Best Indoor Allergy Monitors: Breathe Easy At Home

If you're experiencing allergy symptoms, the air quality in your home could be the culprit. The good news is that there are now affordable indoor air quality monitors available for purchase. These monitors can detect and track the amount of pollution in the air, including allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and mould spores. Some monitors can even differentiate between various types of pollen and mould. With this information, you can take steps to improve your indoor air quality and alleviate your allergy symptoms.

Air quality monitors for allergies

Air quality monitors can be a great way to keep track of allergens in your home and help you make informed decisions about your health. They can also help you identify potential issues with your indoor air quality that could be causing allergy-like symptoms.

Types of Air Quality Monitors

There are two main types of air quality monitors: laser particle counters and air quality monitoring devices. Laser particle counters are simple devices that count the number of small and large particles in the air. Air quality monitoring devices, on the other hand, detect a variety of allergens and pollutants and can also track levels over time. Some advanced monitors can even be connected to air purifiers and other smart devices to automate the purification process.

Features to Look For

When choosing an air quality monitor for allergies, look for one that detects common allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mould spores, and pet dander. You may also want to consider a monitor that measures carbon dioxide levels, as high levels can cause headaches and fatigue. Other features to look for include Wi-Fi connectivity, visual indicators, and the ability to provide general air conditions like temperature and humidity.

Recommended Air Quality Monitors for Allergies

• Sensio Air Pro: This monitor can differentiate between mould, dust mites, pollen, and dander. It provides real-time analysis and notifications to help you prevent harmful biological threats.
• UHoo Indoor Air Quality Sensor: This portable monitor from The Allergy Store provides important information about your indoor air quality and helps you proactively manage your family's health.
• PRODOLITA 8-in-1 Indoor Air Quality Monitor: This monitor detects pollen, CO, CO2, TVOC, PM2.5, PM1.0, temperature, and humidity. It has a large LCD display and can be connected to your smartphone via Wi-Fi.
• AirVisual Pro Indoor Monitor: This monitor provides both indoor and outdoor air quality readings and has an easy-to-read 5-inch LCD display. It measures PM 2.5 and CO2 and also displays temperature and humidity.
• Awair Element: The Awair Element uses a fan and laser sensor to detect PM 2.5, TVOCs, CO2, temperature, and humidity. It has its own composite scoring system to rate the overall air quality.

Allergy test kits

There are a variety of indoor air quality testing kits available, which can be purchased online or from specialist stores. These kits are typically user-friendly and do not require any special equipment. Once completed, the tests are sent to an independent laboratory for analysis, and you will receive accurate, understandable results.

• Allergen Test Kits: These detect and identify common indoor allergens, including pollen, dust mites, mould spores, insect fragments, fibres, and skin cells.
• Mould Test Kits: These kits can identify multiple types of mould, including toxic mould, in vulnerable spots such as basements, bathrooms, and attics.
• Formaldehyde Test Kits: These detect harmful concentrations of formaldehyde, a probable human carcinogen, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency.
• Organic Vapor Test Kits: These can identify over 40 organic chemicals and 50 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that may be present in your environment.
• Lead Test Kits: These are especially useful for older homes to identify lead on surfaces. Prolonged exposure to lead particles can be harmful to both children and adults.
• Laser Particle Counters: These devices count small and large particles in the air, helping to identify the presence of pollen, bacteria, spores, pet dander, dust mites, mould, smoke, and fine dust.

In addition to these test kits, there are also air quality monitors that can detect and track allergen levels over time, providing ongoing data to help you prepare for high allergen concentration periods. Many of these monitors have visual indicators and Wi-Fi connectivity, offering general air conditions, including temperature and humidity.

Some specific examples of allergy test kits and monitors include:

• Nectar at-Home Allergy Test (identifies 40 environmental allergens)
• Sensio Air Pro: This patented pathogen tracker can differentiate between mould, dust mites, pollen, and dander. It provides real-time analysis and notifications to help prevent harmful biological threats.
• UHoo Indoor Air Quality Sensor
• Dylos DC1100 Air Quality Monitor
• Everlywell Indoor & Outdoor Allergy Test (tests for 40 common indoor and outdoor allergens)

Laser particle counters

The particle size can vary from model to model, with a minimum detection limit of 0.3 microns and a maximum of 25 microns. While they can't identify the types of particles, they provide information on the concentration of different-sized particles in the air.

There are several features to consider when choosing a laser particle counter:

• Particle size sensitivity: Most residential counters detect particles of 0.5 microns and larger. For severe allergies, a more sensitive device detecting particles as small as 0.3 microns is recommended.
• Fast sampling: Quick sampling, from a few minutes to seconds, allows for prompt action.
• Multiple sampling modes: Continuous and intermittent modes provide flexibility in analysing air particle counts.
• Data storage: Logging and storing data helps track trends over time and evaluate the effectiveness of air purification methods.
• Size and weight: A compact and lightweight design facilitates easy portability between rooms.

The Dylos Laser Particle Counter (DC1100) is an example of an affordable indoor air quality monitor for consumer use. It detects particles down to 1 micron and offers multiple modes, including minute, hour, day, and monitor.

Air purifiers

Types of Air Cleaners

Air cleaners can be divided into two main types: mechanical and electronic. Mechanical air filters, such as High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, use a fan to pull air through filters that trap particles. Electronic air cleaners, on the other hand, use electrostatic attraction to charge particles and draw them to a collector. Both types of air cleaners are effective at removing particulate matter, but if you're looking to remove gaseous pollutants like paint fumes or household odors, you'll need an air cleaner with a carbon filter.

