PM2.5 is particulate matter less than 2.5µ (microns) in diameter. PM2.5 is referred to as fine particle and is roughly 1/30th the average width of a human hair. Because of the fine size, it can lodge deeply into lungs and pose a great health risk. Sources of fine particles include all types of combustion activities (motor vehicles, power plants, wood burning, etc.) and certain industrial processes.

A colourless unstable toxic gas with a pungent odour and powerful oxidizing properties, formed from oxygen by electrical discharges or ultraviolet light. It differs from normal oxygen (O2) in having three atoms in its molecule (O3).

Ozone is a powerful oxidant that can irritate the air ways causing coughing, a burning sensation, wheezing and shortness of breath and it can aggravate asthma and other lung diseases.

When inhaled, ozone can damage the lungs. Relatively low amounts can cause chest pain, coughing, shortness of breath, and throat irritation. Ozone may also worsen chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma and compromise the ability of the body to fight respiratory infections. People vary widely in their susceptibility to ozone. Healthy people, as well as those with respiratory difficulty, can experience breathing problems when exposed to ozone. Exercise during exposure to ozone causes a greater amount of ozone to be inhaled, and increases the risk of harmful respiratory effects. Recovery from the harmful effects can occur following short-term exposure to low levels of ozone, but health effects may become more damaging and recovery less certain at higher levels or from longer exposures (US EPA, 1996a, 1996b).

Our respiratory system and digestive system are very different. If we get used to “RO Water” and then drink tap water, there is a high likelihood that we will fall ill. However, with air pollution, there are 3 kinds of pollutants – particle pollutants, gaseous pollutants and microbiological pollutants. The first two are harmful to the human body and have a cumulative effect on the human body. The third pollutant is something that if we are exposed to in small quantities, it may actually increase our immunity. We do not want to be living in a completely sterile environment because that will lead to lower immunity. Hence, targeting the microbiological pollutants only is not the best strategy when it comes to air pollution.

We strongly believe that if we are breathing healthy air inside our homes even for 8-10 hours, we are giving enough time for our lungs to recuperate from the damage that outside air and confined spaces without the air purifiers do. As an individual, we cannot do much to control the outside air we breathe in but we can definitely control the air quality within our homes and breathe in healthy air. Is smoking ten cigarettes better than five? The answer is no. Hence, breathing pollution free air for 8 hours has to better than breathing polluted air for 24 hours a day.

Smog is a combination of the words smoke and fog. We can distinguish two separate types of smog, summer smog and winter smog.

Summer smog, mainly consists of ozone. It is a brown, oxidizing fog. The causes of photochemical smog are nitrogen oxides and VOC, which stem from traffic and industries.

Winter smog is also referred to as acid smog; it mainly consists of foggy elements. Winter smog is found in areas where vertical dispersion of air pollutants is not possible. Usually temperatures decrease during the day in high air layers. The reason for poor visibility in Northern India in winter is not only smoke. It is mist pollution and smoke that people mistake for fog.

People with diabetes, lung disease (such as chronic bronchitis, asthma, emphysema, lung cancer) or heart disease (such as angina, a history of heart attacks, congestive heart failure, and arrhythmia or irregular heartbeat) are more sensitive to air pollution.

Seniors are at higher risk because of weakening of the heart, lungs and immune system and increased likelihood of health problems such as heart and lung disease.

Children are also more vulnerable to air pollution; they have less-developed respiratory and defense systems. Children also spend more time outdoors being physically active, which can increase their exposure to air pollution.And relative to body weight, infants and children breathe in much more air as compared to an adult.

People participating in sports or strenuous work outdoors breathe more deeply and rapidly, allowing more air pollution to enter their lungs. They may experience symptoms like eye, nose or throat irritation, cough or difficulty breathing when air pollution levels are high.

The purpose of these alerts is to advise people with breathing difficulties to avoid unnecessary exposure to smog. They also inform industries that are major sources of pollution that they should consider, if possible, reducing their emissions. Additionally, they solicit everyone’s help in lessening the problem by curtailing activities that produce smog.

Most air pollution is man-made and derives from poor combustion of fossil or biomass fuels (e.g. exhaust fumes from cars, furnaces or wood stoves).

Urban outdoor air pollution refers to the air pollution experienced by populations living in and around urban areas (i.e. cities).

Indoor air pollution refers to the pollutants found indoors. The main cause of indoor air pollution is inefficient fuel combustion from rudimentary technologies used for cooking, heating and lighting. There are also natural indoor air pollutants, like radon, and chemical pollutants from building materials and cleaning products that also impact health.

• BreatheEasy team uses Reference Grade (Grade A ) monitors to conduct air quality testing. Grade A equipment give accurate and reliable results. Our equipment is maintained to the highest standards and calibrated on regular prescribed intervals as per manufacturer recommendations.
• Air Quality Testing services/packages offered by BreatheEasy cover many parameters such as PM1, CO, TVOC, Formaldehyde, Ozone, SOx, NOx, etc. which a handheld consumer-grade monitor cannot test.
• Testing your office/residence yourself will only help you attain the numbers that the sensor displays. However, BreatheEasy Air Quality Testing is conducted by highly skilled and trained air quality professionals who understand the subject space requirements, can help you identify sources of air pollution in your office/residence and will recommend you with best-fit solution for your space.
• We do not just test the pollutants but conduct an overall assessment of your Indoor Air Quality including assessment of the source of the problem, aggravator of the pollutants and further suggest the customized solution.

