Secondhand Smoke

Apartment and condo dwellers, particularly residents of drafty older buildings, call us daily about the problem of secondhand smoke wafting into their homes. Will an air purifier work? Where do I put it? Some customers have even gone as far as to purchase an air purifier for their smoking neighbors.

You will need an air purifier that can remove the hundreds of particulate and chemicals in smoke. An air purifier with HEPA filtration will help remove the chemicals and gases in smoke. Cheaper air purifier models found in home improvement stores typically have a few ounces of activated carbon, whereas an air purifier that can truly clean up the smoke contains pounds.

Alen, Austin Air, Blueair, and Allerair air purifier units have the capability to remove smoke, depending on the amount of smoke and your budget.

Where do I put the air purifier?

If it is clear where the secondhand smoke is entering the dwelling, place the air purifier near it. If unclear, keep it in your main living area during the day and move it to the bedroom at night. If you prefer not to move it, the highest priority location is the bedroom. The respiratory system slows down during sleeping hours when one needs clean air most.

Will an air purifier really help with secondhand smoke?

One that is appropriate for smoke will help significantly. When you change the filter for the first time and see the tar and gunk that is in the filter, you will be horrified, but you will also be a believer!

>> View the Top 5 Air Purifiers for Smoke