WICHITA, Kan., May 16, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- Allergy season is year-round for millions of people, due in part to our modern energy-efficient homes. Snug homes trap allergens and pollutants, making many sneeze and wheeze whatever the season.
The good news is you can feel better with an indoor air purifier. The market is full of choices, but if you do your homework, you can find the right one for you.
Tips for choosing an indoor air purifier
1. Avoid ozone.
The Environmental Production Agency and the American Lung Association advise against ozone air cleaning devices for the home, particularly if children or elderly people are present. Ozone may damage lungs when inhaled and can worsen chronic respiratory diseases, such as asthma or emphysema.
The American Lung Association says an air purifier's effectiveness depends on the unit's efficiency and the amount of air drawn through it. Check on what types of pollutants -- and the percentage -- it captures. Look for a device that can circulate air many times an hour. For example, in a 20-by-20-by 8-foot room the Purifan Clean Air System circulates air 40 times an hour. It mounts on a standard ceiling fan, replacing the blades. It is powered by the fan's motor.
That has made a big difference for Nancy Myers, Williston, Vt. "After years of suffering from allergies, I now sleep through the night without itching and wheezing," says Myers.
In addition to air circulation, be sure to consider these other factors regarding indoor air purifiers:
-- For what room size is it recommended?
-- Can it move air from hard-to-reach places?
-- Is it intended only for a specific problem, such as for
removing pollen or smoke?
-- Can it adapt to your family's changing needs?
3. Consider more than the initial cost.
Low purchase price doesn't always mean cost efficiency. Consider ongoing costs. Some air purifiers can run up energy bills or require frequent filter changes. Ask about averages -- average energy bill increase, average number of replacement filters, etc. Think in terms of annual costs.
4. Will the air purifier create another problem?
Many air purifiers require loud motors to draw air through filters. Noise can be a problem if the air purifier is intended for a bedroom or a family room.
Gene Kellam, Savannah, Ga., learned this the hard way. "Other air purifiers we've tried sounded like 'bug zappers,'" says Kellam, who recently installed Purifans (www.purifan.com) to clean his home.
Also, think about how the unit fits in with the room. Do you have the right space for a floor model to work properly? Do you have counter or shelf space for a smaller unit?
5. Check out the company.
Many air purifiers are guaranteed for only a year or two. Be sure to ask about the warranty's length and what it includes. Also, request a list of customers -- and call to check out how the product works in a variety of settings.
Mike Bundy, who distributes Purifan in central and south central Illinois and parts of St. Louis, built his business on customer referrals. "My customers are one of the best ways I educate others about Purifan," says Bundy.
About Purifan
The Purifan Clean Air System circulates more than 2,000 cubic feet of air every minute. The air is cleaned through a five-stage filtering system. It quietly runs on the equivalent of a 60-watt light bulb and is easy to maintain. Purifan is "at work" today in homes, schools, bars, nursing homes, hospitals and many other places across the country. It is available through more than 50 distributors nationwide, or by calling 1-800-686 -6132. Purifan is headquartered in Wichita, Kan.