Air purifiers vs. Humidifiers– the difference that you need to know

Air purifiers vs. Humidifiers– the difference that you need to know

We breathe in and out about 22,000 times a day, which is equivalent to more than 14,000 litres of air daily. By comparison, people normally drink at least eight glasses (about 2 litres) of water per day. It is really essential to drink clean water because if you don't, it can make you sick and trigger health problems. The same goes for the air– we shouldn't breathe dry and dirty air for the same reason.

Normally, humidifiers and air purifiers are some of the most common household companions to help enhance indoor air quality. 

Bad indoor air can cause some health risks like:

  • Dry eyes/skin
  • Nose bleeding
  • Sore throat
  • Cold symptoms 
  • Allergies 
  • Shortness of breath
  • Aggravate asthma

Why do we need to breathe fresh and hydrated air?

For the best quality of life, we must breathe the cleanest and most hydrated air as possible to help us nourish not just the lungs and blood, but the rest of our body organs as well. In addition, fresh air can strengthen our immune system and can reduce the risk of illness and infection.

 

So what’s the difference between Air purifiers and Humidifiers?

By function and definition, humidifiers increase the amount of moisture in the air by pumping a regulated amount of water vapour inside the room converting water into warm/cool fine mist before releasing it into the air. Basically, it makes the air less dry. While air purifiers use filters to remove air impurities like dust, pollen, and dander using a combination of mechanical filtration and electrostatic precipitation. In simpler terms, it removes contaminants in the air. 

When it comes to filters, air purifiers need to have a replacement every 6-12 months to use at full capacity since it purifies the air, it needs to be altered for a specific amount of time. On the other hand, humidifiers must only be maintained for a few days to avoid the build-up of minerals- like moulds inside them. Filter replacement isn’t usual because it can be washed and cleaned with water. In addition, tap water isn’t recommended for humidifiers because it contains high mineral content which can clog the oscillator and when discharged off, it solidifies as an unhealthy irritant. 

 

Learn more about the Carepod Humidifier ultimate guide here.

 

When to use an air purifier vs a humidifier?

Air purifiers remove particles from the air while a humidifier adds moisture. The best way to decide between these devices depends on your needs and on different circumstances. 

Air Purifier

Humidifier
  • If you have allergies or asthma wanting to have some clean air
  • If you want to eliminate room odours
  • If you want to decrease the amount of dust and reduce toxic substances inside your house
  • If you want to have much more cleaner and more sterilized home environment
  • If you live in a very dry environment or climate region
  • Can also be beneficial if you have asthma or any other respiratory tracts caused by dry air
  • If you’re having trouble sleeping at night and/or have snoring problems
  • If you have dry skin, eyes, or even hair, especially during the winter season
  • If you want to maintain or increase the level of air moisture in your home

  

Is it safe to use air purifier and humidifier at the same time? in the same room?

To answer that– yes you can! Both devices can improve the quality of the air inside your home. You can also opt to use them simultaneously. An air purifier will remove the dust mites and pollens from the air while humidifiers can keep the air moist and smoothens the environment caused by dry conditions.

Caution: Just a friendly reminder, a humidifier might dampen and clog the air purifier's filter if placed close to each other.  Sometimes, water particles from humidifier can be mis-detected as dust by purifiers. Make sure to place both devices at a distance for full effective use. Learn more about the correct placement guide of humidifiers here.

 

To wrap it all up…

Air purifiers remove the air contaminants while humidifiers restore the moisture level in the air for a cleaner, fresher, and safe environment for each and everyone in the household– making it a better place to live in.

Both devices can really make life easier, thus resulting to have better health and indoor air quality.

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