Getting Healthy Air from Your Air Purifier...6 Facts You Need to Know

What reason did you have in purchasing an air purifier?  In most cases it was probably in getting relief from some kind of allergy, asthma..or just for clearing the inside air of smoke and odor.

Before you rely and expect on getting cleaner and fresher indoor air from your air purifier, I'd like for you to consider the following issues...and how they relate to your air purifier...

    1) What are you sensitive to?...
    2) Reducing the concentration of pollutants in your home...
    3) The dispersion of the pollutants in the room...
    4) The persistence of pollutants...
    5) How often is your air being cleaned?..
    6) How efficient is your air purifier?

How does this relate to air cleaning benefits from my air purifier?...you may ask.

Each person has their own "tipping point." Personal health and environmental factors make this a moving target. Certain allergens may trigger a reaction today, but not tomorrow. It all relies on your total load and concentration of irritants and physical stresses.

The goal of air purification is to gradually replace contaminants with clean air, keeping them below the threshold at which you get a reaction.

Why dilution?...and not "elimination"? Because particles and gases are not "static", standing still, in order for the air purifier to trap them one by one. Normal particle motion disperses them equally throughout your room air.

Therefore, clean air exiting your air purifier is almost instantly re-contaminated by the still un-cleaned air. You can't hold clean air on one side of the room, while cleaning the air on the other side.

That's the reason why your air purifier should run continuously. Constant treatment reduces airborne pollutants and keeps them at a low level.

Countering air cleaning is the re-introduction of new pollutants. The continuous bombardment of these airborne pollutants is like a leak in a boat. In time the boat sinks. It's the same principle with your indoor air. You need to be one step ahead of these new pollutants.

Just as the boat needs steady bailing to stay afloat, your room air needs continuous cleaning to stay healthy.
This is where ACH, or air changes per hour, comes into play. ACH indicates how fast you can bail your room air of airborne pollutants.

ACH is determined by dividing the cubic feet of cleaned air your air purifier can deliver in one hour by the cubic feet of the room. Say your room is 12 x 16 with an eight foot ceiling. That's 1536 cubic feet (12 x 16 x 8). Say your air purifier is rated to deliver as much as 200 cubic feet per minute (200 CFM) or 12,000 cubic feet over an hour. Dividing 12,000 by 1536 reveals your air purifier can deliver 7.8 air changes per hour in this room.

That air purifier would be an excellent choice for that room. Most experts agree that 6 ACH is needed for those with severe respiratory problems. At least 4 ACH is recommended for typical allergy relief. In any case, never less than 2 ACH for any benefit at all,  and then only with the most efficient air purifier.

Which brings us to the issue of "actual" efficiency...not "theoretical" efficiency. Theoretical efficiency is what manufacturers claim their machine can do in based on one hundred percent of filtration. But "actual efficiency is how much of the actual air is drawn through the filter and treated. Not all the air passing through an air purifier may be cleaned. Some may by-pass the filter, or the machine simply can't remove one hundred percent of the particles passing through.

The lower the total system efficiency, the more times the air needs to pass through the air purifier to achieve the same cleaning result as a higher efficiency unit. This is why I recommend using only air cleaners with proven high system efficiency, such as the IQ Air HealthPro air purifiers. They do the job most effectively with HyperHepa filtration, high CFM and room coverage.

A "Colorful" Indoor Pollutant...Paint

America’s homes and garages are full of toxic and hazardous products. Paints, lacquers, paint thinners, pesticides, lye, acids, and solvents are examples of the products that can be hazardous to your family and simultaneously pollute our environment when they are tossed aside. Many of these chemical contaminants are not even needed. I'd like to share with you safer products and alternatives.

Paint is big business. Manufacturers distribute over one billion gallons of paint annually. While most homeowners have one or more cans of paint in their garage, few of them realize the potential health hazards and environmental toxicity if it is not used, stored and disposed of properly.

Water based paints are considered the safest to use. Paints manufactured before 1990 could however, contain mercury, which even at low levels of exposure, can cause neurological damage without giving you noticeable symptoms. There's also a small percentage of alcohol solvents and glycol ethers found in most water based paints.

Although the EPA banned the use of lead in oil-based paint in 1981, oil-based paints still have toxic emissions, which you could easily inhale, ingest or absorb through your skin and into your bloodstream. Some of the chemicals are known carcinogens, others cause nervous system depression, and the majority have not been tested long enough for their long-term health effects.

Definition of PAINT

Paints are made up of resins (film formers), diluents (solvents), pigments (color), and additives. The paint products category also includes coatings such as varnish, shellac, polyurethane, and stains. Paints are generally classified on the basis of the solvent. The two main categories are oil-based and wate- based (latex) paints. Depending on the type of paint you select for painting, you may need additional  paint-related products, such as thinners and brush cleaners may also be needed. Latex and other water-based paint products are the safest to use. They don't require any organic solvents, they dry quickly, and flow evenly.

Definition of SOLVENTS

Solvents are liquids that dissolve other substances and act as carriers for pigments. The useful benfits of solvents in paint products is their ability to dry quickly, their ease of application, even flow and their ability to dissolve paint and grease. Oil-based paint solvents pose several immediate and long-term health and environmental concerns.

How to Find and Identify Mold

You may ask yourself..."What are signs of Mold?", or ..."Should I test for Mold?"
I say..Investigate! Don't test!.. The simplest way to find a mold problem is by looking for mold growth and by using your sense of smell to find the source of a suspicious odor. If you see mold or if there is an earthy or musty smell, you should assume you have a mold problem. Signs of excess moisture or the worsening of allergy-like symptoms by family members should be additional clues you have a mold problem.

Look for visible mold growth. They may appear cottony, leathery, velvety, or granular, and have various colors. Mold often appears as discoloration, staining, or fuzzy growth on the surface of building materials or furnishings. When mold is visible, testing is not recommended.

Search areas with noticeable mold odors. Search for signs of excess moisture or water damage. Look for water leaks, standing water, water stains, condensation problems. For example, are there any watermarks or discoloration on walls, ceilings, carpet, woodwork or other building materials?
Look behind and underneath materials, such as carpeting, vinyl flooring, furniture, stored items in bins and boxes, in cabinets or under flooring. Sometimes destructive techniques may be needed, such as making a hole in a wall, to inspect for possible mold breeding places.


Should I test for mold?

Most experts do not recommend testing for mold. Instead, you should simply assume there is a mold problem whenever you see mold or smell mold odors. Testing should never take the place of visual inspection and it should never use up resources that are needed to correct moisture problems and remove all visible growth.

Sometimes, mold growth is hidden and difficult to locate. In such cases, a combination of air (outdoor and indoor air samples) and bulk (material) samples may help determine the scope of mold contamination and where clean-up and removal is needed. However, mold testing is rarely useful for trying to answer questions about health concerns.

