A good air purifier in your house,

One that can actually get rid of airborne allergens, dander, and mites, or plain old run-of-the-mill pollen and spores, not to mention dust,

Is a good thing.

But selecting the right air purifier from the huge selection of air purifiers on the market can be tough.

Many people searching for an air purifier, are looking at air ionizers specifically because of the obvious benefit of price,

Since they do not require the usual HEPA replacement filters necessary to clean air.

But is an Air Ionizer all it’s cracked up to be?

What are some if the Pros and Cons of an Ionizer Air Purifier?

 Ionizer Air Purifier – Pros Cons

Pros

1. 1. 1. Cleans the Ambient Air
      2. Inexpensive to Run
      3. No Filters to Replace
      4. Can Provide a Feeling of Well-Being

Cons

1. 1. 1. Only Temporarily Cleans the Ambient Air.
      2. Makes the Walls and the Surfaces Around the Air Ionizer Dusty.
      3. Ozone by-product.
         
         

 

What is the Difference between an Air Purifier and an Air
Ionizer?

1. Air purifier is a broad term that covers all types of air cleaning technologies including ionizing.

2. Air ionizer is a term that describes a air purifier that uses ionizing as its primary air cleaning technology.

3.  Most air purifiers use HEPA filters to filter out indoor air pollution so the term air purifier is most of the time considered synonymous with HEPA filter.

 

 

Can Air Ionizers Actually Change Your Mood?

Yes. Believe it or not, Research indicates that in areas where there is an over abundance of negative ions, like the beach, people tend to feel more light-hearted and joyful.

Some studies show that negative ions have a positive result on human emotion.

You may have never thought about it, but an ionizer may have a real effect on productivity in the workplace.

People tend to get a lot more done when they’re feeling positive about things.

Happier employees can affect the  bottom line.

So instead of Hawaiian shirt day or casual Fridays , maybe installing air ionizers is just what  the doctor ordered.





But apart from the theory of negative ion Bliss, are ionizers have their problems.

1.Because of the short life of ions, an air ionizer fan can only cover a small square footage at best.

2.Plus they are only a temporary solution and do nothing to completely kill airborne contaminants.

Ionizer purifiers or negative ion generators as there often called work by generating and emitting negative ions into the ambient air.

Because of polarity, the negative particle of the ion connects with the positive ions in the room.  
(Positive ions are considered to be the contaminants that are polluting your air).

The newly-formed clusters of all ions become too heavy to float and fall to the surface.

One of the biggest problems is that walls tend to be the nearest surface.

What is black wall effect?

“black wall effect” is the phrase coined to describe the grey /black dusty film that negative ionizers leave on walls.

  Another surface that tend to get extra dusty in the presence of ionizers are TV screens. Static electricity from the TV is  a magnet for ionized dust.

The same can be said for the air cleaner itself. You’ll probably find the device extra dusty when you are using it.

Another problem with this technology is that is that any kind of movement, just walking for instance, will kick the pollution back into the air.

Also just think of what that can mean if you’re eating in the vicinity of the air ionizer.

Which leads back to the main issue.

Negative Ionizers do absolutely nothing to kill or disinfect allergens.

Another downside is the way that the typical ionizer produces ions is through an electrical Spark.

A small amount of ozone is created with that spark.

Not a big deal until you get into the fact that it’s going to take mIllions and millions of ions to do the job.

Couple that with the fact that it will take multiple ionizers to actually clean a large space,

and since ozone can actually build up, it can start to be a problem.

So with all that in mind,

A negative air ionizer may not be the best air purifier and a temporary solution at best.

But before we throw the baby out with the bathwater,

It is fair to say that there are different types of Technology that utilize ions with good results and without the drawbacks.

1.  Bipolar ionization

This technology is also called cold plasma it works by emitting both positive and negative ions into the air. Its also called Plasmawave.

Since negative ions have one too many electrons and positive ions have one too few, when they are introduced into the air they immediately attract to one another and in the process combine around the pollutants in the air.

This technology is used in HVAC systems with high success.

It is also used in combination with HEPA and carbon filters.

The ideal being, the clustered ions will be captured in the HEPA filter.

This technology also neutralizes air pollution which makes air pollutants like bacteria and viruses, even vocs like formaldehyde inactive.

2.  PCO

PCO or photocatalytic oxidation is the process of combining ultraviolet light with a catalyst like titanium oxide.

