News
Are Air Purifiers HSA/FSA Eligible?
Air quality is one of the most important — and underlooked — variables for at-home health. If you’re thinking about buying an air purifier with your HSA or FSA, breathe easy with our how-to guide.
December 18, 2023
Sam O'Keefe
Co-founder & CEO of Flex
Overview
Overview
Overview
Overview
The importance of indoor air quality has gained a lot of attention in recent years, for good reason: Mold, allergens, chemicals, and other airborne particulates can cause a range of health issues, including respiratory and heart disease, impact your cognitive function, and even contribute to cancer.
This has led to increased popularity for air purifiers, from HVAC systems at the office, to home-based models, and even handheld options. Generally speaking, these devices remove contaminants from the air, creating a healthier and more comfortable living environment.
For those who like to be proactive about their health (and save some money too), a big question is: are air purifiers eligible with my HSA or FSA?
Read on to learn when an air purifier may be covered by your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Savings Account (FSA).
What We’ll Cover About Air Purifiers
In this article, we will review a wide range of questions about HSA and FSA eligible air purifier units, such as:
…and more.
Health Impacts of Poor Air Quality
According to a 2012 World Health Organization (WHO) report, air pollution has become the world's single biggest environmental health risk. In fact, it is estimated that about 7 million people die each year as a result of air pollution exposure (both in the environment and at home).
You can think of air similarly to the quality of food you eat or beverages you drink — if you consume bad meat or polluted water, that will inevitably affect your body. Likewise, the characteristics of the air we breathe determines the health of the lungs, and in turn, the rest of our organs.
Health benefits of air purifiers
There is a lot of research looking at the effectiveness of air purifiers for improving health. We’ll highlight a few below:
For pet lovers: In this study, adult asthmatics who are affected by pet dander, yet lived with an indoor cat or dog (because: furry friends!), had HEPA air cleaners installed in their living room and bedroom for 12 months. Compared with a group using vacuum cleaners alone, they had significant improvement in “combined asthma outcome.” [Source]
Asthma in children: Epidemiologic studies indicate that indoor air pollution is correlated with morbidity caused by allergic diseases. For this study, asthmatic children had air purifiers installed in their living rooms and bedrooms for a 12-week study. At the end, the active group showed significant improvement in nasal symptoms for allergic rhinitis. [Source]
Air quality affects blood pressure: Indoor air quality is known to adversely affect cardiorespiratory health. Lastly, in this study, air filters were used in homes where smoking was prevalent and found a decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and may have contributed to improved lung function too. [Source]
What Does an Air Purifier Do?
Air purifiers work by various technologies and mechanisms to capture or eliminate particles, allergens, and pollutants in the air.
Particle sizes of particular importance
First, let’s talk about size. Typically, the human eye can see things, like dust, down to about 25 microns in size. For context, a single hair is roughly 70 microns.
We’re focused on matter much smaller, but of greater importance.
Particles that range from 0.3 to 0.9 microns are of health concern because they can get past the small hairs that act as filters in our breathing passages but are too large to be easily exhaled.
Common particles in this range include:
Tobacco smoke
Pollen
Pet dander
Bacteria
Auto exhaust
Metallic fumes
Mold spores
Textile dust
This size of particle can become lodged in lung tissue, leading to a wide range of health problems from headaches and dizziness to cardiovascular disease and cancer.
How do air purifiers work?
Air purifiers commonly use mechanical filtration, which involves a physical barrier to trap particles. You’ve probably heard of High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, which are widely used and capable of capturing particles as small as 0.3 micrometers — such as dust mites and allergens — with an efficiency of 99.97%.
Another popular technology is electrostatic precipitation, where charged plates attract and capture particles as they pass through. This method is effective for smaller particles — as small as 0.01 microns — and was originally designed for cleaning industrial fumes. Meanwhile, ultraviolet (UV) light technology is employed to kill bacteria, viruses, and mold spores by disrupting their DNA structure.
Lastly, activated carbon filters play a vital role in the adsorption of gasses and odors. These have a porous structure that attracts and physically traps gas molecules, effectively eliminating unpleasant smells and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).
Some advanced air purifiers combine multiple technologies to provide comprehensive air purification.
How to Use an Air Purifier
Once you've selected the best air purifier for you, understanding how to use it effectively is crucial to maximizing its benefits. Follow these steps for optimal usage:
Placement: Position the air purifier in a location where it can circulate air efficiently. Avoid placing it behind furniture or in corners, as this can impede airflow. Getting an air purifier for your kids' room is a good idea, especially if you live in an area with low air quality or your children have respiratory issues.
