Why you need an air purifier in your home or office

Poor indoor air quality can lead to short-term and long-term
health effects, especially in children and the elderly.

As air purifier manufacturers, we get a lot of calls from people who are starting to notice the effects of poor indoor air quality.

This comes as no surprise. After all, people spend up to 90% of their time indoors (think about yourself – where do you spend most of your time? At home, at the office, in school, in other indoor spaces?)

Fact is, we spend most of our time indoors and many buildings are not equipped to provide the best quality air.

Common indoor air contaminants include:

• Airborne chemicals coming from various sources such as building materials, cleaning products, cosmetics, scents (air “fresheners”), paint, furniture, cooking
• Stale air
• Mold
• Radon
• Dust
• Tobacco smoke
• Pollen
• Mold

We have no choice in breathing. But if we keep breathing contaminated air, we run the risk of developing health concerns, either short-term, or long-term.

The American College of Allergists says that 50% of all illnesses are either caused by, or aggravated by, polluted indoor air. Pregnant women, fetuses, infants, children and the elderly are most vulnerable to indoor air pollution.

And while short-term health effects sound merely bothersome, including irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, headaches and fatigue, the long-term health effects are rather scary: These can include respiratory diseases, heart disease and cancer (EPA). 

According to the latest research, cancer has become the second leading cause of death worldwide. Toxic exposures in the environment are responsible for a substantial percentage of all cancers, between 7 and 19%, according to Environmental Health Perspectives.

How to protect yourself from poor IAQ

Even though we have no choice in breathing, we can control the quality of the air we are exposed to the most. This can be done through source control, improved ventilation and humidity control,

Open windows regularly. Even when it is cold outside, it is important to avoid a buildup of stale and contaminated air indoors.

Avoid using products that can release harmful chemicals or fumes.

Replace your HVAC filters regularly.

Use an indoor air purifier. A complete indoor air purifier needs to have activated carbon, HEPA and UV filters as well as prefilters. They can be free-standing, or attached to the HVAC system and they can run continuously to help remove airborne chemicals, fumes, odors, particles, allergens, asthmagens, mold, bacteria and viruses.

Not every air purifier is built the same. AllerAir offers the most trusted filters and a variety of options to give you the most effective air purifier for your IAQ concerns. Guaranteed.

Call 1-888-852-8247 for a free consultation or write to sales@allerair.com for more information.

AllerAir shipping air purifiers to worldwide destinations

AllerAir offers a wide range of air purifiers with
activated carbon and HEPA air filtration systems.

When poor indoor air quality becomes a concern, people turn to trusted air purifiers with activated carbon and HEPA or Super-HEPA to provide cleaner air.

AllerAir air purifiers have become a go-to product for homeowners, residents, small business owners and office workers in North America and beyond.

The customizable air cleaners from AllerAir remove not only fine particles, dust and allergens, but also irritating airborne chemicals, fumes, odors and gases that can be found in almost any indoor environment.

Now AllerAir offers shipping to international destinations such as Australia, Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

For more information, contact AllerAir by writing to info@allerair.com or by calling 1-888-852-8247. For international calls: 514-335-4277.

Inhaled particulate matter linked to kidney damage in 9/11 first responders

For the first time, researchers have linked high levels of inhaled particulate matter by 9/11 first responders to kidney damage.

After the tragedy, workers at Ground Zero were exposed to air filled with cement dust, smoke, glass fibers, and heavy metals. The WTC-CHEST Program at Mount Sinai has previously linked this particulate matter exposure to lung and heart abnormalities. However, its effects on the kidney health of first responders have never been explored until now.

In their new study, Mount Sinai researchers examined urine samples of 183 first responders exposed to particulate matter at Ground Zero taking into account each first responder's time of arrival, proximity, duration, and level of exposure at Ground Zero. To assess their kidney damage, researchers measured the level of the protein called albumin in their urine, which when this main blood protein is found in urine it is abnormal and an indicator of renal damage. Research results show a significant link between a high level of exposure to particulate matter by first responders at Ground Zero and the increased level of the protein albumin in their urine.

"Our study shows the first responders with the highest exposure to the 9/11 particulate matter had significantly greater levels of albumin in their urine than the first responders in the study with low exposure levels," says Mary Ann McLaughlin, MD, principal investigator for the WTC-CHEST Program at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai who also serves as medical director of the Cardiac Health Program and co-director of the Women's Cardiac Assessment and Risk Evaluation Program at The Mount Sinai Hospital. "We believe high exposure to the massive dust cloud of air pollution at Ground Zero may have extremely inflamed the endothelial lining of blood vessels leading to the kidneys causing kidney malfunction and the development of kidney damage in first responders."

