Are air ionizers really worth it? This is a question that many people have asked, and the answer is not as straightforward as it may seem. Ionizers are not effective in reducing VOCs (volatile organic compounds) in the air, which are released from products such as paints, cleaning products, and adhesives. These VOCs are considered indoor pollutants and can cause health problems. Ion generators work by charging particles in a room so that they are attracted to walls, floors, tables, curtains, occupants, etc.
Abrasion can cause these particles to be re-suspended in the air. Some ionizers contain a collector to attract charged particles back to the unit, but no controlled study has confirmed any effect on correcting an alleged ion imbalance. Ionizers emit negative ions that cause particles to adhere to surfaces. They are not good purifiers because they are too weak to produce an effect and they produce harmful ozone and PM2.5.According to the Environmental Protection Agency, ionizing air purifiers tend to charge small air particles better than larger particles. This can present a problem since people often have particles of various sizes that pollute indoor air. In addition, ionizers produce small amounts of ozone which irritates the lungs and is also harmful to the environment.
While some people with respiratory conditions may improve with the use of an ionic air purifier, some may develop additional breathing problems. Air purifiers are also more expensive than ionizers and can cost up to twice as much initially. You need to replace the filter twice a year, so it's important to consider the cost of new filters when making a decision. So, are air ionizers really worth it? The answer depends on your individual needs and budget. If you have allergies or asthma, an air purifier may be a better option than an ionizer.
However, if you're looking for a more affordable option that can help reduce airborne pollutants, an ionizer may be worth considering.