Proper Sizing: As noted above, make sure the air purifier is appropriately sized for the room. Using an undersized unit may result in inadequate cleaning, while an oversized one can waste energy.
Adjust Settings: Some air purifiers come with adjustable settings such as fan speed, timer, and various modes. Higher fan speeds provide faster purification but may generate more noise. Experiment with settings to find the right balance for your preferences.
Regular Maintenance: Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for filter replacement and general maintenance. Regularly clean or replace filters to ensure the air purifier continues to operate efficiently.
Monitor Air Quality: You’ll want to test the air quality ahead of getting a filtration device, and ideally measure how well the air purifier is working once up and running. This will give you a before and after evaluation. Some advanced air purifiers feature built-in air quality sensors or you may want to get a standalone device. Whichever you use, monitoring real-time air quality allows you to adjust settings as needed.
Use in Specific Scenarios: Consider using the air purifier in specific scenarios, such as during high pollen seasons, when cooking, or after home renovations. Tailor the usage to address specific air quality concerns in your environment.
Are Air Purifiers HSA and FSA Eligible?
Air purifiers are generally not eligible for reimbursement through HSA or FSA accounts. However, a qualified medical professional can prescribe air purifiers for a specific medical condition.
To potentially qualify an air purifier for HSA/FSA reimbursement, a medical professional must provide a Letter of Medical Necessity (LOMN) stating that the air purifier is necessary for the treatment of a specific health condition.
Isn’t that a breath of fresh air?
A medical necessity: When could an air purifier be HSA/FSA eligible?
Air purifiers may be prescribed for various health conditions where improved indoor air quality can directly treat or prevent the medical issue. Some examples include:
Asthma: Individuals with asthma may benefit from air purifiers to reduce airborne triggers such as dust mites, pet dander, and pollen, helping to minimize the risk of asthma attacks.
Allergies: People suffering from allergies, whether triggered by pollen, mold spores, or pet allergens, could receive a prescription for an air purifier to alleviate symptoms and create a more allergy-friendly environment.
Chronic Respiratory Conditions: Individuals with chronic respiratory conditions, such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or bronchitis, may be prescribed air purifiers to minimize exposure to airborne irritants and pollutants.
Immunocompromised Individuals: Those with compromised immune systems, such as individuals undergoing chemotherapy or organ transplant recipients, may be prescribed air purifiers to create a cleaner environment and reduce the risk of infections.
Severe Allergic Reactions: People prone to severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, may be recommended air purifiers to minimize exposure to airborne allergens that could trigger life-threatening reactions.
Environmental Sensitivities: Individuals with heightened sensitivities to environmental pollutants, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), may benefit from air purifiers prescribed to reduce exposure and improve overall well-being.
Can air purifiers help children and babies?
Air purifiers are particularly useful for children and babies, who are typically more vulnerable than adults to the effects of indoor pollutants.
Young children, especially infants, have developing respiratory and immune systems, making them more susceptible to respiratory issues. A good air purifier significantly reduces the risk of respiratory infections, asthma exacerbations, and allergies in children. Air purifiers for babies may be HSA/FSA eligible
Air purifiers and pets
For pet owners, air purifiers are essential in managing indoor air quality by effectively capturing pet dander and neutralizing odors. Specially designed models for pets contribute to a healthier living space, ensuring that pet owners can enjoy the companionship of their furry friends without compromising on air quality.
Healthy Home: HSA and FSA Eligible Air Purifiers
Molekule: FDA-Cleared Elegant Air Purifiers
Parents will go to great lengths to protect their children — like inventing a new technology.
Growing up in the 1990s, Dilip Goswami suffered from severe asthma and no home air purifiers seemed to help. So his father, Dr. Yogi Goswami, put his PhD in mechanical engineering towards creating a better air filtration device using photoelectrochemical oxidation (PECO) and nanotechnology to eliminate indoor pollutants on a molecular level. The new tech worked, helping to reduce his son’s asthma triggers.
Today, Molekule's award-winning air purifiers not only clear the air but stand out as high-design home accessories.
