Archive for the ‘Home Improvement’ Category
Consumer Report For in Home Air Purifiers
What are air purifiers? What are the types of air purifiers? What factors you consider when buying one?
We will share with you the information you have gathered from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), American Lung association (ALA) and other consumer review sites that will provide you with a comprehensive report on home air purifiers and will help you choose the right one.
An air cleaner is a machine that works to clean the air you breathe by getting rid of particles and noxious air pollutants in your home. Report consumers at home to air purifiers will tell you immediately that should not be considered an air purifier as a silver bullet.
The use of air purifiers should be a last resort's three-pronged approach to improve the air you breathe inside your home.
The first suggests that control of the source (s) or pollutants to reduce their emissions.
The second strategy according to the report of the consumer at home for air purifiers is to use a ventilation: open windows and doors (weather permitting), in turn, local bathroom or kitchen exhaust fans or the use of mechanical ventilation systems, which help improve the air condition of your room.
The third element is to consider getting an air purifier that actually remove bacteria, fungi, viruses and any kind of smell.
The four general types of air cleaners available on the market are mechanical filters, electronic air cleaners, ion generators and hybrid devices. They can join the central heating or ventilation system, desk units or larger room portable consoles.
Factors that you need to consider when buying an air purifier are as follows:
Type filter. Air filter protects equipment, furniture, reduce cleaning and maintenance of buildings and reduce fire hazards. Low efficiency filters can do all this. But it is only portable room air cleaners you can get high enough levels of filtration to protect their general welfare.
That is where HEP (high efficiency particulate air high) before or high efficiency particulate arrestors are important. "True" Hep not allow more than 3 particles 10000 to penetrate the filter media.
They are a bit noisy, however. But because they can remove particles as small as 0.3 microns in size that are the lungs of *********** of particles, EPA and ALA and other organizations recommend the use of a filter hep if you want to use a mechanical filter.
Clean Air delivery rate (Cadre). This is a standard developed by the independent association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) to measure the removal of dust, smoke and pollen from the air.
Measure the amount of clean air in cubic feet that provides an air cleaner to one room per minute of a specific material. Note that a cadre of 50 is suitable for a room of 80 square meters, a cadre of 80 to 120 square feet, a cadre of 100 per 144 square feet and a cadre of 200 per 320 square feet.
Cost. The expenses incurred in the purchase of an air purifier may include the initial purchase of the unit, maintenance costs (cleaning and / or replacement of filters and other parts) and operating costs (cost of electricity).
The most effective units are generally also the most expensive. However, you should check the initial cost with the cost of maintenance, since some air purifiers that are cheaper may be more expensive in the long run, if you need to change the filters often.
Noise. Air cleaners that have a fan can produce the equivalent of a small vacuum when operating at high speed. Even at low speed, some models are still producing an annoying buzzing or learn.
You should also note that rates are based cadres at high speed. So it's better if purify the room one hour before wearing it down the speed when you are there to minimize noise.
By: Gemma Labay
About the Author:
We will share with you the information you have gathered from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), American Lung association (ALA) and other consumer review sites that will provide you with a comprehensive report on home air purifiers and will help you choose the right one.
An air cleaner is a machine that works to clean the air you breathe by getting rid of particles and noxious air pollutants in your home. Report consumers at home to air purifiers will tell you immediately that should not be considered an air purifier as a silver bullet.
The use of air purifiers should be a last resort's three-pronged approach to improve the air you breathe inside your home.
The first suggests that control of the source (s) or pollutants to reduce their emissions.
The second strategy according to the report of the consumer at home for air purifiers is to use a ventilation: open windows and doors (weather permitting), in turn, local bathroom or kitchen exhaust fans or the use of mechanical ventilation systems, which help improve the air condition of your room.
The third element is to consider getting an air purifier that actually remove bacteria, fungi, viruses and any kind of smell.
The four general types of air cleaners available on the market are mechanical filters, electronic air cleaners, ion generators and hybrid devices. They can join the central heating or ventilation system, desk units or larger room portable consoles.
Factors that you need to consider when buying an air purifier are as follows:
Type filter. Air filter protects equipment, furniture, reduce cleaning and maintenance of buildings and reduce fire hazards. Low efficiency filters can do all this. But it is only portable room air cleaners you can get high enough levels of filtration to protect their general welfare.
