What Is the Air Quality Index (AQI)? Where to Check, How to Understand Its Health Impact, and When You Need an Air Purifier
What Is the Air Quality Index (AQI)?
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a simple way to understand how clean or polluted the air around you is. It converts complex pollution data into a single number, color, and category, making it easy to interpret daily air quality updates.
How Is AQI Calculated?
AQI is calculated using the concentration of eight key pollutants – PM10, PM2.5, NO₂, SO₂, CO, O₃, NH₃, and Pb. Each pollutant’s measured level is converted into a sub-index, and the highest sub-index determines the overall AQI. For example, if PM2.5 levels fall under the “Poor” category, the overall AQI will also be marked as “Poor,” regardless of other pollutants’ levels.
AQI Categories and Their Health Impact
The AQI scale is divided into six categories, each representing a specific level of air pollution and health concern:
- Good (0–50): Air is clean and safe for everyone.
- Satisfactory (51–100): Minor discomfort possible for sensitive individuals.
- Moderate (101–200): People with asthma or heart conditions may experience mild breathing issues.
- Poor (201–300): Breathing discomfort for most individuals.
- Very Poor (301–400): Long exposure can cause respiratory problems.
- Severe (401–500): Even healthy individuals may experience health effects.
When Should You Use an Air Purifier?
An air purifier can significantly reduce indoor pollution levels, especially when outdoor air quality worsens. Here’s when you should consider using one:
- AQI above 100 (Moderate or higher): Use an air purifier at home, particularly in bedrooms and living areas.
- If you live near busy roads or construction sites: Dust and exhaust can raise indoor PM2.5 levels even when windows are closed.
- For children, elderly, or those with respiratory issues: Continuous use of a purifier helps reduce the risk of irritation and long-term damage.
- During festivals or winter months: Air quality often drops due to firecrackers, crop burning, or low wind movement, making purifiers essential.
How to Check Air Quality Index (AQI)
You can reliably check Air Quality Index (AQI) of your area by visiting System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research or Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology websites or download a trusted AQI app on your phone.
Reading and Responding to AQI Updates
AQI readings are often color-coded to make them easy to understand. Green or yellow means safe air, while red and purple indicate dangerous conditions. Regularly checking AQI apps or government bulletins can help you plan outdoor activities, use masks when required, and adjust air purifier settings indoors.
ALSO READ | Improve Air Quality in Your Home Without an Air Purifier With These 7 Simple Yet Effective Ways
Why AQI Awareness Is Important
Knowing how AQI works helps you take control of your health. Small actions – like monitoring daily AQI, using air purifiers during poor air days, and avoiding outdoor workouts in the morning when pollution is high – can make a big difference to your well-being.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general awareness only. The need for an air purifier may vary depending on individual health conditions, local air quality, and environmental factors. Readers are advised to consult a qualified healthcare professional or indoor air quality expert for personalized guidance before making purchase or usage decisions.