WYND: Air Quality Essentials That Elevate Your Living Space
Ray Wu experienced problems caused by bad air quality while living in Beijing. He then set out to create an intelligent air purifier that could sense the air and clean it as needed. That’s what led him to start WYND, which offers an AI-powered air quality monitor and several medical grade purifiers. Using a combination of antimicrobial pre-filters interlaced with silver, an activated carbon layer, and HEPA filter, WYND’s air purifiers kill germs and remove particulates and gasses, including allergens, mold, toxic odors, and air pollution.
Molekule, WYND and Flex are passionate about enabling healthy spaces for everyone covered by HSA and FSA funds.
Curious what else you can use your HSA and FSA for? We have a guide for other medical and wellness products you can purchase, such as orthopedic shoes, fitness trackers and body composition scales, metabolic tests, and a whole host of other items.
How Flex Can Help You Use Your HSA/FSA to Purchase Eligible Air Purifiers
If you order an HSA or FSA eligible air purifier from a company that is partnered with Flex we will check your eligibility for a Letter of Medical Necessity. When you go to checkout, a doctor’s appointment takes place:
Step 1: Add the HSA/FSA eligible air purifier you want to your cart.
Companies like WYND have partnered with Flex to make purchasing their products with HSA/FSA much easier.
Step 2: Select “Flex | Pay with HSA/FSA" at checkout
You can buy these items directly from the companies by selecting “Flex | Pay with HSA/FSA" as your payment option at checkout. You can then use either your HSA/FSA card or pay out-of-pocket with a regular credit or debit card (and receive the required documents to submit for reimbursement via email).
Step 3: Keep Documentation
Keep all documentation, including receipts and the letter of medical necessity, for tax purposes and to ensure compliance with IRS regulations.
How it typically works to pay for air purifiers with your HSA/FSA
If you want to purchase from a company not partnered with Flex, you may be able to pay with your HSA or FSA debit card if they are able to accept that as a payment option (not always the case) or you will have to pay out-of-pocket first and submit a claim for reimbursement. Be sure to include your receipt and the letter of medical necessity when filing the claim. As always, keep all documentation for tax purposes and to ensure compliance with IRS regulations.
Ready to Buy an Eligible Air Purifier With Your HSA/FSA?
Food, water, air. So many of us obsess over what we put in our bodies — we drink filtered water and eat organic food — but how often do we really consider the quality of the air we breathe?
That’s what makes air purifiers a natural choice for healthier living. Ready to take your O2 to the next level?
The importance of indoor air quality has gained a lot of attention in recent years, for good reason: Mold, allergens, chemicals, and other airborne particulates can cause a range of health issues, including respiratory and heart disease, impact your cognitive function, and even contribute to cancer.
This has led to increased popularity for air purifiers, from HVAC systems at the office, to home-based models, and even handheld options. Generally speaking, these devices remove contaminants from the air, creating a healthier and more comfortable living environment.
For those who like to be proactive about their health (and save some money too), a big question is: are air purifiers eligible with my HSA or FSA?
Read on to learn when an air purifier may be covered by your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Savings Account (FSA).
What We’ll Cover About Air Purifiers
In this article, we will review a wide range of questions about HSA and FSA eligible air purifier units, such as:
…and more.
Health Impacts of Poor Air Quality
According to a 2012 World Health Organization (WHO) report, air pollution has become the world's single biggest environmental health risk. In fact, it is estimated that about 7 million people die each year as a result of air pollution exposure (both in the environment and at home).
You can think of air similarly to the quality of food you eat or beverages you drink — if you consume bad meat or polluted water, that will inevitably affect your body. Likewise, the characteristics of the air we breathe determines the health of the lungs, and in turn, the rest of our organs.
Health benefits of air purifiers
There is a lot of research looking at the effectiveness of air purifiers for improving health. We’ll highlight a few below:
For pet lovers: In this study, adult asthmatics who are affected by pet dander, yet lived with an indoor cat or dog (because: furry friends!), had HEPA air cleaners installed in their living room and bedroom for 12 months. Compared with a group using vacuum cleaners alone, they had significant improvement in “combined asthma outcome.” [Source]
Asthma in children: Epidemiologic studies indicate that indoor air pollution is correlated with morbidity caused by allergic diseases. For this study, asthmatic children had air purifiers installed in their living rooms and bedrooms for a 12-week study. At the end, the active group showed significant improvement in nasal symptoms for allergic rhinitis. [Source]
Air quality affects blood pressure: Indoor air quality is known to adversely affect cardiorespiratory health. Lastly, in this study, air filters were used in homes where smoking was prevalent and found a decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and may have contributed to improved lung function too. [Source]
What Does an Air Purifier Do?
