Spring has sprung, bringing along with it a whole host of seasonal allergies. These are not the only allergens in the air, however, as many can be found throughout the year, especially inside. Knowing prevention techniques and exercising symptom management are great first steps, but if nothing seems to help then perhaps it is time to investigate purchasing air filters for allergies.
A good place to start is the Asthma and Allergy Foundation’s website. There you’ll find tips and even a checklist that offers methods in combatting those allergies, even some that aren’t obvious. One such tip is to not use humidifiers unless directed to do so by a physician, following your doctor’s directions carefully. This often seems counterintuitive, as humidifiers would seem to alleviate congestion. In fact, adding moisture to the air can sometimes increase the presence of certain allergens, particularly dust mites and mold.
Once you have gone through the checklist, if you or one of your family members are still experiencing allergy symptoms, it might be time to purchase that air filter. It is necessary to do a significant amount of research first. You must learn what kinds of air filters are available. There are five types on the market: the mechanical filter, the electronic filter, the hybrid filter, the gas phase filter, and the ozone filter.
Each filter uses its own mechanism for achieving its purpose, some of which are not recommended by either the EPA or the American Lung Association. Perhaps the most widely known filter is the High Efficiency Particulate Absorbing design, better known as HEPA. These filters drive air through special screens designed to capture airborne allergens such as pet dander, dust mites and pollen. HEPA filters don’t stop there, however, and are also effective at removing cigarette smoke and other irritants from the air you breathe. In order to earn the HEPA designation, mechanical filters must capture 90% of all particles greater than 0.3 microns (0.003 millimeters) in size.
Electronic filters capture irritants and allergens using an electric charge. Another design, hybrids, use both mechanical and electronic mechanisms to cleanse the air you breathe of harmful particles.
Gas phase filters aren’t designed to trap allergens. Instead, this design helps alleviate asthma symptoms. Gas phase filters free the air of odors and other contaminants that are not particles. For instance, cooking gas, paints and perfumes can all be scrubbed from the air by gas phase filtration.
You might have heard of ozone generators from friends or from advertisements, but they are not good for homes with allergy sufferers. There is no evidence that adding ozone will remove air pollutants. In fact, high levels of ozone can be hazardous to those with asthma.
The next step after purchasing the best filter for you is choosing where to install it. Logically, filters are most effective in areas where you spend the most time, which for many is the bedroom. Secondary choices include living rooms and other common areas, where many family members will gather and can benefit from the filters. For extreme cases where individual units aren’t enough, systems can be installed in your house’s ventilation system and can cover the entire area.