That is where HEP (high efficiency particulate air high) before or high efficiency particulate arrestors are important. "True" Hep not allow more than 3 particles 10000 to penetrate the filter media.
They are a bit noisy, however. But because they can remove particles as small as 0.3 microns in size that are the lungs of *********** of particles, EPA and ALA and other organizations recommend the use of a filter hep if you want to use a mechanical filter.
Clean Air delivery rate (Cadre). This is a standard developed by the independent association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) to measure the removal of dust, smoke and pollen from the air.
Measure the amount of clean air in cubic feet that provides an air cleaner to one room per minute of a specific material. Note that a cadre of 50 is suitable for a room of 80 square meters, a cadre of 80 to 120 square feet, a cadre of 100 per 144 square feet and a cadre of 200 per 320 square feet.
Cost. The expenses incurred in the purchase of an air purifier may include the initial purchase of the unit, maintenance costs (cleaning and / or replacement of filters and other parts) and operating costs (cost of electricity).
The most effective units are generally also the most expensive. However, you should check the initial cost with the cost of maintenance, since some air purifiers that are cheaper may be more expensive in the long run, if you need to change the filters often.
Noise. Air cleaners that have a fan can produce the equivalent of a small vacuum when operating at high speed. Even at low speed, some models are still producing an annoying buzzing or learn.
You should also note that rates are based cadres at high speed. So it's better if purify the room one hour before wearing it down the speed when you are there to minimize noise.
By: Gemma Labay
About the Author:
Gemma labay writes for Air filter for more info please visit at http://www.airfilterblog.com
Home Air Purifiers: Healthy Home Solution
If you are looking to buy a new home air purifier, check our tips that will help you make an informed decision.
Air purifiers have become an essential component in many households today. Home air purifiers filter out allergy-provoking substances, such as dust mites, chemical and organic odors, pet dander and plant pollen. These devices are especially good when a person has a suppressed immune system and is more susceptible to infections. It's a proven fact that home air purifiers help in such medical conditions as allergy, asthma, and hay fever.
A home air purifier draws in air, filters out the dust, pollen, bacteria and scent molecules, and then emits the clean scentless air into the room. The air would not be completely pure and sanitized, but it would contain significantly less dust particles and allergens.
There are several types of filters used in home air purifiers. Filters with added activated carbon - similar to the one used to treat food poisoning - serve as pre-filter, which captures large particles. Then, HEPA filter absorbs small particles. Some purifiers add a natural organic filter that neutralizes volatile compounds from household chemicals or smoke.
Less common filter types used in home air purifiers are electrostatic or ion filters that attract particles by static electricity and therefore can create unnecessary electric tension in the household. Hybrid purifiers employ more than one particle-collecting method. The fairly new method used in home air purifiers is ozone filter that filters the air and purifies it with ozone. However, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission warns that ozone generators can be harmful to people affected by asthma. Many experts think that ozone is generally ineffective against air pollution.
HEPA-certified filters are most common in home air purifiers. The next generation of filters is ULPA (ultra-HEPA) filters that remove close to 100% of particles. Uncertified HEPA-like filters have proved to be less effective.
All homes and offices have different air conditions which depend on the age of the building, materials used in the construction, and a number of plants nearby. That's why is impossible to predict the effect of home air purifier on the overall air quality. In general, dust and pollen particles are usually filtered, at least as much as tobacco-smoke particles.
When choosing an air purifier, look at the Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR). This rate indicates how many cubic feet of air is cleared of airborne particle. Smoke is considered a smallest particle, dust is medium and pollen is the largest one. The higher the CADR rating, the less time your new air purifier needs to remove particles from the room.
Even though air purifiers can become a holy grail for many allergy sufferers, experts suggest that no one should rely only on air purifiers while trying to keep the air at home healthy and clean. The best strategy to achieving breathable air in your home would be to use an air purifier along with natural window ventilation.
By: Kirsten Whittaker
About the Author:
Air purifiers have become an essential component in many households today. Home air purifiers filter out allergy-provoking substances, such as dust mites, chemical and organic odors, pet dander and plant pollen. These devices are especially good when a person has a suppressed immune system and is more susceptible to infections. It's a proven fact that home air purifiers help in such medical conditions as allergy, asthma, and hay fever.
