pollen sizes starting at about 10 microns in diameter, HEPA filters effectively capture these sneeze inducing particles. Different Types of HEPA Filters Though there are variations, the efficacy against allergies across HEPA filter types is quite consistent. An H11 rated filter capturing 95% of particles may sound vastly inferior to an H14 filter with a > 99.995 capture rate. However this is based on the trickiest to capture 0.3 micron sized particle. With pollen and common allergens being much larger in size, what matters more is the CADR of the air purifier. The Significance of CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) Understanding CADR helps you choose an air purifier capable of handling the size of your space. CADR Explained A higher CADR indicates a more efficient air purifier that can clean larger volumes of air at a faster rate. This means allergens will be removed from the room faster. Debunking Misleading Room Size Recommendations We've found many manufacturers in New Zealand using very exaggerated room size claims. To avoid this, compare models based on the industry standard CADR for a more accurate representation of their capability. Top Picks for Allergy Relief Finding the right air purifier for your space can significantly improve your allergy symptoms. Choosing an air purifier model While researching you're bound to encounter a multitude of air purifiers and review sites claiming theirs is the "best for allergies,". Don't fall for this marketing and buy an overpriced air purifier! The reality is very simple, ANY air purifier equipped with a HEPA filter and high CADR will serve you well. Our range If you're seeking reliable yet affordable options, check out our air purifier collection. All our models feature HEPA filters, high CADR and low noise levels. Extra Tips for Allergy Relief Some additional measures can further alleviate your allergy symptoms. Housekeeping Measures Using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter and keeping windows closed during high pollen days can help. Night-time Relief for Allergy Sufferers If you find yourself waking up with a stuffy nose, consider placing a quiet air purifier in your bedroom. Typically below 30dB on low will be suitable for most people. Be cautious of models with illuminated displays that might disturb your sleep. Our air purifier collection contains affordable models that are exceptionally quiet, perfect for undisturbed slumber. Avoiding Harmful Features Ionisers: More Harm than Good Despite the claims, ionisers can actually make your allergies worse by releasing ozone, a lung irritant. These are also known as negative ions, and unfortunately a number of models sold in New Zealand contain this potentially harmful feature. The Myth of UV Lights UV lights in air purifiers are generally ineffective in residential settings and add unnecessary costs to your purchase. There is no benefit for allergy sufferers here, just an additional cost. Final Thoughts Investing in an air purifier can be a transformative experience for anyone who suffers from allergies. Remember, the key lies in choosing a device with a HEPA filter and high CADR, while avoiding potentially harmful features. Our air purifier collection makes this choice easier than ever, offering affordability without compromising performance.

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.

Why Bother About Air Quality? Ever thought about what you're actually breathing in? Sure, there's good ol' oxygen, but there's a bunch of invisible stuff mixed in. City smog, car exhausts, viruses and especially tiny particles called 'particulate matter' can all share space in our lungs. Unfortunately, they can cause some real harm. Want to learn more? Check out our complete guide on air quality for a deep dive. It's relatively easy to keep the air in our home clean with a powerful air purifier. However, we also travel, commute, and sometimes just need that breath of fresh air in our personal space. That's where units like the QT3 portable air purifier come in. Ready to find out more? Benefits of a Portable Air Purifier   Travel Assurance: Hotels, Airbnbs, and other lodgings might not prioritise air quality. The QT3 ensures you're not at the mercy of previous occupants or inefficient cleaning. Daily Commute: From buses to personal cars, our daily commute exposes us to varying air quality levels. With the QT3, you're not just taking a journey, but ensuring it's a healthy one. Virus Protection: The pandemic has taught us the importance of air quality in preventing disease spread. The QT3 provides an extra layer of defense, especially in high-risk areas. Why QT3 Stands Out No Negative Ions: Most of the portable purifiers in the NZ market release potentially harmful negative ions. However, the QT3 ensures you're breathing air free from ozone risks. Superior CADR: A lot of portable purifiers overpromise and underdeliver. Their CADRs are too low for effective air purification. QT3, with its powerful 37m­³/hour CADR, ensures you get what you're promised. We haven't seen any in New Zealand with even half the CADR of the QT3! Compact and Efficient: With up to 4 hours of battery life, the QT3 isn't just about momentary relief. It's designed for extended periods, making it ideal for long journeys or workdays.   Wrapping up Your health shouldn't be compromised, regardless of where you are. With the QT3, you're not just investing in a product, but in consistent air quality and peace of mind. Whether it's a gift to yourself or a loved one, grab one and redefine your air quality standards today.

