air cleaners

I was trying to respond to the post about the Sharper Image air cleaners but can't for some reason, so I hope you read this info.

The main goal in using a portable air cleaner is to reduce the number of particulates/allergens in the air. Thus one equipped with a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter. Some portable units also have additional filters, such as carbon filters, which will help absorb VOCs (volatile organic compounds).

Most ionizers produce ozone. While ozone can be useful for odor removal (smoke damage, etc.) in certain situations, it should never be used in an OCCUPIED space, as ozone is a known lung irritant.

Also make sure you buy a unit that is correctly sized for the space.

The EPA has a good document on ozone generators that are sold as air cleaners: http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/ozonegen.html

Also see: www.cadr.org to research air cleaners.