A home air purifier draws in air, filters out the dust, pollen, bacteria and scent molecules, and then emits the clean scentless air into the room. The air would not be completely pure and sanitized, but it would contain significantly less dust particles and allergens.
There are several types of filters used in home air purifiers. Filters with added activated carbon - similar to the one used to treat food poisoning - serve as pre-filter, which captures large particles. Then, HEPA filter absorbs small particles. Some purifiers add a natural organic filter that neutralizes volatile compounds from household chemicals or smoke.
Less common filter types used in home air purifiers are electrostatic or ion filters that attract particles by static electricity and therefore can create unnecessary electric tension in the household. Hybrid purifiers employ more than one particle-collecting method. The fairly new method used in home air purifiers is ozone filter that filters the air and purifies it with ozone. However, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission warns that ozone generators can be harmful to people affected by asthma. Many experts think that ozone is generally ineffective against air pollution.
HEPA-certified filters are most common in home air purifiers. The next generation of filters is ULPA (ultra-HEPA) filters that remove close to 100% of particles. Uncertified HEPA-like filters have proved to be less effective.
All homes and offices have different air conditions which depend on the age of the building, materials used in the construction, and a number of plants nearby. That's why is impossible to predict the effect of home air purifier on the overall air quality. In general, dust and pollen particles are usually filtered, at least as much as tobacco-smoke particles.
When choosing an air purifier, look at the Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR). This rate indicates how many cubic feet of air is cleared of airborne particle. Smoke is considered a smallest particle, dust is medium and pollen is the largest one. The higher the CADR rating, the less time your new air purifier needs to remove particles from the room.
Even though air purifiers can become a holy grail for many allergy sufferers, experts suggest that no one should rely only on air purifiers while trying to keep the air at home healthy and clean. The best strategy to achieving breathable air in your home would be to use an air purifier along with natural window ventilation.
By: Kirsten Whittaker
About the Author:
For more information on home air purifiers please visit the home improvements blog.
Allergy and Asthma Sufferers – Can an Air Purifier Help?
Did You Know?
Asthma and other allergic diseases have become increasingly prevalent, affecting over 50 million people, or more than 20 percent of the population.
Asthma is a chronic illness that affects over 22 million Americans. Asthmatics suffer from constricted, sore, and inflamed airways that are highly sensitive. As a result of this sensitivity, exposure to irritants and allergens result in strong reactions in the airways which prevent the lungs from taking in more air. Especially bad episodes of this constriction and inflammation in the respiratory system are called "asthma attacks." These episodes can be triggered by a number of environmental stimulants such as pollen, dander, dust, warm air, cold air, and dust.
Subsequently, asthma suffers experience symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest pain and/or tightness, etc. In extreme episodes of asthma attacks, death can occur when an asthmatic loses consciousness and dies from lack of oxygen.
While many people with asthma also suffer from allergies, allergy suffers do not always necessarily have asthma. Nonetheless, allergy sufferers experience similar symptoms as asthmatics. An allergy is defined as "an abnormal sensitivity to a given substance, including pollen, drugs, or numerous environmental triggers." Allergy symptoms can be as benign as a runny nose or wheezing, or as life threatening as shock and death. Unfortunately, while asthma can be somewhat controlled, airborne allergens are some of the biggest triggers of allergy symptoms. In addition, allergy triggers exist everywhere - from food, to organic dander, to plants, and to the air we breathe. For asthma and allergy sufferers, HEPA (high efficiency particulate air filter) air purifiers are extremely effective in controlling allergens such as dust, dander, and pollen in your home. Composed of a mat of fibers, true HEPA filters must be able to filter out 99.97% of airborne particulates 0.3 microns or larger.
Therefore, for asthma and allergy sufferers, HEPA (high efficiency particulate air filter) air purification systems are great for controlling allergens such as dust, dander, and pollen in your home. Because air purifiers with HEPA filters do not emit any chemicals, they are great for people with sensitive lungs. Similarly, air cleaners with Activated Carbon (charcoal that has been treated with oxygen to trap particulates, gases, and odors) also do not utilize chemical filtration such as ozone. Many air purifiers utilize a combination of these two filtration methods, and these make excellent choices for asthmatics, allergy suffers, and those suffering from other respiratory conditions.