Albumin may leak into the urine when kidney function is compromised from inflammation or kidney damage. When albumin starts to spill incorrectly into the urine it is called "albuminuria". A high-level of albuminuria can signal kidney disease from diabetes, high blood pressure, heart failure, and kidney inflammation. Standard medical assessments test for albuminuria to catch kidney disease early. When kidney disease progresses, it can lead to kidney failure, kidney dialysis, or even potentially a kidney transplant.

"We observed a statistically significant and independent relationship between first responder's high exposure to particulate matter and albuminuria," says Dr. McLaughlin. "Our novel research findings will pave the way for the future early diagnosis and care of these first responders' impaired kidney health. Also, in addition, it will lead to further exploration of the impact of environmental exposures and inflammation in the pathogenesis of albuminuria."

Dust storms in Africa affect US air quality

NASA image of dust storm

Your may never have the chance to travel the world, but your lungs may. That's because scientists have identified that that large quantities dust and other pollutants are traveling thousands of miles across the Atlantic Ocean.

In their study Joseph Prospero, professor at the University of Miami and collaborators at the University of Houston and Arizona State University found that the average air concentrations of inhabitable particles in Houston, Texas more than doubled during a major Saharan dust storm.

The researchers were able to distinguish between particles transported across the Atlantic and those from local sources in the Houston region. In this way they established the "fingerprint" of the African dust. To their knowledge, this is the first study that isolates, differentiates, and quantifies the air contaminants in the US during the incursion of African dust. There is a concern that the fine airborne dust particles could be a health problem for asthmatics and people with respiratory problems.

"Current EPA air quality standards are based on the total amount of particles that are in the air," Prospero says. "Our study will contribute to our ability to discriminate and identify the dominant components in the air during long-range transport events," he says.

The findings published in the journal of Environmental Science and Technology can also serve to address African dust intrusion in other affected regions of the world. For instance, the Caribbean Basin receives enormous quantities of African dust every year. In addition to its impact on air quality, an important factor for the Caribbean basin is the potential effect of Saharan air outbreaks on hurricane activity.

"African dust storms are associated with hurricane season because the meteorological situations that are involved with generating tropical cyclones are also associated with the generation and transport of dust," Prospero says. "The dust emerges from the coast of Africa in a hot, dry, elevated layer – the Saharan Air Layer (SAL) following behind Easterly Waves from which tropical cyclones sometimes develop," he says. "The SAL interacts with the waves in complex way, so that the relationship is not entirely clear. It is the subject of much ongoing research."

Also, the dust suspended in the wind absorbs and scatters solar radiation. Less sunlight reaches the ocean surface resulting in cooler temperatures in the tropical Atlantic Ocean, the main area where hurricanes develop. Cooler ocean temperatures mean less energy for hurricanes to form and strengthen.

"Dust activity has been very intense this year and sea surface temperatures are unusually low," Prospero says. "These may have been contributing factors to the unusually weak hurricane season this year."

A better understanding of all the processes involved in Saharan air outbreaks would help create models that can predict future trends.

"The question is what happens with climate change," Prospero says. "Although much of North Africa is expected to get drier, which would mean more dust, models can't agree on whether the climate in the current major dust sources will get drier or wetter in the future" he says. "We are still trying to understand what drives these differences and the possible impacts."
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For more stories on health, pollution, chemical exposure and improving your indoor air quality visit www.allerair.com or call to speak to an air quality expert about improving the air in your home 1-888-852-8247.

Take the train? Microscopic subway dust may pose health risk

New research from the University of Southampton in the UK has found that working or traveling on an underground railway for a sustained period of time could have health implications.

Matt Loxham, PhD student at the University of Southampton, explains: "We studied the ultrafine dust (or particulate matter) found in an underground station in Europe. Typically, ultrafine dust is composed of inert matter that does not pose much of a risk in terms of its chemical composition. However, in the underground station we studied, the ultrafine dust was at least as rich in metals as the larger dust particles and therefore, taken together with their increased surface area to volume ratio, it is of potential significance in understanding the risks of working and travelling in the underground. These tiny dust particles have the potential to penetrate the lungs and the body more easily, posing a risk to someone's health."

