Battling the Calima Indoors: Air Purifiers to Improve Indoor Air Quality
Calima, a weather phenomenon that brings dust and particulate matter from the Sahara desert to the Canary Islands, can be a challenging time for many. The dust and particles in the air during calima not only affect visibility and outdoor air quality but can also seep into our homes. For those who are sensitive to airborne pollutants, such as individuals with asthma or allergies, the need to maintain indoor air quality becomes paramount. In such circumstances, air purifiers can be a valuable tool in ensuring cleaner, healthier indoor air. If you want to keep track of forecasted calimas, check this article with the most recommended apps to track calima.
You should be able to get a good quality air purifier for a good price at Mediamarkt. I bought mine last year for about €90. You can also try worten.
Choosing The Right Air Purifier
Air purifiers are a common solution for dealing with calima-related air quality issues. With various options available in the market, how do you choose the right one for battling calima? Let’s break down some essential considerations.
I live here and I use an air purifier; I have asthma so I’m more aware of the air quality. I have a STARKVIND IKEA air purifier, though it’s not available locally anymore.
1. HEPA Filters: A Must-Have
A key factor in an effective air purifier for combating calima is a good fan and a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter. HEPA filters are renowned for their ability to capture particles as small as PM2.5, which are among the most concerning during calima. These tiny particles can penetrate the bloodstream when inhaled and may pose health risks.
2. Beware Of Gimmicks
While some air purifiers come with additional features like activated carbon layers, UV lights, or other gimmicks, it’s important to note that these claims can be challenging to prove. For calima-related concerns, it’s the strong fan and a reliable HEPA filter that make a real difference, not additional bells and whistles.
3. Affordability Matters
For calima, there’s no need to splurge on super expensive medical-grade purifiers used in hospitals. The air in the Canary Islands is generally clean, thanks to the great breezes and Atlantic purity. Therefore, choosing an affordable air purifier with a solid HEPA filter is usually sufficient to address dust-related concerns.
For a calima, a strong fan and a good HEPA filter is 99% of what you need at a good price. I think an air purifier is justified for particulate matter like wildfire, dust or calima. The air here is very clean in general, great breezes, atlantic purity, so just get something to help with the dust.
4. Consider An Air Quality Sensor
Monitoring air quality with a sensor is important, as the air quality can vary between locations on the islands. Having your own air quality sensor, particularly one that monitors PM2.5 particles, can help you keep track of indoor air quality and determine when it’s time to run your air purifier.
Another thing to consider is getting your own air quality sensor, since air quality might differ between places and we have only two publicly available sensors in Las Palmas de GC, according to IQAir. I brought my air quality sensor with me from Sweden. You’d only need something simple that monitors PM2.5 particles.
Not A Substitute For Medication
It’s crucial to note that while air purifiers can significantly improve indoor air quality during calima, they are not a replacement for medical treatment. Some individuals may require prescribed medication to manage allergies and symptoms triggered by dust and allergens.
My wife suffers terribly with dust allergies, and calima usually brings a bit of a nightmare time for us with her sneezing and runny nose, itchy eyes – the works – constantly, all day every day. She had some meds prescribed by her doctor here and from my POV it’s a miracle drug – she takes it at night and for the next day it basically stops all of these symptoms and she doesn’t feel any side-effects. It’s called Bilaxten and you can get it at the pharmacy without prescription.
In Conclusion
Air purifiers can be a valuable addition to your home during calima, helping to reduce the presence of dust and particulate matter, which can have adverse health effects. A reliable air purifier with a HEPA filter is generally sufficient for tackling calima-related concerns. When choosing an air purifier, consider factors such as affordability, features, and the air quality sensor to ensure that you are making an informed decision. Remember that, while air purifiers can improve indoor air quality, they are not a substitute for medical treatment for allergies and other health issues.