Unfortunately, it is estimated that over 5,000 Americans die from asthma each year, and 1 in 4 urban children suffer from the illness. As a result, billions of dollars are spent every year for asthma treatment, which consist of either quick relief medicines such as bronchodilators, or long-term asthma control medications which have to be taken on a daily basis. For allergy sufferers, the cost of regular injections, medications, or tests is also significant, and is on the rise. With this growing cost in asthma and allergy treatment, a quality air purifier is a sound investment.
While an air cleaner cannot replace the need for asthma and allergy medication, by removing pollutants from the air, symptoms resulting from these disorders can be significantly reduced.
By: Jeanie Wong
About the Author:
Asthma and other allergic diseases have become increasingly prevalent, affecting over 50 million people, or more than 20 percent of the population.
Asthma is a chronic illness that affects over 22 million Americans. Asthmatics suffer from constricted, sore, and inflamed airways that are highly sensitive. As a result of this sensitivity, exposure to irritants and allergens result in strong reactions in the airways which prevent the lungs from taking in more air. Especially bad episodes of this constriction and inflammation in the respiratory system are called "asthma attacks." These episodes can be triggered by a number of environmental stimulants such as pollen, dander, dust, warm air, cold air, and dust.
Subsequently, asthma suffers experience symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest pain and/or tightness, etc. In extreme episodes of asthma attacks, death can occur when an asthmatic loses consciousness and dies from lack of oxygen.
While many people with asthma also suffer from allergies, allergy suffers do not always necessarily have asthma. Nonetheless, allergy sufferers experience similar symptoms as asthmatics. An allergy is defined as "an abnormal sensitivity to a given substance, including pollen, drugs, or numerous environmental triggers." Allergy symptoms can be as benign as a runny nose or wheezing, or as life threatening as shock and death. Unfortunately, while asthma can be somewhat controlled, airborne allergens are some of the biggest triggers of allergy symptoms. In addition, allergy triggers exist everywhere - from food, to organic dander, to plants, and to the air we breathe. For asthma and allergy sufferers, HEPA (high efficiency particulate air filter) air purifiers are extremely effective in controlling allergens such as dust, dander, and pollen in your home. Composed of a mat of fibers, true HEPA filters must be able to filter out 99.97% of airborne particulates 0.3 microns or larger.
Therefore, for asthma and allergy sufferers, HEPA (high efficiency particulate air filter) air purification systems are great for controlling allergens such as dust, dander, and pollen in your home. Because air purifiers with HEPA filters do not emit any chemicals, they are great for people with sensitive lungs. Similarly, air cleaners with Activated Carbon (charcoal that has been treated with oxygen to trap particulates, gases, and odors) also do not utilize chemical filtration such as ozone. Many air purifiers utilize a combination of these two filtration methods, and these make excellent choices for asthmatics, allergy suffers, and those suffering from other respiratory conditions.
Unfortunately, it is estimated that over 5,000 Americans die from asthma each year, and 1 in 4 urban children suffer from the illness. As a result, billions of dollars are spent every year for asthma treatment, which consist of either quick relief medicines such as bronchodilators, or long-term asthma control medications which have to be taken on a daily basis. For allergy sufferers, the cost of regular injections, medications, or tests is also significant, and is on the rise. With this growing cost in asthma and allergy treatment, a quality air purifier is a sound investment.
While an air cleaner cannot replace the need for asthma and allergy medication, by removing pollutants from the air, symptoms resulting from these disorders can be significantly reduced.
By: Jeanie Wong
About the Author:
Jeanie Wong is a product specialist with extensive knowledge of air purification systems
Air Purifiers: Help or Hazard?
Recent studies found out that indoor air is more polluted to outdoor air. Because of this, a lot of household uses air purifiers to help maintain the cleanliness of the air they breathe.
Although air purifiers don't absorb gases like cigarette odors, this device will remove contaminants and minute airborne particles that of soot, pollens, dust and smoke. Air purifiers uses different styles of air purification, but all promises the same thing: a cleaner air quality. One kind uses filter traps wherein air particles are broken down by size exclusion. Ionizer purifiers use charged electrical surfaces (usually needles) and produces electrically charged ions that attract airborne particles. Another one, called Activated Carbon, generates a process of changing contaminants from their gaseous phase to the solid phase, thus making it hard to remove particles of larger sizes. Ozone generators produce ozone that oxidizes harmful chemicals around. The latest in air purifying technology is the Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO) that uses a short-wave ultraviolet light (UVC) that is able to completely oxidize and degrade organic contaminants and kill 99.9% of bacteria and viruses.
Ever since the product came out of the market, it has received a lot of positive reviews mainly because of its health benefits. Air purifiers are commonly marketed for giving relief for asthmatics. It targets asthma triggering irritant substances like dust and pollen by reducing the airborne contaminants present in the air. The product is also helpful for allergy sufferers like those with skin allergies (airborne) and allergic rhinitis. Allergens, the primary cause of allergies, like dust, are filtered to ensure the quality of air breathed.
If the house is allergen free, there is a big chance of reducing the irritation and effect of respiratory difficulties. Air cleaners play a role in helping to control or reduce the amount of allergens, indoor or outdoor. Second hand smoke, the smoke exhaled by the smoker and inhaled by the people around, is one of the most common factors of a polluted indoor air. By using air filter, smoke is removed from the air using the techniques of HEPA filter.
On the other hand, reports have surfaced about the supposed disadvantages of using air filters. Complaints like headaches, nose bleeding, coughing, pain chests, eye irritation and breathing difficulty are reported, among with its questioned effectiveness in removing particles. The iconic air purifiers, for instance, produces ozone, a major component of smog, which is an allergen. People with asthma, and even healthy people, may develop respiratory diseases according to one study.
It should be remembered that the any respiratory illnesses should not only be relied upon air purification systems, sue to the fact that these products are merely helping devices for prevention. Medical advices should still be asked especially on serious cases. There should be preventive measures to be done like trying to smoke inside the house, groom pets' furs and getting rid of possible allergen carrying stuff like dust books. Consumers should make sure in finding the right, appropriate and legal products to ensure a healthier and better living.
By: Getar
About the Author:
Although air purifiers don't absorb gases like cigarette odors, this device will remove contaminants and minute airborne particles that of soot, pollens, dust and smoke. Air purifiers uses different styles of air purification, but all promises the same thing: a cleaner air quality. One kind uses filter traps wherein air particles are broken down by size exclusion. Ionizer purifiers use charged electrical surfaces (usually needles) and produces electrically charged ions that attract airborne particles. Another one, called Activated Carbon, generates a process of changing contaminants from their gaseous phase to the solid phase, thus making it hard to remove particles of larger sizes. Ozone generators produce ozone that oxidizes harmful chemicals around. The latest in air purifying technology is the Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO) that uses a short-wave ultraviolet light (UVC) that is able to completely oxidize and degrade organic contaminants and kill 99.9% of bacteria and viruses.
Ever since the product came out of the market, it has received a lot of positive reviews mainly because of its health benefits. Air purifiers are commonly marketed for giving relief for asthmatics. It targets asthma triggering irritant substances like dust and pollen by reducing the airborne contaminants present in the air. The product is also helpful for allergy sufferers like those with skin allergies (airborne) and allergic rhinitis. Allergens, the primary cause of allergies, like dust, are filtered to ensure the quality of air breathed.
If the house is allergen free, there is a big chance of reducing the irritation and effect of respiratory difficulties. Air cleaners play a role in helping to control or reduce the amount of allergens, indoor or outdoor. Second hand smoke, the smoke exhaled by the smoker and inhaled by the people around, is one of the most common factors of a polluted indoor air. By using air filter, smoke is removed from the air using the techniques of HEPA filter.
On the other hand, reports have surfaced about the supposed disadvantages of using air filters. Complaints like headaches, nose bleeding, coughing, pain chests, eye irritation and breathing difficulty are reported, among with its questioned effectiveness in removing particles. The iconic air purifiers, for instance, produces ozone, a major component of smog, which is an allergen. People with asthma, and even healthy people, may develop respiratory diseases according to one study.
It should be remembered that the any respiratory illnesses should not only be relied upon air purification systems, sue to the fact that these products are merely helping devices for prevention. Medical advices should still be asked especially on serious cases. There should be preventive measures to be done like trying to smoke inside the house, groom pets' furs and getting rid of possible allergen carrying stuff like dust books. Consumers should make sure in finding the right, appropriate and legal products to ensure a healthier and better living.
