5 Scientific Facts About the Ionic Air Purifier

Those suffering from allergies or breathing conditions often search for a quick fix to alleviate their symptoms. Manufacturers have market ozone generators, ionizers and ionic air purifiers to people suffering from allergies. However, their claims are not always true. Here are 5  facts about air purifiers that that manufacturer’s don’t want you to know.

Fact 1: Ionic Air Purifiers Degrade Air Quality

Ionic purifiers will degrade the air quality of your home. When air passes through the filter, it is electrically charged. Electrically charged air is called an ionic field, and its byproduct is ozone.

Fact 2: Ozone is Bad for Your Health

Ozone molecules are created when 3 oxygen atoms bond together. This molecular configuration is unstable, so one of the oxygen atoms will detach and reattach to other materials, altering their chemical structure.

Low exposure to ozone can cause chest pain, coughing, shortness of breath and throat irritation. Ozone may worsen chronic respiratory conditions and damage the lungs.

Fact 3: “Pure Air” and “Energized Oxygen” Claims are False

Manufacturers may claim their purifier will generate “pure air” or “energized oxygen.” These terms suggest that ozone is oxygen, but it isn’t. Remember, ozone is a toxic gas with different chemical properties than oxygen. In addition, the Environmental Protection Agency does not recommend the use of ionic air purifiers.

Fact 4: There is No Ozone-Free Purifier on the Market

There is no purifier on the market that emits no ozone. If you still wish to purchase a purifier, check the ozone rating for the product; the emission should not exceed 10 parts per million.

In addition, the Association of Home Manufacturers certifies most room models and rates them using the clean-air delivery rating (CADR). A purifier with a CADR score of 350 produces low levels of ozone while a model with a score of 100 or less emits high levels of ozone. Therefore, a purifier with a high CADR is desirable, while a low score of 100 or less should be avoided.

Fact 5: There are Alternatives to Ozone or Ionic Air Purifiers

You can reduce indoor pollution without purchasing an ionic purifier.

• Do not smoke indoors, and minimize uour usage of fireplaces and candles.
• Vacuum and shampoo your carpet on a regular basis.
• Test your home for radon—test kits cost about $15.
• Clean and maintain vents, fireplace pits and chimneys to reduce carbon dioxide exposure.