BreatheEasy air quality testing personnel are professionally experienced graduate and post graduate engineers in air quality monitoring and assessment. Our personnel are regularly trained to understand and practice new technologies concerning air quality monitoring and building assessment and for new technological solutions to enhance the indoor air environment.

Once you place an order for any testing package online, you get a confirmation email for the same followed with a call within 24 hours to schedule a visit to your place in the next 2 to 3 days depending on your availability. Our team visits your place at the scheduled time, does the tests and analysis of the place. After the analysis is done, a detailed report is sent via email with detailed analysis and solutions to fix the problem.

If requested, we do recommend the best solution that will be able to solve the issues at your place.

Yes, we do test these pollutants. For customised packages kindly drop an email with your requirements on iaq@BreatheEasyLabs.com

Yes, we do test commercial spaces. For information on such packages, kindly drop an email with your requirements to iaq@BreatheEasyLabs.com

Depending on the level of air cleaning desired, the IQAir system can be operated as frequently as needed. For general air cleaning purposes, the system should filter the room air volume at least twice every hour on the set fan speed in order to achieve a significant air quality improvement. If the intensity of the pollution source is high or a high degree of purification is needed, more air changes may become necessary. More air changes may be achieved by selecting a higher fan speed and/or by running the room air cleaner more frequently.

It is the customer’s discretion as to how often they actually operate their IQAir system. All IQAir room air cleaners can be run 24 hours a day, if needed, without harm to the system.

For more information, please refer to the HealthPro® User Manual, chapter 4.3, Fan Speed & Air Delivery.

Ultrafine Particles:

Ultrafine particles are smaller than 0.1 microns. By sheer number, about 90% of all airborne particles are this size. The primary source of ultrafine particles is combustion from motor vehicles, refineries, industrial plants and even cooking. Viruses are also ultrafine particles. The small size of ultrafine particles enables them to be easily inhaled, deposited into the lungs and absorbed into the blood. They have been linked to heart attacks, strokes, asthma and even cancer.

Manufacturers of ordinary air filtration systems claim only that their systems filter particles larger than 0.3 microns. IQAir is different. IQAir’s HyperHEPA filtration is proven and certified to filter up to 99.5% of all particles down to 0.003 microns – the smallest particles that exist. Independent testing by laboratories and government agencies verifies the effectiveness of IQAir technology against ultrafine particles. When it comes to protection against ultrafine particulates, IQAir is the proven choice.

100x More Filtration Than Ordinary HEPA:

Unlike other air purifiers, IQAir’s HyperHEPA filtration system is proven to stop the smallest, most harmful particles in the air, all the way down to 0.003 microns – the smallest particles that exist. That includes viruses, pet dander, dust mites, air pollution and even cigarette smoke. IQAir uses nanofiber technology and innovative design to stop particles 100 times smaller than what other air purifiers claim. We don’t just claim it, we prove it in rigorous independent testing.

The HyperHEPA filter lasts up to 4 years, the V5-Cell Gas and Odor Filter up to 2 years, and the PreMax Prefilter lasts up to 18 months. These estimates assume average usage for 10 hours per day on speed 3. Your actual filter life will vary based on usage and environmental conditions.

Whenever the system is on, the color of the filter life LEDs (light-emitting diodes) indicates the state of the individual filters in the system. The positions of the filter life LEDs on the control panel correspond to the actual positions of the filters within the system.

The filter life LEDs signal four possible stages in the life of the filter:

• Green: The filter is still within 80% of its estimated life span.
• Orange: The filter is approaching the last 20% of its estimated life span.
• Red: The filter has reached the end of its estimated life span.
• Red blinking: The filter has passed its estimated life span and should be replaced immediately.

The IQAir system’s effectiveness is likely to have been reduced dramatically, either due to a reduction in airflow (particle filters are clogged) or a reduction in filter efficiency (gas phase filter is saturated).

The fan speed LEDs simulate the fan speed through the frequency of their rotation. The faster the rotation of the fan speed LEDs, the faster the actual fan speed of the system.

When a red light (LED) appears on the control panel, it’s time to replace your filter. It indicates that the filter has passed its estimated life span. In order to properly track the life of your filters, it’s important to reset the Filter Life Monitor with each filter replacement. After reset, the red LED will be changed to green.

Please refer to the HealthPro® User Manual instructions, chapter 4.4.8, Filter Life Reset (New Filter) Download Here(http://www.iqair.com/health-pro-series-guides-manuals)

Not at all! The IQAir machines use very little electricity to run. In fact, on low speed it only uses 20 watts (for 220/240 Volt), and with average use it will draw about as much electricity as an ordinary 100 watt light bulb. The actual energy usage will vary with the fan speed you select, so here is the exact energy consumption for each of the six fan speeds.

Speed   Energy Usage

1           20 watts

2          36 watts

3          54 watts

4          74 watts

5         105 watts

6         135 watts

The HealthPro 250 New Edition is barely audible (near-silent) on low, comparable to the sound of rustling leaves, or literally a whisper. On speed 3 which is the most commonly used speed, it is about as quiet as a refrigerator or computer. Even on its highest speed 6 which is generally reserved only for occasional quick cleaning of large areas, the HealthPro 250 New Edition makes about as much noise as your dishwasher or shower.

Yes, it comes included with a set of four casters which are quickly and easily snapped onto the bottom of the unit for convenient mobility. There is also a large easy to grasp carrying handle on the top of the unit.