In our last blog post, we took a look at what causes air pollution in New Zealand. Today, we're going a step further, uncovering the impacts and the real costs of air pollution in our country. For this, we'll delve into the Health and Air Pollution in New Zealand (HAPINZ) 3.0 report, published in 2022. Air Pollution in NZ: The Current Picture New Zealand's clean, healthy air is a big part of why our quality of life is so great. Thankfully, our air quality is generally good. However, certain things, like vehicle exhaust and using solid fuel for home heating, can sometimes lead to poor air quality, particularly during winter. Even though our pollution levels might be relatively low compared to many other countries, the health problems associated with air pollution here are still a serious concern. Delving into the HAPINZ 3.0 Report The HAPINZ 3.0 report gives us a detailed look at how air pollution impacts health and what it costs us in New Zealand, using data from 2016. The report focuses on tiny particles (PM2.5) and a gas called nitrogen dioxide (NO2), both of which are major causes of health problems from air pollution. The Startling Facts The HAPINZ 3.0 report unveiled some shocking facts about the health and economic impacts of air pollution. In 2016 alone, exposure to PM2.5 and NO2 pollution was linked to: More than 3,300 premature deaths among adults in New Zealand Over 13,100 hospital admissions for breathing and heart problems More than 13,200 cases of asthma in children About 1.745 million days when people couldn't do their usual activities because of pollution-related health problems The cost to society from these health problems added up to an astonishing $15.6 billion, with exposure to NO2 accounting for over 60% of these costs. This was a surprising and significant finding. Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) - A Hidden Threat One of the more surprising findings from the HAPINZ 3.0 report was the considerable impact of NO2. While it's been known to be harmful, the extent of its effects uncovered in the study was startling. Researchers found strong links between NO2 and early deaths, which were significant contributors to the total social cost. Who's to Blame? Let's break down the cost of PM2.5 pollution by source: Domestic fires: 74% Cars and other vehicles: 17% Dust blown by the wind: 8% Industry: 0.1% For NO2 pollution, cars and other vehicles were assumed to be the sole source. Regional Differences Air pollution affects different regions in different ways. In terms of PM2.5 pollution, domestic fires were the biggest problem in all regions. However, for overall pollution (both PM2.5 and NO2 combined), cars and other vehicles were the biggest problem in most places. Wrapping Up Understanding the true cost of air pollution is an important step towards cleaner air. The HAPINZ 3.0 report shows us that even though our air might be cleaner than many other places worldwide, we've still got work to do. The impact on our health and economy is significant, and we all have a part to play in improving things. Part of the solution can be personal actions we take to improve the air in our immediate environment. Investing in tools like our top-of-the-range air purifiers can be a step towards ensuring the air you breathe at home or at work is as clean and healthy as possible. Let's all work together for cleaner air in New Zealand.

