Air-con alone won’t remove haze particles from indoor air
Experts in Singapore warn that standard air-conditioning units are ineffective at removing fine haze particles (PM2.5) from indoor air. They recommend using air purifiers with HEPA filters or upgrading AC filters to higher MERV ratings to improve air quality.
Why it matters
Understanding the limitations of cooling systems is critical for public health protection during periods of transboundary haze.
The Straits Times talks to experts on what can bring reprieve from the haze.
Listen SINGAPORE – Singapore is currently experiencing its longest stretch of unhealthy air quality since September, with the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) here recording readings above 101 since Oct 5.
The authorities also warned on Oct 9 that air quality may worsen and breach “very unhealthy” levels if hot, hazy conditions continue.
The Straits Times talks to experts on what can bring reprieve.
Experts say that while air-conditioning helps to cool a room to make it more comfortable, its filters are designed to capture large dust particles, and not tiny haze pollutant particles.
The dominant pollutants during periods of transboundary haze are PM2.5 – tiny particles measuring 2.5 microns in diameter, 30 times smaller than the width of a strand of hair. These particles can get lodged deep in the lungs and enter the bloodstream.
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