The exact placement of the IQAir machine in your room is not very critical – it will work well regardless of where it sits in the room. Contrary to popular belief, there is no need to place your air purifier in the center of the room – you can just as easily run it out of the way in the corner of the room. Just make sure the unit has a few inches of clearance all around for adequate airflow.

IQAir stands behind the quality of their Swiss-made air purifiers 100%. The IQAir machines comes standard with a three years limited warranty that fully covers any defects in materials and workmanship, including parts and labour.

Quick to install, the PF40™ Kit consists of an upper grille which is fitted into the IQAir system’s base. Use the 8 screws to secure it to the bottom of the base. A synthetic coarse dust filter pad is held in place by a lower grille that is secured by four clips. The filter pad has a rough, cottony side and a smooth side. Place the filter on top of the filter grille with the rough, cottony side facing outward. When properly installed the rough, cottony side will be facing the floor when the system is in its upright position.

The PF40™ filter pads should be visibly checked for cleaning and replacement. There is no LED indicator light for the PF40™ on your room air cleaner. Initially, it is recommended to check the pads once every two to four weeks to check for loading. After loading has been determined, this frequency may be reduced accordingly.

There are two ways to connect to your AirVisual Pro:

AirVisual App: Tap the “+” button in the top left corner of the app home screen page > “Add a Pro” > Follow the on-screen instructions.

AirVisual.com: Select “Sign in” on the menu bar > Login with your email address and password > Click on your name, then “Add a Pro” > Follow the on-screen instruction

The AirVisual Pro gives you the option to connect to Wi-Fi using either the device or the mobile application (handy if you have private/hidden networks or long Wi-Fi passwords).

– To connect the device to Wi-Fi, click “OK” > navigate to “Network” > “Wi-Fi”, then your desired network. Click “OK” to prompt the password screen.

– To connect to Wi-Fi using the AirVisual app, tap the “+” icon in the top left corner of the home screen. Select “Configure my Pro’s Wi-Fi” and follow the on-screen instructions.

No. The AirVisual doesn’t connect to air purifiers.

AirVisual applies artificial intelligence, big data and cloud computing to map complex, nonlinear air pollution trends accurately and efficiently. The method employs deep machine learning – a process of simplifying data by learning multiple levels of representations and abstractions.

Air quality measurements, temperature, humidity, and indoor and outdoor values.

Approx. 3.5 Hours (in continuous mode)

1900 mAh Rechargeable Lithium-ion battery

Yes. Keep in mind that the IQAir AirVisual Pro is not weatherproof and should be placed in a suitable enclosure.

Your AirVisual Pro’s complete air quality history data is available for download to use as you wish for further insight.
To access the data, make sure your AirVisual Pro is connected to your Wi-Fi network (the same network as your computer) > click “OK” to go to the “Settings menu” > navigate to “Network” > “Access Pro data”
For more information and support, visit airvisual.com/support and read the article“ Download the Pro’s data using Samba ”

The AirVisual Pro covers a room or open space up to 1,076 square feet (100 m2).

When placing your AirVisual Pro outdoors, it is possible that your Pro will show a different value than the nearest outdoor official government station.

There are several reasons that this can happen:

• The air quality may vary greatly even within a few miles/km.
• The official government stations usually report measurement as an average of the past hour. In practice, this means the official government data reported might already be 1 to 2 hours old.
• By the time the data is published, some government data may already outdated by a few hours. The Pro has the advantage of showing real-time data.
• The government station doesn’t actually report PM2.5. In this case, the Pro would display a note below the outdoor data: “The main pollutant is xyz.”
• The Pro or the government station may actually show an inaccurate measurement. Government stations require frequent and expensive maintenance, which is not always performed in time.

AirVisual Pro reads particles from 0.3 microns (µm) to 10 microns (µm).

Yes. Two notification types can be set:

– Warning: A warning can be sent when a threshold is exceeded.

– All Clear: A notification can also be sent to inform you that pollution levels are again below the threshold.

The SHARP machines are recommended by BreatheEasy over other air purifiers in the market in this price range (Rs. 15,000-30,000 – as we call the starter range) for many reasons. We have tested all machines and found the SHARP’s to be better performing machines in many aspects such as high quality filter, good throughput of air, no harmful by-products, etc. We have tested most air purifiers across 15 parameters and found the SHARP’s to do better than others in this price range.

Plasmacluster Ion technology is a patented technology of SHARP Japan whereby it produces positive and negative ions (Bi-Polar Ionization) which has been tested to be completely safe. However, the benefits of Plasmacluster are not completely clear to us. One is able to turn the Plasmacluster Ionisation off on the SHARP machines. We however, still believe the SHARP machines are worth their price even without the ionization. The fan and filters are good enough to remove PM2.5 and certain odors.

Yes, negative ions have the capability to produce ozone as a by-product and hence, can be harmful in closed spaces. Bi-polar ionization (Plasmacluster) does not have this issue as it has both positive and negative ions.

SHARP uses passive filtration (HEPA filter and carbon filter) and also active filtration (Plasmacluster ionization). The user is able to switch off Plasmacluster if they like.

The battery life of the sensor is about 3 to 4 hours when fully charged.

The sensor lasts for about 1 to 2 years depending on the usage and it can be calibrated again.

The Airveda is a consumer-grade sensor and has an accuracy range of +/- 20%.

Any technical defect not caused by any physical damage will be covered under warranty.

The sensor calibration cost is INR 2000 plus taxes.

It generally takes one week for the sensor to be calibrated and shipped back to the customers.

The BreatheEasy Car Air Purifier can be placed on the nonslip mat and be kept on the front dash or at any other convenient place inside the cabin.

