Ionized air purifiers are becoming increasingly popular as a way to clean the air in homes and offices. While these devices may be effective at removing some pollutants from the air, they can also have unintended health consequences. Studies have revealed that ionizers can emit dangerous levels of ozone, which can cause lung damage, chest pain, coughing, and shortness of breath. In addition, ionizers can produce formaldehyde, ozone, and particulate matter, which can worsen asthma symptoms and increase the risk of death among people with existing health issues.
Children and individuals with existing respiratory diseases are particularly vulnerable to the health risks posed by ionized air purifiers. Animals such as dogs, cats, hamsters, and guinea pigs have also been shown to be affected by ozone exposure. Birds are especially sensitive to the effects of air pollutants, including ozone. Before investing in an air purifier, it is essential to eliminate or reduce indoor sources of pollution and to ventilate areas with outdoor air.
The Consumer Union has concluded that ionizing purifiers remove smoke, dust, and other pollutants from the air more efficiently than their advertising suggested. However, the health effects of air ionizers are largely unknown and a recent study has found that some air cleaning technologies marketed for COVID-19 may be ineffective and have unintended health consequences. Most major air purifier companies use ionizers in their air purifiers, including Xiaomi, Blueair, Levoit, and many more. Smart Air is a certified B company that is committed to combating the myths used by large companies to inflate the price of clean air. When considering an air purifier for your home or office, it is important to research the device thoroughly and understand the potential risks associated with it. It is also important to remember that negative ions occur naturally near waterfalls or after rain and can even positively affect humans, animals, and the environment by creating oases of pure air.