Air Purifier for Chemical Sensitivity and concerns around Volatile Organic Compounds
Every single day we are exposed to literally thousands and thousands of chemicals, in the air around us, the food we eat, the clothes we wear and the products we put on our skin. These chemicals enter our bodies as we breathe, digest or absorb them through our skin and once in the body they have to be broken down into nontoxic substances. Chemical sensitivity occurs when someone’s body cannot break down the chemicals as quickly as it’s being exposed to them. Many of those who suffer from this condition are already allergy sufferers or have conditions such as asthma or eczema.
The effects of chemical sensitivity can vary but some of the most common symptoms include intense tiredness, difficulties in focusing, coordination issues, headaches, skin rashes, flushing and burning feeling, asthma, and general body pains.
Managing exposure to chemicals.
It is very difficult for us to avoid exposure to these pollutants when we are out However, we can definitely take much greater control over the quality of the air we breathe whilst we are inside our own homes. VOC's and other airborne chemicals and pollutants can be drastically reduced by using an air purifier with the correct type of filter inside.
So, make sure you choose and air purifier specifically designed to deal with the removal of chemicals
What type of air purifier should be used to combat chemicals in the air and help relieve these symptoms?
Almost all air purifiers these days use a HEPA filter to remove airborne pollutants and allergens like traffic pollution, dust mites, pollen, pet dander, viruses and bacteria. However, a HEPA filter on its own is virtually powerless when it comes to removing VOC's (Volatile organic Compounds) from the air.
VOC’s are fumes, rather than particulates,. These harmful chemicals need to be adsorbed after they come through the Hepa filter and before they re-enter the room. The only thing that will manage these gases effectively is a carbon filter.
The type and weight of the carbon filter is directly related to just how much of the chemical fumes will be removed. It is important to consider the quality of the carbon filter as well as the performance of the fan in the purifier. It is ideal to choose an air purifier that changes the air in the room through the filter around 5 times every hour (Air changes per hour ACPH)