This technology creates super ions and hydroxide ions. Which effectively disinfect the air much the way hydro peroxide disinfects a scrape or abrasion.

PCO is very effective at reducing germs and viruses. And is one of the best technologies for reducing airborne mold spores.

The biggest downside of PCO is the production of ozone.

The effectiveness of photocatalytic oxidation technology almost out weighs the problems with using ozone as an air purifier.

This technology works well as in in duct HVAC air purifier because ability to destruct mold.

Also because of the placement, the production of ozone does not pose a problem because it will dissipate long before it reaches the ambient air.

Why does an Ionizer Air Purifier Smell?

Ionizers create a low level of ozone.
Ozone has been marketed as a “fresh after a thunderstorm smell”
Is also described as being a antiseptic type smell.

The concern with ozone is that it will oxidize any pollution around it.
That’s including the pollution in your lungs and the lung tissue itself.

Even though a small ionizer may not produce enough ozone to be harmful, you cannot regulate how a person will use hey machine or where they will use it.

So the problem with ionizers becomes,  even though a machine might manufacturer very little ozone for a given square space, that same machine could just as easily be used in a smaller square space, introducing much too much ozone into the area.

Summary

Like any appliance, negative ionizers have there good and bad, their pros and cons.

The pros of a ionizer air purifier include clean breathing air, less expense for replacement parts, and a general feeling of well-being.

The cons are they do nothing to neutralize germs, produce ozone as a by-product, and can leave your surfaces extra dusty.

My opinion is that a small ionizer on your desk is a great way to breathe cleaner air while you work but just remember to turn it off when you’re eating at your desk and remember to get the right one for your room size because bigger is not better in this situation.

Air Ionizer

Air Purifier for Cat Allergy? 

I am a cat person.
I definitely show all the signs.
I talk to my cats.
I enjoy watching cat videos for an extended amount of time.
I buy catnip and the occasional toy for my cats,
And I have at least one cat in my lap or sitting next to me all the time I’m at home.
(A brief list to be sure)

Two cats is my limit though.

My family has always had cats around since I can remember.

I’ve never been allergic to a cat in my life, until recently.

Can you be allergic to one cat but not another?

Yes you can. Some cats just shed more than others. And since the bacteria known as dander is attached to the shedded fur, you can experience more allergy symptoms around the cat that sheds more.

Can you develop an allergy to cats later on in life?

Yes,  It’s possible but it’s more likely that something has changed in the environment around you that is causing the allergic reaction. Like say a cat that is shedding more than usual and spreading a lot more dander than usual.

And that is my situation

Though I may think of myself as a cat person, I would not categorize myself as someone that is good at choosing a cat.

More like the opposite.

The truth is, I have never actually chosen a cat.

They always just seem to end up around me in the house somehow. They are usually brought in by one of my sisters or one of my daughters.

That to say,

Now I know,
there is such a thing as a hypoallergenic cat and if I knew I was going to have a constant wheezing and sneezing issue with one of my cats,

  I would have look a lot harder to find one (or at all) that was hypoallergenic.

But what I got is a fat lovable Calico that leaves a trail of hair everywhere she goes.

Especially on my couch and clothes.

So now I’ve got an allergy that is centered around that one cat.

My other cat is a short-haired rescue that doesn’t seem to bother me at all when it comes to allergies.

But I’ve had to make some adjustments and learn to deal with living in the same house as a cat I’m allergic to.

And that is really what this article is about.

It was not hard to realize that what I was allergic to was related to the amount of shedding the cat is doing.

The cat hair and more specifically the cat dander that is covering the hair  was getting out of control so here’s my list:

1.House Cleaning/ Vacuuming

I went into hyper vacuuming and sweeping mode.

Cleaning the house is essential to keeping cat allergies down.

The amount of cat hair in the dump canister on the vacuum should have been a clue.

The amount of hair in the lint filter of the dryer after washing the blankets on the couch should have been a clue also.

• 

• 

• 

I decided to step up the vacuuming to twice a week which seemed like getting a second job at first but hasn’t been that bad.

The one thing to point out is that if your vacuum does not have a HEPA filter, it is not going to vacuum the bacteria (that is what the dander actually is) as well.

Also related to vacuuming is air-purifying.

Vacuuming itself will actually kick up the dust and the dander into the air that you breathe and since dander is so small he can remain there for quite a while.
The truth is it doesn’t even take vacuuming to kick up dander into the air, simply walking through the house at any time is causing dust to enter the airstream.

