The real benefits and harms of ionizers. The best air purifier models, reviews

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— Olga

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In an urban environment, the air is a chemical cocktail of harmful impurities for the body. A person is partially protected from them inside an apartment or house. But even here dust and soot await him. Ventilation alone is not enough to replenish the supply of pure oxygen. An ionizer helps partially solve this problem. It purifies the atmosphere indoors at the molecular level. Find out more about ionizers, their actual benefits and possible harm from the point of view of specialists, the best models on the domestic equipment market.

The problem of atmospheric cleanliness

In a living space, it is especially important to breathe oxygen. The state of health, tone and longevity of a person depends on this. One of the first scientists to apply the process of aeroionization of air in practice was the domestic biophysicist Alexander Chizhevsky. He claimed that the negative ions his device generated had a positive effect on human health.

The research had a large number of opponents and created many problems for the scientist. The exact mechanism of the effect of ions on the body is not fully understood today. Some people read the details of the theory as pseudoscientific. But doctors do not deny the overall beneficial effect of such therapy, calling the particles air vitamins. The number of ions per unit volume of air is considered important in determining its purity and usefulness. This parameter is on par with humidity and the percentage of heavy metals and other dust particles.

In nature, the proportion of negatively charged ions in inhaled gases is 2-4 thousand per cubic meter. cm. After a thunderstorm or near waterfalls - up to 50 thousand for the same unit. Near busy highways - only 100. In city apartments, the average ranges between 500-600.

Good advice for buyers

The main rule is not to use the ionizer around the clock. Manufacturers in the instructions for each of their models indicate the period during which it should work.

Recommendations for choosing a device

It is extremely important that the power of the device matches the area of ​​the room. High power in a small area will lead to oversaturation of the air with ozone molecules, and this is harmful to the body.

But from a weak device you may not feel the expected effect.

Ionization is not the only requirement when creating a normal microclimate. Humidification plus ionization is a more competent solution. The best option is a steam humidifier with an ionizer. You can use it to scent the air in the room.

Also, when choosing, you should pay attention to the manufacturer - well-known and reliable brands offer devices of decent quality and provide a guarantee for their products. We presented the best offers of ionizers on the market in the following article.

Features of care and operation

The location where the device is installed is also of great importance. There are manufacturer recommendations in this regard and they must be followed.

The instructions stipulate the optimal distance from vertical enclosing structures and other electrical equipment. Subject to these conditions of use, ionization will be both as effective and safe as possible.

Such an aspect as caring for a device that enriches the atmosphere in the house with useful ions is just as important as the previous conditions. In order for the air to be truly clean and healthy for those living in the house, the device must be cleaned regularly. The opinion of doctors regarding air ionization is ambiguous. Some recommend using it, but correctly. Others are categorically against performing this procedure at home.

Ionization does not cancel ventilation at all. On the contrary, before turning on the ionizer, the apartment must be ventilated - open the windows or, alternatively, use an air conditioner with fresh air.

Ionization should absolutely not be used for cancer patients. Since the produced particles enhance metabolism, tissue nutrition improves, including malignant cells.

Elevated temperature also causes the impossibility of air ionization. The reason is the same - increased metabolism will further raise the temperature.

What is air ionization

Small flying particles of dirt, dust, and soot are positively charged. The elements produced by a special device have opposite charges. Due to the potential difference, they attract unwanted suspended matter and contribute to their settling on nearby surfaces. After the procedure, wipe off the dust with a damp cloth and rid the room of harmful “harvest”. This is what the manufacturers of modern ionizers promise.

During normal ventilation, used air masses are replaced by new ones from the street. But the oxygen-enriched portion will be no less contaminated than the previous one: with microparticles of metals, allergens, and harmful microorganisms. The creators of portable ionizers promise the physical elimination of this dirt and dust. In fact, it is a change in the structure of the air itself.

Ionization as a useful modification complements the functions of some models of modern air conditioners, humidifiers and other household appliances. There are also separate air ionizers. They are divided into categories according to type of work:

1. Unipolar. They generate only “minus” particles. Today, these ionizers are becoming obsolete because they oversaturate the atmosphere with their charge. This extreme is also not conducive to health.
2. Bipolar. Produces both types of charges. More expensive, but also safer.

Benefits of ionization

Aeroions produced by ionizers increase performance, improve overall well-being, and have a beneficial effect on mental activity. Ionization of air in an apartment can improve health:

• increase the body's protective functions and strengthen the immune system;
• normalize metabolic processes in the body;
• stabilize the functioning of the circulatory and cardiovascular systems;
• improve gas exchange in the lungs, activate the work of red blood cells.

Negative ions purify the air from pathogenic bacteria, dust, fungi, and cigarette smoke due to their ability to attract suspended particles, causing them to settle. An air ionizer reduces electromagnetic radiation from electrical appliances and electronic gadgets by equalizing charged particles in the atmosphere. The devices help in the fight against insomnia and depression, and increase concentration.

