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By AAFA
A recent article in a national publication is attempting to educate Americans about the dangers of air cleaners called “ozone generators.” However, the report fails to go far enough to inform readers about the important difference between “ozone generators” and other types of filters such as ion-type or fan-driven HEPA filters that have “ozone byproduct.”
Here are more of the facts:
Before you throw away all of the products in your home that have an ozone byproduct – kitchen mixers, ceiling fans, hair dryers, fan-driven-HEPA filters or ion-type cleaners – you should know the facts.
An acceptable standard level for ozone byproduct for certain household devices – 50 parts per billion (ppb) or lower – has also been adopted for air filters and other household electronics*. However, machines called “ozone generators” (note: ion-type cleaners are not “ozone generators”) produce ozone molecules – like a bubble machine produces bubbles – and blows them into the room to “clean” the air. Unfortunately these “ozone generator” machines can produce ozone up to 10-times more than the acceptable standard. Therefore, AAFA and other groups recommend that you do not use "ozone generator" machines in your home.
Don’t be confused between these “ozone generators” and other types of filters: alternatives like fan-driven HEPA air cleaners and the ion-type cleaners usually meet the acceptable standard. But, you should always ask manufacturers if their cleaners meet this standard and to present you with proof. In addition, you should always consult with a doctor before purchasing an air filter. Only your doctor knows your personal health history and whether or not air filtration is right for you.
Many homes have whole-house air filtration, but there are also several types of single-room air filters on the market. Here are some of the different types:
Mechanical filters (fan-driven HEPA filters, for example). These force air through a special mesh that traps particles including allergens like pollen, pet dander and dust mites. They also capture irritant particles like tobacco smoke. The fans in these types of devices produce ozone byproduct and are usually within the acceptable level. Make sure to ask for proof from the manufacturer that their product is within the acceptable level of ozone byproduct.
Electronic filters (ion-type cleaners, for example). These use electrical charges to attract and deposit allergens and irritants. If the device contains collecting plates, the particles are captured within the system. The ion-chargers in these types of filters produce ozone byproduct, more than fans in mechanical filters but may still be within the acceptable level. Make sure to ask for proof from the manufacturer that their product is within the acceptable level of ozone byproduct.
Hybrid filters. These contain the elements of both mechanical and electronic filters.
Gas phase filters. These remove odors and non-particulate pollution like cooking gas, gasses given off by paint or building materials, and perfume. They cannot remove allergenic particles.
Ozone generators [not recommended - these types of “filters” are not recommended since ozone levels exceed acceptable levels]. Although ozone technically clears the air of some particles, most groups do not recommend these. (Note: these are not ion-type filters; see “Electronic Filters” above.) These devices all exceed the acceptable level for ozone.
If you have concerns about any air filter you own or are planning to buy, remember to talk to your doctor first, to find out if air filtration -- and what type -- is best for you.
* This standard for acceptable levels of ozone byproduct are found in section 21:801.415 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) and Underwriters Laboratory (UL) standard 867.
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