2. Air Purifier for Cat Allergy?

An air purifier equipped with a true HEPA filter and a pre-filter is a must for keeping the air around me breathable while I’m sitting watching the TV or sleeping.

Keeping the air clean around you while you’re sleeping is also actually a big deal because you tend to breathe much deeper when you are sleeping.

  Having cleaner air when you’re sleeping will actually keep you from waking up as much and even help with snoring and sleep apnea.

If your cat sleeps with you or like mine, pounces all over you in the middle of the night, an air purifier maybe what you need to help you get a good night sleep.

What’s the difference between HEPA and true HEPA?

As for the meaning of “true HEPA”. It simply means that it’s a actual HEPA filter and not a imitation knock off.
HEPA filters are designed to capture particles as small as .3 microns. Buying a “ like hepa” filter won’t give you the same protection as a true hepa filter.

3. Grooming

For grooming I purchased a cat brush that removes an insane amount of hair in one pass. I also bought a glove that does about the same thing. Both were impulse purchases on Facebook.
I like the brush better than the glove.

My cat is super sensitive on her lower back. She cannot stand to be touched in that area.
I’ve yet to figure out why.

There’s a lot of people on the internet with the same problem but I’ve yet to see an answer for it. Maybe leave a comment if you know.

  It can make brushing the cat a lot more of a challenge. But if I keep in the right spots, I can get most of the hair without making her too crazy.

I also wiped the cat down with some baby wipes which doesn’t really seem to bother her. I’ve heard they have actual Kitty wipes but I’ve yet to try them.

4. Hygiene

Remembering to wash my hands after I pick up the cat or pet her is a simple thing that does a whole lot to keep myself from getting that allergic feeling.

If I don’t Remember to wash my hands and face, I’ll end up rubbing my eyes.

Rubbing your eyes and face with cat all over your hands is the worst thing to do to avoid itchy swollen eyes and sneezing.
There is an actual name for it. It’s called “itchy eye syndrome”

Keeping some hand sanitizer on the counter helps remember to wash my hands after I mess with the animals.

Really it comes down to common sense dealing with cat allergies but it is hard to do anything about dander without some outside help.

I’ve listed here the air purifier and the vacuum I was just taking a look at.

Air purifiers come in a whole array of sizes complete with different air cleaning Technologies.

My take on Air purification is that it is going to be very expensive to keep the air in the whole house clean. The amount of energy and keeping up with replacement filters is what I’m talkin about. That’s why I suggest just keeping a small air purifier in the areas of the house that you are in the most.

But there is always a exceptions to the rule.

There are air purifiers that go right into your HVAC unit that will keep the are in the whole house clean and actually neutralize pet dander. The cost to run one is considerably lower too.

But also these types of air purifiers do nothing to get rid of cat or dog hair.
You’ll have to get a separate air cleaner for that.

But at least it won’t have to be the most expensive true Hepa they carry.

There is even quite a few do it yourself HEPA air purifiers that you can throw together with box fan and a filter.

Probably a good idea for the garage but I don’t think my wife wants one in the living room. lol.

The vacuum we got is the….. Like I said before, it is insane, the amount of pet hair it picks up. We bought it at Walmart. But you can check it out here on Amazon and see the current price and reviews for yourself.

Peace.

Do I need an Air Purifier or Humidifier for Sinus?

  Sinus pain is caused by inflammation in your sinus cavities. A cool mist humidifier can help sooth your sinuses and give you some much needed quick relief. 

 But a good air purifier will filter out as much as 99% of the germs and bacteria, which could be the reason you are having problems with your sinuses when you are in specific area in the first place.

In other words an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Whenever I got into the air purifier business I did not even know what an air purifier was or what it did, only that I was looking for something to sell.

Through a MLM home business opportunity I was introduced to an air purifier that used photocatalytic oxidation to eliminate almost any kind of indoor air pollution.

And if you could stand the smell of ozone, that machine was awesome.

I thought, what an opportunity to help people alleviate the constant issues they have with sinus and allergies.

I mean everyone i know has problems with sinuses and breathing practically,

and providing an answer for those issues could provide me with an excellent business.

What I found out was that not only did I not know what an “air purifier” was but that not very many other people did either.

20 Years down the line and people still ask me if I’m still selling my HUMIDIFIERS. 

That is one of the points of this article.

These air devices or not something people think about everyday and why should they?