Health effects: proven and unproven effectiveness

Modern medicine does not have a negative attitude towards air ionizers. Aeroionotherapy as an adjuvant is used in the treatment and prevention of respiratory diseases of any nature, hypertension, and allergies. The beneficial effect in these cases is confirmed by a large number of reviews from ordinary people. They also claim: procedures with an ionizer accelerate the healing of wounds on the skin or mucous membranes.

The main effect of using the device:

• breathing becomes deeper;
• blood flow and gas exchange improve;
• metabolism accelerates;
• tone increases, mood improves;
• physical strength increases.

A cohort of opponents of air ionizers calls these properties the placebo effect. Practical tests have shown: in comparison with Chizhevsky’s invention, low-power modern devices cannot significantly increase the number of negative particles in the room.

Important! During experiments with different ionizers, the indicators increased by 100-300 units. On the other hand, in a metropolis, even such a change can be significant.

Use indoors with newborns

Ionized air is just as beneficial for young children as it is for adults. Even in the wards of children's hospitals it is disinfected with ions. The main thing is that at this time the children were in another room, and after each session a wet cleaning was carried out.

For newborns, it is better to use a salt lamp instead of an ionizer. It will naturally fill the room with aerosols and have a gentler effect on the child's respiratory system. Another advantage of this lamp is that it does not emit ozone.

Ions are very beneficial for the health of newborn babies. They help improve baby's sleep and speed up metabolism. In addition, these particles settle on dust and various pollutants in the air, preventing them from rising. This eliminates the possibility of them getting into the lungs.

Possible harm and contraindications

Cautions when using a home ionizer are dictated by the laws of physics and common sense:

1. It is not advisable to be near the switched on device. The settling dust can get onto the mucous membranes or directly into the lungs. Depending on the ionizer model, the minimum distance to it varies between 1-3 m.
2. Before switching on, perform a wet cleaning. Clean the ionizer itself. Your goal is flying dust, not settled dust.
3. Turn on the ionizer for a short time. The average duration of a cleansing session depends on the specific model, but rarely exceeds 15 minutes.
4. Buy ionizers with particle counters so as not to overdo it with charges during operation of the device.
5. Do not use the device if you have cancer. Blood nutrition will improve not only in healthy cells, but also in affected ones. Because of this, malignant formations will only grow.
6. For a similar reason, an air ionizer is contraindicated in a person’s resting place after surgery. The procedure may make it difficult to stop bleeding.
7. Get ready for the challenges that come with a faster metabolism. For example, increased body temperature or increased appetite.

Attention! Some studies warn of the dangers of the ionizer in diseases of the central nervous system, problems of the lungs and joints, and in the presence of inflammatory processes. There is a point of view that recharging the atmosphere stimulates the spread of viral infections in it. But this has not been proven.

What is an air ionizer: harm or benefit for humans

It’s hard not to notice how different the air away from the city is from what we are used to breathing every day. In nature, it is easier to breathe, and the body is saturated with oxygen much faster. This happens because the molecules of clean forest air are more saturated with particles that have positive or negative charges, which are so necessary for a person for the normal functioning of the entire body.

Numerous studies have shown that air in which negatively charged ions predominate has a positive effect on health.

Natural ionization of air has decreased significantly in recent years, which is associated with the widespread use of household electrical appliances, vehicles, etc. So in a city where one can only dream of clean air, this problem can be solved with the help of a special device - an air ionizer, which artificially produces these most necessary charged particles.

Ionization of air in nature occurs due to radiation from space, as well as lightning discharges of electricity, which help to form air ions. This happens in the following way: oxygen molecules capture electrons and, due to them, become negatively infected. And since air ions with negatively charged electrons have increased biological activity, they enrich oxygen.

It is believed that in enclosed spaces the concentration of ions is fifteen times lower than normal, and this can negatively affect the well-being, performance and general condition of the human body. Therefore, in order to normalize the level of air ions, it is recommended to use air ionizers.

Using an air ionizer increases the amount of dust in the room, so wet cleaning must be done more often than usual

Devices for air ionization, which artificially enrich the environment with charged particles, can have both positive and negative effects on humans. The result depends on the power of the device and the concentration of air ions in the room that is ultimately achieved.

Helpful advice! The basic rule for using air ionizers is not to use the device around the clock. Each model is programmed for a specific period that it must work. Information about this must be provided by the manufacturer.

Air ionizers and ozonizers: harm or benefit, features of use

Ozonizers and air ionizers are often confused with each other, mistakenly believing that they are one and the same thing. And although the principle of their influence is very similar, there are still some significant differences that must be taken into account in the process of selecting and purchasing a device.