"NATURAL" HOME CLEANING RECIPES

If you find the prices of natural cleaners a bit expensive, here are some excellent home recipes.

All Purpose House Cleaner:
1 tsp. liquid soap
1 tsp. t.s.p.
1 tsp. borax
½ tsp. washing soda
2 tbsp. white vinegar
2 cups very hot water
2 or 3 drops essence of lemon oil, eucalyptus, or aromatic herb of choice spray bottle

Combine ingredients in spray bottle and add very hot water.   Adjust amount of ingredients for dilution to wash floors or keep concentrated pre-formed mixture available for dilution in a gallon of hot water.

Mildew Remover
1 tsp. borax
2 tbsp. white vinegar
1 tsp. vegetable based liquid soap
2 cups hot water
spray bottle                      Mix and spray on areas needing attention. Rinse.




Oven Cleaner
1 tsp. Salt
1 cup baking soda
¼ cup washing soda or t.s.p.
3 squirts liquid soap (e.g. heavenly horsetail)

Sprinkle water over bottom of oven. Cover with oven cleaning mixture. Sprinkle more water on top. Scrub with fine wire wool. Rinse well to  remove baking soda.

Microwave Cleaner and Deodorizer

3 or 4 tbsp. baking soda and water to form a paste. Use a sponge and wash interior and around doors. Rinse thoroughly.

Soft Scrubber
¼ cup baking soda plus enough vegetable oil based liquid soap to make a paste. Use sponge and wash and rinse surface thoroughly.

Scouring Powder
1 cup baking soda
¼ cup borax         Mix and sprinkle and use in the same way as a commercial product. Rinse clean.

Disinfectant
2 tsp. Australian tea tree oil
2 cups water
spray bottle

Window & Glass Cleaner
½ tsp. liquid vegetable soap 
3 tbsp. vinegar
2 cups water
2 or 3 drops essence of lemon oil
spray bottle                                          If windows are very dirty, add more liquid soap.

Wood Furniture Polish (Not for French-polished furniture or antiques)
1/8 cup walnut oil
1/8 cup lemon juice
2 or 3 drops essence of lemon oil, eucalyptus or other aromatic herb
Keep in glass jar and shake well. Use soft cloth to apply.

Where Lead is Likely to be a Health Hazard

Lead from paint chips, which you can see, and lead dust, which you can't always see, can be serious hazards.
Peeling, chipping, chalking, or cracking lead-based paint is a hazard and needs immediate attention.
Lead-based paint may also be a hazard when found on surfaces that children can chew or that get a lot of wear-and-tear. These areas include:

1) Windows and window sills.
2) Doors and door frames.
3) Stairs, railings, and banisters.
4) Porches and fences.
           
      

Note: Lead-based paint that is in good condition is usually not a hazard.  

Lead dust can form when lead-based paint is dry scraped, dry sanded, or heated. Dust also forms when painted surfaces bump or rub together. Lead chips and dust can get on surfaces and objects that people touch. Settled lead dust can re-enter the air when people vacuum, sweep or walk through it.
   

Lead in soil can be a hazard when children play in bare soil or when people bring soil into the house on their shoes. Contact the National Lead Information Center (NLIC) to find out about testing soil for lead.

Source:  EPA

Rating the Efficiency Level of your Air Purifier

There are 2 critical things to consider when measuring how effective an air purifier is. The first performance test is how much  air  it can clean each hour. The second test is what percentage of the pollutants the air purifier removes from the air that is circulating through it. This second test  is called the efficiency.  
For example, if the particle count per cubic foot of air going into the air purifier is 1,000,000 particles and the particle count of the air coming out after it has passed through the filters is 300, than the efficiency of the air purifier would be 99.97%. Such, you can see how the efficiency of the air purifier is important, since an air purifier with  only  a 60% efficiency would allow 400,000 particles to go back into the room.   The efficiency rating  is important, because there are many air purifiers on the market that have a Hepa filter, but their relative efficiency is undocumented. This only means that the filter has been tested to remove 99.97% of all of the particulates that are 0.3 of a micron in size or larger. However, this is when all of the particles in the air contact the Hepa filter and none of the air is able to bypass the filter itself.  Once you take the Hepa filter and install it in the air purifier, other variables are involved. As air is pulled into the air purifier,  a portion of the air can bypass the filter media, depending on the way the filter is situated within  the air purifier. As much as 35 to 50 percent of the air can by-pass the filter media in some Hepa filter-based air purifiers, resulting in inadequate performance. 

I recommend the IQAir series and the Clarifier series as the most efficient Air Purifiers.

Effective Cleaning and Prevention Strategies for Mold

Molds such as fungus mold and slime mold are found most of the time in areas that have high humidity levels such as bathrooms, kitchens, damp basements and laundry rooms. It is most beneficial and preventive maintenance, to try and keep mold from growing in these potential mold-breeding areas.  If it's too late, you can try mold remediation and mold removal.

Since mold and mildew release mold spores in the air that can float throughout the house, severe allergic reactions such as watery eyes, runny nose and sneezing, nasal congestion and fatigue, can occur. When mold begins to reproduce inside a home, it can eat away at the structure, cause thousands of dollars in damage,  and possibly make someone in your family ill from mold exposure. There are several mold cleaning, prevention, and mold removal methods to deal with this persistent problem. I suggest using a combination of these products below, to reduce mold to safe levels throughout your home.

Step 1: You should start with a dehumidifier, since basements must be dried out, and humidity levels should be maintained at about 50% relative humidity or lower to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Step 2: An Air Purifier with a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Absolute) filter will help filter your indoor air. HEPA air cleaners help eliminate airborne mold spores.

Step 3: The use of a HEPA Vacuum Cleaners, because vacuuming with HEPA  filter vacuums can reduce mold spore concentrations in damp areas and carpets. A HEPA vacuum properly traps mold spores that can remain or be spread into the air.

Step 4: If you have a steam cleaner that would also help. A Vapor Steam Cleaner will clean, disinfect, deodorize, and kill dust mites and mold. They are the perfect tool for allergy sufferers and those with multiple chemical sensitivities- especially mold allergies.

Step 5:  Buy cleaning supplies that inhibit the growth of mold and mildew without the use of harsh chemicals or toxins. There are many healthy and free of harsh chemicals cleaning products out there to help attack and prevent mold build-up in your home. I recommend products like Vital Oxide Mold Remover or Allersearch Aller Mold to attack mold areas.   Some of these cleaners control mold and bacteria by oxidizing it instead of bleaching it.

Step 6: Mold test kits  will help you identify a number of molds which contribute to asthma, allergic reactions and respiratory health problems so you'll know where your problem areas are.

Step 7:  Another beneficial mold killer is a UV Sanitizer, to  eliminate more than 99% of all household mold, germs, bacteria, viruses and other allergens.