I found that a lot of people do not know the difference between air purifiers and humidifiers , dehumidifiers and Air conditioners.

Again, why would you need to know until you’re having a problem that requires you to get that knowledge?

So if you have sinus problems and you are looking for a device to help you feel better,

then you may be trying to figure out whether or not the air purifier is what you need or a humidifier.

 

There is so much confusion when it comes to colds and allergies.

For instance, you will hear that you need humidity to breathe when you have a sinus infection,

But you will also hear that mold and dust mites thrive in humid conditions.

And that Dust mites and mold spores are allergens and allergens cause sinus inflammation.

Confused yet?

Humidity or No humidity?

Truth is if you didn’t have humidity it would be way too dry and you would suffer from nosebleeds, sinus pain, and dry throat and you would be miserable.

But If you have too much humidity then the air is too thick and host more allergens clogging your sinus cavities, making it hard to breathe and you will be miserable.

But regardless of whether the air is too dry or The air is too wet, if the air quality is poor you are going to be miserable.

lol.

So which is it?

A humidifier will add humidity to the room when the air is too dry.

A Dehumidifier will take humidity out of the air when the air is to wet.

But regardless, it is the pollution in the air that is the culprit.

So unless you do something to help eliminate the allergens,

like dust mites and dander, mold spores and pollen, bacteria and germs, 

you are only asking to keep repeating the same issues you have with sinus infections and allergies over and over.

What type of air purifier do I need for sinus relief?

An Air purifier that has a true HEPA filter and a carbon filter is the best way to go in most small rooms, bedrooms, and living rooms.

HEPA filters will filter out pollutants of small is .3 microns which is over the top when you’re talkin about filtering out allergens.
Any gas or chemical allergenics will be captured by the carbon filter.

  Many air purifiers come with on board air monitors give you a continual update on the air quality in your house.

A very handy benefit when you are coming into pollen season or if you have introduced something new in the house that is making you tear up and sneeze.

Another type of air purifier that will help with the continuing issues with sinuses and allergies is the in duct air purifier.

This type of air purifier will require you to have central heat and air installed in your house or building.

The ideal Behind These air purifiers is that much of the allergens that are being circulated around the house are coming from your air handler itself.

The reason is, not only does your HVAC system provide a excellent breeding ground for mold,
it will also pick up other allergens and circulate them the house whenever the unit is running.

Placing the in duct air purifier inside the plenum of the central heat and air system will clean the air,

Before it gets into the house and clean the air that it is being picking up and circulating through the vents.

These are purifiers typically use photocatalytic oxidation or plasma ionic.

Since these are purifiers do not typically have any type of air monitoring capabilities,

it only stands to reason that installing an air qualty monitor in the house will help you keep track of air quality in your home.

Another monitor that you can buy that will help you reduce indoor air pollution,

and help you keep an eye on the wear and tear of your machines is a humidity monitor or the technical term hygrometer.

Humidity will not only help facilitate mold growth and dust mite growth.

It will also cause your air conditioner to run overtime, reducing the life of the unit.

What is a good indoor humidity level?

Most HVAC professionals agree that the humidity inside the home should be around 30 – 50%.

A dehumidifier will vacuum the moisture out of the air and create an environment that you can breathe in again.

Dehumidifiers are very handy when you are trying to use your basement as a living area.

Another off-the-wall question I sometimes hear is,

Can you be allergic to oxygen?

No you can’t be allergic to oxygen.

Oxygen is vital for living and is only one of the ingredients of air itself.

But your air can be full of contaminants that are causing you to have an allergic reaction.

Pollutants like pollen, mold spores, dust mites, dander, and all types of household chemicals may be present
in your air,

Making your oxygen seem allergic.

A UV or ultraviolet light , when it is targeted directly upon it, can effectively destroy mold, bacteria and fungus.

But that begs the question, since there is no way to Target a UV light on air itself –

What is the Purpose of a UV Light on a Air Purifier?

UV light is used in air purifiers to destroy pathogens in the air stream by using ultraviolet in three different ways including:

1. Targeting and destroying germs that are living on the Hepa filter.
2. Targeting it on the source of the mold in an HVAC. Coils, drip pans, etc.
3. Targeting it on a catalyst to cause a photocatalytic oxidation reaction of ions.
4. They will also kill any pathogens that happen upon the UV light bulb.
   
   

When I think about a UV light, it reminds me of being a young boy sitting in a barber’s chair.

