For those of us who suffer from an Environmental Illness with triggers in the Multiple Chemical Sensitivities category as well as those who have Mold Sensitivities, Allergies and any other reactions to Air Born Contaminants, The correct choice of Air Purifier is imperative to our well being.
There are currently 5 different technologies used in modern Air Purifiers, 3 that should be combined for best results, 1 that will neither help nor harm your condition and 1 that is only used when the area is vacant.
- Hepa Filters
- Activated Charcoal, Carbon, Graphite
- Ultra Violet Light
- Electrostatic
- Ozone Generators
Hepa Filters
Hepa Filters sometimes referred to as True Hepa Filters are the most effective mechanical filters available. Room air is forced through a Hepa Filter which traps even the smallest particles of Dust, Pollen, Pet Dander, Dust Mites and Smoke.
Activated Charcoal, Carbon, Graphite
Activated Charcoal, Carbon or Graphite Filter layers trap Organic Chemicals. V.O.C. Chemicals including Fragrance, Formaldehyde, Paints and Thinners and Petroleum Distillates are a few examples of the Chemicals removed by this filter medium.
Please Note: The amount of V.O.C. reduction per hour is dependant on the amount of Activated Charcoal, Carbon or Graphite contained in the filter.
Ultra Violet Light
Ultra Violet Light is nature’s sterilizer. U.V. Light from the sun sterilizes outdoor Air and Water. It is also the spectrum of sunlight that is responsible for sunburn. In short Ultra Violet Light provides Sterilization via Light Radiation. In an Air Purifier air passes through a U.V. Light chamber instantly killing Mold Spores, Germs, Viruses and Micro-Organisms.
Electrostatic
Electrostatic Filters are plates that generate a charge opposite to the natural static charge carried by particles in the air, The issue being that only about 30% of particles in the air are carrying a static charge. Electrostatic Filters provide little to no benefit for us.
Room Sterilizers i.e. Ozone Generators and Hydrogen Peroxide Vaporizers
Ozone Generators produce Ozone, Hydrogen Peroxide Vaporizers produce an H2O2 fog both types circulate a sterilizer in the room, both are effective sterilizers and are also effective in removing stubborn odors. The issue with using these units as air purifiers is that these sterilizers change air PH (acidity) and are therefore extremely irritating while in use and until the treated area has been aired out. Hydrogen Peroxide Vaporization is known to have a lower negative impact on the environment but being a newer technology has been more expensive.
Conclusion
For Maximum benefit chose an Air Purifier that incorporates Hepa Filtration, Activated Charcoal, Carbon or Graphite for Chemical removal and Ultra Violet Light sterilization.
General Purpose 3 in 1 Air Purifiers: These units do incorporate the top 3 technologies but are limited in the amount of V.O.C.’s removed due to the small amount of Activated Charcoal contained in the unit.