Step 8: Mold can start to grow within 24-48 hours in mildew-prone areas of your home. The use of a Steam Mop would quickly clean up dirt, stains and grease and kill mold, spores and bacteria.

Are These Harmful "Volatile Organic Compounds" Hiding in Your Home?

If you're into a  healthy lifestyle, you've probably heard the term "volatile organic compounds", or VOCs for short.  Most likely you know then  it's not a good term, but most people don't really know anything else about these contaminants.
VOCs are chemical contaminants that are emitted from solids and liquids. All solids and liquids that include VOCs also include a carbon chain.  Any substance containing carbon is called an "organic".  While some carbon-containing products are relatively stable, or "inert", as it is printed  on the can or jar's label,  others are highly volatile, meaning they can break down into different substances and chemicals pretty easily. VOCs also build up in indoor places, therefore concentration levels in  indoor air quality can be 2 to 5 times as concentrated as compared to outdoors.

There are over 900 of VOCs, and they're present in products like

1) paints, solvents and aerosol sprays
2) air fresheners
3) household cleaners and disinfectants   
4) pesticides
5) nail polish
6) vinyl shower curtains
7) moth repellants
8) fuels and auto products
9) building materials
10) glues and adhesives
11) drycleaning chemicals, and
12) furniture and carpets.          

The EPA estimates that the concentrations of indoor VOCs resulting from paint stripping can reach as high as 1,000 times the concentration of the outdoor levels.  And that is just one product!
While many VOCs have short-term health effects, others can do serious long-term damage. Some VOCs, such as benzene are well-known carcinogens, while others are "suspected" carcinogens.

In the short-term, common health issues include eye, nose and throat irritation, headache, nausea and temporary loss of coordination. The long-term health effects are somewhat scary. VOCs can damage your liver, kidneys and central nervous system.
Common reported  symptoms of VOC exposure also include an allergic skin reaction, shortness of breath, vomiting, nosebleeds and fatigue.


 

"Natural" Air Purifiers...How You can Improve your Indoor Air Quality with Houseplants

In just minutes per day, you can improve the air quality  in your home. According to NASA studies, the following houseplants have been established to remove harmful chemicals from the atmosphere. They thrive in low-light conditions, are easy to grow, and require little care. Visit your local nursery and let's get started clearing harmful chemicals from the air, because small varieties of each plant are often available for just a dollar each! For a home under 2000 square feet, NASA recommends 15 houseplants (one of each).
You'll find the reduced toxins and improved air quality will help your health and well-being very soon.

NASA recommends that you grow these houseplants in at least six-inch containers. They can even be placed in dark corners.

To remove trichloroethylene, which is released by paints, varnishes, adhesives, and inks, try planting:
Gerbera daisy
Bamboo palm (Chamaedorea sefritzii)
Peace lily (Spathiphyllum `Mauna Loa')

To get rid of formaldehyde, which is released by building materials including particle board and foam insulations, cosmetics, fragrances, cleaning solutions, and many, other common household items, try planting:
Red-edged Dracena (dracaena marginata)
Mother-in-law's tongue (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Dracaena warneckei (Dracaena deremensis `Warneckii')
Peace lily (Spathiphyllum `Mauna Loa')
Golden pothos (Epipiremnum aureum)
Green spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Bamboo palm (Chamaedorea sefritzii)

To remove benzene, which is released by oils, solvents and paints, try planting one of each of the following plants:

Gerbera daisies
Chrysanthemums
peace lily (Spathiphyllum `Mauna Loa')
English ivy (Hedera helix)
Bamboo palm (Chamaedorea sefritzii)
Mother-in-law's Tongue or Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

Some suggestions....

          Take your houseplants outside occasionally to "sun". Peace lilies need sun to bloom.
          Some of your friends or neighbors may have extra plants and pots to give you. Spider plants in particular produce lots of "babies".
          Keep your furry pet away from some of these varieties as they may prove toxic.
          Limit your use of non-natural fertilizers and pesticides.
          Pour out excess water. It will attract fungus gnats and mosquitoes. Don't over-water plants...excess moisture will breed mold.

What is the Best Air Purifier "System" for You?

Types of Air Purifier "Systems"

HEPA-Filter Air Purifiers
HEPA filters use a cloth-type filter which will trap 99.9% of particles 0.3 microns or larger in size, and a fan to move air through the machine. HEPA filters can be very effective in clearing out almost any harmful particles from the air in a room. These air purifiers usually have a replaceable filter that can last several years depending on how filthy the air gets in your home. Although people don’t like the noise level of a HEPA purifier, this type of air purifier can usually remove more pollutants than an ionic air purifier.

Advantages: Allergens are captured...and trapped for good.
Disadvantages: Does not eliminate chemical fumes, gases, cigarette smoke, or odors.

Ozone Air Purifiers
Ozone is a highly reactive oxidant that destroys certain bacteria, chemicals, bacteria and chemicals. Although ozone is very effective against strong odors, there is some warning you should keep in mind.

When ozone reacts with substances in the air, the substances are broken down into other materials that are also pollutants. This is where the controversy lies with ozone machines. You can run ozone machines on low, if adjustable, which manufacturers often advise. Nevertheless, if you are clearing a room from smoke or odors, you can run it on high, while keeping people out of the environment altogether. After the cleaning process, turn the machine off and open windows to clear out the ozone.

Advantages: Extremely effective against odors.
Disadvantages: Not effective on allergens and most chemicals.

Carbon Air Purifiers
Activated carbon air filters consist of a system of pores that are tiny in size. These pores are highly "adsorbent", chemically reacting to particles that pass through them and the particles and odors actually bond with the carbon.

This is the most "absorbent" filter on the market today. Therefore, it is extremely effective in capturing certain types of particles. Note that most carbon-activated air purifiers also include HEPA technology, and so, combine the advantages of both types of technology.

Advantages: Highly effective with chemicals, gases, smoke, and odors.
Disadvantages: Not effective with allergens and micro-organisms.

Ionic Air Purifiers
Ionic air purifiers do not have a cloth filter like the HEPA machines. They work by "ionizing" the air, causing particulates to gain a positive or negative charge. Why charge the particles?
The charge is necessary for two reasons. The air ionizer contains collection plates that have an opposite charge from the particles in the air, so the particles are drawn to the collection plates (these are referred to as “capture” ionic purifiers). Plus, the particulates can be attracted to other particles that have an opposite charge. When this happens the two particles with opposite charges wind up sticking together and falling out of the air (these machines simply release ions into the air without capturing them on plates). FYI... many people like ionizers, because they are very quiet compared to most HEPA air purifiers.

Advantages: Can remove extremely fine particles anywhere in a room; even several feet away from the machine.
Disadvantages: Not effective on odors; doesn't kill germs but removes them from household air.

