Air Purification To Prevent Allergies And Illness

By Author: Peter Wendt
Total Articles: 34
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Indoor air pollution is a growing problem today, with the increase in the quantity and types of allergens in the air ranging from smoke particles to dust and pollen. Along with the technological conveniences of modern life have come some accompanying downsides- smog, mold spores, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can be a health risk, particularly for people already suffering from allergies and asthma. Indoor air pollution can also contribute to certain types of cancer, COPD, and respiratory diseases, and "sick building syndrome".

When it comes to air purification, there are a wide variety of choices available today. Each of them have their own strengths and weaknesses. Let's take a look at some of the more common types.

HEPA Filters

HEPA filters capture a minimum of 99.97% of 0.3mm particles and are often better at capturing particles of a slightly larger or slightly smaller size. HEPA filters expected to filter all the air in a room need to be set up so air does not bypass the HEPA filter. In extremely dusty rooms, HEPA filters may be the second line of defense after a cleanable pre-filter that removes ...
... more coarse impurities. No ozone is generated by HEPA filters.

Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation

Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation is one air purification method that can be helpful in preventing illness. It works by forcing sterilized air over UV lamps. One consideration of this type of purification is the placement of the lamps combined with an effective filtration system to retrieve any dead micro-organisms. Some systems relying upon forced air can shield pockets in the environment from the UV light. Placing the lamp at the drainpan and coils of the coolant system prevent micro-organisms from flourishing at those damp locations.

Air Ionizers

The air ionizer is a type of air purifier that helps remove air particles from the air, such as bacteria and viruses, chemical fumes, and cigarette smoke. They work by generating negative ions that change airborne particle's polarity and force them to adhere together. This causes them to be too heavy to remain airborne, and they fall from the air rather than be breathed in. One weakness is that they don't remove odors or all chemicals, but they work well in conjunction with other types of air purifiers.

Activated Carbon Filters

Activated carbon is an altered form of carbon that is extremely porous and highly adsorbent (as opposed to absorbant), meaning it involves an electrical and chemical process. This type of filter is extremely effective in capturing cigarette smoke, odors, and gasses without releasing them back into the air. One drawback is that it does not remove dust or micro-organisms. Its effectiveness can be improved when combined with other types of filters.

Peter Wendt is a writer and researcher in Austin, TX. If you are looking for air filter reviews, he's got you covered. He recommends the Oransi V-Hepa Max Air Purifier.