Ionizers are often advertised as a way to improve air quality, but they can have some serious drawbacks.
Ionizers
cannot remove large particles from the air, including those that cause asthma and allergy symptoms. They also do not destroy odors or gases, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In addition, ionic air filters can produce ozone as an undesirable by-product, and they are not particularly effective in removing other air contaminants.Negative ions occur naturally, near waterfalls or after rain. These negative ions can even positively affect humans, animals and the environment because they create oases of clean air. However, laboratory tests have shown that when released into indoor air and inhaled, ozone is a powerful lung irritant that aggravates allergies and asthma. A recent study on air ionizers in school classrooms reduced particle concentrations and led to some improvements in the respiratory health of 11- to 14-year-old children. However, ionizers had an adverse effect on heart rate variability (a measure of cardiovascular health), meaning that any benefit to the lungs comes at a cost to the heart. Ionized air has been marketed as a way to improve air quality, but it is important to understand the potential risks associated with it.
While ionizers can reduce particle concentrations in the air, they cannot remove large particles or gases like VOCs. Furthermore, ozone is a by-product of ionized air which can be a powerful lung irritant. Studies have also shown that while there may be some benefits to respiratory health, there is a cost to cardiovascular health. It is important for people to be aware of the potential risks associated with ionized air before using it in their homes or workplaces.
It is recommended that people use other methods of improving air quality such as HEPA filters or activated carbon filters instead of ionizers. Additionally, people should ensure that their homes are well ventilated and free from pollutants such as VOCs and other airborne contaminants.