Ultraviolet Light Air Purifiers
Ultraviolet (UV) lamps are known to sterilize micro-organisms that pass through it, including germs, viruses, bacteria, and mold, therefore, microorganisms, after treated with this light, don't reproduce and grow, especially when UV light is used in an ample dosage and a sufficiently long period of time to do its job.

When used in an air purifier, does the UV light have enough time to perform and sterilize correctly while air is moving through it, possibly at a brisk rate of speed? There is an innovative approach that uses UV lamp combined with a HEPA filter, so particles trapped in the filter can be treated with UV light for an effective amount of time.

Advantages: Helps destroy microorganisms that cause disease.
Disadvantages: Not effective on allergens, smoke, odors, or chemicals.

Hydroxyl Air Purifiers
Hydroxyl radicals are powerful cleansing agents that occur naturally in the Earth’s atmosphere. They are created when oxygen atoms pull a hydrogen atom from water vapor, which then form the radical. Hydroxyl radicals are 1,000,000 times faster at destroying pollutants in the air than ozone. They are the most powerful method of neutralizing mold, bacteria, and viruses.

New proprietary technology has combined hydroxyl radical technology with ultra-violet light and negative ions, resulting in an air purifying system that neutralizes every category of pollutant in your home, including odors, without the need for filters!

Advantages: Removes every category of pollutants when combined with negative ions and UV light technologies. No filter needed; inexpensive.
Disadvantages: Only available from one manufacturer.

There are some very good air cleaners by  Honeywell,  Austin,  Airgle,  Alen, Hunter,  IQAir,  Blueair,  Electrolux,  3M, and WhirlPool, but you must understand the technical differences among these purifiers and take an inventory of your home's indoor air quality before you can find one that's right for you.

Air Purifiers, Ozone Emissions... and Outgassing

Ozone emission, which can be toxic in great amounts, is not desirable, regardless of whether you have allergies, asthma, or a multitude of  chemical sensitivities.  However, the effects are usually worse for people afflicted with these conditions.  To start off, ozone is an irritant to the respiratory system.  It becomes progressively irritating as concentration levels increase. Unfortunately, most manufacturers do not monitor the ozone levels. 

"Out-gassing", which can occur from the silicone used for the gaskets and glues used to attach the filter media to the housing, can out-gas and cause a reaction, especially for people with multiple chemical sensitivities.  If you belong in this class, you should look for an air purifier where the pre-filter and Hepa filter come before the gas filter in the housing, so any out-gassing that could otherwise occur, will be removed by the activated carbon.  Remember also that it is best that there be some type of filter after the carbon gas filter, to remove any carbon particles that may fall off as the air passes through it.

A good air cleaner for those with multiple chemical sensitivities is the IQ Air HealthPro series or the Allerair series.

Top 10 Air Purifier Questions

1. Do I really need an air purifier in my home?

It depends on several factors, including your own level of comfort and your home's indoor air quality.  There are several factors to take into consideration.

First of all, realize that indoor air quality is often worse than outdoor air quality.  In fact, for many people, indoor allergens and irritants, such as dust, smoke and pet dander, may be two to five times as bad in their homes as outdoors.

Second, several indicators will help you decide, if you will benefit from an air purifier in your home.  Top reasons to get an air purifier include:

    * Allergy symptoms such as itchy, watery eyes and runny nose
    * Mold or mildew in your home
    * Itchy, dry skin or frequent skin rashes
    * Being or living with a smoker
    * Asthma or other breathing problems
    * Owning indoor pets 


2. Do all Air Cleaners Remove the Same Kinds of Contaminants from the Air?

No. Even though every type of air purifier cleans certain particulates from the air, there are differences in what and how they clean. Some purifiers remove dust and particulates, such as pet dander and smoke very effectively, while others will actually eliminate bacteria, viruses and molds and mildew. But very few will do all of these things.  In my opinion, the IQ Air HealthPro Series of air purifiers come closest to meeting all these requests from an air purifier.
 
3. What Size Air Purifier do I Need for My Home?

Most air purifiers are designed for individual room use rather than for the whole home.  Unless you have an air purifier or air filtration system that has been installed on your heating or air conditioning unit, you should get separate units for each room or living space.

You need separate units for each room is because effectiveness is affected by air flow, and walls mean no air circulation.  Each room will need its own unit.

To determine what size you need, look for the CADR number.  This number indicates the Clean Air Delivery Rate, which should always equal at least 2/3 the total square footage of the room you will be using the air purifier in.  For example, a 10' X 12' room has 120' square feet, and needs a purifier with a CADR number of at least 80.


4. What Ozone level is Safe for Indoors?

Ozone is a tasteless, colorless gas, found in the upper atmosphere and is naturally produced by thunderstorms during electric discharge.

It is perfectly safe indoors, if kept at acceptable levels (between .02 and .05 parts per million).  This is just like many other type of naturally occurring gasses that aren't harmful to us at certain levels.  Ozone air purifiers have been developed to produce the correct amount of ozone to purify the air without reaching harmful levels.

5. How frequently do  I need to Change or Clean the Filter in my Air Purifier?

Depending on the area of the room and what type and size of air purifier you have, that will tell you how often cleaning and replacement is needed.  Some will need to be changed or cleaned monthly, others more often.

It is very important to check your filter regularly and follow the recommended schedule the manufacturer suggests, since the efficiency of the air purifier relies on proper maintenance.

6. What is a Micron?

A micron is a measurement of the size of a particulate in the air.  One micron is 1/25,400 inch (roughly 100 times smaller than a single strand of hair).  Obviously, a micron is far too small to be seen.  For the purpose of choosing an air purifier, most types are considered very efficient if they can filter airborne pollutants to .3 microns.

7. How Much should I Expect to Pay for an Air Purifier?

This is difficult to determine.  Price doesn't always guarantee quality.  I'm sure you'll be willing to spend enough to get a high-quality product, however,  protect your investment, by making sure your air purifier comes with a warranty.  When buying an air purifier, also take into account the cost of any replacement filters and the electricity to run the unit.

8. How Much Noise Will the Air Purifier Make?

An air purifier with a fan in it will have some noise.  HEPA filters, for instance, have fans to pull the air through the filter itself, although improved casings and quieter fans have been developed for noise abatement.

Ionic and ozone air purifiers don't usually have a fan, because they use an electrostatic charge or ozone, so they are completely silent.  If they combine their technology with a filtration system or a fan to boost air circulation over the plates, there will be some noise, but this will be minimal, and these fans may be shut off when you wish.  In general, the noise level of even an air purifier with a fan is low enough that it isn't intrusive.  You'll be surprised in the fact that you will get used to the "noise", just as I did.


9. Where do I Place the Air Purifier?

The rooms you use the most, or any area where pollutants linger, are the most important rooms for air purifier use.  Your living area, such as a family room or den, should have an air cleaner, especially if you have allergies or pets that are in the room daily, or if you have smokers in your family.

