Ozone Air Purifier

The sword is arguably one of the most enduring symbols of mankind. Many lessons can be learned from it, such

as that of the two-edged sword: A sword that can be used to harm its wielder. An ozone air purifier, for all its benefits, is the two-edged sword of air purifiers.

An ozone air purifier bombards the area with ozone, looking to purify the air by taking advantage of the way ozone reacts with impurities. It backs this up by using electrostatic plates to gather any particulates that are drawn into the purifier, a HEPA filter to take care of most other particulates, and an ultra-violet light purifier to destroy any biological impurities that may try to grow inside the unit.

Besides breaking down the impurities in the air, the purifier also sends out negative ions. These ions cause the particulates in the air to cling to any surface, thus taking them out of the air by filtering the air and preventing them from moving. The ions also have a therapeutic effect, increasing alertness and the ability to relax.

That’s the good news. Like a two-edged sword, there are some disadvantages. Keep in mind that ozone can be toxic if there is too much of it. Although ozone is a form of oxygen, it is a different form than the one we use to breathe; it has a third atom of oxygen, and that difference makes it not just unbreathable, but downright toxic. An air purifier, properly used, emits a safe level of ozone, but it may still cause some irritability, especially to skin and eyes. An ozone air purifier is not recommended for those with severe allergic reactions, as the purifiers have been known to cause asthma attacks. A purifier can also be rough on its immediate environment, as the ability to break down small particulates effects larger objects, especially rubber and plastic.

The Environmental Protection Agency has its misgivings as well, reporting that, in order to have the desired effects, a purifier would need to emit more ozone than would be safe, thus creating a health hazard. Also, the EPA points out that rooms with ozone purifiers need to be properly ventilated, or the ozone in the room may reach toxic levels.

Although ozone purifiers have some definite advantages, be aware of its potential disadvantages as well. Make sure that the room is properly ventilated, and that purifier is only run when you need it. Lastly, make sure that you don’t use it around those with severe allergic reactions. Follow those recommendations, and the ozone purifier will lose that second edge.