Are ionic air purifiers safe?
On One Hand: Safety ConcernsBecause the ionic air purifiers operate by creating an electrical charge and attracting dust particles, a small amount of ozone is created whenever a unit is in use. Ozone is created by any device using ionization, including photocopiers and electrical transformers. University of California researchers found that ionic purifiers produce around 2.2 mg of ozone each hour, which can cause negative effects such as respiratory irritation.On the Other: Product BenefitsWhile operating, the ionic air purifiers are effective at capturing a wide variety of floating particles. These particles can include dust, pet dander and smoke. For individuals with specific allergies, capturing these floating particles can make a significant difference in allergy symptoms. While small amounts of ozone can cause irritation for some people, the compound is usually not a significant health risk unless it is found in mass quantities.Bottom LineFrom a health perspective, ionic air purif