Bedrooms are also a good idea, since allergies and irritants can disturb your sleep. Clean, fresh air has been proven to produce more restful sleep and reduce night breathing problems.

Also, consider getting an air purifier in the bathroom, where odors, mold and mildew are prone to linger.  An air cleaner in the bathroom can  make it fresher and more pleasant, and also reduce the amount of mold and mildew in the air, so that your bathroom will be less of a breeding ground for germs.

10. Where Do I Position the Air Purifier?

It is most important to position it near the most traffic flow or activity in order to get plenty of air circulation around the air filter.  This will increase the air exchange rate and make the air cleaning more efficient.

With a HEPA filter, it is best to position  it near an open area, to ensure air movement all around.  For an ozone air purifier, try to position the air purifier higher, rather than lower, since ozone molecules are heavier than oxygen and will tend to drift downward.  The same planning goes for ionic air purifiers, which release charged particles into the air.

If your air purifier unit is easily portable and you have a heavy smoker in the room, move the air purifier a bit closer to him, if possible and acceptable. Occasionally, you may also want to move the air purifier to a specific room, when a particular odor needs to be banished as soon as possible.
 

Basic Tips and Advice on Choosing Air Filters

Most people do not really understand what is in the air they are breathing. They don't realize that air they breathe, has particles that contain mold, mildew, pet dander, microscopic plastic particles and many more pollutants. Combine all those air contaminants and you can see that all of these particles can be harmful to your health. But, how do you reduce or get rid of them...safely?

By using an air purifier filter in your air purifier, you can capture as much as 99% of the particles in the air that are related to health issues. This is the main cause, airborne pollutants, that are causing you or a family member, a host of health problems. Most people do not realize how simple it is to remove these contaminants. By using good ventilation methods and by purchasing an air purifier that uses a high quality air purifier filter, you can breathe easier in your home.

In the world of air purifier filters, the HEPA filter is tops. The HEPA purifier filter removes the most pollutants, up to 99.97%. This means that your air is much cleaner than ever before, simply by using a good quality air purifier filter. HEPA air purifier filters are also capable of removing cigarette smoke, which helps remove the odors that many non-smokers dislike.

Some air purifier filters are more expensive, depending upon the quality of the filter. For example, HEPA filters are always more expensive. Nevertheless, these air purifier filters are of a much higher quality than other standard air purifier filters, which makes them worth the additional cost. When it comes to your family's health, it is a good idea to find the best filters possible for your air purifier.

When looking for the perfect air purifier for your home, look online for your selected machine. Change them as scheduled by the manufacturer or as needed in order to ensure your air purifier works at full capacity. When working properly, the air purifier will help ensure the air quality for your family is the best possible. Never compromise when trying to ensure the health of your family.

What "System" of Air Purification is Right For Me?

Choosing the right air purification system can be challenging.  Here are a few suggestions to start you off:

Since they are more affordable and just as effective as larger units, "portable" home air filtration systems...a.k.a. air purifiers, are the most widely sold variety.  This type of home filtration system is generally of equal or better quality than a "built-in unit", since it "concentrates" on one area at a time.  However, it cannot filter air throughout an entire home, such as a built-in unit.  If you plan to use a portable air purification system, you may need more than one unit – such as for one, or a couple of rooms, placing them especially where you may have the most severe indoor air pollutant sources.  Portable units are light enough, to move from one place to another, as you move about your home.

Ion air purifiers, when used in conjunction with filters, are also a popular home air filtration system choice. These filters emit negative ions into the air, which neutralize pollutants and allergens.  Ion air purifiers may be more costly than traditional filter varieties, although they are generally more effective at destroying microorganisms than other types of air purifiers.

If someone in your family suffers from asthma or another chronic lung condition, you must be aware of how much, if any, ozone your air sterilization system emits. When inhaled, ozone can aggravate the lungs and cause chest pain, coughing, shortness of breath and throat irritation. Ozone may also worsen chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma and compromise the body’s ability to fight respiratory infections.  If you need the power of an ion generator, be sure to select one with additional filters when making your purchase.

In order to rid all of the toxic pollutants from your home quickly and safely, you should set the machine you have to work at full power, while you are away from your home. If it has an extra feature, such as a timer, set it for a couple of hours with an automatic shut off. This will allow the air sterilization system to work without interference.  Even removing the smallest portion of the toxic organisms and bacteria from your home can benefit your health.  Odors will start to dissipate quickly and you will be able to breathe easier.  Sterilization is a good way to stay healthy by avoiding illnesses.

Where Should You Place the Air Purifiers?
Every area of your home has different contaminants.  Your kitchen, for example, has lingering odors that are not harmful. Meanwhile, in a bathroom, you have aerosols and various offensive odors.  You've got a lot of chemical impurities in the garage, while damp basements can harbor mold growth. Carpet is the one contaminant source related with many allergies and other problems,since it harbors irritants.

Notice how open your house is. Obviously, air needs to move throughout your home and exchanged with fresher outdoor air.  But remember, opening windows and doors will also bring in outdoor pollutants.  Generally, one unit will do the job in a one-level  home.  However, if you live with a smoker or in a multilevel home, you may need two or three units.

Carpet Drying After Mold Remediation

Wet carpeting is an ideal mold breeding ground if it is not dried immediately. Carpeting can dry quickly if you have a low relative humidity air around it. If the surrounding air has high relative humidity, it won't dry. In as little as 24 to 48 hours, mold spores become active.
According to the EPA, "The key to mold control is moisture control." Any wet-process carpet cleaning will always leave enough moisture in the carpet to grow mold. An effective drying process is necessary.

Effective drying can be accomplished with several methods:
One method is by "natural" drying. If the outside air is warm and dry, open the windows. Moisture equalizes quite readily.
A second method is by adding heat. If the outside air is cold (below 50F), ventilating and heating the air quickly will dry the carpet.
By properly using the air conditioning unit...I the weather is hot, the A/C unit cools the air and removes some water. When the A/C shuts off (because the temperature is satisfied), an increase in heat must trigger the A/C to operate again. If the A/C unit is constantly providing low RH to the space, the carpet will dry.  But..beware... improper use of the A/C, can create ideal conditions for mold growth!
A last resort and a sure-fire method to work  is by using a de-humidifier to provide the dry air necessary to guarantee carpet drying .
In each case, use fans to speed up the drying process.
Simply lowering the thermostat to make the A/C operate, can actually create condensation and increase moisture. For example, if the dew point of the outdoor air is 70°F, cooling surfaces below 70°F will cause condensation. To avoid this problem of "over cooling", an A/C unit requires 'reheat."

Removing Mold From Carpeting

Whenever working with mold and mildew, you should always wear protective gear. Don't touch mold or moldy items with your bare hands. Always wear gloves that cover up to the middle of your forearm. Non-ventilated goggles, are a must to keep mold and mold spores from getting into your eyes.