The BreatheEasy Car Air Purifier works with the cigarette lighter socket in the car. The high-efficiency filter can effectively remove PM 2.5 (suspended particles with a diameter of 0.3-2.5 microns such as inhalable particles, oil smoke, dust, pollen etc). It also reduces odour from pet, human, food, smoke and others

The filter lasts for approximatley 3 months depending on the usage.

The Car Air Purifier should have no dust settled on it or inside it. If there is dust then just remove that dust by gently tapping the filter. Once the filter gets completely black from outsideas well as inside, it’s an indication to replace it soon. Please remember the filters cannot be washed with water as they are prone to get damaged.

No, the windows should always be closed when the BreatheEasy Car Air Purifier is in use. There are two modes for speed available through soft-touch buttons.

The machinery and the motor and Fan are covered under warranty. The warranty does not cover filters.

The filter generally lasts for approximately 30 days under regular usage of an average of 2 hours per day.

The cost of filter is Rs. 300/- inclusive of taxes for a pack of 2.

Give us a call, we will try to get it fixed.

For Easy flow, any type of mask is fine to use as the purification is done via the machine and not the mask.

Give us a call, we will try to get it fixed.

A lot of studies have been conducted to study the air purification capacities of indoor plants and it has been verified that indoor plants indeed do help in eliminating carbon dioxide, ozone and volatile organic compounds (including benzene and formaldehyde).

After a lot of research, three plant species have been identified by us to help mitigate indoor pollution to a large extent. The three plant species identified are:

• Snake plant or Sansevieria – this is a bedroom plant as it is one of the only known indoor plants to release oxygen during the night
• Money plant – this is a great plant for removing VOC’s, specially formaldehyde
• Areca palm – this is a day plant for the living spaces as these release oxygen during the day.

Ideally, 6-8 indoor plants (areca palm and money plant) per person for day time in living space and 6-8 snake plants per person for night time in a bedroom would be required to remove the toxins and other harmful gases from the confined space. However, due to space restrictions, it is always a challenge to place a sizeable number of indoor plants that can be aesthetically placed in a confined space. We recommend that one put as many plants as one can be comfortable with.

The indoor plants that we sell do not require much maintenance as such. The surface of the leaves need to be wiped clean every 2 days or so such that they can effectively remove the harmful pollutants from indoors. With the special mix of potting mixture, some of the plants we sell need to be watered only once in 2-3 weeks and taken outdoors for a few hours every 2-3 weeks.

The sansevieria (mother-in-laws tongue) is a plant that cats like to nibble at and mostly fall sick after eating them. These plants should be kept away from pets or not kept in the house at all if the pets can’t be kept away.

Indoor plants are known to remove carbon dioxide and other harmful toxic air pollutants such as benzene, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide, etc. The leaves of the indoor plants need to be cleaned to improve their toxin-absorbing and oxygen-releasing efficiency. However, they are not sufficient to remove the high levels of PM2.5 from the air.

No, breathing clean air for a portion of the day does not lower your immunity to outdoor air pollution. The pollutants in outdoor air, such as particulate matter and harmful gases, cause cumulative damage to your lungs over time. Reducing your exposure to these pollutants indoors helps to mitigate this damage and allows your lungs to function more effectively. This is different from filtering bacteria and viruses from water, where long-term avoidance might reduce immunity to those specific pathogens.

The analogy with water filtration is important but distinct. Filtering water aims to remove disease-causing microorganisms like bacteria and viruses. Long-term reliance on sterile water might slightly reduce immunity to these specific waterborne pathogens. However, cleaning air primarily targets the removal of harmful pollutants like particulate matter and toxic gases, which cause physical damage to the lungs. Reducing exposure to these air pollutants does not weaken your body's ability to deal with them upon re-exposure; instead, it lessens the ongoing harm they inflict.

This concern might stem from the experience with water purification in India. Many have become accustomed to drinking filtered water due to concerns about waterborne illnesses. This has led to a perception that avoiding impurities (in both water and air) might weaken the body's natural defenses. The analogy, while understandable, doesn't fully apply to air pollution, where the primary concern is cumulative physical damage rather than infection from living organisms.

Yes, if you lived in a completely sterile environment with no exposure to bacteria and viruses, your immunity to those specific pathogens might decrease over time, making you more susceptible when exposed outside. However, typical indoor air purification focuses on removing particulate matter and harmful gases, not on creating a sterile environment devoid of all microorganisms. Therefore, breathing air filtered for pollutants does not carry the same risk of reducing overall immunity.

Absolutely. Reducing your exposure to air pollution for any part of the day, such as while sleeping or working indoors, lessens the cumulative damage to your lungs. Think of it as giving your lungs a break from constant assault. This can help to slow down the progression of respiratory issues and improve overall lung health over the long term.

The analogy of suggesting a child smoke cigarettes to build lung immunity highlights the absurdity of the idea that exposing yourself to harmful substances strengthens your defenses against them. Just as smoking cigarettes damages the lungs and increases the risk of disease, breathing polluted air causes harm by depositing harmful particles in the lungs and contributing to various health problems. Reducing exposure to both, even partially, is beneficial.

Indoor air purifiers commonly remove particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), dust, pollen, pet dander, and some gaseous pollutants. The main impact of these pollutants is respiratory problems, including asthma, bronchitis, and lung cancer. Long-term exposure can also contribute to cardiovascular issues and other health problems. By removing these pollutants, air purifiers help to protect our respiratory and overall health.