Air purifiers work by various technologies and mechanisms to capture or eliminate particles, allergens, and pollutants in the air.
Particle sizes of particular importance
First, let’s talk about size. Typically, the human eye can see things, like dust, down to about 25 microns in size. For context, a single hair is roughly 70 microns.
We’re focused on matter much smaller, but of greater importance.
Particles that range from 0.3 to 0.9 microns are of health concern because they can get past the small hairs that act as filters in our breathing passages but are too large to be easily exhaled.
Common particles in this range include:
Tobacco smoke
Pollen
Pet dander
Bacteria
Auto exhaust
Metallic fumes
Mold spores
Textile dust
This size of particle can become lodged in lung tissue, leading to a wide range of health problems from headaches and dizziness to cardiovascular disease and cancer.
How do air purifiers work?
Air purifiers commonly use mechanical filtration, which involves a physical barrier to trap particles. You’ve probably heard of High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, which are widely used and capable of capturing particles as small as 0.3 micrometers — such as dust mites and allergens — with an efficiency of 99.97%.
Another popular technology is electrostatic precipitation, where charged plates attract and capture particles as they pass through. This method is effective for smaller particles — as small as 0.01 microns — and was originally designed for cleaning industrial fumes. Meanwhile, ultraviolet (UV) light technology is employed to kill bacteria, viruses, and mold spores by disrupting their DNA structure.
Lastly, activated carbon filters play a vital role in the adsorption of gasses and odors. These have a porous structure that attracts and physically traps gas molecules, effectively eliminating unpleasant smells and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).
Some advanced air purifiers combine multiple technologies to provide comprehensive air purification.
How to Use an Air Purifier
Once you've selected the best air purifier for you, understanding how to use it effectively is crucial to maximizing its benefits. Follow these steps for optimal usage:
Placement: Position the air purifier in a location where it can circulate air efficiently. Avoid placing it behind furniture or in corners, as this can impede airflow. Getting an air purifier for your kids' room is a good idea, especially if you live in an area with low air quality or your children have respiratory issues.
Proper Sizing: As noted above, make sure the air purifier is appropriately sized for the room. Using an undersized unit may result in inadequate cleaning, while an oversized one can waste energy.
Adjust Settings: Some air purifiers come with adjustable settings such as fan speed, timer, and various modes. Higher fan speeds provide faster purification but may generate more noise. Experiment with settings to find the right balance for your preferences.
Regular Maintenance: Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for filter replacement and general maintenance. Regularly clean or replace filters to ensure the air purifier continues to operate efficiently.
Monitor Air Quality: You’ll want to test the air quality ahead of getting a filtration device, and ideally measure how well the air purifier is working once up and running. This will give you a before and after evaluation. Some advanced air purifiers feature built-in air quality sensors or you may want to get a standalone device. Whichever you use, monitoring real-time air quality allows you to adjust settings as needed.
Use in Specific Scenarios: Consider using the air purifier in specific scenarios, such as during high pollen seasons, when cooking, or after home renovations. Tailor the usage to address specific air quality concerns in your environment.
Are Air Purifiers HSA and FSA Eligible?
Air purifiers are generally not eligible for reimbursement through HSA or FSA accounts. However, a qualified medical professional can prescribe air purifiers for a specific medical condition.
To potentially qualify an air purifier for HSA/FSA reimbursement, a medical professional must provide a Letter of Medical Necessity (LOMN) stating that the air purifier is necessary for the treatment of a specific health condition.
Isn’t that a breath of fresh air?
A medical necessity: When could an air purifier be HSA/FSA eligible?
Air purifiers may be prescribed for various health conditions where improved indoor air quality can directly treat or prevent the medical issue. Some examples include:
Asthma: Individuals with asthma may benefit from air purifiers to reduce airborne triggers such as dust mites, pet dander, and pollen, helping to minimize the risk of asthma attacks.
Allergies: People suffering from allergies, whether triggered by pollen, mold spores, or pet allergens, could receive a prescription for an air purifier to alleviate symptoms and create a more allergy-friendly environment.
Chronic Respiratory Conditions: Individuals with chronic respiratory conditions, such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or bronchitis, may be prescribed air purifiers to minimize exposure to airborne irritants and pollutants.
Immunocompromised Individuals: Those with compromised immune systems, such as individuals undergoing chemotherapy or organ transplant recipients, may be prescribed air purifiers to create a cleaner environment and reduce the risk of infections.
