Ionizers are machines that emit negative ions, causing particles to stick to surfaces. While they may seem like a great way to purify the air, they are not as effective as one might think. Most ionizers are too weak to have any real impact, and they can even produce ozone and other hazardous particles. Ion generators work by charging particles in a room so that they are attracted to walls, floors, tables, curtains, occupants, etc. This process can cause particles to be re-suspended in the air, and some ionizers contain a collector to draw charged particles back to the unit.
Despite some people claiming that these devices can correct an ion imbalance, there is no evidence to back up this claim. Ozone is a lung irritant that is produced both indirectly by ion generators and other electronic air filters, and directly by ozone generators. The ozone present in outdoor pollution is no different than the ozone produced by these devices. Under certain conditions of use, ion generators and other ozone-generating air filters can produce levels of this lung irritant considerably higher than levels considered harmful to human health. One of the main risks posed by ionizers is the emission of ozone. People who are sensitive to ozone may have an adverse reaction to elevated levels of ozone in their homes.
If you're one of these people, an ionizer won't be right for you and could worsen respiratory irritation.
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