What is a PurpleAir Sensor?
PurpleAir sensors are small (only 3.5” in diameter), inexpensive, easy to install and operate requiring only a power source and Wi-Fi connection. A PurpleAir sensor uses a fan to draw a sample of air past a laser beam. The beam reflects light from any fine particulate matter (PM2.5) particles that exist in the air sample, like dust shimmering in a sunbeam, onto a detection plate. Using this process, the size and amount of particulate matter can be determined.
What is Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM2.5)?
How can PM2.5 affect my health?
Particles in the PM2.5 size range are able to travel deeply into the respiratory tract, reaching the lungs. Exposure to fine particles can cause short-term health effects such as eye, nose, throat and lung irritation, coughing, sneezing, runny nose and shortness of breath. Exposure to fine particles can also affect lung function and worsen medical conditions such as asthma and heart disease. Scientific studies have linked increases in daily PM2.5 exposure with increased respiratory and cardiovascular hospital admissions, emergency department visits and deaths. Studies also suggest that long term exposure to fine particulate matter may be associated with increased rates of chronic bronchitis, reduced lung function and increased mortality from lung cancer and heart disease. People with breathing and heart problems, children and the elderly may be particularly sensitive to PM2.5.