Air purifiers are a popular choice for many people looking to improve the air quality in their homes or workplaces. But, while they can be effective at removing pollutants from the air, some air purifiers can also be harmful to your health. Certain air purifiers use an ion generator, sometimes called an ionizer, which produces ozone. Ozone is a type of oxygen molecule that can cause long-term damage to olfactory cells and lungs if inhaled.
Even small amounts of ozone can be harmful, and it can react with common household cleaners to form formaldehyde, a Group 1 human carcinogen. Another problem with these ionizers is that they can produce ozone, “and this is very bad in an indoor environment,” says Dr. James Sublett, former clinical professor and head of allergy and immunology at the University of Louisville. Ozone should be avoided, even in small quantities, and the air purifiers that generate it should not be used.
If you're looking for an air purifier for your home or workplace, experts recommend a portable air purifier that has a built-in, replaceable HEPA filter. HEPA filters pass air through a filter where polluting particles or gases are sequestered and return clean air to the room. An air purifier circulates fresh air by removing airborne irritants that pass through its multilayer filtration. However, some air cleaning technologies marketed for COVID-19 may be ineffective and have unintended health consequences.
It's important to understand the different types of air purifiers available and their potential risks before making a purchase. Learn more about Purifans for homes, school classrooms, office areas, waiting rooms, hairdressers and nail salons, nursing homes, day care centers, restaurants, bars and clubs, cigar bars, gyms, pet stores, liquor stores, retail stores, convenience stores and anywhere you want to filter and deodorize the air to make it healthier for employees, customers, visitors, school-age children, or teachers.