We're well known for our breathtaking natural landscapes, often associated with clean air and an untouched environment. However, there are areas of the country where poor air quality issues are an unfortunate reality. Let's take a closer look at the causes of air pollution in NZ. Air Pollution: The Big Picture As per the latest LAWA Air Quality National Picture Summary, NZ has relatively good air quality overall. Yet, in some regions, people are exposed to higher levels of particulate matter, particularly during the winter months. This disparity arises due to several factors, such as weather conditions, geography, and the nature and volume of emissions present in each area. Winter Woes: Home Heating and Air Quality As we previously discussed in our blog on winter air quality issues, the lack of wind on colder winter days and the occurrence of inversion layers can trap particulate matter close to the ground, causing pollution levels to spike. Wood burners are popular in these areas, which emit particulate matter. The Role of Vehicles in Air Pollution Motor vehicles, especially those that are diesel-powered, are significant contributors to air pollution in NZ. They emit high amounts of pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter. Factors like brake wear, tyre wear, and the presence of an older vehicle fleet compound the issue. Nature's Role in Air Quality At times, nature itself contributes to spikes in air pollution. Events like wildfires and occasional volcanic eruptions introduce large amounts of particulate matter and gases into the atmosphere, affecting local air quality. Insights from LAWA’s 2023 Summary According to the LAWA (Land Air Water Aotearoa) summary, in 2022, 42 of 60 monitored sites met the New Zealand standard for daily average PM10 concentrations. However, the monitoring of smaller particles (PM2.5) has revealed that these can exceed international guidelines more often than PM10. These tiny particles pose more significant health risks as they can lodge deep into our lungs and even reach the bloodstream. Through enhanced monitoring efforts, regional councils and unitary authorities aim to understand and manage air quality more effectively. Measures to Improve Air Quality As we gear up against winter cold, we can also protect ourselves from air pollution. Monitor the Air Quality Monitoring can help us make informed decisions about indoor stay times during poor air quality periods. LAWA has a great air quality dashboard which can tell you more about the trends in your area. For live air quality monitoring check out the aqicn website. It can also help to monitor your indoor air, we have affordable and high accuracy air quality monitors available on our website. Air Purifiers and Filters Quality air purifiers can remove harmful particulate matter from your home's air. Opt for purifiers with HEPA filters to remove PM2.5 particles. We provide a range of proven, affordable and effective air purifiers from Smart Air. Final Thoughts While New Zealand enjoys a reputation for clean air and a pristine environment, there is plenty of room for improvement. Armed with knowledge and understanding, we can better tackle the complexities of air pollution.

With New Zealand standing as one of the global hotspots for asthma, affecting a sizable chunk of one in eight Kiwis1, the significance of managing this respiratory condition cannot be overstated. Given the daily hurdles asthma can pose, you might find yourself wondering, "Can an air purifier help with my asthma?" Well, here's a breath of fresh air - they absolutely can! Venturing into the realm of improved indoor air quality is a great step towards improving in asthma symptoms, and that’s precisely where the our range of air purifiers excel. Key Points Summary: Improving indoor air quality is crucial in managing asthma symptoms. Common indoor asthma triggers include dust mites, pollen, mould spores, pet dander, and tobacco smoke. Air purifiers help by filtering out harmful particles and circulating clean air. When selecting an air purifier for asthma, prioritise HEPA filters and a high Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR), while avoiding ionisers. Many manufacturers invest heavily in marketing their products as the ultimate solution for asthma sufferers. However, cutting through the spin reveals that what you actually need is very simple! Common Asthma Triggers Every one of us has our own set of triggers when it comes to asthma, but there are some common indoor problems which can cause it: Dust mites Pollen Mould spores Pet dander Tobacco smoke Air Purifiers: Helping with Asthma Management Air purifiers can be your best friend when it comes to alleviating asthma symptoms. They suck in room air, trap the harmful particles that could trigger your asthma, and leave you with clean air to breathe easy. By reducing the asthma triggers indoors, an air purifier can lower the chances of asthma. Selecting an Asthma-Friendly Air Purifier: What to Look For When you’re on the hunt for an air purifier to help with asthma, there are a few key features that should top your checklist: HEPA Filters: High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters can capture upwards of 99% of airborne particles down to 0.01 microns (and smaller!) including many common asthma triggers. At Snap Air, all our air purifiers come with HEPA filters. Powerful Performance: The Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) reflects how quickly an air purifier can clean the air in a given space. A higher CADR translates to effective purification in larger rooms. Avoid Ionisers/Negative Ion Generators: These can produce ozone, a respiratory irritant, as a byproduct. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) cautions that even at low levels, ozone can cause chest pain, coughing, shortness of breath, and throat irritation2. Unfortunately a number of models sold here in New Zealand under fancy names like plasma generators carry these features. Best to steer clear of them, or if it's too late ensure the feature is turned off! If you want to learn more about what matters when choosing an air purifier, check out our guide here! Wrapping Up Navigating through the range of advice and options for asthma management may initially seem overwhelming. Many manufacturers splash hefty sums to market their products as the (expensive) magic bullet for asthma sufferers. However, at Snap Air, we believe in cutting through the spin to unearth what truly matters. ANY air purifier equipped with a genuine HEPA filter and a high CADR can be beneficial. Provided you steer clear of generating negative ions or housing an ioniser, which could potentially aggravate symptoms. Investing in the right air purifier, like those offered here at Snap Air, is a great step towards healthy indoor air and effectively managing asthma symptoms. References Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ US Environmental Protection Agency

