Why do you need an air ionizer in an apartment and which one to choose?

Negatively charged ions were called electric vitamins by the Russian scientist A.L. Chizhevsky at the beginning of the last century. According to his research, such particles are no less beneficial for the body than the usual vitamins A, B, and C.

Let’s take a closer look at what an air ionizer for an apartment or home is and what it is needed for. We will also pay attention to its main advantages and disadvantages, consider the selection criteria and the TOP 5 best offers on the market.

Purpose of the ionizer

Depending on the characteristics of a particular area, the atmosphere contains from 600 to 50 thousand ions per 1 cm³. Their maximum concentration is observed in coniferous forests, mountainous and sea areas. In city apartments, the volume of negative ions is much lower. The lack of particles is caused by heating devices, poor ecology, an overabundance of equipment and leads to a decrease in immunity, the development of diseases, and premature aging.

In this regard, the questions “why and what is an air ionizer needed for?” disappear on their own. Its use allows you to purify the air and regulate the balance of negative ions.

Recommendations

You should purchase an ionizer if one of these problems exists:

anxiety, nervous disorders;
insomnia;
acne, blackheads, pimples;
metabolic disorders;
tendency to seasonal allergies;
frequent bronchitis and tracheitis.
Insomnia

Important! The device is not able to cure. But it will help alleviate the course of the disease and improve well-being, which is why an ionizer is needed.

Benefits and harms

The positive effect of using an ionizer is mainly due to an increase in gas exchange in the human lungs. The beneficial effect is manifested in:

strengthening the immune system;
acceleration of metabolism;
reducing the manifestations of allergic reactions (nasal congestion, sneezing);
reducing the risk of ARVI and other airborne diseases;
accelerated cell regeneration - small wounds heal faster when using the device;
improving sleep quality;
a general positive effect on the body (the functioning of the cardiovascular system improves, the condition of the skin and hair is normalized);
neutralization of radiation from household appliances.

The ionizer will cause harm if used:

in unventilated rooms - in the process of releasing ions, ozone can also be released, which in high concentrations has a detrimental effect on human health;
violating operating rules (for example, failure to maintain the minimum distance from the device to a person);
in very dusty rooms - ionization of polluted air is undesirable, because charged dust particles actively settle on all surfaces of the room, their concentration in the air space also increases;
in case of individual intolerance to air ions;
for cancer (due to accelerated metabolism, cancer cells can become more active);
in case of respiratory disease in the acute stage;
children under 1 year.

Contraindications for use

Like any preventive device, it can bring not only benefits, but also harm. Contraindications for use are:

bronchial asthma;
oncological diseases;
individual intolerance to ionized air.

In addition, in the room where the device is located, dust stops flying through the air and settles on surfaces, so you will have to clean the room more often. This problem can be easily solved by purchasing an air purifier with an ionization function, or by incorporating an air conditioner with an air filtration function into your housing project. Cancer patients are not recommended to ionize the air due to the fact that accelerating metabolism can trigger the growth of cancerous tumors. It is not recommended to use the device if someone in the family is sick; infections spread faster and the likelihood of infection increases.

Air ionization as an additional option in cars and household appliances

If a person spends a lot of time in a car, his health often worsens, headaches, drowsiness occur, and concentration decreases. The reason for this is the pollution of city air, the accumulation and mixing of various odors in the cabin - that is, a decrease in the level of negative ions.

Ventilation through open windows does not give the desired result, since the outdoor air space is not always clean. In this case, an ionizer will be useful. It generates negatively charged ions, which not only improve the quality of the air inside the car, but also neutralize various allergens, dust, and harmful impurities.

Note: a car ionizer can be additionally equipped with a fan, filter, or aroma block, which increases the functionality of the device.

Soft ionization using a salt lamp

When the internal space is ionized with a salt lamp, negative ions are also released, and under the influence of humidity they spread throughout the room.

This lamp can be kept on constantly. In this case, uniform, continuous and soft ionization occurs.

The heated lamp emits negative particles of iodine, chlorine, and sodium. They heal both the environment and the human body, neutralizing fungi, viruses, harmful fumes, and block electromagnetic radiation

This ionization method is recommended for use in respiratory diseases, allergies, diabetes, and rheumatism. It also promotes psychological relief.

The only condition is that ionization cannot be carried out in the bathroom or other places where there is access to water. Otherwise, excess moisture will cause the lamp to simply fall apart.

A salt lamp weighing 3 kg can carry out effective ionization in a room with a maximum area of 12 m². If the room is larger, you need a large ionizer or a chandelier consisting of a certain number of salt lamps.

Carrying out air enrichment using this method has no contraindications. Although there are cases of individual intolerance, they are very rare. Still, you need to get used to it gradually, carefully monitoring the body’s reaction.