The first step in cleaning up moldy areas is to find the source of excess moisture and water. Look for any roof or plumbing leaks or flood damage that still needs repair. Check the air ducts in your home for mold as heating/ventilation/air conditioning systems can spread mold throughout the rest of your home. Complete this step first.


Next, determine if the area of mold growth is small enough that you can remediate it yourself or if you should hire a mold remediator. If the area of mold growth is more than 1 to 10 square feet, you should definitely hire a pro. When looking for a specialist in carpet and rug cleaning, make sure that they specialize in dealing with mold problems.


The final step, is to begin the cleaning process. A very small area on a carpet can be cleaned with a simple solution of detergent and water in a steam-cleaning machine. Wet the surface and suck up the water, repeat until the water starts coming out clear. If detergent and water doesn’t work try some Molderizer or some other organic mold cleaner.


Another method to try is quite a bit more extensive. You can use a sanitizing agent such as hypochlorite, or household bleach. The solution is made with 1 cup bleach to 1 gallon of water. This solution can be used on hard surfaces as well as carpets and rugs. To be effective the solution must remain on the surface for 15 minutes. For indoor or outdoor carpeting and rugs you must remove them from the home and place them on a flat area outside. Hose both sides thoroughly to remove dirt and soil. Dump several buckets of the bleach solution on each side and scrub with a broom. A better solution would be repeatedly scrubbing the carpeting with Borax laundry detergent [a natural mold cleaner] mixed into warm water. You need to scrub both sides of carpeting and padding in the mold-growth areas. Rinse well, and remove as much water as possible with a wet/dry vacuum. Allow the carpet to dry thoroughly.


Always dry the area completely by opening all windows, using a heater, fan, or dehumidifier. This is very important, or the mold will just grow back. Remember to check for colorfastness in an inconspicuous area 24 hours before doing a complete carpet cleaning.


It is a good idea to know what kind of flooring is under your carpet. If it is something that will be ruined by wetting the floor, even for a short time, you might want to reconsider or be very careful not to use very much water.


Materials, such as carpets and rugs, may have to be thrown away if they become too moldy. Mold grows in the spaces and crevices of porous materials and can keep growing back. It may be difficult, if not impossible to remove. Replacing carpet may be the only way that you can guarantee that mold will not still grow in the area.

Minimize Health-Related Risks from Carpets

Recently, many consumers have associated a variety of health symptoms with the installation of new carpeting. Scientists have not been able to determine whether the chemicals emitted by new carpets are responsible. If you are installing new carpeting, you may wish to take the following steps:


1) Talk to your carpet retailer. Ask for information on emissions from carpet.

2) Ask the retailer to unroll and air out the carpet in a well-ventilated area before installation.

3) Ask for low-emitting adhesives if adhesives are needed.

4) Consider leaving the premises during and immediately after carpet installation. You may wish to schedule the installation when most family
are away from home.

5) Be sure the retailer requires the installer to follow the Carpet and Rug Institute's installation guidelines.

6) Open doors and windows. Increasing the amount of fresh air in the home will reduce exposure to most chemicals released from carpet. During
and after installation, use window fans, room air conditioners, or other mechanical ventilation equipment you may have installed in your
house, to exhaust fumes to the outdoors. Keep them running for 48 to 72 hours after the new carpet is installed.

7) Contact your carpet retailer if objectionable odors persist.

8) Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper carpet maintenance.

Simple Household Tips for Odor Removal

Add an appealing freshness to your home by following these handy hints on how to eliminate polluted indoor odors.
No matter how attractive your home may look, the whole effect is ruined if there are unpleasant lingering smells. Luckily, most normal household smells are easy to detect and simple to deal with or can be avoided altogether by a regular cleaning routine. Keeping rooms well ventilated by opening doors and windows also addss to freshening a "smelly" home. Add an air cleaner and you are well on your way.

In the kitchen:
Offensive or persistent odors associated with the preparation and storage of food occurs regularly in the kitchen, but there is usually a simple remedy at hand. Remove lingering smells from a refrigerator by washing the inside with a solution of 2 teaspoons of bicarbonate of soda dissolved in 2 pints (1 liter) of warm water. Use a piece of crumpled newspaper in the refrigerator to help absorb smells, as do charcoal-based 'fridge fresheners' which are now widely available from supermarkets.


Keep sink drains clean and fresh smelling by regularly throwing in a handful of baking soda and washing it thoroughly with boiling water.
Deodorize a microwave oven by wiping the inside with lemon juice, or add a few drops of lemon juice to a bowl of hot water and bring it to the boil - the steam banishes smells.


In the bathroom:
Keeping the toilet scrupulously clean cuts down the risk of unpleasant smells. Thoroughly scrub the inside of the bowl every day using a proprietary cleaner and a toilet brush. If the surface glaze of the bowl is in good condition, use bleach to remove smells and stains, but never mix bleach with other cleaners as the resulting gases could be toxic or explosive. If there are small children in the house watch out for evidence of 'accidents' or poor aim - a urine-soaked carpet becomes a problem if not treated immediately. Use an old toothbrush or bottle-cleaning brush to get rid of any offensive deposits in the bath or basin overflow.

Lack of Humidity ...and Respiratory Ailments

Lack of humidity in a home may be a major of various respiratory ailments. Fortunately, there is a method to improve the humidity levels within your home that will help reduce ailments related to dry respiratory membranes.
It is recommended that a home's humidity level should be between 30 and 50 percent. However, during extremely cold weather, a home loses humidity to the outside and the level can drop to as low as 10 percent. When humidity levels fall, it is ideal to have a humidifier on hand to make sure that the correct level of moisture is present in the air.
Controlling the amount of moisture in the air is needed for your family's health. when you don't have enough dampness in the air, it can cause dryness in the membranes of the nose, throat and bronchial tubes and may become the source of various health-related problems. Respiratory infections and repetitious attacks of winter colds could be the result of not enough humidity during the cold winter months. Relative humidity also has a tremendous effect on controlling the occurrence of airborne infections.
In addition to the health benefits, you need a humidifier to keep room environments comfortable. Whole-house humidifiers work like old-fashioned room humidifiers. They put moisture into the air, making harsh, dry air easier to breathe. Water mist instead of hot steam is used, keeping the entire home at the comfortable humidity level. A humidifier uses from 1.5 to 12 gallons of water per day, which is just enough to elevate the humidity to the comfort level but not enough to make a difference on your water bill. Because a humidifier is installed in the duct work, there's no need to tote one from room to room.
Many factors should be considered when selecting a humidifier. Size is important. A humidifier's capacity, the amount of moisture it can dispense, should match your family's needs. The capacity is measured in gallons per day of operation. Consider not only the purchase price of the unit, but also the operating and maintenance costs. Several models are less efficient than others, so choosing a model that is right for your home and budget is extremely important. Remember, regular maintenance is needed to keep your humidifier in top working condition.
Installing a humidifier is an easy job when also replacing a furnace. But a humidifier can also be fitted to a current system with minimal labor since it is installed in the duct work.