The reason is that the barber always had a glass canister with a blue light in it,  sitting on a shelf behind him.

I didn’t know it back then, but that blue light was a ultraviolet lamp that he was shining on his Combs and scissors to keep them disinfected.

There are many more applications for ultraviolet light such as-

• keeping your aquarium clean
• sterilizing surgical equipment
• bug zappers
• tanning beds
• and even killing fungus in your shoes

And that’s a short list.

But Each One of These Relies on the UV Light Being Targeted Directly Upon Its Subject.

 But in the case of air purifier, You are simply not going to get air to sit in front of a disinfecting bulb and wait there for the pathogens in it to die. So that’s why when cleaning air with UV,  you either have to capture the pollution and aim the light on it. Or you have to aim it at the source of the pollution before it enters the air stream. 

HEPA UV Air Purifier

A HEPA UV air purifier works by drawing air into a HEPA filter with a  UV light aimed at the filter to destroy the germs or bacteria that are being trapped in the filter.

Otherwise without the UV in place,  the germs and bacteria can remain alive on the filter.

The Ultraviolet lamp also helps to disinfect the air as it passes through, providing extra elimination of airborne pathogens.

UV Light HVAC Furnace Air Purifier

The purpose of placing UV lights in your central heat and air conditioning (HVAC),

is to eliminate the production of of mold spores before they get a chance to become a problem,

And populate your ductwork,  spreading through your airstream via the vents.

The environment inside your furnace or HVAC,  because of moisture and the absence of light are an ideal climate for mold to grow.

Placing UV lights to target areas like drip pans and condensation coils inside the unit can keep mold from producing and ever becoming a problem.

Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO)

Another way that UV is used in air purification is Photo catalytic Oxidation.

PCO targets the UV-C  on a hydrated catalyst composed of metals, primarily titanium oxide.

The result of this is the creation of hydrogen peroxide ions among other types of ions.

Hydrogen peroxide ions are essentially the gas form of hydrogen peroxide solution. The same stuff you put on a cut or abrasion for disinfection.

Since these air purifiers disperse ions in the millions, they can not only be considered an air sanitizer, they will sanitize the surfaces around the air purifier to.

Photocatalytic Oxidation is known to be very effective at reducing germs and bacteria. It is also one of the best ways to eliminate airborne mold spores.

This makes it another ,and a more efficient way to  purify the air inside of your central heat and air conditioning unit.

These induct UV air purifiers typically install into the plenum or supply air vent of the furnace – AC.

Can UV Air Purifiers be Dangerous?

Since the UV used in air purifiers is typically in the UV- C spectrum, it is very destructive to organisms, and that can include your eyesight.

For that reason it is imperative never to stare at the UV light and place the air purifier we’re children or not capable of staring at it either.

For professionals who have to deal with UV, there are professional goggles, gloves, and clothing,  you can purchase.

UV lamps also contain mercury. The amount of mercury in a light bulb is minimal what should it break, you should take care cleaning it up and make sure to dispose of the remains safely.
The truth is you are much more likely to get mercury poisoning from eating fish then breaking a UV bulb.

Other types of UV include  UV – A and the UV – B

UV- A is the wavelength responsible for getting a tan. Though it can be responsible for premature wrinkles on your face, it the least harmful of all UV wavelengths and exist in our everyday life. It is also manufactured for use in tanning beds.

UV- B ultraviolet is the type of UV wavelength that they warn you about on the evening news. This type causes sunburn and blistering on the skin. Skin cancer can also be a result of being exposed too long to UV-B.

Tanning beds sometimes combine UV-B with UV-A to get a faster tanning effect. Though it obviously doesn’t stop people,
It is hardly worth it to risk getting skin cancer for a quicker tan.

UV-C is the most harmful. Though it doesn’t naturally enter the Earth’s atmosphere because of the ozone layer, It is the wavelength that is manufactured the most because of its capacity to kill germs and destroy organisms.

UV-C also creates ozone as a byproduct.

Ozone is also very destructive to organisms but it can be destructive to your lung tissue also if you or exposed to it long enough.

 When using UVC lights or PCO in the central heat and air system, Ozone does not pose a problem at all because of the rate at which it dissipates. 

 

But stand-alone UV air purifiers can run the risk of creating too much ozone in a square space if the wrong size UV air purifier is not used in the appropriate space.