An air ionizer will help get rid of such negative manifestations of allergies as runny nose, cough, swelling and inflammation of the upper respiratory tract

Ionizers are used mainly for preventive purposes, while ozonizers are considered a therapeutic device. The second option is often used in various medical institutions, and it is not recommended to purchase it at your own request. It is worth buying an ozonizer if you have received the appropriate recommendation from a doctor. But the ionizer can well be used as a disease prevention.

The first thing you can notice when you install an ionizer in your apartment is its effect on small dust particles that fly in the air. It will settle much more on surfaces, so cleaning will have to be done several times more often. It is also worth considering that these devices are not recommended to be used while there are people in the room.

It is very important to pay attention to the issue of the relationship between the size of the room and the power of the selected device. If the device is too weak, most likely the effect will be almost invisible. At the same time, excessive ionizer power can cause an excess of ozone molecules in the air, which will have a negative effect on the human body.

Negative ions normalize the level of serotonin in the blood, calm and improve performance

In addition, it is important to follow all manufacturer recommendations when it comes to choosing a location to install the ionizer. As a rule, the instructions clearly indicate at what distance it must be from walls and other electrical appliances for its use to be effective and safe.

Proper care of the device is also important. Regular cleaning of accumulated dust is the key to proper operation of the ionizer, as well as a guarantee that it will bring benefit and not harm to the human body.

Helpful advice! When using an ionizer in your home, you should not give up regular ventilation of the room. Moreover, the room must be ventilated every time before turning on the device.

Thus, it is important to adhere to all operating rules, as well as the recommendations that the manufacturer provides for each specific model. In this case, the use of an ionizer in the house will have an exclusively positive effect on the people living and will not cause any side effects.

Before purchasing an air ionizer for a children's room, you must familiarize yourself in detail with the contraindications for using this device.

Safety regulations

Modern air ionizers repeat in miniature the principle of operation of the “Chizhevsky chandelier”. However, not all manufacturers are conscientious about the intricacies of the mechanism for producing negative air ions. As a result of using such an ionizer, dangerous ozone gas is released in large quantities. It gives that same smell of post-storm freshness. Oversaturation with it causes dizziness and headache, sometimes nausea.

Important! With regular, long-term consumption of ozone, even an adult develops bronchitis and asthma.

An important nuance in choosing an ionizer is its correct operation. It is unlikely that the average buyer has special equipment. You can only rely on quality certificates. Carefully study the specifications documents supplied with the air ionizer model. If you try to save money, you will end up with a device that is too low-powered or dangerous to your health.

Also read the instructions carefully. General requirements for the operation of ionizers:

• respectful distance to a person;
• short-term use no more than 2-3 times a day;
• wet cleaning before and after ionization;
• mandatory washing and changing the filter if available;
• If a strong smell of ozone appears, immediately ventilate.

Attention! Smoking is strictly prohibited in a room with the ionizer turned on. The smoldering products collected by the particles will immediately settle in the lungs of the smoker and others present.

Corona discharge ionizer

It is installed in rooms where people often smoke. The device releases ozone molecules, which effectively neutralize tobacco smoke and eliminate unpleasant odors in a few minutes. From the instructions you can find out the amount of ozone emitted by this device, which according to the norm should be no more than 0.0 ppm or 0.1 mg/m3.

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It is not recommended to smoke in the place where this type of ionizer is turned on. Under the influence of air ions, resinous substances are deposited on the walls of the bronchi and larynx, and severe irritation and inflammation of the latter begins. At this time, you must leave the room until the treatment is completed.

Rating of the best equipment

In the category of bipolar air ionizers, the following are in greatest demand:

iBaby Air A1

1. iBaby Air A1. This smart model for children's rooms can not only clean, but also inform about progress through a smartphone application, program a schedule, work as a night light and a baby monitor with two-way communication. The ionizer requires Wi-Fi for normal operation. It is expensive, but it also has good consumer reviews. The creators’ product line includes other models with greater performance and video communication.
2. Amber series. It is produced in the Russian Federation. The elegant design of the case with a mini fan runs silently. The range of ionizers can cover rooms of different sizes, up to 25 square meters. m. There is an option to control the number of ions and unipolar mode. Controlled by remote control.

Amber series
Among unipolar ionizers, the best are:

Boneco P50

1. Boneco P50. Considered one of the best in its class. It will do its best in a room with a computer, TV, other household appliances, or inside a car. The device is small-sized and connects via a USB port. Additionally, it is equipped with a fan, an LED flashlight, and an aromatization option based on essential oils. Despite its popularity, the device’s area coverage is only 10 square meters. m. But this is quite enough to process a couple of rooms.
2. MILLDOM M900 Premium. Expensive and powerful ionizer of high quality construction. Capable of cleaning up to 160 sq. m of living space. There is a function of ozonation of water and air. Use the latter with caution, without exceeding the concentration of the gas produced. The ionizer is mounted on the wall. The manufacturer also has less powerful analogues.