The key takeaway is that breathing clean air indoors, even for a limited time each day, is beneficial and does not weaken your immunity to outdoor pollution. It primarily serves to reduce the cumulative damage caused by harmful air pollutants on your lungs, offering a vital respite in heavily polluted environments.

Monitoring indoor CO2 levels is important because it helps identify if a space has proper ventilation. Higher CO2 usually means there isn’t enough fresh air, which can trap other indoor air pollutants. According to BreatheEasy Air Quality Specialists, this buildup can affect health, reduce cognitive function, and lower overall well-being.

Outdoor CO2 levels are around 400 ppm. Indoors, levels above 1000 ppm often indicate poor ventilation. As the BreatheEasy Indoor Air Quality Testing Team of Experts explains, at these levels people may feel tired, lose focus, or get headaches.

Every time we exhale, we release carbon dioxide. In closed rooms with limited airflow, this CO2 accumulates quickly. The BreatheEasy Delhi Team notes that the more people in a room and the less air exchange with outdoors, the faster CO2 rises.

High CO2 indoors can cause fatigue, poor concentration, restless sleep, and headaches. The BreatheEasy Management Team points out that people often report not feeling refreshed even after a full night’s rest.

Bedrooms at night with windows and doors closed usually show the highest levels. Bathrooms and other closed living spaces are also affected. According to the BreatheEasy Company Profile, multiple occupants in a poorly ventilated room can accelerate CO2 buildup.

The easiest step is improving ventilation by opening windows and doors to let in fresh outdoor air. The BreatheEasy Clean Air Purification Solution team also recommends air purification systems that maintain healthy airflow indoors.

Poor indoor air quality can impact productivity, energy levels, and even decision-making. Research cited by the Leadership of BreatheEasy Barun Aggarwal highlights that long-term exposure to poorly ventilated air may reduce cognitive performance.

Start by using a CO2 monitor in bedrooms or living areas. The BreatheEasy Experts recommend measuring at night to see how much CO2 builds up when the space is closed. This simple step helps families take action for healthier indoor air.

A low cost air quality monitor helps you understand the air you and your family are breathing indoors. This insight empowers you to take simple actions, such as opening windows to ventilate your home or deciding the right time for children to play outside. According to the BreatheEasy Air Quality Specialists, this awareness is the first step toward healthier living.

Air quality monitors are usually divided into three grades:

• Grade A: EPA approved reference devices used for regulatory work, costing thousands of dollars.
  
• Grade B: Commercial grade monitors, certified and used by businesses to track workplace air quality and optimize HVAC systems.
  
• Grade C: Consumer grade monitors, affordable for homes (around one to three hundred dollars) and ideal for personal use. The BreatheEasy Experts often recommend these for families to track everyday indoor air quality.

Most consumer monitors measure particulate matter (PM), carbon dioxide (CO2), and sometimes volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Many also display temperature and humidity, which are important for comfort and indoor wellness.

Yes. The source highlights both Indian and international brands. Airveda, a popular Indian brand, is widely used. Global names like Kaiterra, Laser Egg, and AirVisual by IQAir are also available. The BreatheEasy Delhi Team keeps track of such technologies to guide families and businesses.

Key things to look for include brand reputation, design, after sales service, and whether the sensors can be replaced or calibrated. The BreatheEasy Company Profile emphasizes that research and support matter as much as the device itself.

These monitors give you the power to make quick, informed choices. If levels of pollutants rise, you may decide to increase ventilation. If outdoor air quality is poor, you might postpone outdoor activities. This aligns with the Healthy Indoors by BreatheEasy approach — empowering people to create safe, breathable environments.

Not exactly. Grade C monitors are designed to be affordable and accessible, so they cannot match the precision of Grade A or B monitors. But as the BreatheEasy Management Team points out, consumer monitors provide reliable insights that are more than enough for day to day decisions in homes and small spaces.

The source suggests following social media channels for weekly videos, updates, and discussions. The Leadership of BreatheEasy Barun Aggarwal and the BreatheEasy Corporate Team Delhi often share insights and invite families to engage in conversations about clean air and sustainability.

The book shares the experiences of environmentalist Mr. Kamal Meattle and his son in law, focusing on the challenges of air pollution in cities like New Delhi. It emphasizes practical solutions individuals can adopt to improve indoor air quality in homes and offices.

The foundation lies in Mr. Meattle’s decades of environmental work and his popular TED Talk. A key element is the use of indoor plants to naturally filter and purify air, combined with real world experiences of applying these methods in polluted cities.

The book is co authored by Mr. Kamal Meattle, an environmentalist with nearly three decades of experience, and his son in law. Mr. Meattle is also a trustee of Al Gore's Climate Reality Foundation in India. His co author shares his personal journey, including his children’s health struggles with pollution and the founding of Breathe Easy Consultants in 2013.

Mr. Meattle’s success in building healthy indoor environments combined with his co author’s experience of raising children in polluted New Delhi were the main motivations. The personal struggle with respiratory problems at home led to a mission of helping others breathe clean air.

The book covers both outdoor and indoor pollution. While Mr. Meattle brings expertise in environmental issues broadly, the co author focuses strongly on indoor air quality in urban areas where people spend most of their time.

Yes. Many simple and effective measures are explained, from using plants to changing habits at home and work. The book highlights how even small steps can create healthier air indoors, while larger changes bring significant improvements.

It is aimed at people living in polluted cities, parents concerned about children’s health, and anyone who wants to improve indoor air quality. The book speaks to individuals seeking actionable advice for protecting their families and themselves.