In other words, an UV air purifier that is completely safe in a large living space would be completely Overkill in a bathroom or small bedroom.

A good analogy for ozone is bleach. You can douse bleach into a bathroom and kill everything in there but you will not be able to go in there for quite a while.

Same with ozone. Too much in a small area is a hazard.

Since there is no way to regulate how people use ozone,

Or ensuring that people are using the right size air purifier in the designated square space,

Air cleaners that manufacture ozone,  including UV air purifiers that create too much ozone, have been outlawed in the state of California.

One of the main points of using an air purifier is to breathe easier in your home or office.

So it honestly it makes no sense to use ozone in your home as an air cleaner unless it is for remedial reasons like  mold clean-up and strong odor removal.

it should never be used in the vicinity of people,  pets or plants. and it is important to let it dissipate completely before utilizing the space again.

It is best to leave the ozone machines to the professionals and get it done right.

Summary.

UV is used in an air purifier by trapping air pollution into a HEPA filter and killing the pollution on the filter by targeting a UV lamp on it.

Or by placing UV germicidal lamps at the source mold spores inside your HVAC

And it is also used in Photocatalytic Oxidation to create a result air-purifying ions.

UV light is an excellent way of improving the air inside of your home or office.

For my money the best way of using UV for air purification is a PCO photocatalytic oxidation induct air purifier in your central heat and air system.

This method not only stops indoor air pollution before it gets started it also circulates sanitized air throughout your home or office building.

And also sanitizers any pollutants that are brought into the building before they spread to the rest of the house.

If your a pet owner like me, then you want to create the healthiest home environment possible for your companions.

Whether they be covered in fur or feathers, Minimizing exposure to things that could irritate the lungs or trigger allergies is important for people or pets.

 But what about the air our pets breathe every day?

Indoor air can contain many pollutants, allergens, and irritants that may go unnoticed but can affect respiratory health over time. This is where air purifiers come in.

Air purifiers can filter out many airborne contaminants, helping to clean the air in your home.

But is purified air safe for pets? Are there benefits to using an air purifier if you have cats, dogs, birds, or other pets?

In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of air purifiers for pets and provide tips on choosing the best model for your furry friends. Taking steps to purify the air can be one way to ensure your home supports your pet’s health and wellbeing.

Are air purifiers safe for pets?

Yes, air purifiers are generally considered safe for pets when used as directed. Air purifiers work by filtering out pollutants, allergens, and irritants from the air, which can benefit pets prone to allergies or respiratory issues.

5 Benefits of Air Purifiers for Pets

Benefit	Explanation
Removes airborne allergens	HEPA filtration captures dander, pollen, mold, etc. to reduce allergens pets inhale
Reduces respiratory irritants	Filters like activated carbon absorb smoke, chemicals, dust that can irritate pet’s airways
Limits odors	Eliminating smells from litter boxes, trash cans, etc. creates a fresher home environment
Lessens risk of illness	Removing airborne microbes and allergens lowers chances of respiratory infection
Cleaner air for older pets	Pets with age-related lung disease benefit from reduced allergens and pollutants

Air purifiers can provide several benefits for pets:

Reduce airborne allergens

Air purifiers help remove pet dander, dust mites, mold spores, and pollen from the air. This can help reduce allergy symptoms in pets with environmental or seasonal allergies.

Filter out irritants

Air purifiers filter out smoke, chemicals, and other irritants that can aggravate respiratory conditions in pets. This helps create cleaner, more breathable air.

Improve air quality

Pets spend most of their time indoors, so improving indoor air quality with an air purifier can benefit their overall respiratory health.

Reduce odors

Air purifiers with activated carbon filters absorb household odors from pets, smoke, and cooking that can accumulate indoors. This helps keep the air fresher.

Provide cleaner air to older pets

Older pets may benefit from cleaner air if they have age-related respiratory issues like a weakened immune system or lung disease. An air purifier can help reduce airborne agents that could cause infection or irritation.

Limit exposure to airborne microbes

Some air purifiers use UV light technology to inactivate airborne microbes like bacteria, viruses, and mold spores. This helps protect pets with compromised immune systems.

Reduce risk of airborne illnesses

By filtering airborne allergens, pollutants, and microbes, air purifiers may help limit a pet’s exposure to agents that could potentially cause illness when inhaled.