Pet Dander....One Source of Indoor Air Pollution

Pet Dander is one of those microscopic particles found in many homes that can cause allergic reactions and trigger asthma.


Pet dander is not animal hair. Rather, it is the tiny bits of skin flakes skin produced by every animal. Many people think they are allergic to cat or dog hair, but most are allergic to dander. Some people are severely allergic to pet dander, while others have less severe reactions.


Pet dander is found anywhere pets are found. All animals shed hair and skin and leave traces of it behind wherever they wander. Dander is often so tiny that it can become airborne and reach the tops of surfaces that pets never visit, so just because your pet does not sit on the couch, doesn't mean that dander can't be found on the couch. Pet dander can also stick to people’s hair, skin, and clothing that come in contact with animals, their bedding, or places animals have been. Dander has been called the "community" allergen, as it is passed along from person to person from their clothing.

What are "Biological" Pollutants...and Where do They Come From?

Biological Pollutants

Biological pollutants include bacteria, molds, mildew, viruses, animal dander and cat saliva, house dust, mites, cockroaches, and pollen . There are many sources of these pollutants. Pollens originate from plants. Viruses are passed on by people and animals and bacteria are carried by people, animals, and soil and plant debris. Household pets are sources of saliva and animal dander. The protein in urine from rats and mice is a potent allergen. When it dries, it can become airborne. Contaminated central air conditioning systems (HVAC) can become breeding grounds for mold, mildew, and other sources of biological contaminants and can then distribute these contaminants through the home.
By controlling the relative humidity level in a home, the growth of some sources of biological pollutants can be minimized. A relative humidity of 30-50 percent is generally recommended for homes. Standing water, water-damaged materials, or wet surfaces also serve as a breeding ground for molds, mildews, bacteria, and insects. House dust mites, the source of one of the most powerful biological allergens, grow in damp, warm environments.
Biological Pollutants...Sources
Common biological contaminants include mold, dust mites, pet dander (skin flakes), droppings and body parts from cockroaches, rodents and other pests or insects, viruses, and bacteria. Many of these biological contaminants are small enough to be inhaled.
Biological contaminants are, or are produced by, living things. Biological contaminants are often found in areas that provide food and moisture or water. For example, damp or wet areas such as cooling coils, humidifiers, condensate pans, or unvented bathrooms can be moldy. Draperies, bedding, carpet, and other areas where dust collects may accumulate biological contaminants.

Should You Use Bleach to Clean up Mold?

1. The key to mold control is moisture control.
2. Scrub mold off hard surfaces with detergent and water, and dry completely.
3. Fix plumbing leaks and other water problems as soon as possible. Dry all items completely.
4. Absorbent or porous materials, such as ceiling tiles and carpet, may have to be thrown away if they become moldy. Mold can grow on or fill in the empty spaces and crevices of porous materials, so the mold may be difficult or impossible to remove completely.


5. Avoid exposing yourself or others to mold


6. Do not paint or caulk moldy surfaces. Clean up the mold and dry the surfaces before painting. Paint applied over moldy surfaces is likely to peel.


7. If you are unsure about how to clean an item, or if the item is expensive or of sentimental value, you may wish to consult a specialist. Specialists in furniture repair, restoration, painting, art restoration and conservation, carpet and rug cleaning, water damage, and fire or water restoration are commonly listed in phone books. Be sure to ask for and check references. Look for specialists who are affiliated with professional organizations.


Should I use bleach?


Biocides are substances that can destroy living organisms. The use of a chemical or biocide that kills organisms such as mold (chlorine bleach, for example) is not recommended as a routine practice during mold cleanup. There may be instances, however, when professional judgment may indicate its use (for example, when immune-compromised individuals are present). In most cases, it is not possible or desirable to sterilize an area; a background level of mold spores will remain - these spores will not grow if the moisture problem has been resolved. If you choose to use disinfectants or biocides, always ventilate the area and exhaust the air to the outdoors. Never mix chlorine bleach solution with other cleaning solutions or detergents that contain ammonia because toxic fumes could be produced.


Please note: Dead mold may still cause allergic reactions in some people, so it is not enough to simply kill the mold, it must also be removed.


For more information on mold, see our website at www.epa.gov/mold


Source: Environmental Protection Agency

Lead: Facts and Health Concerns

Facts about Lead
FACT: Lead exposure can harm young children and babies even before they are born.
FACT: Even children who seem healthy can have high levels of lead in their bodies.
FACT: You can get lead in your body by breathing or swallowing lead dust, or by eating soil or paint chips containing lead.
FACT: You have many options for reducing lead hazards. In most cases, lead-based paint that is in good condition is not a hazard.
FACT: Removing lead-based paint improperly can increase the danger to your family.

If you think your home might have lead hazards, read on to learn about lead and some simple steps to protect your family.  All About Lead

Health effects of lead
Childhood lead poisoning remains a major environmental health problem in the United States.
* People can get lead in their body if they:
o Put their hands or other objects covered with lead dust in their mouths.
o Eat paint chips or soil that contains lead.
o Breathe in lead dust, especially during renovations that disturb painted surfaces.

* Lead is more dangerous to children because:
o Babies and young children often put their hands and other objects in their mouths. These objects can have lead dust on them.
o Children's growing bodies absorb more lead.
o Children's brains and nervous systems are more sensitive to the damaging effects of lead.

* If not detected early, children with high levels of lead in their bodies can suffer from:
o Damage to the brain and nervous system
o Behavior and learning problems, such as hyperactivity
o Slowed growth
o Hearing problems
o Headaches

* Lead is also harmful to adults. Adults can suffer from:
o Reproductive problems (in both men and women)
o High blood pressure and hypertension
o Nerve disorders
o Memory and concentration problems
o Muscle and joint pain

Source: EPA

Is Exposure to Mold Dangerous?

Besides causing structural damage to your home, molds can also adversely affect your health. You can be exposed to mold by touching moldy materials, eating infected foods, and breathing in microscopic mold spores in the air. You can inhale millions of  spores within a couple of minutes without even knowing it. Mold allergy symptoms may include skin rash, runny nose, irritated eyes, cough, congestion, and aggravation of asthma.


According to a 2005 study, exposure to mold in damp homes can double the risk of asthma development in children. A 1999 Mayo Clinic study found that allergic fungal sinusitis (AFS) was diagnosed in 93% of cases of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), a condition that affects an estimated 37 million Americans.


Most health problems caused by molds are related to allergic reactions. Nevertheless, molds can also infect your body, colonize and grow in asthmatic mucus within your lungs. the result is a serious lung disease similar to pneumonia. People with chronic lung diseases and weakened immune systems are more prone to fungal pulmonary infections.