Air quality is an essential but often overlooked aspect of our well-being. In New Zealand, many remain unaware of how winter weather can profoundly affect the air we breathe. The Unseen Winter Culprit Winter air pollution in New Zealand is mainly shaped by weather patterns and heating choices. In the colder regions, while less common than previous years, we still see fireplaces being used for warmth. These emit particulate matter; tiny harmful particles into the air we breathe. Even though recently there have been tightened standards as far as emissions from these, they've focused on reducing the larger PM10 particles. The levels of PM2.5 seen in the air however, frequently exceed WHO recommendations. Inversion Layers: A Winter Phenomenon The New Zealand climate significantly influences air quality. In winter, many areas experience cold, still nights. These conditions, along with geographical features like mountains, create 'inversion layers'. This traps cold air and pollutants close to the ground, boosting harmful particle levels. We commonly see these occur in valleys and parts of Canterbury, Otago, Southland and Marlborough. Inversion layers occur when a layer of warm air sits on top of cooler air. This is the reverse of what we normally see where air gets cooler at higher elevations. This "lid" traps pollutants, contributing to higher PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations. PM10 and PM2.5 are particulate matter, or tiny particles in the air. PM10 particles are less than 10 micrometres in diameter, and PM2.5 are smaller, less than 2.5 micrometres. The tiny PM2.5 particles are concerning, as they penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream. Health Implications of Poor Air Quality Air quality influences our health. Both PM10 and PM2.5 pose health risks. The smaller PM2.5 particles, which can infiltrate our respiratory system, exacerbate conditions like asthma and COPD and can contribute to heart disease and lung cancer development over time. The World Health Organization states PM2.5 exposure can lead to respiratory and cardiovascular issues, hospital admissions, and mortality from cardiovascular and respiratory diseases and lung cancer. Understanding air quality's link to health is vital, especially for those in colder New Zealand regions, where winter pollution can be harmful. Pollution levels in these areas can reach unhealthy and even very unhealthy levels at times. Measures to Improve Air Quality As we gear up against winter cold, we can also protect ourselves from air pollution. Monitor the Air Quality Understanding the air quality in your area is important. In many countries checking the air quality is as common a task as checking the weather. Monitoring can help us make informed decisions about when to go outside and for how long during poor air quality periods. LAWA (Land Air Water Aotearoa) has a great air quality dashboard which can tell you more about the trends in your area. For live air quality monitoring check out the aqicn website. It can also help to monitor your indoor air, as outdoor pollutants can seep into your home. Personally, I found in my Christchurch home that during cold winter nights the air inside my home would often reach unhealthy levels due to the pollution. Want to check if the same happens to you? We have affordable and high accuracy air quality monitors available on our website. Air Purifiers and Filters Quality air purifiers can remove harmful particulate matter from your home's air. Opt for purifiers with HEPA filters to remove PM2.5 particles. We provide a range of proven, affordable and effective air purifiers from Smart Air. Clean Heating Cleaner heating options can improve air quality. If possible, consider shifting from wood burners to cleaner heat pump options. Wrapping up Awareness is the first step in enhancing our winter air quality. The more we understand, the better we can protect our health and communities. Stay informed, take action, and breathe easier this winter.

