You may have read a recent story in Consumer Reports magazine that took retailer Sharper Image to task for selling its Ionic Breeze Quadra Silent Air Purifier. According to the report, not only does this model – and four others similar – fail to clean the air, it releases ozone in levels potentially harmful to the human body.
In response, the lawyer for Sharper Image stated (after a failed libel lawsuit against Consumer Report’s publisher) that the magazine’s recommendation to consumers to refrain from buying an ionic air purifier is ridiculous. He also referred to the millions of customers who have bought such a machine and are perfectly happy with its performance.
So who’s right? Is Consumer Reports indeed correct that an air purifier could be harmful to your health?
Why Purify the Air?
Air purifiers were created with the purpose of extracting allergens from the air, such as pet dander, smoke, pollen, dust, and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Anyone who suffers from allergies knows that such substances in the air tend to aggravate the symptoms of their condition.
How an Ionic Air Purifier Works
The ionic air purifier models work by electrically charging particles that are airborne. Metal electrodes in the unit then attract them electrostatically to remove them from the air. During this process of ionization, ozone is created. Most older models emit a few milligrams in one hour. Added to the ozone already present in the room, the gas can reach dangerous levels at this emission rate.
The Risks
Unsafe levels of ozone emission can result in a variety of physiological symptoms. These include lung damage, chest pain, shortness of breath, throat irritation, and coughing. For those suffering from a chronic respiratory disease, the symptoms are further complicated by increased ozone. In some people it also negatively affects the body’s ability to fight respiratory infections.
In a recent university study, it was found that several factors contribute to the most dangerous levels of ozone being emitted from air purifiers. These include small, enclosed rooms without proper ventilation and rooms constructed with materials that react to ozone such as PVC tile, high-gloss ceramic tiles, and some plastics. The presence of carpet, rubber, cloth, and certain metals tends to alleviate the build-up.
Three types of air purifiers are known to emit ozone. These are electrostatic precipitators, ozone generators, and ionizers.
Safe Air Purifiers
That being said, there are some current models on the market that are certified as being safe for use in the home. There are several references online that list models certified in your state. Those air purifiers that use HEPA technology are usually safe. As well, some newer electrostatic and ionic models have redesigned to produce much lower levels of ozone.
If you own an ionic air purifier or another type that produces ozone, take some precautions when using it. Always ensure the room is well-ventilated and is carpeted. Keep the unit clean and change the filters often.
Not all air purifiers are created equal. If you are considering purchasing an air cleaner for your home, use the smallest size you can for your needs and take care when operating it.
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