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Allergies are not only caused by what we eat, but also by pollutants in the air that can trigger an allergic reaction. The largest culprit of these pollutants are airborne allergens. Allergy sufferers can get relief by using an air purifier, but you have to remember that each category of allergens will react differently to the type of air cleaner being used. You need to identify the type of allergens that are present in your home in order to choose the correct air purifier that will reduce or even eliminate them. And more importantly, ease your symptoms.
Airborne Allergens
Sufferers may be allergic to some or all of the following air pollutants: dust, dust mites, mold spores, pet dander and pollen. Because each of these pollutants has a different make up, they will require a different air cleaning process in order to be removed.
Air Purifiers for Pollen Sufferers
Although pollen allergy, or hay fever, is seasonal, this is of no consensus if you suffer from it. These tiny particles are released into the atmosphere from all things horticultural during flowering time, and bring misery to sensitive individuals.
Pollen particles can be quite large, sometimes measuring 5 microns and above, but are easily removed from the air by most purifiers, including the cheaper models. An air cleaner with an electrostatic precipitator will easily remove pollen from indoor air. And HEPA air purifiers are also effective. An air cleaner fitted with automatic particle sensors will quickly react to the presence of pollen.
Air Cleaners for People With Pet Allergies
Many homes in the US have pet dogs, cats, birds and hamsters. Dander, fur, hair and feathers from these animals can all trigger allergies. Pet allergens are smaller than pollen or mold spores and can be more difficult to remove, but HEPA purifiers have proven effective at getting rid of these pollutants.
Air Purifiers for Dust and Dust Mites
House dust is a mixture of different substances, some of which are toxic, and some which cause allergies. Dust is a mixture of particles from furniture, plastic, clothing, dust mites and their waste products, but air cleaners are very effective at removing dust from indoor air.
Mold and Mold Spores
Moisture will cause molds to grow, so the best way to get rid of them and their musty smell is to remove sources of water from where they can grow including wet wood, carpets, leaky plumbing and the like.
Ultra-Violet light can destroy mold but its not ideal as it's application must illuminate the mold for several minutes. Ionizers can be used but are not very effective on molds either. An ozone-making air purifier will destroy molds, but a high level of ozone can be unsafe, particularly for people who have ailments.
The best cure for mold problems is to remove the water at source by the use of dehumidifiers. When the moisture problem is under control, HEPA air cleaners are very effective at purifying the airborne mold.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC's)
Lengthy exposure to smells and VOC's can lead to allergic sensitivity. VOC's can be eliminated with activated carbon filtration. If you are sensitive to VOC's, an air purifier with real VOC carbon is what you should look for, not the lightweight polyester carbon filters type, which are ineffective in removing this type of air pollutant.
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Source by Donna G