Severe Allergic Reactions: People prone to severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, may be recommended air purifiers to minimize exposure to airborne allergens that could trigger life-threatening reactions.
Environmental Sensitivities: Individuals with heightened sensitivities to environmental pollutants, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), may benefit from air purifiers prescribed to reduce exposure and improve overall well-being.
Can air purifiers help children and babies?
Air purifiers are particularly useful for children and babies, who are typically more vulnerable than adults to the effects of indoor pollutants.
Young children, especially infants, have developing respiratory and immune systems, making them more susceptible to respiratory issues. A good air purifier significantly reduces the risk of respiratory infections, asthma exacerbations, and allergies in children. Air purifiers for babies may be HSA/FSA eligible
Air purifiers and pets
For pet owners, air purifiers are essential in managing indoor air quality by effectively capturing pet dander and neutralizing odors. Specially designed models for pets contribute to a healthier living space, ensuring that pet owners can enjoy the companionship of their furry friends without compromising on air quality.
Healthy Home: HSA and FSA Eligible Air Purifiers
Molekule: FDA-Cleared Elegant Air Purifiers
Parents will go to great lengths to protect their children — like inventing a new technology.
Growing up in the 1990s, Dilip Goswami suffered from severe asthma and no home air purifiers seemed to help. So his father, Dr. Yogi Goswami, put his PhD in mechanical engineering towards creating a better air filtration device using photoelectrochemical oxidation (PECO) and nanotechnology to eliminate indoor pollutants on a molecular level. The new tech worked, helping to reduce his son’s asthma triggers.
Today, Molekule's award-winning air purifiers not only clear the air but stand out as high-design home accessories.
WYND: Air Quality Essentials That Elevate Your Living Space
Ray Wu experienced problems caused by bad air quality while living in Beijing. He then set out to create an intelligent air purifier that could sense the air and clean it as needed. That’s what led him to start WYND, which offers an AI-powered air quality monitor and several medical grade purifiers. Using a combination of antimicrobial pre-filters interlaced with silver, an activated carbon layer, and HEPA filter, WYND’s air purifiers kill germs and remove particulates and gasses, including allergens, mold, toxic odors, and air pollution.
Molekule, WYND and Flex are passionate about enabling healthy spaces for everyone covered by HSA and FSA funds.
Curious what else you can use your HSA and FSA for? We have a guide for other medical and wellness products you can purchase, such as orthopedic shoes, fitness trackers and body composition scales, metabolic tests, and a whole host of other items.
How Flex Can Help You Use Your HSA/FSA to Purchase Eligible Air Purifiers
If you order an HSA or FSA eligible air purifier from a company that is partnered with Flex we will check your eligibility for a Letter of Medical Necessity. When you go to checkout, a doctor’s appointment takes place:
Step 1: Add the HSA/FSA eligible air purifier you want to your cart.
Companies like WYND have partnered with Flex to make purchasing their products with HSA/FSA much easier.
Step 2: Select “Flex | Pay with HSA/FSA" at checkout
You can buy these items directly from the companies by selecting “Flex | Pay with HSA/FSA" as your payment option at checkout. You can then use either your HSA/FSA card or pay out-of-pocket with a regular credit or debit card (and receive the required documents to submit for reimbursement via email).
Step 3: Keep Documentation
Keep all documentation, including receipts and the letter of medical necessity, for tax purposes and to ensure compliance with IRS regulations.
How it typically works to pay for air purifiers with your HSA/FSA
If you want to purchase from a company not partnered with Flex, you may be able to pay with your HSA or FSA debit card if they are able to accept that as a payment option (not always the case) or you will have to pay out-of-pocket first and submit a claim for reimbursement. Be sure to include your receipt and the letter of medical necessity when filing the claim. As always, keep all documentation for tax purposes and to ensure compliance with IRS regulations.
Ready to Buy an Eligible Air Purifier With Your HSA/FSA?
Food, water, air. So many of us obsess over what we put in our bodies — we drink filtered water and eat organic food — but how often do we really consider the quality of the air we breathe?
That’s what makes air purifiers a natural choice for healthier living. Ready to take your O2 to the next level?
Flex is the easiest way for direct to consumer brands and retailers to accept HSA/FSA for their products. From fitness and nutrition, to sleep and mental health, Flex takes a holistic view of healthcare and enables consumers to use their pre-tax money to do the same.