Houseplants and dead/decaying insects also create dust.
Outdoor dust also gets in through open windows, loose door, and window fittings, and unsealed structural gaps. [5] X Research source
MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values. The MERV rating refers to a filter’s ability to capture particles. The higher the MERV rating, the more effective the filter is at trapping particles. [7] X Trustworthy Source United States Environmental Protection Agency Independent U. S. government agency responsible for promoting safe environmental practices Go to source If you have pets or kids, check the filter once a month and replace it when it looks saturated with dust. If there’s a significant amount of dust buildup inside your HVAC system, or if someone in your family is experiencing sudden allergy symptoms, consider getting the system professionally cleaned. Always hire a certified HVAC professional for the job since improper cleaning can make things worse. [8] X Trustworthy Source United States Environmental Protection Agency Independent U. S. government agency responsible for promoting safe environmental practices Go to source
Caulking and weatherstripping doors and windows Caulking around plumbing, ducting, and electrical wiring Installing foam gaskets behind outlet and switch plates Sealing gaps around baseboards/windows with spray foam[10] X Trustworthy Source U. S. Department of Energy Official site for the U. S. Department of Energy, which provides resources related to energy safety, conservation, and efficiency Go to source
Laundering drapes (or getting them dry cleaned) once a year also helps. Frequently washing other textiles like bedding, pillows, and throw blankets can prevent dust buildup. [12] X Research source
Babies and small children Elderly folks over the age of 65 Anyone with preexisting conditions (asthma, heart disease, emphysema, etc. )
Keeping the doors and windows closed Placing dust mats at every entrance Leaving your shoes at the door before coming inside Replacing carpet with hard flooring
Keep in mind that you spend 7-9 hours a day sleeping in your bedroom. Even if you don’t have allergies, breathing in all that extra dander isn’t great for your lungs. If your pet is indoor/outdoor, let them enjoy the outdoors a little more often. If possible, keep pets away from upholstered furniture and carpeted areas. Wash your pet’s bedding once a week to reduce dander.
CADR is measured in cubic feet. The higher the CADR, the more particles the purifier can filter in a larger space. Most purifiers state on the packaging what size room it should be used in. For estimation purposes, the minimum CADR for 100 square feet of space is 65. If your room is 600 square feet, you’d want a minimum CADR of 390. Put the device on a flat, stable surface like a tabletop or floor. Make sure there’s extra space around the purifier so nothing is obstructing the airflow.