While coarse dust is generally deposited in the nasal passages and bronchi, fine dust generally can reach the bronchioles (smaller airways). The ultrafine dust meanwhile, is able to reach the deepest areas of the lungs, into the alveoli. There is evidence that this ultrafine dust may be able to evade the protective barrier lining the airways, and enter underlying tissue and circulation, meaning that the toxicity of ultrafine particles may not be limited to the airways but may involve the cardiovascular system, liver, brain, and kidneys.

"Underground rail travel is used by great numbers of people in large cities all over the world, for example, almost 1.2 billion journeys are made per year on the London Underground. The high level of mechanical activity in underground railways, along with very high temperatures is key in the generation of this metal-rich dust, and the number of people likely to be exposed means that more studies into the effects of particulate matter in the underground railway environment are needed, as well as examining how the levels of dust and duration of exposure might translate to effects on health."

Further work is now being performed to examine the effects of underground dust on airway cells in more detail and the potential mechanisms by which cells may be able to protect themselves.

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For more stories on health, pollution, chemical exposure and improving your indoor air quality visit www.allerair.com or call to speak to an air quality expert about improving the air in your home 1-888-852-8247.

Childhood blood lead levels rise and fall with exposure to airborne dust in urban areas

Photo: Arztsamui

A new nine-year study of more than 367,000 children in Detroit supports the idea that a mysterious seasonal fluctuation in blood lead levels — observed in urban areas throughout the United States and elsewhere in the northern hemisphere — results from resuspended dust contaminated with lead.

The scientists, who report in the journal Environmental Science & Technology (ES&T), say the results have implications for government efforts to control childhood exposure to lead, which can have serious health consequences.

Shawn P. McElmurry and colleagues point out that average blood lead levels in the U.S. and globally have declined following the elimination of lead from gasoline, paint, water pipes and solder used to seal canned goods. In addition to McElmurry, who is with Wayne State University in Detroit. Much of the current lead in major urban areas is from those "legacy" contaminants.

Modern human exposure takes the form of fine particles, deposited in the soil years ago, that are swept up into the air. Past research identified a seasonal trend in blood lead levels in children in multiple North American cities, including Washington, D.C., New York, Chicago and Milwaukee. Those levels increase, often by more than 10 percent, in July, August and September. Blood lead levels then decrease during winter and spring.

The scientists set out to test a hypothesis implicating contact with lead-contaminated dust while children are outdoors and engaged in warm-weather activities — at a time when wind, humidity and other meteorological factors increase the amounts of dust in the air. Their ES&T report describes research that strongly implicates airborne dust as the reason for the seasonal trends in blood lead levels. It shows a correlation between atmospheric soil levels in Detroit and blood lead levels in children.

"Our findings suggest that the federal government's continued emphasis on lead-based paint may be out-of-step (logically) with the evidence presented and an improvement in child health is likely achievable by focusing on the resuspension of soil lead as a source of exposure," the report states. "Given that current education has been found to be ineffective in reducing children's exposure to Pb, we recommend that attention be focused on primary prevention of lead-contaminated soils."

Video: Arizona dust storms and poor air quality

On August 6, 2012, we wrote about the incredible dust storms sweeping southwestern United States.

Below is a video of one of the most recent dust storms in Phoenix, Arizona by Blaine Coury.

With that type of dust activity happening more and more regularly, owning an air purifier is becoming a necessity, as it is important to keep your indoor air free of excess particles, chemicals and bacteria.

Contact AllerAir for more details. Our IAQ experts will be happy to help you find the right air purifier.

Show your support for a greener and healthier lifestyle: become a member of this blog today!

Dust is more than just a nuisance

Farming contributes to dust-related illnesses
Image: FreeDigitalPhotos

In arid regions of the United States, such as Arizona and Texas, dust storms (also known as haboobs) and dust devils are not a rare occurrence. In fact, this year’s dust activity is being compared to the infamous Dust Bowl era.

Haboobs are the flash flood version of a dust storm and Arizona has experienced several of them this year. The extreme weather has proven so taxing recently that drivers were involved in a 17-vehicle pileup killing one person.

But immediate danger is not the only concern. An Arizona researcher has been working on the possible connections between dust storms and Valley Fever. 