By: Getar
About the Author:
How to Select the Best Air Purifier For Your Needs
Indoor air pollution is a serious problem. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), air pollution levels are two to five times higher indoors. In some buildings with a lack of proper ventilation, the indoor air may be 100 times more polluted than the air outside! This is because modern buildings are constructed with energy efficiency in mind. However, the tight seals that make a home energy-efficient also trap pollutants inside. On top of that, the average American takes nine out of ten breaths indoors, so it's imperative to make sure that your indoor air is free of allergens and other impurities.
Air purifiers eliminate allergens, toxic chemicals, and other dangerous pollutants. This article explains why people use air purifiers, how they work, which air purifiers you should avoid, and how to select the best air purifier for your needs.
Common Indoor Air Pollutants
What is the source of indoor air pollution? In terms of organic pollutants, mold and dust mites are everywhere - and they are the two most common causes of year-round allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Pollen is also a pervasive allergen that always finds its way into your home since it is so small and sticky. If you have pets, they will surely spread their dander to every nook and cranny of your home. Many viruses and bacteria are also airborne.
Even though they are not organic allergens, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) cause many people to experience allergic reactions and other health problems. VOCs include formaldehyde, fragrances, pesticides, solvents, and cleaning agents. VOCs can enter the air through chemical off-gassing from furniture, new carpets, adhesives, plastics, and various building materials. Furthermore, many VOCs are known carcinogens (cancer-causing agents).
Environmental contaminants like cigarette smoke, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen dioxide may also be present in your indoor air, as well as toxic heavy metals like airborne lead, mercury vapor, and radon.
How Air Purifiers Work
HEPA air purifiers use a HEPA air filter, which was developed by the Atomic Energy Commission in the 1940s as a way to filter radioactive contaminants. HEPA filters set the standard for air purifiers: to be classified as HEPA, a filter must capture a minimum of 99.97% of pollutants at 0.3 microns or larger. Top-selling HEPA air purifiers include the Austin Air purifier, available with a HEGA (High Efficiency Gas Adsoprtion) filter, along with air purifiers from IQAir, Allerair, Blueair, and Honeywell.
Activated carbon filters remove gases, odors, and chemical toxins. The carbon is "activated" when it is treated with oxygen, which opens up millions of tiny pores to attract and adsorb chemicals. Impregnated carbon filters have been treated with an additional chemical, normally either potassium iodide or potassium permanganate; these chemicals, known as chemisorbents, improve the carbon filter's ability to trap VOCs and other chemically reactive gases.
Electrostatic filters use an electrostatic charge to attract pollutants and trap them on collector plates. These filters are great for people who don't want to have to worry about changing HEPA filters, but if the collection plates are not cleaned frequently, they quickly lose efficiency. Also, beware that some electrostatic filters emit ozone, which is known to be a powerful lung irritant and can be very irritating to some people with asthma or allergies. The Friedrich air purifier is, by far, the best electrostatic air purifier, as well as the overall top-ranked air purifier in previous Consumer Reports rankings
Charged media filters give pollutants an electrostatic charge before collecting them in a traditional filter. Charged media filters are typically quite effective, but like electrostatic filters, they lose efficiency rapidly-and they may require frequent and expensive filter changes. Some charged media air filter units also emit ozone. The advantage of charged media filters is that they are quieter and more energy-efficient than HEPA air purifiers. The Blueair air purifier is the best charged media filter, and it does not emit ozone.
Where and How to Use an Air Purifier
If you suffer from allergies (especially if you're allergic to dust mite allergen), then the best place for an air purifier is your bedroom. It's essential to have clean air in your bedroom because you spend about a third of your life there. If you're allergic to animal dander and have pets, then you may want to place an air purifier in the room where your pets spend most of their time-and keep the pets out of your bedroom! Also, you should not place an air purifier in the corner of a room; it should be at least a couple of feet away from the walls for maximum air flow.