The book is available on Amazon and through the authors’ website. Readers are encouraged to explore it to gain practical insights into tackling air pollution and to learn how to breathe easier.

Air pollution across North India is critically high, with Delhi often recording AQI levels above 300, even without crop burning. This creates unlivable conditions, triggering respiratory illnesses and long-term health concerns, while also harming the environment.

Crop burning adds to the problem, but it is not the only source. Industrial emissions, heavy vehicular traffic, dust from construction, and other urban pollutants keep pollution levels dangerously high, even when fires are absent.

Carbon particles settle on the glaciers, turning their surface darker. This reduces reflectivity and accelerates melting, which threatens water resources for millions of people and destabilizes ecosystems across South Asia.

Inspired by Al Gore, the Climate Reality Project in India works to raise awareness and encourage climate action. Key initiatives include water harvesting projects, supporting farmers with fruit tree plantations, and creating green certified schools to reduce emissions and waste.

MLA funds are directed toward practical solutions like building water harvesting systems, funding tree plantations, and supporting sustainability projects at the community level. These investments strengthen both the environment and local livelihoods.

Children are the future decision makers and the most vulnerable to climate impacts. Green certification in schools teaches students practical ways to save energy, conserve water, and cut waste, preparing them to lead climate-friendly lifestyles.

Volunteers are central to the program, with nearly 600 active across India. They spread awareness in communities, train children, and promote sustainable practices. Anyone passionate about climate action can join as a volunteer to expand this impact.

The larger mission is to keep global warming under control and prevent the world’s average temperature from rising more than 2 degrees Celsius this century. Local actions in India are aligned with this global climate target.

Particulate matter (PM) is a mix of tiny solid and liquid particles in the air. Fine particles like PM2.5 are especially dangerous, causing short-term problems such as asthma attacks and higher cardiac risks, as well as long-term issues like lung cancer from chronic exposure.

Short-term exposure happens during pollution spikes, for example after Diwali or crop burning, and can last days or weeks. Long-term exposure means living with unsafe PM levels daily for years. Both are harmful, but long-term exposure causes deeper, lasting damage.

The WHO guideline for annual average PM2.5 is less than 10 micrograms per cubic meter.

The WHO labels PM2.5 as a Class 1 carcinogen because strong evidence links it to cancer, particularly lung cancer, even in non-smokers.

• WHO safe limit: below 10 µg/m³
• Western countries: 50 µg/m³
  
• India: 60 µg/m³
  
  
• For indoor air, levels should ideally be well below 10 µg/m³.

Health risk is nearly zero at 0–10 µg/m³. Between 10 and 25 µg/m³, the risk rises sharply. Beyond 25 µg/m³, risk continues but increases more gradually. The biggest benefit to health comes from reducing exposure to below 10 µg/m³.

Even small reductions in PM2.5 improve health outcomes, but the most significant gains are achieved when exposure is cut to 10 µg/m³ or lower. Striving for near-zero levels is the safest approach.

Other pollutants also matter:

• Carbon dioxide (CO2): Aim for 600–700 ppm
  
• TVOCs: Keep levels low with natural plants or ventilation
  
  Just as we demand clean drinking water, we should be equally careful about the air we breathe.

Start by keeping shoes outside the house to avoid bringing in dust and dirt. Minimize carpets and clutter, especially in bedrooms, since they trap pollutants. A cleaner, simpler room generally means healthier air.

Use natural cleaning agents like citronella water. Avoid harsh chemicals such as phenol, which can release harmful compounds indoors.

No, burning them indoors produces high levels of particulate matter and volatile organic compounds. If you use them, place them outdoors or at a window so smoke flows outside.

Cooking releases smoke, oil, and fumes. Running the kitchen exhaust fan during cooking ensures pollutants are vented outdoors instead of spreading through the house.

Turn it off once cooking is done. Leaving it on continuously can create negative pressure that pulls untreated air into the home.

Run the exhaust fan only when needed. Always switch it off afterward, especially at night.

A constantly running fan can pull air from other rooms, including spaces where air purifiers are working. This creates negative pressure and draws in untreated air, which raises indoor pollution levels.

It refers to the difficulty of keeping both PM2.5 (dust and pollutants) and CO2 levels low at the same time. Actions that improve one often worsen the other, making balance a key challenge.

No. More filtration stages don’t automatically mean better performance. What matters is the quality and type of filters used, not just the number.

The key stages are:

• A coarse dust filter (pre-filter)
  
• A high-quality carbon filter
  
• A true HEPA filter
  

These three are enough to deal with most common indoor pollutants.

It captures larger dust particles before they reach the finer filters. This protects the HEPA filter from clogging too quickly, making it last longer and saving on replacement costs.

A good carbon filter should be dense and heavy. If you can see light through it, it’s not effective. Ideally, it should contain one to three kilograms of active carbon and be treated with catalysts like potassium permanganate (KMnO4) to trap a wide range of gases.

HEPA-like” filters are imitations. A true HEPA filter is made of glass media fiber, is more costly, and can trap particles as small as 0.003 micrometers. Only a true HEPA filter provides the promised high-efficiency filtration.

Not really. Add-ons like cold plasma, ionization, or catalysts (other than inside the carbon filter) are often unnecessary. Some may even release harmful by-products like ozone, which can be bad for your health.

Active filtration technologies work by altering pollutants but sometimes create harmful side effects such as ozone. Passive systems like pre-filters, carbon filters, and HEPA filters are safer and more reliable.