Valley Fever, or coccidioidomycosis, is a fungal infection often found in southwestern United States, such as Arizona, California, New Mexico and Utah. The fungus lives in soil and is projected into the air through natural processes, such as with wind storms, or through man-made means, as with construction or farming. 

This fungus is usually inhaled and stays in the lungs, where some, but not all, people show flu-like symptoms as well as chest pains, rashes, headaches, joint stiffness and swelling and pain in the legs. 

Recent studies suggest that coccidioidomycosis may be spreading to other parts of the body, such as the bones, which can then affect peoples’ mental states and cause sensitivity to light as well as weight loss.  

 
Apart from Valley Fever, dust storms are also carrying heavy metals, chemicals and other bacteria, which can have varying adverse effects on residents. These pollutants can lead to other illnesses, including ocular and cardiovascular diseases. 

Have you noticed any of these symptoms while living in this part of the country? How bad do the dust storms get? Tell us your story.

Source: azfamily.com, ABC News

What you can do

AllerAir's AirMedic+ series
can be customized for your individual  needs

Though it is difficult to avoid exposure to these dust storms when on the road, there are ways to minimize your risks within the home. 

AllerAir’s varied air purifiers can help improve your indoor air quality by removing harmful particles, chemicals and bacteria from your home. 

The AirMedic+ series is specially designed for dealing with particulates and its deep-bed carbon filters adsorb chemicals and gases. There is also an option to add a UV filter which will help eradicate mold spores and bacteria.

Contact AllerAir today for more information on how you can protect your home from these dangerous dust storms.

Show your support for a greener and healthier lifestyle by becoming a follower of this blog.

The fight against dust – hopeless yet manageable

Exposure to dust can trigger allergies and asthma.

Even those people who clean every day and hate dust with a passion will never be able to banish dust  completely.

The good news? Regular cleaning and other measures will help to keep these allergy triggers and indoor air pollutants under control.

According to experts, dust accumulates constantly on books, clothes, knickknacks and other surfaces and has nothing to do with being dirty or housekeeping.

The average American home collects 40 pounds of dust each year.

Dust is made up of different components:

• Microscopic dust mites and their waste
• Breakdown of fibers from fabrics and furniture
• Human and animal dander (skin flakes) and hair

Dust and dust mites can trigger asthma attacks and allergies, and most people don’t like to see a layer of dust on their household surfaces.

Experts say there are many ways to keep the dust problem under control:

1. Reduce clutter as much as possible – especially in bedroom where we spend about one-third of our lives asleep. They suggest a bedroom with an uncarpeted floor, minimal furniture, only the current season’s clothes in the closets and no pennants or posters on the walls.
2. Use a low-VOC paint that can be cleaned with water on the walls.
3. Clean the air with an air purifier. While HEPA filters are the most important filters when it comes to dust, airborne chemicals and odors can also be allergy triggers, and they can only be removed by a granular activated carbon filter. A combination carbon +HEPA air purifier will provide the cleanest air in the bedroom.
4. Vacuum regularly. The vacuum cleaner should have a HEPA filter built in.
5. Encase mattresses and pillows in allergy proof covers (but watch out for chemicals)
6. For cooling off in the summer, air conditioning works better than fans, which simply move dust around. Make sure the air filters in the air conditioning unit are changed. For HVAC systems, the air filters should be changed every 3-6 months.

Source: National Post

Air purifiers for the home and office

Along with the other tips mentioned above, an air purifier provides the most reliable and effective relief when it comes to indoor air pollution.

Dust is only part of the problem – airborne chemicals, odors, fumes, mold, bacteria and viruses are common indoor air contaminants that also affect a person’s health and well-being.

AllerAir has developed portable and powerful air purifiers for general purpose air cleaning as well as addressing specific air quality concerns (including allergy and asthma, mold, tobacco smoke and MCS).

For more information and a personalized recommendation, contact AllerAir.
 

Some toddlers more exposed than others to flame retardants

Furniture is a common source of exposure
to flame retardants, researchers say.

Does race and socioeconomic status play a role in a child’s exposure to chemicals?

A study of North Caroline toddlers shows that non-white toddlers are more exposed to flame-retardant chemicals than white toddlers.

Exposure may be higher in toddlers whose fathers do not have a college degree, which serves as a proxy measure of lower socioeconomic background.

The toddlers are usually exposed through hand-to-mouth activity or factors related to age and duration of breastfeeding, the researchers say.

The study examined the levels of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in 83 toddlers between 12 and 36 months of age.

