The discussion about the health effects of air ionizers has been ongoing for some time. While some people think that air ionizers emit dangerous levels of ozone that can be hazardous to health, others argue that the advantages of air ionization outweigh the risks. In this article, we will examine the evidence and explore the potential health risks associated with air ionizers. When inhaled in high doses, ozone can cause serious damage to the lungs, such as lung damage, chest pain, coughing, or shortness of breath.
Even in small amounts, ozone can irritate the lungs and cause throat irritation, coughing, chest pain, and shortness of breath. It can also increase the risk of respiratory infections. The health effects of air ionizers are still largely unknown, although a few recent studies have raised some concerns. For instance, one study found that air filters that remove small particles, such as high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, are effective in removing allergens from the air without causing any problems for the ozone layer. However, there is very little research on the effectiveness and side effects of “additive” air cleaning methods, such as ionizing devices. Another recent study on air ionizers in school classrooms reduced particle concentrations and led to some improvements in the respiratory health of children aged 11 to 14. However, it also had an adverse effect on heart rate variability (a measure of cardiovascular health), meaning that any benefit to the lungs came at a cost to the heart. Laboratory tests were conducted with particulate air and gas samples in a large semi-furnished chamber and in a field test with an ionizing device installed in an air treatment unit that serviced an occupied office building.
The results showed that while there were some improvements in air quality, there were also some unintended health consequences. The demand for air purifiers is increasing due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, a new study has found that some air cleaning technologies marketed for COVID-19 may be ineffective and have unintended health consequences. One of the most popular types of air purifiers on the market today are ion generating systems, including “bipolar ionization” devices, which electrically charge particles so that they are deposited in the air more quickly. They are usually marketed to kill bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Unlike air filtration (in which air passes through a filter to remove contaminants from the air), very little research has been done on the effectiveness and side effects of “additive” air cleaning methods, such as ionizing devices. At this point in time, it is difficult to say definitively whether or not air ionizers are safe for human health.
While some studies have suggested that they may have beneficial effects on respiratory health, there is still much more research needed before any definitive conclusions can be drawn. Until then, it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid using any type of air ionizer.