How to choose a decent model?

All home appliances must accurately reflect the needs of the household. Otherwise, you risk getting a mountain of unnecessary and unused electrical appliances.

Characteristics

Among the main parameters for the effective operation of ionizers, the following can be noted:

productivity - the concentration of produced ions per cubic unit of volume. The optimal range for prophylactic use is 10,000–20,000 ions/cm3, for therapeutic use – more than 50,000 ions/cm3;
emitter voltage. Should be within 20-30 kV for constant ion production;
duration of continuous operation. To saturate the entire room with air ions, the device must be operated for several hours;
maximum permissible ionization area. The discrepancy between the passport specifications and the realities of a large space will lead to the uselessness of the device.

Types of devices

Here are the categories into which devices are classified.

By purpose:
- household (for home, office, car, etc.);

For personal use, a device with a small service area is suitable, but large industrial premises require the use of a professional unit. These models will differ in productivity, power, volume of processed premises, as well as dimensions.

According to the charge of the produced ions:
- unipolar - produce only anions;

A bipolar air ionizer is better, since the SanPiNs in force in Russia establish the same content of positive and negative ions in the atmosphere of residential premises.

According to the principle of ion propagation:
passive (the device releases ions, but is not responsible for their delivery to the far corners of the room).
According to the presence or absence of control over the production of ions:
unregulated (the rate of formation of new ions is not controlled).
By filter type (if available):
carbonic. Eliminates unpleasant odors, but is not able to capture light compounds;
HEPA filter. Well retains allergen and fine suspension, but requires periodic replacement;
photocatalytic - the most effective and expensive type of filter; cleaning is carried out by exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
By device type:
ionizer-purifier. These models have a filter for air purification;
ionizer-humidifier. The air ionization function is built into the humidifier. Enabled by default or additionally by pressing a button;
air washing. This is an ionizer, purifier and humidifier in one device. The air is usually purified through water filters - the slightest contaminants will not be able to enter your lungs.

Customer Reviews

I work in the office all day on the computer, and I often sit at home on weekends. I know it’s harmful, but somehow I didn’t think about it. Then I came across an article about the dangers of modern gadgets, and I decided to talk to my son about this topic. I hardly convinced my son of anything, but I myself decided to correct my situation: the next day I went to select a suitable air ionizer for my computer desk.

There are a lot of different devices, it’s just dizzying. Of all the models offered to me, I liked L onex, made in Slovenia, the most. Small in size, universal in design, no special setup required. I’ve been using it for more than a month now, and I’ve seen results: my eyes have stopped getting tired and red, and there’s an invisibly fresh aroma in the air. I advise everyone to think about their health.

Zinaida, 31 years old.

I became closely acquainted with ionizers at one of the exhibitions of household appliances while on a business trip. I noticed an interesting model Vitek VT-1772 and decided to make my wife happy. I read information about the benefits of ionized air, got acquainted with the design, and the next day I went to buy it. I tried it at the hotel. Nothing like this, and the design matches our living room. I came home and boasted about my purchase. I liked the lighting, there was even built-in music. When the device is plugged in, the balls glow in different colors, constantly changing in shades.

Andrey, 28 years old.

Many have been to the sea or in the mountains and experienced the effects of fresh air. One day, after returning from another trip to nature, we decided to buy an air ionizer. We have had a car air ionizer for a long time. Externally, these devices are different: in the form of candles, a flower bouquet, or an ancient castle. We selected the SAU-B Teremok for our living room interior.

Its body is ceramic, safe for health. Over the past 4 years we have experienced its usefulness. Our sleep has improved and we complain less about headaches. Maintenance of the device is minimal; the backlight lamp has never been changed. The instructions inform about the ten-year period of its operation. The cost is only 2,000 rubles. I recommend it to friends

Air ionizer – harm or benefit to health?

The environmental situation in the world leaves much to be desired, especially in cities. Many people want to spend more time in nature to breathe fresh air. To correct the situation in their own homes, many use ionizers, but before you go shopping, you need to understand the benefits and harms of this technology.

Air ionization - what is it?

Ions are small particles that are found in the air, and they can have either a positive or negative charge.

Scientists have proven that for a person to feel normal, it is important to breathe air that is saturated with light ions and it is better if they are negative.

An air purifier-ionizer does an excellent job of this task. There are different types of technology that have numerous functions.

Air ionizer - properties

Such a device has a number of important advantages. It brings benefits due to its ability to clean the air from dust, bacteria, viruses and microbes. As a result, this significantly improves its quality, and unpleasant odors and impurities disappear.

The air ionizer for an apartment has one more advantage - with good productivity it consumes only 10 W. It is easy to use, the noise level does not exceed acceptable levels.

There are variants of the device with the “ionic wind” function, which accelerates the movement of charged particles using electrodes.