Sources of chemical exposure

PBDEs are a class of long-lasting chemicals, which were widely used as flame retardant additives in consumer products such as polyurethane foam padding, electronics, mattresses and furniture.

Toddlers (and adults) can inhale or ingest these chemicals, which can accumulate in the body and may be linked to disrupted endocrine activity and thyroid regulation, low birth weight and developmental problems.

House dust is a big source of exposure for toddlers, the study shows.

But dust can’t be the reason why there was such a big difference in exposure between nonwhite and white toddlers: white toddlers averaged 32 parts per billion of PBDE chemicals in their blood, while nonwhite toddlers averaged 60 parts per billion.

According to the researchers, the best ways to reduce exposure include:

• Frequent hand-washing
• Researching household products to find out which, if any, flame retardants are being used

 The study appeared in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives.

Source: Duke University

Air purifiers to battle dust, particles, airborne chemicals

Source control is a great way to reduce chemical exposures in the home, but so many products that are already there may be off-gassing chemicals and contribute to contaminated dust and other exposures.

The AirMedics are effective dust,
particle and chemical busters.

That is why ventilation and air purification also play a major role in mitigating the risks of exposure to environmental pollution.

AllerAir has designed powerful portable air purifiers for the home and office that can remove the widest range of indoor air contaminants, including airborne chemicals and odors, particles and dust, even bacteria, viruses and mold.

Air purifiers of the 5000 Series, the 6000 Series or the AirMedic and AirMedic + Series come with many options and customization to guarantee the right level of air purification for your individual concerns.

Find out more by contacting AllerAir.
  

How to ease morning allergy symptoms

Dust mites can cause morning stuffiness and more.

Thousands of people are waking up in the morning with a stuffy nose or scratchy throat, which means they could be suffering from an allergy.

Most morning allergy symptoms can be blamed on dust mites, the tiny creatures living in the mattress, pillows and textiles in your bedroom.

Dust mites feast on dead skin cells, and they prefer dark, warm and humid environments (hence the bed).

When people react to dust mites, it’s usually the microscopic waste and bodies of decaying mites that cause symptoms, which are released into the air when you move in the bed.

Dust can make anybody sneeze, and it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s an allergy.

Here are some tips to reduce the effects of the dust mites in the bedroom:

1. Remove as many allergen traps as possible from the bedroom. This includes upholstered furniture, curtains, carpets and the like. Hardwood or ceramic floors are best because they can be cleaned easily. Instead of curtains, you can install blinds, which can also be dusted easily.
     
2. Think about enclosing your mattress, box spring and pillows in an allergy barrier, which traps dust mites and their waste. Make sure the barriers are made of a material that won’t expose you to harmful chemicals or other substances.
    
3. Invest in a high-quality air purifier. Having an air purifier in the bedroom helps trap dust mites and related particles, pollen and other allergens as well as other indoor air pollutants like airborne chemicals and gases, odors and mold spores to help keep the air clean and nasal passages free.

 Source: Hive Health Media

Air purifiers for allergy and asthma

AllerAir offers high-quality air purifiers with activated carbon, medical-grade HEPA and other filtration media for those suffering from allergies and/or asthma.

The AirMedic and AirMedic+ Series have been designed specifically for particle concerns, providing effective and long-lasting relief from airborne dust particles, mold spores, allergens and more.

They also feature a deep bed activated carbon filter to remove a wide range of chemicals, gases and odors, which can also cause or aggravate allergy and asthma symptoms.

Check out AllerAir’s recommendations for allergy air purifiers or contact AllerAir for more information and suggestions.

Poor air quality indoors can make you sick

Experts share tips on improving indoor air quality.

The air in homes is often more polluted than outdoor air, according to experts, and since most people tend to spend 90 percent of their time indoors, this prolonged exposure to indoor air pollution may lead to poor health.

Indoor air pollution is caused by a wide range of synthetic materials commonly found in homes, including paints, plastics, household cleaners, particleboard furniture and more. These can off-gas chemicals and volatile organic compounds into the ambient air.

Other indoor air contaminants include dust, pollen, mold and other allergens that can cause reactions in sensitive people.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, indoor allergens can lead to infections and respiratory problems.

In order to avoid problems with indoor air quality in the home, experts are asking homeowners to make sure that they

• Avoid adding more contaminants by using more natural products and cleaning agents and letting new materials air out before using them indoors
   
• