Air Purifiers and Mold: Can They Really Help?

5/7/2023 (Permalink)

Mold is a common problem in homes and businesses, and can cause damage to property if left untreated. While there are many methods for removing mold, such as cleaning and dehumidifying, some people wonder if air purifiers can help as well. In this blog, we will explore whether or not air purifiers are effective at removing mold particles from the air.

How Mold Spreads Through the Air

Mold reproduces by releasing tiny spores into the air, which can spread throughout a building and land on surfaces where they can grow and multiply. These spores can also trigger allergies or cause respiratory problems in some people. When mold is disturbed, such as during cleaning or remediation, these spores can become airborne and spread even more.

What are Air Purifiers?

Air purifiers are devices designed to improve indoor air quality by removing pollutants from the air. They work by drawing air through a filter, which captures particles such as dust, pollen, and pet dander. Some air purifiers also use technology such as UV-C light or ionizers to kill bacteria and viruses in the air.

Types of Air Purifiers

There are several types of air purifiers available on the market. The most common type is a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter, which captures particles as small as 0.3 microns. Another type is an activated carbon filter, which removes odors and chemicals from the air. Some air purifiers also use a combination of these filters, as well as additional technology such as UV-C light or ionizers.

Do Air Purifiers Help with Mold?

While air purifiers can be effective at removing many types of pollutants from the air, including mold spores, they are not a complete solution for mold remediation. Air purifiers can help to improve indoor air quality and reduce the spread of mold spores, but they cannot eliminate mold completely. If you suspect mold in your home or business, it is important to address the source of the problem and take appropriate remediation measures, such as cleaning and dehumidifying.

However, air purifiers can be a useful tool in conjunction with other mold remediation methods. For example, using an air purifier in a room where mold is present can help to capture and remove mold spores from the air while the mold is being cleaned. It is important to choose an air purifier with a HEPA filter to ensure it can capture mold spores.

While air purifiers can help to improve indoor air quality and remove mold spores from the air, they are not a substitute for proper mold remediation. If you suspect mold in your home or business, it is important to address the source of the problem and take appropriate measures to remove it. However, using an air purifier in conjunction with other mold remediation methods can help to improve indoor air quality and reduce the spread of mold spores. When choosing an air purifier, be sure to select one with a HEPA filter to ensure it can capture mold spores.