You should run your air purifier continuously for optimum performance. Most air purifiers have high and low settings. Even if you go on vacation, we recommend that you keep your air purifier running on low. Otherwise, you'll return to a house full of polluted air! If you are concerned about your electric bill, find out how much energy an air purifier uses before buying it. Typical HEPA air purifiers can use anywhere from 50 watts on low to 200 watts on high. For comparison, a typical lamp uses about 60 watts, while a typical computer uses about 365 watts.
Air Purifiers to Avoid
Avoid ozone generators and ionizing air cleaners. These air purifiers create ions that attract pollutants; however, many of the pollutants are released back into the air, often times leading to dirty spots on nearby walls. Besides the fact that they don't do a good job of cleaning the air, ozone generators and ionizing cleaners also emit ozone. Ozone, a main component of smog, could potentially lead to a serious asthma attack.
Moreover, David Peden, researcher at the Center of Environmental Medicine and Lung Biology at the University of North Carolina, has examined how ozone exposure might exacerbate the allergic response of people who are allergic to dust mites, and his results suggest that ozone worsens the asthmatic response. The EPA has warned consumers against using ozone generators, and Consumer Reports recommends against the newest Ionic Breeze Quadra, despite the addition of OzoneGuard, a device meant to eliminate some of the dangerous ozone emitted by the Ionic Breeze.
Consumer Reports points out: "Our air-cleaning tests show that the Ionic Breeze with OzoneGuard does a poor job of removing smoke, dust and pollen particles from the air when new and after 500 hours of continuous use" and "the Ionic Breeze with OzoneGuard still adds ozone to the air."
How to Buy the Best Air Purifier
The air purifier market is vast and riddled with confusing and often misleading advertising schemes. If you're shopping for an air purifier, then you should first consider what kind of pollutants you're trying to eliminate. For example, if you have problems with cigarette smoke, then you'll want to make sure your air purifier has the ability to eliminate fumes, VOCs, and other gases. You may also want to consider the following factors before buying an air purifier: the area coverage (make sure the square footage listed for the air purifier is about the same or slightly greater than the square footage of the room where you intend to use it); the ACH rating (Air Changes Per Hour-this number lets you know how frequently the air purifier can exchange all the air in a given room); the CADR (the Clean Air Delivery Rate tells you how much air is purified and how well it is purified); the price; how often you have to replace the filters and how much they cost; the noise level of the air purifier; energy usage; whether it emits ozone; extra features (like a filter change indicator light); the manufacturer's reputation; and the warranty.
Visit achooallergy.com to learn more and browse a large selection of top brand air purifiers.
By: M. Scott Smith
About the Author:
Air purifiers eliminate allergens, toxic chemicals, and other dangerous pollutants. This article explains why people use air purifiers, how they work, which air purifiers you should avoid, and how to select the best air purifier for your needs.
Common Indoor Air Pollutants
What is the source of indoor air pollution? In terms of organic pollutants, mold and dust mites are everywhere - and they are the two most common causes of year-round allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Pollen is also a pervasive allergen that always finds its way into your home since it is so small and sticky. If you have pets, they will surely spread their dander to every nook and cranny of your home. Many viruses and bacteria are also airborne.
Even though they are not organic allergens, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) cause many people to experience allergic reactions and other health problems. VOCs include formaldehyde, fragrances, pesticides, solvents, and cleaning agents. VOCs can enter the air through chemical off-gassing from furniture, new carpets, adhesives, plastics, and various building materials. Furthermore, many VOCs are known carcinogens (cancer-causing agents).
Environmental contaminants like cigarette smoke, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen dioxide may also be present in your indoor air, as well as toxic heavy metals like airborne lead, mercury vapor, and radon.
How Air Purifiers Work
HEPA air purifiers use a HEPA air filter, which was developed by the Atomic Energy Commission in the 1940s as a way to filter radioactive contaminants. HEPA filters set the standard for air purifiers: to be classified as HEPA, a filter must capture a minimum of 99.97% of pollutants at 0.3 microns or larger. Top-selling HEPA air purifiers include the Austin Air purifier, available with a HEGA (High Efficiency Gas Adsoprtion) filter, along with air purifiers from IQAir, Allerair, Blueair, and Honeywell.
Activated carbon filters remove gases, odors, and chemical toxins. The carbon is "activated" when it is treated with oxygen, which opens up millions of tiny pores to attract and adsorb chemicals. Impregnated carbon filters have been treated with an additional chemical, normally either potassium iodide or potassium permanganate; these chemicals, known as chemisorbents, improve the carbon filter's ability to trap VOCs and other chemically reactive gases.