Which kinds of mold are allergenic?


Not all molds are allergenic. Just like pollen, certain mold spores are allergenic because they are small enough to float in the air and elude the defense mechanisms of your respiratory system. The most common allergenic, indoor molds include Alternaria, Aspergillus, Chaetomium, Cladosporium, Fusarium, Mucor, Penicillium, and Stachybotrys.

What is Mold...and Where does it Grow?

What is mold?

Molds are microscopic fungi, related to mushrooms, yeast, and mildew—and they can be found everywhere. Fungi use enzymes to digest food and reproductive cells called spores to reproduce. Molds play a vital part in the decomposition of leaves, wood, and other dead plant matter. Mold is used in the making of bleu cheese, and mold is the start-up source of penicillin, one of the earliest and most widely used naturally-occurring antibiotics. Unfortunately, mold is also one of the most common allergens on earth.

Where does mold grow?

Mold spores need moisture to grow. Molds can grow on wood, ceilings, wallpaper, paint, carpet, sheet rock, and insulation, and these fungi use their powerful enzymes to dissolve home materials just like they dissolve decaying plant matter. An area with high humidity sets the onset for extreme mold growth and thereby poses a risk to your health. Kitchens, bathrooms, garages, basements, and crawlspaces are notorious for mold growth. If any part of your home has experienced water damage, then you'll certainly will find mold there. The EPA estimates that one-third to one-half of all U.S. buildings have environments damp enough for the growing of mold. Although indoor humidity is normally lower in the winter time, indoor mold allergy may be more dominant during the winter in some homes due to tight, energy-efficient seals. Molds grow everywhere outdoors as well, and depending on their location, many people suffer from seasonal mold allergies.

Does Indoor Air Quality Affect Your Health?

The relationship of indoor air quality and health have  been the subject of much attention.  Although serious health-related problems are possible,  there is a common perception that poor indoor air causes poor health.  But, most people are unaware that the causes and possible effects are not always completely understood.

Indoor air quality is good when it is odor and dust free, has adequate air movement and has a comfortable temperature and humidity. When indoor air quality (IAQ) is poor, most health-related complaints may mimic cold or flu-like symptoms such as headaches, sinus problems, nausea, fatigue or irritation of the eyes, nose or throat.
Potential sources of contaminants in office buildings include cleaning supplies, pesticides, new building materials, furnishings, dusts, cosmetics, molds, mildew and human by-products such as carbon dioxide, dander, perspiration and food or  garbage not disposed of in an appropriate and frequent manner. Almost all of these are present in a building environment to some degree and only become magnified when concentrations become excessive.
Poor indoor air quality often occurs when ventilation is inadequate to keep contaminant concentrations at acceptable levels.  The heating, ventilation, and air condition system should not only control contaminants, but must also provide a comfortable environment. The perception of unmoving or stale air, odor, draftiness or exorbitant temperature and humidity can lead to discomfort and the beginning of an indoor air quality complaint.

Indoor Air Quality... an Asthma Epidemic?

Asthma cases have more than doubled since 1976. One in 9 children have asthma.  Death rates due to asthma have tripled, increased five-fold in kids ages 5-9.  Doctor visits related to asthma are continuing to increase at an alarming rate. 
 
Horrible...alarming news...despite all the advances in medicine! Even though there have been gigantic advances in asthma medications, you still need to be aware of the various side effects.
You may ask yourself if indoor air allergens and contaminants are the main causes.  These health changes (for the worse) in the population's defense to asthma, cannot be a result of genetic or bodily causes. Your genetic composition could never change so quickly.

Therefore, it must be the environment in which you live that must have changed for the worse. There is plenty of evidence that tells us it has. In fact, it is airborne pollutants and elements that generally cause asthma attacks and other respiratory problems.
Most people believe it is the air outdoors that presents us, especially those with allergy or asthma sensitivities with the greatest risk. Yet, it is actually the air inside our homes, schools, and other buildings that is most harmful.


Indoor air is much more harmful than outdoor air and verifiable facts prove it. According to the American College of Allergies, 50% of all illness is aggravated or caused by polluted indoor air. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) themselves declare that indoor air is anywhere from 2 to 10 times more hazardous than outdoor air.   The EPA also warns us that the indoor air quality epidemic is the nation's number one environmental health problem.
Today's homes and buildings are built air-tight, with energy-efficiency in mind, as a result of the energy crisis of the 1970s. Their air-tight construction keep airborne pollutants trapped inside, and nature's air-cleansing agents outside. Is it any wonder that statistics for asthma problems began rising sharply around the same time that homes and buildings began to be built this way?   In fact, a recent study found that the allergen level in super-insulated homes is 200% higher than it is in ordinary homes.   According to Scientific America, a baby crawling on the floor inhales the equivalent of 4 cigarettes a day, as a result of the outgassing of carpets, molds, mildews, fungi, and dust mites.


Most people spend well over 90% of their time inside. Therefore, indoor air is going to impact your health far more than outdoor air. 
Still believe you are not affected by the indoor air quality epidemic?   Virtually everyone is affected, especially asthmatics and others who are particularly sensitive to allergens and contaminants in the air. No home or building is immune to the indoor air quality epidemic.


According to the EPA, 6 out of 10 homes and buildings are "sick", meaning they are hazardous to your health to occupy as a result of airborne pollutants.   Even the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) very own headquarters, constructed a few years ago, was determined to be "sick". Many EPA employees could not work inside the building without becoming sick. If the headquarters of the EPA can fall victim to the indoor air quality epidemic, the very government agency that is charged with finding solutions to this problem, then any home or building can be afflicted.   In fact, every home and building is affected by the indoor air quality epidemic to various degrees, regardless of how clean it may seem. Every home is filled with prime sources that contribute to mass quantities of airborne allergens and contaminants.
For example, even though your home looks really clean, you should question yourself how it got to be this way. Did you use toxic aerosols, floor and/or furniture polish, bleach, ammonia, bathroom cleaners, etc.? If so, be advised that these products emit harmful chemical vapors into the air.
The Sick Building Syndrome

Most homes or buildings are carpeted, painted, with chemically-treated furnishings. there is dust, insects, moist or damp stuff, food, and people. People? Yes, humans shed more than just about any other animal, but our skin flakes are small enough to float in the air, and are consequently inhaled by anyone who enters a populated room.
For a graphic example, picture a floating ray of sunshine, coming through your window. About 80% of what you see floating in this ray of sunshine is dead human skin!  There are additional sources of airborne pollutants that you may bring indoors, such as cigarette smoke and pet dander. Even if you eliminate or prohibit a certain source of indoor air pollution from your home, such as pets, you may still be affected.
To cite an example... a recent study conducted in Philadelphia tested a random sample of homes for the number one allergy trigger: cat dander. Out of all the homes tested, 100% were found to contain cat dander, despite the fact that many of these homes did not have a cat.