Air ionizers and their connection to negative ions can have great benefits for the respiratory system and overall health. Ionizers use negative ions to remove small particles from the air, helping reduce odors and make the air appear fresher. In general terms, air purifiers and ionizers perform the same function: to clean the air and to eliminate allergens and contaminants. Both can remove particles that measure a thousand times less than a millimeter, but the way they do it is very different.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, ionizing air purifiers tend to charge small particles in the air better than larger particles. People often have particles of various sizes that contaminate their indoor air, so this can be a problem. In addition, ionizers produce small amounts of ozone, which irritates the lungs and is also harmful to the environment. While some people with respiratory conditions may improve with the use of an ionic air purifier, others may develop additional respiratory problems.
If you're considering an ionizer to reopen your business during the COVID pandemic, it's best to consider it part of a larger air purifier system. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, there is no standard way to measure the effectiveness of an ionizing air purifier, as it doesn't capture or collect particles like mechanical air filters do. When analyzing how ionic air purifiers work, it's important to understand that an ionizing air purifier doesn't actually capture particles or remove them from the home. Ionizers produce electrically charged particles that attract and attach to medium-sized air contaminants, such as some bacteria, dust and mold.
While ionizing air purifiers are very effective at disinfecting air, they must be used with caution, as they can also produce harmful ozone. An ionic air purifier, sometimes referred to as an ionizer, ion generator, or ozone generator, emits electrically charged molecules called ions into the air. Ionizers are very effective at removing particles (PM) from the air and some particles from the surface. Air purifiers equipped with specialized filters permanently remove odors and contaminants from indoor air by trapping them as air flows through the filters. Many of these particles are known irritants that can aggravate allergies and asthma, but they can be removed from the air with an air purifier. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, people have been installing ionizers in offices and restaurants.
For that reason, it's important to weigh the positive impact that an ionizer can have on the level of particles in the air against any harm it can cause to health by producing ozone. If you're interested in purifying the air in your building with ionizers or ozone generators, there are a few things to know before using one of these powerful machines. While air purifiers remove particles from circulation by trapping them, ionizers simply make them heavy enough to fall to the ground, meaning they still need to be cleaned and can easily be disturbed and reintroduced into the air. Ionizers are a great way to improve indoor air quality by removing airborne pollutants such as dust mites, pollen, pet dander, smoke particles and other allergens. They also help reduce odors and make your home smell fresher. However, it's important to remember that while they are effective at removing particles from circulation, they don't actually capture or remove them from your home.
When considering whether or not an ionizer is right for you during this pandemic season, it's important to weigh both its benefits and potential risks. On one hand, an ionizer can help reduce airborne pollutants in your home or business; on the other hand, it can produce ozone which can be harmful if inhaled. Overall, while an ionizer can be beneficial for improving indoor air quality during this pandemic season, it's important to consider all aspects before making a decision. If you decide that an ionizer is right for you, make sure you use it safely and follow all manufacturer instructions.