Key Factors When Using Air Purifiers for Pets

Air Purifier Type	Safe for Pets?	Notes
HEPA filter only	Yes	Avoid models that also ionize or emit ozone
Activated carbon filter	Yes	Helps remove odors, gases
Ionizing purifiers	No	Produce trace ozone emissions harmful to pets
Ozone generators	No	Emits unsafe levels of ozone that can irritate lungs
UV light technology	Maybe	Only if sealed UV so no pet exposure
Negative ion generators	Maybe	Limited evidence on pet safety

There are some important factors to consider when using an air purifier around pets:

• Choose the right size air purifier – Make sure to pick an air purifier appropriately sized for the room based on the CADR (clean air delivery rate). Under-sized units will not clean the air effectively.
• Select the proper filter types – The best air purifiers for pets have a HEPA filter to remove allergens and an activated carbon filter to reduce odors and chemicals.
• Don’t use ionizing air purifiers – Ionizing air purifiers can produce trace amounts of ozone, which can be harmful to pets. Look for non-ionizing HEPA air purifiers instead.
• Keep pets away during cleaning – Follow manufacturer’s instructions and keep pets out of the room when cleaning the filters to avoid direct exposure to accumulated allergens and pollutants.
• Follow maintenance guidelines – Replace filters based on the manufacturer’s recommendations to keep the air purifier working properly. Monitor for any reduced airflow or odd smells that could indicate a filter needs replacement.
• Consider the noise level – Make sure to choose an air purifier with a noise level that won’t disturb or stress pets. Some air purifiers are designed to be ultra quiet for pet owners.
• Don’t obstruct air flow – Position the air purifier so furnishings, curtains, or other objects do not block the air intake or outlet, reducing its effectiveness.

Is it worth getting an air purifier for your pet?

For many pet owners, investing in an air purifier can be very beneficial to their pet’s respiratory health. The key advantages of using an air purifier around pets include:

• Reducing exposure to airborne allergens, pollutants, chemicals, odors, and irritants
• Improving overall air quality and breathability indoors
• Limiting airborne microbes like viruses, mold, and bacteria
• Helping manage environmental allergies, asthma, and other respiratory issues
• Providing cleaner air for older pets or those with compromised immune systems

The right air purifier used properly can help create a healthier home environment for pets. Consult with your veterinarian to see if an air purifier could be helpful, especially if your pet has any respiratory concerns. Be sure to follow all guidelines from the manufacturer. With the proper precautions, air purifiers can be a safe and beneficial addition for pets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are air purifiers safe to use around birds?

Air purifiers are generally safe to use around birds, but it’s important to choose a unit that does not produce ozone, which can be harmful to birds. The best air purifiers for birds rely on HEPA filtration and avoid ionizing technology. Also be sure the noise level is bird-friendly.

Can air purifiers reduce pet hair and dander?

While air purifiers do not eliminate pet hair and dander, they can significantly reduce levels floating in the air by capturing these allergens in the filters. This helps reduce what your pet inhales as well as dander they can spread around on their fur.

Where is the best place to put an air purifier in a room with pets?

The optimal location is near where your pet spends most of their time, such as next to their bed or favorite resting spot. Avoid cluttering the intake or outlet. Raise the unit off the floor to help air circulation.

How often should I change filters on an air purifier for pets?

Most manufacturers recommend replacing HEPA and activated carbon filters every 6-12 months. Pre-filters can be vacuumed and replaced more often, like every 3-6 months. Check your manual and visually inspect filters to monitor when they need replacement.

Can I run an air purifier 24/7 around pets?

Air purifiers are designed to run continuously around the clock. Use a unit appropriately sized for the room that can handle this constant use. Just be sure to turn off and service the air purifier based on the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines.

Conclusion

Air purifiers can benefit pet health by reducing airborne allergens, irritants, and pollutants when used properly.

Key factors are choosing the right HEPA unit sized for the space and following all operating guidelines.

Investing in an air purifier optimized for pets can help create a cleaner home environment for your furry companions.

As always, consult your veterinarian to see if an air purifier could help manage any respiratory issues your pet experiences.

Peace.

Can Air Purifiers Help with Cat Allergies?

Using an air purifier can be an effective way to reduce cat allergy symptoms for some people. The key is finding one that is designed to trap cat allergens specifically.

How Do Cat Allergies Work?

People with cat allergies are allergic to a protein called Fel d 1, which is found in cat dander (skin flakes), saliva, and urine. When a cat sheds or grooms itself, Fel d 1 particles get released into the air. When someone with a cat allergy breathes in these particles, it can trigger an allergic reaction.