Why do you need an air ionizer?

The presented technique has a number of useful properties that make it so popular.

Its main purpose is to saturate the indoor air with useful substances, which significantly reduces the risk of various diseases.

In addition, factors that provoke allergies are eliminated and breathing becomes easier. Another function that an air ionizer does is reduce electrostatic voltage from operating equipment.

The benefit is that the air is cleared of dust, as it becomes negatively charged, which leads to its settling on furniture and the floor.

There is a list of people who are recommended to have an ionizer in their home: children, the elderly, and those with chronic diseases of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems.

An air ionizer, the benefits or harm of which have been proven through experiments, is recommended for use during epidemics of influenza and other diseases. It will be useful for people who often and for a long time use a computer or TV.

How does an air ionizer work?

The activity is based on the principle of the Chizhevsky chandelier. Inside there are special high-voltage ionizing electrodes.

As a result of the action of an electric current, a discharge occurs, which leads to the release of air ions into the environment, which interact with oxygen particles, causing ionization.

The ionizer-humidifier creates an effect that persists within a radius of several meters from the device.

In addition, the air is purified from dust, fungi, allergens and microbes. All this accumulates on special cassettes, so it is important to change them periodically.

The average area that one device can serve is 20 m2. It is worth noting that there are options designed to work in cars.

Another important nuance is that excessive ionization does not bring benefits, but can cause harm.

What is the difference between an ionizer and a humidifier?

In fact, the presented devices do not have many differences and there are only three of them. The main difference between them is the function of the devices.

A humidifier is designed to maintain optimal humidity, but a purifier is designed to remove harmful elements.

An air ionizer and a humidifier differ in that the first type of equipment is more often used in industrial premises, and the second in apartments and houses. Humidification is more necessary in winter, when heating makes the air dry.

Air ionizer for an apartment - benefits

After a person inhales, the ions enter the lungs and then into the blood, which distributes them throughout the body. More useful substances, when they get on the skin, excite receptors, provoking an increase in gas exchange.

This allows you to change tactile and pain sensitivity, and increases the rate of hair growth. A household air ionizer, when applied to the skin, helps treat various skin diseases. Also, ions, when influencing skin receptors, have a positive effect on the activity of the central nervous system.

The internal electrical exchange occurring through the lungs is of great benefit.

The benefits are noticeable in hypertension, asthma and circulatory disorders.
Increases the body's protective functions and appetite.
There is an improvement in gas exchange in the lungs and toning of the nervous system, which helps cope with insomnia.
Normalizes the functioning of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

Air ionizer - harm

The device also has a number of disadvantages that should be taken into account. It is important to say that it contributes to an increase in electrical voltage, and this happens due to frequent use or use in a room with a dry climate.

Harm is felt through direct contact with the equipment. With poor ventilation, the amount of heavy air ions increases, and this leads to difficulty in ridding the respiratory tract of dust.

An ionizer-humidifier is harmful if installed incorrectly, so it should be located at a distance of at least 1 m from a person.

It is important to regularly carry out wet cleaning, wiping not only the floor and furniture, but also the device itself.

It should be noted that there are a number of contraindications for which it is prohibited to use an air ionizer: malignant tumors, inflammation with elevated temperature, increased sensitivity, individual intolerance, age under one year and asthma.

When buying an air ionizer, the harm or benefit of which has been thoroughly studied, it is worth considering that it cannot be used after surgery or for problems with brain activity.

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TOP 5 best offers on the market

The rating includes devices from Russian and foreign brands that are optimal in price and quality. The cost of devices varies from 1.7 to 10 thousand rubles. and depends on the set of functions and the country of origin.

Place #1 – Milldom M900 Premium

The device was designed and manufactured in Russia, but from Japanese components. This ozonizer-ionizer is the most productive analogue on the market.

The device is capable of serving large areas, which is beneficial for owners of large residential and commercial premises. Milldom M900 Premium can also be used as an ozonizer for water, food, and interior items.

Characteristics:

Power (W) - 10.
Overall dimensions (mm) - 268x188x69.5.
Serviced volume (m2) - 160.
Weight (kg) - 0.94.
Power - network.

The device is equipped with a timer for 5-30 minutes, the time until shutdown is displayed on the front panel. You can give commands to the ionizer through sensors.

The compact device does not take up much space and is convenient for transportation when traveling. The ionizer resource is designed for 17 years of service.

Location #2 – Yantar-5M

This needle ionizer was manufactured at the Yantar Research and Production Company, which is located in Kazan. Since 1996, the company has been producing devices, delivering to Europe, the USA, and fulfilling government orders from Russian enterprises.

The device can operate in three modes and can be configured individually. The control unit is the ATMEL microprocessor, which ensures stability and accuracy of operation.

