Delhi NCR's Air Quality Reaches Dangerous Level: How to Choose the Right Air Purifier in 2025

Delhi NCR’s air quality is deteriorating this winter. Here’s what to consider when buying an air purifier in 2025 to protect your home and family from harmful PM2.5 pollution. Breathe in cleaner air with advanced air purifiers. Follow the tips to buy the right one. As winter approaches, Delhi NCR’s air quality is heading towards the danger zone. The city recorded an air quality index (AQI) of 207 on Wednesday, classified as “Severe”, with PM2.5 levels at unhealthy highs. Breathing this air can affect anyone, but children, the elderly and people with respiratory conditions are at greater risk. For many residents, investing in an air purifier has become essential. Here’s what you should look out for when buying an air purifier in 2025. Size, Coverage and Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) Not all air purifiers are built the same. One of the first things to check is the size of the room you want to use it in. A purifier that is too small for a large living room will struggle to clean the air effectively. Look for the Clean Air Delivery Rate, or CADR, which indicates how quickly a purifier can remove particles such as dust, smoke and pollen. Higher CADR numbers usually mean faster and more efficient cleaning. Filters and Maintenance Delhi’s winter air carries a mixture of dust, PM2.5, smoke and smells. If you are planning to buy an air purifier, prioritize those with high CADR, efficient HEPA filters and activated carbon layers to effectively trap pollution. This ensures cleaner indoor air even when the AQI outside is in the “Severe” range. Keep in mind that filters need to be replaced regularly. A purifier with a clogged filter will not work properly, and replacing it on time keeps the machine efficient. Check the cost and availability of replacement filters before making a purchase. Noise levels for bedroom use In Delhi winters, pollution often peaks early in the morning and late at night, when people are indoors. If you plan to keep an air purifier in your bedroom, look for models with quiet or sleep modes. These run quietly without disturbing your sleep while cleaning harmful PM2.5 particles that peak at night. Energy consumption during extended periods of use During Delhi’s smoggy months, purifiers may need to run almost all day. Energy efficient models help avoid high electricity bills. Some purifiers also automatically adjust fan speed based on indoor air quality, which is helpful when outdoor pollution fluctuates due to traffic or stubble burning in nearby states. Smart features for real-time pollution monitoring Devices with built-in sensors can show real-time indoor AQI and automatically adjust airflow. In Delhi, where air quality can deteriorate suddenly, this ensures that your purifier responds instantly without constant manual intervention. Some models even allow remote monitoring via apps, so you can start purifying your home before you return from the office. Portability for multi-room coverage Many homes have multiple living spaces where family members spend time. Smaller, portable purifiers can be moved between bedrooms, living rooms and study areas, while larger units are better suited to larger rooms such as living rooms where families gather during winter evenings. Health impact during peak pollution months With AQI regularly hitting serious levels, a good air purifier is no longer a luxury; it is essential for the protection of respiratory health. Choosing the right purifier can significantly reduce exposure to harmful particles, especially for children, the elderly and people with asthma or other lung conditions.