Common cat allergy symptoms include:

• Sneezing
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Runny nose
• Nasal congestion
• Itchy throat
• Coughing
• Facial pressure and pain

How Air Purifiers Help

Air purifiers are designed to filter out pollutants, allergens, and particles from the air. To help with cat allergies, you need an air purifier that uses a HEPA filter.

HEPA stands for “high efficiency particulate air.” The key is that HEPA filters are designed to capture very small particles like cat dander that can trigger allergies.

A true HEPA filter removes at least 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. For reference, a human hair is about 50-70 microns wide. So HEPA filters can trap tiny cat allergen particles that would otherwise float right by standard filters.

Tips for Choosing an Air Purifier for Cat Allergy Relief

Here are some tips for picking an effective air purifier to reduce cat allergy symptoms:

• Look for a True HEPA filter – Make sure any model you’re considering uses a true HEPA filter, not just a standard HEPA-type filter.
• Pay attention to room size – Match the purifier’s recommended room size to the actual size of the room you’ll use it in.
• Aim for a high Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) – CADR measures volume of filtered air. Look for a high smoke CADR as that tests for fine particles like pet dander.
• Consider a model with an activated carbon filter – Activated carbon helps remove odors and gases.
• Pick a low noise level – Quieter models are less distracting.

It’s also best to run an air purifier continuously to keep air as allergen-free as possible.

Will an Air Purifier Completely Eliminate Cat Allergy Symptoms?

For some people with mild cat allergies, using an air purifier in rooms where they spend time with the cat can significantly reduce allergy symptoms. But air purifiers are not a cure-all.

Some people have such severe cat allergies that air purifiers, even high-end models, are not enough to prevent reactions. This is especially true if the person touches the cat and gets dander or saliva on their hands.

Air purifiers also won’t eliminate symptoms if the cat sleeps on furniture, clothing, or bedding and leaves behind dander and allergens. And they provide localized help – if you spend time in parts of the home without an air purifier running, you may still have allergy issues.

For severe cat allergies, medications or allergy shots may be needed along with thorough cleaning and air purification.

Should You Get an Air Purifier for Cat Allergies?

An air purifier can be a useful part of an allergy management plan. When combined with keeping the cat out of bedrooms, regular vacuuming and washing of linens, and laundering clothing after contact with the cat, an air purifier can help provide symptom relief.

Just be sure to choose one with the right specs for your needs. Focus on true HEPA filtration, appropriate room size, and a high Clean Air Delivery Rate. This can provide cleaner air and potentially less allergy suffering when living with a feline friend.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can air purifiers completely eliminate cat allergies?

No, air purifiers cannot completely eliminate cat allergies. They can help reduce airborne cat dander and allergens, but severe allergy sufferers may still react even with air purification.

Do I need a separate air purifier for each room with the cat?

It depends on your budget and the layout of your home. One purifier can work for adjacent rooms if you keep the doors open. Multiple units for separate areas of the home are ideal for the best coverage.

Where should I place an air purifier for cat allergies?

Focus on purifying the air in rooms where you spend the most time with the cat, like the living room or family room. Also put one in your bedroom since you don’t want the cat in there.

Can air purifiers help with pet hair and dander?

Yes, a HEPA air purifier can trap pet dander, hair, and other allergens so they don’t circulate in the air you breathe.

Should I run an air purifier all the time for cat allergies?

It’s best to run an air purifier continuously so it is always working to reduce allergen levels. You can use a timer or auto mode to save energy when you are not home.

Do I still need to vacuum and clean if using an air purifier?

Yes, you should still regularly vacuum and dust surfaces in rooms the cat accesses. Air purifiers filter the air but don’t eliminate allergens on surfaces.

Can air purifiers help with cat dander and urine smells?

Air purifiers with activated carbon filters can help reduce odors from cat dander, urine, and litter boxes. Models with UV-C light also help.

How often should I change the filter in an air purifier for pets?

It depends on use, but you should plan to change the HEPA filter at least every 6-12 months. Pre-filters can be vacuumed and changed more often if they look dirty.

The Bottom Line

Using a high-quality HEPA air purifier can be helpful for managing cat allergies. While not a cure, it can meaningful reduce allergy symptoms when combined with keeping the cat out of bedrooms, washing fabrics, and cleaning. Focus on HEPA filtration, room size, and high air delivery rates when choosing a model.