MILLDOM М900 Premium

Basic operating rules

Like any other device, the ionizer requires special handling. Regardless of whether it has one or more functions, the following rules must be observed:

1. No one should be in the room while the device is operating.
2. The device should be placed in the room where the person spends the most time.
3. Do not turn on the device engine for longer than the time specified in the instructions.
4. Do not place the device near a TV or computer monitor; the distance must be at least 1 meter.
5. Do not smoke near the device or in areas with ionized air, as this may cause lung disease.
6. The device should be operated with the windows closed, but the room must be regularly ventilated. The ionizer does not produce oxygen, it only changes the charge of its atoms.

People who use an air ionizer note a general improvement in health, decreased anxiety, and improved sleep quality, which is an undoubted argument in favor of these devices. And excellent health is the key to longevity.

Alternative methods

In modern homes you can find quite a few devices that are generators of particles with positive potential. These are electronics and electrical appliances. The first measures to control the problem: reduce the period of use of the TV or PC, open the window during and after their operation (except for regular regular ventilation).

Important! Children are especially sensitive to the oversaturation of the atmosphere with positive particles. TVs and computers in their room are unwanted “tenants.”

The next step is landscaping. Flower growers have suggested a list of plants that are natural air ionizers:

• ferns;
• chlorophytum;
• Sansevieria;
• ficus benjamina;
• geranium;
• begonia;
• Noble laurel, etc.

The effectiveness of air purification with indoor plants has not been confirmed by rigorous research. But greens will provide some assistance to basic measures. Salt lamps have a similar effect. Turn them on after wet cleaning of the apartment.

Purchasing a room ionizer becomes a necessary response to the polluted atmosphere of an industrial city. Even behind closed windows, heavy metals, dangerous bacteria and other suspended matter “live” in the apartment. The air itself is charged with positive air particles from working household appliances. All this has a bad effect on health. But purchasing one ionizer will not fix the problem. It is important to regularly ventilate your home, landscape the interior, and maintain a healthy rhythm of life.

Salt lamp

Refers to natural soft ionizers. Doctors recommend it for particularly sensitive people, asthmatics, allergy sufferers, and also for children's rooms. This device not only strengthens the immune system and increases the vitality of the body.

Its benefits and beneficial effects on the body consist of several indicators:

1. Unique properties of salt.
2. Warm orange color.
3. Scattered light.

The salt lamp is made from a whole piece of rock salt and contains many useful microelements and macroelements: hydrocarbons, bromine, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, selenium, zinc, iodine. They are also released into the air in the form of ions, providing a healing effect.

The useful properties of the lamp include:

1. Neutralization of harmful radiation from a computer, TV, microwave oven and other equipment.
2. It has a detrimental effect on harmful microorganisms, destroying their structure.
3. You can turn it on and leave it for a long time without harm to people around.
4. No ozone is formed or released. It is a safe natural source of air ions for the home.

Having installed a salt lamp in the apartment, we will notice the following useful changes:

1. It became easier to breathe, the air was filled with oxygen ions.
2. No dust visible.
3. Feeling better, new strength appeared, illnesses receded.
4. Rapid recovery of the body after stress, improved mood, sound and restful sleep.
5. The mold has disappeared and no longer appears.
6. We stopped having headaches when working with a microwave oven and a computer; it blocks their harmful radiation.
7. The unpleasant odors are gone.
8. It fits well into the interior of the apartment and helps restore harmony in the house.

The absence of harmful effects on the body contributes to its wide distribution and use in apartments where people of different ages live.

Is an ionizer useful for newborn babies?

Attention! You can activate the ionizer in a room for a newborn baby only after consultation with a pediatrician.

For parents, nothing is more important than the health and well-being of their children. There is an acute environmental problem in the world. Every day, colossal harm is caused to it due to not the most useful human activities.

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This is especially true for cities where there is an excess of road transport. To protect the child from harm, it is necessary to have an air ionizer, which has special properties.

For the normal condition of the baby, it is necessary to ensure air humidity at the level of 50–70%. But under natural conditions this is difficult to achieve. For this purpose, it is necessary to use an ionizer.

The device can be used after the baby is one month old.

Purchasing an air ionizer for a child solves several problems:

1. Allergens are removed from the air. Children are more susceptible to allergies now than they were 100 years ago.
2. The decline in immunity is stopped.

Properties that cause harm rather than benefit:

1. The child’s body gets used to the conditions provided by the ionizer, so after exposure to air on the street he may contract a disease.
2. An excess of ions with a minus sign is possible.

Therefore, it is worth following the recommendations: do not place the device near a child and activate the ionizer for children for a certain period of time, calculated either by the device or independently.