Air ionizers are a popular choice for improving air quality in homes and businesses, but some have raised questions about their safety. It is true that air ionizers can emit ozone, a powerful oxidant that can be hazardous to health when inhaled in high doses. Ozone exposure can cause a range of symptoms, including lung damage, chest pain, coughing, and shortness of breath. However, it is important to note that the amount of ozone emitted by air ionizers is usually much lower than the levels set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA has established an ambient air quality standard for ozone of 0.070 parts per million (ppm) over an 8-hour period.
In comparison, air ionizers typically emit ozone at levels of 0.001 to 0.003 ppm.In addition, many air ionizers come with built-in safety features that help to reduce the risk of ozone exposure. For example, some models are equipped with sensors that detect when ozone levels exceed a certain threshold and automatically shut off the device. Other models have adjustable settings that allow you to control the amount of ozone emitted. It is also important to note that air ionizers can have other side effects. For example, some people may experience skin irritation or eye irritation if they are exposed to high levels of ozone.
Additionally, some people may experience headaches or dizziness if they are exposed to high levels of negative ions. Overall, while there are potential risks associated with air ionizers, these risks can be minimized by using a device with built-in safety features and adjusting the settings as needed. Additionally, it is important to remember that the amount of ozone emitted by air ionizers is typically much lower than the levels set by the EPA.