Factors to Consider

When choosing an air purifier, it's important to consider the size of the room you intend to use it in. Air purifiers are typically rated for a specific coverage area, so make sure the purifier you choose is suitable for the room size. Additionally, look for a purifier with a high Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR), as this measures the volume of clean air produced per minute. A CADR of 200 or higher is recommended, but 350 or higher is even better.

The type of filter used in an air purifier is also important. HEPA filters are considered the gold standard for effectively improving indoor air quality, as they are capable of trapping small particles down to 0.3 microns in size. It's also important to replace HEPA filters regularly, as they can become clogged over time, reducing their effectiveness. Most manufacturers recommend replacing HEPA filters every six months, but this may vary depending on usage.

Additional Features

Depending on your specific needs, you may want to look for air purifiers with additional features. For example, if you plan to use the purifier in your bedroom, look for one with a night mode or a low noise level (fewer than 30 decibels is considered ideal). If you have multiple rooms or a large space, you may need multiple air purifiers or one with a larger coverage area. Some air purifiers also offer smart features, such as smartphone apps or remote controls, that allow you to monitor and control the device remotely.

Recommended Products

• Best for Allergies: Medify MA-112 Air Purifier. This purifier has a dual HEPA filtration system and covers up to 4,450 square feet. It offers various features, including a timer function, different speeds, and a sleep mode.
• Best for Odor Control: Blueair Blue Pure 511 Air Purifier. This purifier effectively removes odors and is ideal for small spaces. It has a user-friendly design and a quiet operation, making it perfect for bedrooms.
• Best for Large Spaces: Aroeve Air Purifier. With a coverage area of up to 1,095 square feet, this purifier is perfect for large rooms. It offers a simple user interface and convenient features like a sleep mode and a real-time air quality indicator.
• Best for Dust: Hathaspace Smart True HEPA Air Purifier. This purifier is effective at improving air quality and managing dust mite allergies. It has a compact and portable design, and the display screen and buttons make it easy to use.
• Best Humidifier Combo: Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool Formaldehyde. This 3-in-1 device from Dyson not only purifies the air but also functions as a humidifier and fan. It uses a HEPA filter and a carbon filter for odor control, and it can be controlled via an app or remote.
• Best Portable: PuroAir HEPA 14 Air Purifier. This small and lightweight purifier covers up to 1,115 square feet and offers four different settings. It's easy to use and effective at odor control, making it a great choice for multiple locations.
• Best for Smoke: Bissell air400 Air Purifier. This purifier is effective at removing VOCs and is recommended for areas with frequent wildfires or secondhand smoke. It has a three-layer filtration system, an easy-to-use interface, and a filter change indicator.
• Best for Pet Allergies: AIRDOCTOR Air Purifier. This purifier is designed for homes with pets and covers 1,220 square feet. It's quiet, easy to use, and shows real-time air quality via an app. It effectively reduces pet dander and other allergens, providing relief from allergy symptoms.

Gas detectors

Types of Gas Detectors

There are several types of gas leak detectors available, including stationary devices, handheld probes, sprays, and pens. Stationary devices are installed on ceilings or walls and can detect toxic gases like carbon monoxide or combustible gases like propane or natural gas. Handheld probes are portable and can be used to check for gas leaks around appliances and piping. However, they don't detect carbon monoxide and are not meant to be used as a replacement for carbon monoxide detectors. Spray and pen-type detectors are less commonly used due to their limitations and safety concerns.

Features to Look For

When choosing a gas detector, consider the following features:

• Type of Gas: Ensure the detector can identify the specific gases you want to monitor, such as methane, propane, or carbon monoxide.
• Power Source: Look for a device with a power indicator and consider those with battery backup in case of power outages.
• Expiration Date: Some units have a limited functional lifespan, so be sure to replace them before the expiration date.
• UL-Listed Certification: For added peace of mind, choose a detector with UL-Listed certification, ensuring it meets safety standards set by Underwriter Laboratories.
• Sensitivity: Adjustable sensors allow for greater sensitivity and easier identification of the leak source.
• App-based Alerts: Some detectors send alerts and data directly to your smartphone via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, even when you're not at home.
• Smart Home Integration: If you have a smart home system, look for a detector that integrates seamlessly with your existing ecosystem.

Recommended Gas Detectors

• Kidde Nighthawk Plug-in Carbon Monoxide and Explosive Gas Detector: Detects combustible gases and carbon monoxide. Offers convenient mounting options and works during power outages.
• EG Air Propane and Natural Gas Detector: Features a digital display and a 6-foot extension cord. However, it does not detect carbon monoxide and lacks a battery backup.
• DeNova Detect Natural Gas Alarm: Impressive battery life, with a claimed run-time of 10 years. Detects only methane, so additional detectors are needed for other gases.
• Amprobe GSD600 Gas Leak Detector: Lightweight and easy to use, with a handheld probe to reach hard-to-access areas. Detects methane and propane but not carbon monoxide.
• Nest Protect Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector: Integrates with the Nest smart home system and sends alerts to your phone. Announces the location of potential hazards.

Remember, gas leaks can be extremely dangerous and must be addressed immediately. By investing in a high-quality gas detector, you can help protect your home and family from potential hazards.

Frequently asked questions