Ionic Pro air cleaner

I purchased 2 for Christmas for my family, but after ready about the Ionic Breeze I am afraid to use it. Does it fall under the same catagory? Does the Ionic Pro give out unsafe levels of ozone as well ?

[Philip D Parks, MD, MPH, MOccH, FACOEM]

Dear Amy,

The short answer to your question is "yes."

Depending on the "natural" air flow and ventilation in the area where these ozone-generating air cleaners are used, these type of air cleaners can generate irritating levels of ozone that exceed the OSHA (indoors for workers over 8 hours) and EPA (outdoor) standards/limits.

One study has shown that the amount of ozone that is generated exceeds the amount of ozone found on an "average" smoggy day in Los Angeles.

Another posting on medhelp.org stated, "Ozone-generating devices are being marketed to the public as a solution to indoor quality problems. Ozone generators are available in three forms: in-duct units for central air systems, portable indoor units, and personal units that are worn on the body. They are promoted as effective air purifiers, especially to people sensitive to indoor air pollutants. Manufacturers often refer to the ozone as activated oxygen, trivalent oxygen or nature's air purifier. Various manufacturers advertise ozone's ability to oxidize indoor air pollutants and 'leave only carbon dioxide, water, and breathable oxygen.' However, independent studies have shown that ozone generators do not effectively destroy microbes, remove odor sources, or reduce indoor pollutants enough to provide any health benefits. More alarming, these devices can generate excessive levels of ozone and may contribute to eye and nose irritation or other respiratory health problems for users."

The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) states on their fact sheet that, "Available scientific evidence shows that at concentrations that do not exceed public health standards, ozone has little potential to remove indoor air contaminants. Some manufacturers or vendors suggest that ozone will render almost every chemical contaminant harmless by producing a chemical reaction whose only by-products are carbon dioxide, oxygen and water. This is misleading."

A better alternative to the ozone-generating air purifiers are HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filtered air cleaners. The important caveat is that you must change the filter regularly and this can be expensive.

I hope this is helpful.

Links:
http://www.lungusa.org/site/pp.asp?c=dvLUK9O0E&b=35696

http://www.lungusa.org/site/pp.asp?c=dvLUK9O0E&b=39289

http://www.epa.gov/iedweb00/pubs/ozonegen.html

~*~ Dr. Parks

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice. The information presented in this posting is for patients’ education only. As always, I encourage you to see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.