Characteristics:

Power (W) - 3.
Overall dimensions (mm) - 170x100x125.
Serviced volume (m2) - up to 20.
Weight (kg) - 1.2.
Power - network.

The device is made in an interesting design from environmentally friendly materials - aluminum and solid pine. The housing does not emit harmful substances and is not electrified.

If a bipolar ionizer is used in a home office, it must be installed at a distance of 2-3 m from the workplace. One device compensates for aeroion deficiency over an area of 15-20 square meters. m.

Place #3 - AIC XJ-2100

The device was manufactured by the Italian company AIC, which has several design and engineering laboratories. The brand's products undergo a 4-stage level of control, and therefore receive good reviews from consumers for their reliability.

The ionizer is equipped with a fan. The device can be installed in a car; the necessary batteries and adhesive strips are included.

Characteristics:

Power (W) - 8.
Overall dimensions (mm) - 350x220x126.
Serviced volume (m2) - 25.
Weight (kg) - 1.4.
Power supply is from the mains and cigarette lighter.

The AIC XJ-2100 model can operate in two modes. At a high power level it ionizes the air continuously, at a low power level it turns on for a minute and takes a break for 3 minutes.

The device is equipped with a removable block with metal plates that are easy to care for. They need to be wiped periodically to remove accumulated dust.

Place #4 - AirTec XJ-110

The device is made in Taiwan. The brand's climate control equipment belongs to the budget class and is multifunctional.

The vertical body of the miniature device has only one removable element - the battery compartment. The operating status of the device can be determined by the LED indicator on the front panel.

Characteristics:

Power (W) - 1.2.
Overall dimensions (mm) - 132x73x140.
Serviced volume (m2) - 15.
Weight (kg) - 0.28.
Food – 6 (type “D”, 4 pcs.).

The device can be used in residential and office premises; it can be installed in cabinets, refrigerators, and car interiors. It operates almost silently and consumes little energy.

In addition to air ionization, AirTec XJ-110 can attract dust, destroy unpleasant odors, and kill germs and bacteria.

It should be wiped periodically with a soft damp cloth. Increased noise during operation indicates the need for such maintenance.

Seat #5 – iBaby Air A1

The product was created by the American company iBaby Labs. The brand is known for its unique developments in the field of high-tech “parental” gadgets.

The device can analyze the air around it and independently turn on the ionization option, if necessary. Connects to Wi-Fi, the climate in the nursery is controlled via an application.

Characteristics:

Power (W) - up to 3.
Overall dimensions (mm) - 127x152x152.
Serviced volume (m2) - 5.
Weight (kg) - 0.9.
Power supply is from the network.

This ionizer is equipped with a two-way audio system for monitoring the child, temperature and humidity sensors, and can work as a night light with a choice of lighting colors.

The iBaby Air A1 device gives parents advice on improving the air in the room, provides a graph of changes in indicators over a certain period, and an unlimited number of users can be involved in monitoring the climate condition.

In addition to the products discussed, there are devices on sale with similar parameters and classic Chizhevsky lamps, but the latter are unipolar and do not meet the requirements of SanPiN 2.2.4.1294-03 . According to regulations, the device must produce ions of both polarities.

User manual

Owners of ionizers should remember that they should only be used in accordance with the operating instructions. Equipment of this type does not replace the full ventilation of rooms; you should only turn on the air purifier with the windows closed. The best option would be to operate the ionizer for 30 minutes in an empty room. The air purifier should be placed in a convenient place, not close to a person, at a distance of 100 to 300 centimeters.

Smoking is prohibited when the device is turned on, as a large number of harmful compounds will enter the lungs.

Device diagram

The air ionizer circuit shows how high voltage voltage can be obtained. To create light air ions of negative polarity, which have useful properties, you need a special emitter.

Ionizer circuit

The basis of the device is: film capacitor C1 with a voltage of 250-400 V, diodes with a voltage of at least 400 V, regulator P2 with a power of at least 2 W. The main part of the device is a high-voltage coil. The unit also has a motor.

Diagram of an ionizing device

Negative factors from a medical point of view

Saturation of air with ions makes it closer to natural. But it should be remembered that in such conditions viruses and bacteria develop with redoubled force. The benefits of the device for a healthy person are obvious. But, if there is an infection in the room and it is actively saturated with ions, then the risks of infection increase with each portion of particles released by the device.

It is recommended not to use the device in rooms with a bacterial environment. In medical institutions, the ionization process is preceded by treatment of the room with ultraviolet radiation. At home, this measure can be wet cleaning with cleaning products.

In cases of advanced inflammation of the respiratory system, high body temperature and many other diseases, the ionizer is contraindicated. The device will have a positive effect in healthy people with a slightly weakened immune system. The ionizer acts more as a means to prevent a wide range of diseases.