Pulmonologist explains difference between air purifier, humidifier, and de-humidifier

With the threat of COVID-19 just outside our doors, some of us have considered buying some appliances that can improve the quality of air we breathe at home.

But what exactly does an air purifier do, and how is it different from humidifiers and de-humidifiers?

According to Dr. Ed Marvin Hilario, a pulmonologist, air purifiers have the main purpose of taking in the air inside a room and cleans it by coursing it through a series of filters.

However, it's important to remember that size does matter when it comes to this appliance.

When buying an air purifier, Hilario reminded the public to consider the size of the room and whether the appliance would be big enough or have the capacity needed to clean the air.

A humidifier can be good for your health in the sense that it helps increase the moisture to the air to avoid dryness that can affect different parts of the body.

"Itong mga ganito ginagamit kung kayo ay nakakaramdam ng panunuyo ng lalamunan or dry eye syndrome," Hilario said.

("These are used if you are feeling a dry throat or dry eye syndrome.")

A de-humidifier, meanwhile, can also be good for people at home because it can help you get rid of mold.

"Itong mga molds, na to kapag dumami nang dumami, maaari itong mag-cause ng allergic reaction sa inyo, at uubuhin at uubuhin kayo," the pulmonologist said.

("Molds, when they grow and multiply, can cause an allergic reaction and trigger coughing.")

—Margaret Claire Layug/MGP, GMA News