Dec 29 2009
Types of Air Filters and Their Potential for Allergy Relief
Spring has arrived. Unfortunately for many, so have numerous allergies. While allergens are only a seasonal problem for some, many are present throughout the year and are especially bad indoors. If you are one of the unfortunate many suffering from constant allergies, there are a variety of symptom management steps you may try for allergy relief. If these still aren’t enough, then it may be time to look into air filters for allergies.
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation has several tips on their web site. They even have a checklist available that a person can download. One technique that might not be obvious is to only use humidifiers when instructed by a physician. You should be sure to follow the physician’s directions carefully when using one. It may seem counter-productive since humidifiers can reduce congestion. However, continual use of a humidifier can actually increase allergens in the air, particularly dust mites and mold.
If you’ve gone through the checklist and are still experiencing allergy symptoms, then it’s time to consider air filtration. Before doing so, you should do a significant amount of research. There are five filter types available on the market, and you must choose which is right for your situation. These five types include mechanical, electronic, hybrid, gas phase and ozone filters.
Each filter has its own function and some are not recommended by the EPA or by the American Lung Association. The most popular and most recognized mechanical filter is the high efficiency particulate absorbing (HEPA) filter. It works by forcing air through a type of screen that is meant to trap particles. Some of the particles it traps are allergens. Those allergens include pet dander, dust mites, and pollen. It also traps irritants, including cigarette smoke. In order to qualify for the HEPA label it must be able to grab at least 90 percent of all particles bigger than 0.3 microns. A micron is a measurement equal to 0.001 millimeters.
An electronic filter captures allergens and other irritant particles using an electric charge. Hybrid filters employ both electronic and mechanical methods in tandem to become even more effective.
There is a filter that is not meant to trap allergens, but could reduce asthma symptoms. That is called a Gas Phase Filter. A Gas Phase Filter is meant for removing odors and non-particulate contaminants. Some of those contaminants are cooking gas, gases from paint or building materials, and perfumes.
You may have seen ozone generators featured in advertisements, or heard of them from friends. These filters are not a good choice. Not only is there no research suggesting that they are effective in combatting allergies, but evidence suggests that homes high in ozone can worsen asthma and other breathing conditions.
The next step after purchasing the best filter for you is choosing where to install it. Logically, filters are most effective in areas where you spend the most time, which for many is the bedroom. Secondary choices include living rooms and other common areas, where many family members will gather and can benefit from the filters. For extreme cases where individual units aren’t enough, systems can be installed in your house’s ventilation system and can cover the entire area.