Electrostatic filters use an electrostatic charge to attract pollutants and trap them on collector plates. These filters are great for people who don't want to have to worry about changing HEPA filters, but if the collection plates are not cleaned frequently, they quickly lose efficiency. Also, beware that some electrostatic filters emit ozone, which is known to be a powerful lung irritant and can be very irritating to some people with asthma or allergies. The Friedrich air purifier is, by far, the best electrostatic air purifier, as well as the overall top-ranked air purifier in previous Consumer Reports rankings
Charged media filters give pollutants an electrostatic charge before collecting them in a traditional filter. Charged media filters are typically quite effective, but like electrostatic filters, they lose efficiency rapidly-and they may require frequent and expensive filter changes. Some charged media air filter units also emit ozone. The advantage of charged media filters is that they are quieter and more energy-efficient than HEPA air purifiers. The Blueair air purifier is the best charged media filter, and it does not emit ozone.
Where and How to Use an Air Purifier
If you suffer from allergies (especially if you're allergic to dust mite allergen), then the best place for an air purifier is your bedroom. It's essential to have clean air in your bedroom because you spend about a third of your life there. If you're allergic to animal dander and have pets, then you may want to place an air purifier in the room where your pets spend most of their time-and keep the pets out of your bedroom! Also, you should not place an air purifier in the corner of a room; it should be at least a couple of feet away from the walls for maximum air flow.
You should run your air purifier continuously for optimum performance. Most air purifiers have high and low settings. Even if you go on vacation, we recommend that you keep your air purifier running on low. Otherwise, you'll return to a house full of polluted air! If you are concerned about your electric bill, find out how much energy an air purifier uses before buying it. Typical HEPA air purifiers can use anywhere from 50 watts on low to 200 watts on high. For comparison, a typical lamp uses about 60 watts, while a typical computer uses about 365 watts.
Air Purifiers to Avoid
Avoid ozone generators and ionizing air cleaners. These air purifiers create ions that attract pollutants; however, many of the pollutants are released back into the air, often times leading to dirty spots on nearby walls. Besides the fact that they don't do a good job of cleaning the air, ozone generators and ionizing cleaners also emit ozone. Ozone, a main component of smog, could potentially lead to a serious asthma attack.
Moreover, David Peden, researcher at the Center of Environmental Medicine and Lung Biology at the University of North Carolina, has examined how ozone exposure might exacerbate the allergic response of people who are allergic to dust mites, and his results suggest that ozone worsens the asthmatic response. The EPA has warned consumers against using ozone generators, and Consumer Reports recommends against the newest Ionic Breeze Quadra, despite the addition of OzoneGuard, a device meant to eliminate some of the dangerous ozone emitted by the Ionic Breeze.
Consumer Reports points out: "Our air-cleaning tests show that the Ionic Breeze with OzoneGuard does a poor job of removing smoke, dust and pollen particles from the air when new and after 500 hours of continuous use" and "the Ionic Breeze with OzoneGuard still adds ozone to the air."
How to Buy the Best Air Purifier
The air purifier market is vast and riddled with confusing and often misleading advertising schemes. If you're shopping for an air purifier, then you should first consider what kind of pollutants you're trying to eliminate. For example, if you have problems with cigarette smoke, then you'll want to make sure your air purifier has the ability to eliminate fumes, VOCs, and other gases. You may also want to consider the following factors before buying an air purifier: the area coverage (make sure the square footage listed for the air purifier is about the same or slightly greater than the square footage of the room where you intend to use it); the ACH rating (Air Changes Per Hour-this number lets you know how frequently the air purifier can exchange all the air in a given room); the CADR (the Clean Air Delivery Rate tells you how much air is purified and how well it is purified); the price; how often you have to replace the filters and how much they cost; the noise level of the air purifier; energy usage; whether it emits ozone; extra features (like a filter change indicator light); the manufacturer's reputation; and the warranty.
Visit achooallergy.com to learn more and browse a large selection of top brand air purifiers.
By: M. Scott Smith
About the Author:
Scott Smith is a natural health enthusiast and director of marketing and communications at achooallergy.com.