Keep it simple. Focus on the three essential filters—pre-filter, carbon, and HEPA—instead of being swayed by flashy claims about multiple stages.

First, confirm your air quality sensor is accurate. Other issues may include air leaks, exhaust fans creating negative pressure, indoor pollution sources, or problems with your air conditioning system.

Place the sensor at the outlet of your air purifier. If the reading drops close to zero, your sensor is functioning properly.

Make sure the purifier is on and that its filters are clean. Clogged filters reduce efficiency and lead to poor results.

Leaky windows, doors, or old AC units can let in outdoor pollution, raising indoor levels even if your purifier is working. Sealing leaks helps maintain clean air indoors.

Running exhaust fans can create negative pressure, pulling polluted air inside and canceling out your purifier’s efforts.

Sources include carpets, dusting, vacuum cleaners without HEPA filters, and general household activities that stir up particles.

Ducted split ACs can pull in dirty air from false ceilings or unsealed cavities, circulating it indoors without filtration.

Check the false ceiling area for unsealed trap doors or gaps. Seal them to prevent unfiltered air from entering your living space.

Yes, absolutely. You can run both together without any issues.

No, your air purifier works the same whether the air conditioner is on or off.

No, they serve different purposes. The air conditioner controls temperature, while the air purifier improves air cleanliness.

Yes, you can operate them separately depending on your comfort and needs.

Yes, using both gives you the best of both worlds—comfortable temperature and clean indoor air.

Always keep your windows and doors closed while the purifier is running.

Because if windows or doors are open, outdoor air keeps coming in, and your purifier will struggle to clean it effectively.

To breathe cleaner, healthier indoor air.

An air purifier works by using a fan to pull air through multiple filters that trap pollutants. The clean air is then released back into the room.

The fan is the primary component that uses electricity in an air purifier.

Most air purifiers consume between 20 to 30 watts of power on average.

It’s similar to running a ceiling fan or a regular light bulb.

No, the electricity cost is very low—usually around ₹1 to ₹1.50 per night.

Running an air purifier costs just a fraction of what an air conditioner does.

No, other than the fan, there are no major components that consume much power.

It’s very affordable. The electricity cost is minimal and doesn’t add much to your power bill.

Most purifiers have indicators that track usage and pollution levels, but the most reliable check is a physical one. Look at the bottom of the filter. If it is black, it is time to replace it. Gray means it may still have some life left. Also notice if the airflow has dropped compared to when it was new.

No. The indicator is useful, but it is best to confirm by checking the filter yourself. Reduced airflow or visible dirt buildup are clear signs it needs changing.

Cheaper models may last three to five years before parts like the fan or motor wear out. High quality purifiers can last much longer, sometimes over fifteen years with proper care and regular filter changes.

It matters for both cost and environmental reasons. Replacing filters or machines too often creates waste. Choosing a durable model with a long lasting filter helps reduce your environmental footprint.

The filter life depends on fan speed, daily usage, and local pollution levels. In high pollution areas or at higher fan speeds, filters will fill up faster.

That usually means the filter is clogged. Check it manually, and make sure air is not leaking around it. Some models allow air to bypass the filter when it is clogged, which reduces cleaning efficiency.

For cheaper models, repairs often cost as much as buying a new one. But if you have a premium unit built to last, repairing specific parts like fans or sensors can be worth it.

Watch for signs like strange noises, weak airflow, frequent power issues, or poor performance even after changing filters. Repeated failures usually mean it is time to replace the machine.

TVOCs, or total volatile organic compounds, can come from many everyday household items. These include building materials like old flooring, furniture and fabrics, personal care products such as nail polish remover, cleaning products like bleach, and even scented products such as diffusers or candles. All these sources add to the level of VOCs in indoor air.

Simple daily activities can increase indoor TVOC levels. Cleaning, applying nail polish, using air fresheners, or unpacking new furniture or clothes can all release chemicals into the air. Even items brought in from outside, like plants or garden materials, may carry residues that contribute to VOCs inside the home.

Nail polish remover is one of the most frequently mentioned sources. Other contributors include bleach and various scented or aromatherapy products that release volatile compounds when used.

It is best to stay mindful of the products you use every day. Choose natural or less chemically intensive alternatives whenever possible. Reducing the use of strong cleaners, sprays, and synthetic fragrances can make a noticeable difference in air quality.

The most effective approach is regular ventilation. Open windows when possible, use exhaust fans, and choose products labeled as low VOC or natural. Air purifiers with activated carbon filters can also help capture VOCs from the air.

Yes, one unusual mention is hair or other materials brought in from the garden. These can carry pesticides or chemicals from outside. Mosquito repellents and similar household sprays can also add VOCs to the air.

Absolutely. Every product you buy or use inside your home contributes to your indoor air environment. Choosing safer cleaning supplies, organic personal care products, and low VOC furnishings can significantly reduce overall chemical exposure.

The overall message is awareness. Many common items release VOCs without us realizing it. Being thoughtful about what you use indoors and improving ventilation can help create a cleaner, healthier home.

Ozone exists in two places: high in the stratosphere and at ground level. In the stratosphere, ozone protects life on Earth by blocking harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun. At ground level, however, ozone becomes a pollutant that can harm our health.

Ground level ozone is a powerful oxidant. When inhaled, it can irritate and damage lung tissue, trigger asthma attacks, and cause breathing problems. It can also speed up skin aging, and studies show that high levels of ozone and fine particulate matter together can increase the risk of cardiac arrest.

