Published Jul 8, 2025 3 min read

You may have seen numbers like CADR, PM2.5, or AQI on the box of an air purifier or online. These can be confusing, but they tell you how well the purifier works. Knowing the air purifier numbers meaning helps you choose the right one for your room. It shows how fast and how much air it can clean. In this easy guide, we explain these terms in simple words, so you can pick the best air purifier for your home and breathe fresh, clean air every day.

You can now upgrade to the air purifier of your choice without exhausting your savings. Simply walk into any of Bajaj Finserv’s 1.5 lakh partner stores across over 4,000 cities in India and explore a wide range of models to suit your home. Once you choose your preferred air purifier, use the Easy EMI Loan of up to Rs. 5 lakh to pay in a way that fits your monthly budget. You can even enjoy zero down payment on select models, allowing you to take it home without paying anything upfront. 

Plus, you can check your loan eligibility takes just a few minutes online—helping you plan better before you visit the store.

What do the readings on my air purifier mean

When you look at your air purifier’s display, you might see numbers like PM2.5, AQI, or CADR. These readings show the current air quality in your room and how well your purifier is working. For example, PM2.5 tells you the level of tiny dust particles in the air, while AQI shows the overall air quality score. CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) shows how quickly your purifier can clean the air. Understanding these numbers helps you know when to adjust the fan speed or change the filter. 

To explore models with smart displays and advanced sensors, check out Dyson air purifiers available on Easy EMIs.

How do air purifiers measure and display air quality

Air purifiers come with smart features that help you track indoor air quality easily. Here is how they measure and display it:
 

  • Built-in sensors: Air purifiers come with sensors that detect dust, smoke, pollen, and harmful gases in the room.
  • Real-time monitoring: These sensors constantly check the air and send updates to the display screen.
  • PM2.5 reading: Shows the level of tiny particles (like dust and smoke) in the air—lower values mean cleaner air.
  • AQI (Air Quality Index): Gives an overall score for air quality; a lower AQI indicates healthier air.
  • Colour indicators: Some purifiers use coloured lights (green, yellow, red) to show air quality levels clearly.
  • Extra details: Advanced models also show humidity, temperature, and filter status to help you stay informed.

Understanding PM2.5 and PM10 levels on your purifier

PM2.5 and PM10 are common air quality readings on your purifier. They show the amount of dust and harmful particles in the air. PM2.5 refers to tiny particles like smoke and exhaust, while PM10 includes bigger particles like dust and pollen. High levels of either can affect your health, especially if you have breathing issues. Knowing these numbers helps you use your purifier better for clean and safe air.

Here is what these levels mean:

  • PM2.5: Fine particles, harmful to lungs and heart
  • PM10: Larger particles like dust and pollen
  • Low (0–50): Good air quality
  • Moderate (51–100): Okay, but may affect sensitive people
  • High (101+): Poor air quality, run purifier at high speed

 

 

 

What to do when display numbers are high

If your air purifier shows high PM or AQI readings, it means the air indoors is polluted. This can happen due to cooking, outdoor dust, or lack of ventilation. Do not panic—your purifier is doing its job. Follow these simple steps to bring the numbers down quickly:

  • Run the purifier at full speed until the readings improve.
  • Keep windows and doors closed to stop outdoor pollutants from entering.
  • Check and clean the filters if they are clogged or dusty.
  • Avoid indoor activities that release smoke or fumes, like frying or burning incense.
  • Place the purifier in the most used or affected room.
  • Use the auto mode if available—it adjusts fan speed based on air quality.
  • Vacuum your space regularly to reduce dust and particles.

 

Conclusion

Knowing what the numbers on your air purifier mean—like PM2.5, PM10, CADR, and AQI—helps you use the device more effectively. These readings tell you how clean or polluted your indoor air is and guide you on when to take action. If the numbers are high, adjust the settings, clean filters, or close windows to improve air quality.

Explore the best air purifiers and bring one home on Easy EMIs with Bajaj Finserv.

Before making a decision, explore the latest offers on a range of other electronics and appliances as well. You may find a great deal on a model that matches your needs.

Get air purifiers on Easy EMIs with Bajaj Finserv

Bringing home an advanced air purifier is now simple and budget-friendly with Bajaj Finserv’s flexible financing options. Follow these easy steps to buy your preferred air purifier on Easy EMIs:

  • Explore models on Bajaj Mall: Browse a wide range of air purifiers on Bajaj Mall. Compare features such as filter type (HEPA or electrostatic), room size coverage, CADR, and smart controls to find the perfect fit for your home.
  • Visit a partner store: Once you shortlist a model, head to any of Bajaj Finserv’s 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 Indian cities. Check the product in person and seek expert guidance before making a final decision.
  • Choose the Easy EMI Loan option: At checkout, opt for the Bajaj Finserv Easy EMI Loan. Get financing of up to Rs. 5 lakh and convert your purchase into affordable EMIs. Select air purifiers may also be available with zero down payment.
  • Check your loan eligibility online: Make the process quicker by checking your pre-approved loan limit online using your mobile number and OTP. This gives you a clear idea of your budget before visiting the store.
  • Use the EMI Network Card for purchases up to Rs. 3 lakh If you have the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card, use it to divide payments of up to Rs. 3 lakh into monthly instalments—no paperwork or waiting time.

 

 

Frequently asked questions

How to buy air purifiers on EMIs?

Yes, you can purchase an air purifier with Bajaj Finserv’s Easy EMI options.

If you are an existing user of the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card:

  • Explore a wide range of air purifiers on Bajaj Mall.
  • Choose your preferred model and visit a Bajaj Finserv partner store to check it out in person.
  • Use your EMI Network Card and enjoy Easy EMIs with affordable monthly payments.
  • Bring home your new air purifier without straining your budget.

If you do not have a card, start by checking your EMI Network Card eligibility and take the first step towards enjoying the affordability and convenience of Easy EMIs.

What do air purifier numbers meaning actually indicate?

Air purifier numbers usually refer to specifications like CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate), room coverage area, or filter efficiency. A higher CADR means faster air cleaning. Coverage area (in sq. ft.) shows how large a room it can purify. Filter ratings like HEPA 13 indicate filtration strength.

Does air purifier numbers meaning include PM ratings?

Yes, air purifier numbers can include PM ratings, which show how well the purifier removes particulate matter (PM) from the air. For example, PM2.5 refers to particles smaller than 2.5 microns. A lower PM reading after use means better air purification performance.

Why is CADR included in air purifier numbers?

CADR, or Clean Air Delivery Rate, is part of air purifier numbers because it shows how quickly the purifier can clean air. A higher CADR means faster removal of dust, pollen, and smoke, helping buyers compare models based on real air cleaning performance.

What do the numbers on an air purifier mean?

To read air purifier numbers properly, focus on key specs like CADR, room coverage, PM levels, and HEPA rating. A higher CADR means faster cleaning. Coverage tells you the suitable room size. PM ratings show air quality levels, while HEPA 13 or 14 indicates strong filtration efficiency.

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