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!

Breathing clean air is essential to maintaining our health, and the rising concern of air pollution has made air purifiers a common household item. However, the wide array of models and features can make choosing the right one quite challenging. This article breaks down the crucial features you should look for in an air purifier, such as HEPA filters, activated carbon filters, high Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR), low noise, and durability. We'll also debunk some gimmicks that are often marketed but may not add value or may even be harmful, like negative ion generators, UV lights, and auto sensors. The Gold Standard: HEPA Filters HEPA filters are the pillar of effective air purification. They can trap microscopic particles smaller than 0.3 microns, including dust, pollen, and pet dander, offering relief for allergy sufferers and those with respiratory issues. It's essential to select an air purifier with a genuine HEPA filter. Neutralise Odours: Activated Carbon Filters   In addition to a HEPA filter, an activated carbon filter can enhance an air purifier's performance. This type of filter excels at trapping and neutralising odors and chemicals, providing a more comprehensive air purification solution when combined with a HEPA filter. Efficiency Matters: High CADR CADR, or Clean Air Delivery Rate, measures an air purifier's efficiency in cleaning air. A high CADR rating indicates an air purifier can filter a large volume of air per hour, which is a key factor to consider when choosing an air purifier. Quiet Operation: Low Noise     The noise level of an air purifier can affect your comfort, especially in quiet spaces like bedrooms. Choose a model with a low noise level, ideally under 55 decibels. Many purifiers offer a "sleep mode" for quieter operation during rest or quiet periods. Durability When investing in an air purifier, durability matters. For commercial-grade units, metal construction is preferable for its longevity. Our Blast and Blast Mini air purifiers are excellent examples of durable, high-quality air purifiers. Features to Be Wary Of While some features enhance an air purifier's functionality, others can be unhelpful or even harmful. Here are some to avoid: Negative Ion Generators/Ionisers These devices produce negative ions that attach to airborne particles, causing them to fall onto surfaces. Do you want these falling on your bed? Unless you're regularly cleaning every surface, we think it's much better if these particles end up in the HEPA filter of your air purifier! The reason these are included, is because it makes the purifier perform better in CADR tests. Particles falling to the ground still counts for these tests. So, if you don't use the ioniser, the CADR will actually be less than what's marketed. Negative ion generators can also produce harmful ozone as a byproduct. Especially concerning for younger ones, elderly or if you suffer from respiratory problems. We've seen these marketed for nurseries of newborn babies in New Zealand, which we consider extremely irresponsible and dangerous. None of our air purifiers include negative ion generators for this reason. UV Lights UV lights are marketed as a way to kill bacteria and viruses in the air, but they can be ineffective against many common allergens and pollutants. While UV lights can kill bacteria and viruses, the main issue is they require time to kill them. If air is quickly passing through the air purifier, the UV light won't have enough time to do its work. Remember as well HEPA filters can normally capture upwards of 99% of these anyway. Auto Sensors Auto sensors, while seemingly convenient, can be wildly inaccurate and may not represent the overall air quality of your space. Instead of relying on these, consider our QP Air Quality Monitors for a precise read on your indoor air quality. An Optional Extra: WiFi     WiFi-enabled air purifiers may seem appealing for those who enjoy remote control or smart home integrations. However, this feature may not be necessary for everyone and can add to the cost. Our range of air purifiers keep things simple and affordable, without WiFi connectivity. However, for those who wish to have this feature, a WiFi-enabled smart plug can be purchased separately at any electronics shop for a reasonable price. Wrapping Up When selecting an air purifier, look beyond the marketing hype and focus on the features that genuinely improve air quality and add value. Always remember that clean, breathable air is the ultimate goal. By making a wise choice, you can ensure a healthier and more comfortable living environment in New Zealand. Choosing the right air purifier can be a daunting task, but we hope this guide has made the process simpler. For more detailed information, don’t hesitate to check our comprehensive guide for Choosing an Air Purifier. And remember, we're here to help you breathe easier.

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!