In the past, ozone generating air purifiers were promoted as effective air cleaners. Today, we know that they can harm health by adding ozone to indoor air. While they might reduce some smells, the ozone they release is toxic and can damage your lungs.

Some devices, especially those using negative ionization technology, can create small amounts of ozone as a byproduct. Although ozone is not the main goal of these machines, the ionization process can generate it unintentionally.

In countries like the United States, air purifiers with ionizers are allowed only if their ozone output is extremely low, far below safe limits. But in cities like Delhi, outdoor ozone levels are already high. Adding even a little more ozone indoors can push levels beyond what’s healthy and worsen air quality.

The safest option is to choose purifiers that use passive filtration. These systems physically trap pollutants instead of producing chemical reactions. Look for units with HEPA and activated carbon filters, which clean the air effectively without creating ozone.

Avoid purifiers that promote ozone or use ionization technology. Check for products that clearly state “no ozone emission” and use passive filters like HEPA or activated carbon. Reading product reviews and detailed specifications can also help you make a safer choice.

Ground level ozone mostly forms outdoors when sunlight reacts with emissions from vehicles, factories, or power plants. This means people living in cities or industrial areas, especially during warm and sunny days, are more likely to be exposed to it, even without using ozone producing devices indoors.

No, air purifiers do not change humidity or temperature. The air they release is neither drier nor cooler. If you feel a bit of coolness, it’s simply because of the air movement from the fan, similar to how a regular fan feels.

Yes, you can. If the air feels too dry, it’s perfectly fine to use a humidifier along with your air purifier. They serve different purposes the purifier cleans the air, and the humidifier adds moisture.

The most comfortable and healthy indoor humidity level is between 55% and 65%. If it’s below 55%, consider a humidifier. If it’s above 65%, a dehumidifier can help.

Yes, definitely. You can use both at the same time. The air purifier removes pollutants, while the dehumidifier reduces excess moisture. They work independently and do not interfere with each other.

An easy and inexpensive way is to place a bowl of clean water in the room. As the water slowly evaporates, it increases the room’s humidity naturally.

Use clean, filtered, or distilled water. Tap water may contain minerals or bacteria that could get released into the air along with moisture, which is not ideal for air quality.

No, they work differently. Air conditioners can lower humidity as part of the cooling process, while air purifiers simply clean the air and don’t affect moisture levels.

No, air purifiers do not lower the temperature. If it feels cooler, that’s just the fan circulating air, not an actual drop in room temperature.

The air in cities like Delhi contains a high concentration of ultrafine particles, specifically PM1s, which make up 80% to 90% of PM2.5 pollution. These particles are so small they enter the bloodstream through the lungs (which have a surface area equivalent to a tennis court) and accumulate over time. This accumulation can lead to serious health problems, such as blockages in arteries requiring stents. While humans naturally act as air purifiers by filtering some air, the levels of pollution, particularly PM1s and PM2.5s, are often too high for the body to handle effectively. Air purifiers act as artificial lungs, helping to remove these harmful particles and reduce the burden on the human body.

Many people mistakenly believe that if they can jog or walk in polluted areas without immediate effects, the pollution is not a problem. However, air pollution, especially PM1s, gradually accumulates in the bloodstream. This process is insidious, meaning that while you may feel fine in the short term, the accumulated particles are silently damaging your health. Over time, this can lead to serious illnesses like heart conditions requiring procedures such as stent placement. The lack of immediate symptoms does not mean that the pollution is not causing harm.

While PM2.5 and PM1 particles are significant health pollutants that can cause sickness over time, carbon dioxide (CO2) is also identified as a pollutant, particularly for the human brain. High levels of CO2 can negatively impact cognitive function. Therefore, monitoring and controlling CO2 levels indoors is also crucial for overall well being.

Studies, including research from Harvard University and seconded by Lawrence Berkeley National Lab at the University of California, have demonstrated a significant link between indoor air quality and cognitive function. When CO2 levels are kept below 600 ppm and volatile chemicals like formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene are below 50 micrograms per cubic meter, cognitive abilities can improve dramatically, by as much as 299%. This highlights the importance of good indoor air quality for maximizing mental performance, regardless of age.

Maximizing cognitive abilities is crucial for success at any stage of life, whether in school, at work, or even in old age. With a significant portion of the population being relatively young, as seen in India with a median age around 26.8 years, enhancing cognitive function through better air quality can be a major factor in achieving personal and professional goals. Furthermore, maintaining good cognitive health can potentially reduce the chances of developing conditions like Alzheimers in later life.

The built environment, such as buildings and workplaces, has a significant responsibility in ensuring good indoor air quality. By incorporating design and ventilation strategies that minimize indoor air pollutants, including both particulate matter and CO2, these environments can promote the health and cognitive well being of the people who occupy them. Creating spaces with better air quality leads to smarter, healthier, and more productive individuals.

While air purifiers are an effective way to reduce airborne particles, they may not be affordable for everyone. The conversation around improving air quality needs to include finding solutions that are accessible to a wider range of people. This suggests a need for exploring a variety of approaches, both with and without air purifiers, to address the issue of air pollution and its impact on health and cognition. One historical example mentioned is the use of plants to remove pollutants like benzene, highlighting the potential of natural solutions.

The speakers personal experience of becoming allergic to Delhis air in the early 1990s due to benzene pollution served as a catalyst for understanding and addressing air quality issues. This allergy, which improved after the reduction of benzene in petrol, demonstrated the direct impact of specific pollutants on individual health and motivated the search for solutions, including the use of plants to purify the air. This personal struggle underscores the real world consequences of air pollution.