Air ionizers have been around since the early 20th century, when scientist Alexander Chizhevsky first studied aeroionization in biology. Decades later, British electrical engineer Cecil Alfred “Coppy Laws” developed the first air ionizer for domestic use. An air ionizer (or negative ion generator or Chizhevsky chandelier) is a device that uses high voltage to ionize (electrically charge) air molecules. It works by creating an ionizing field through which dirty air passes, and then charging particles in a room so that they are attracted to walls, floors, tables, curtains, occupants, etc.
Ionizers can eliminate small particles, but no controlled study has confirmed this effect. They can also produce ozone, which can act against microorganisms such as viruses but also irritates the lungs. The fan-based ionizer uses its fan to circulate air around the room quickly, but it is noisier and consumes more energy, while those without a fan distribute air slowly, which takes longer to purify the air, but they are quieter and more energy efficient. When considering if an air ionizer is right for you, it's important to understand both the advantages and disadvantages. On one hand, they can help improve breathable air quality in large cities by attacking molecules and neutralizing them.
On the other hand, they can produce ozone which can irritate the lungs and cause abrasion which can cause particles to resuspend in the air. The California Air Resources Board offers a list of air purifying devices that emit hazardous amounts of ozone. For optimal performance, it is recommended to use the air ionizer after cleaning the air with a purifier and operating a humidifier. Daniel Tranter, indoor air unit supervisor at the Minnesota Department of Health, recommends that an ionizer meet UL 867 certification for electrostatic air filters or, preferably, UL 2998 certification for zero ozone emissions. In conclusion, air ionizers can be beneficial in improving breathable air quality in large cities by attacking molecules and neutralizing them. However, they must be used with caution as they can also produce ozone which can irritate the lungs and cause abrasion which can cause particles to resuspend in the air.
It is important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding if an air ionizer is right for you.
