When it comes to indoor air quality, sometimes the smallest particles can cause the biggest problems. Airborne particles in the home are divided into two groups: coarse, which are larger than 2.5 micron in diameter, and fine, which are 2.5 micron or smaller. (A micron is 1/25,000th of an inch.) Our natural defense systems cannot filter out these smaller particles, which can cause problems for occupants with allergies or asthma, as well as for the elderly and the very young.
To improve indoor air quality, homeowners can use a number of different approaches. They can remove the source of the pollutant or ventilate the home to dilute the contaminants. Another option is to use an indoor air cleaner. However, some types of air cleaners cannot capture the smallest, sub-micron particles.
A newer technology that does a good job of removing these small particles is called a polarized-media air cleaner. It uses an electric charge to "polarize
particles so they attach not only to fibrous filter materials but also to each other, forming larger clusters that are easier to capture. Best of all, a polarized field does not produce ozone, which in larger amounts can cause health problems such as lung and eye irritation.
Polarized-media air cleaners are available from a number of companies, including Dynamic Air Cleaners, which offers filters and freestanding cleaners, as well as units that integrate into a home's central air system. For more information: http://www.dynamicaircleaners.com or 800-578-7873.
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