Do I need an air purifier if I live close to the freeway?
As we know, high exposure to air pollution puts people at a higher risk of developing respiratory diseases and infections.
And if you live close to any highway of sorts, this should be a significant concern.
Many people live a stone’s throw away from the freeway. When they do this, they inhale more air pollution than people living in other areas.
This is why I suggest getting an air purifier if you live near a freeway.
I did this when I moved into my new apartment, making me feel much safer and healthier in my home.
In this article, I’ll explain why you need an air purifier if you live close to the freeway, what kind of model to get, and other tips to lessen pollution exposure when living near the highway.
Why Do I Need an Air Purifier If I Live Close to the Freeway?
Air pollution is everywhere in our modern society.
How technology has advanced and how we fuel most automobiles has filled our air with pollutants. This is also one of the main ways the USA emitted over 67.1 million tons of air pollution in 2021 alone.
This is especially true for people living close to the freeway.
When you live near the freeway, you’re much closer to the source of pollution and the thousands of cars that emit pollutants daily.
So, air pollution has a much easier time making its way into your home, even if you close the windows.
This is why I suggest getting an air purifier if you live near the freeway.
When I moved into my apartment close to the highway, I noticed my allergies were more frequent, and my lungs felt slightly heavier than usual.
But when I got my air purifier, there was a noticeable difference, and I felt much better inside my home.
On top of that, air pollution exposure over a long period dramatically increases your risk of contracting a respiratory disease.
Air purifiers reduce pollution exposure and significantly improve your home’s air quality, which is very important.
What Air Purifier Do I Need If I Live Near the Freeway?
Getting a good model is essential when buying an air purifier for your home or apartment next to the freeway.
Suppose you already have an HVAC system installed. In that case, you can add air purifying filters to your existing system for a more straightforward setup.
When doing this, I suggest you keep an eye out for High-Efficiency Particulate Air filters, also called HEPA filters.
These are the only filters currently capable of filtering out the significant pollutants that float around the air when you live close to the freeway.
With these filters installed in an HVAC system, it’s essential to check on them occasionally, as they are supposed to be replaced after a certain amount of time.
Getting a portable air purifier is another option if you don’t have an HVAC system at home.
But again, when getting one of these air purifiers, you need to make sure to get one with a True HEPA filter.
Otherwise, it may need help to filter out air efficiently, which defeats the purpose of owning an air purifier in the first place.
How to Reduce Pollution Exposure When Living Near a Freeway
While air purifiers significantly reduce pollution exposure when you live close to the freeway, it’s essential to take a multi-faceted approach when protecting yourself against air pollution.
Here are a couple more things you can do when living near a freeway to reduce pollution exposure.
Drive Less
One of the best things you can do to protect your lungs from air pollution is to drive less.
If you live near the freeway, you’ll likely have to drive on the highway when going to your destination.
Even with the windows rolled up, you inhale a lot of pollution when driving on the freeway. That’s why you should consider changing how you get around when living near the freeway.
I recommend taking public transportation or trying alternative methods for commuting, such as cycling, walking, or running.
Avoid Exercising at Rush Hour
Another thing you should do when living close to the freeway is to move your exercise schedule away from rush hour.
There is much more pollution in the air during rush hour, and you need to breathe in more air when exercising.
If you exercise during rush hour, you welcome more pollutants into your lungs, which is the opposite of your goal when living near a freeway.
Do I Need an Air Purifier if I Live Close to the Freeway – FAQs
Do Air Purifiers Help with Freeway Pollution?
Air purifiers are great for freeway pollution. While they won’t do much to the outdoor pollution, they are ideal for removing pollutants from the indoor air if you live near the freeway. So, if you live near the highway, getting an air purifier to protect you against airborne pollutants is a great idea.
How Far Does Pollution From the Highway Reach?
Air pollution can travel large distances depending on wind conditions, weather, and other factors. While you can’t pinpoint the exact distance air pollution from the highway travels, it’s recommended to live at least 500 feet from the freeway and, if possible, stretch that out to 1,000 feet.
Is It OK To Leave an Air Purifier on All Day?
Yes, it’s okay to leave an air purifier on all day. In fact, it’s considered best practice to leave your air purifier on constantly. That way, the device constantly removes pollutants and contaminants from the air, keeping your lungs as safe as possible.
Do I Need an Air Purifier if I Live Close to the Freeway – Final Thoughts
While there are many advantages to living near the freeway, it also means that you’re exposed to more air pollution.
This is why I highly suggest getting an air purifier if you live near the highway.
That way, you’re exposed to much less air pollution at home and protect your lungs long-term.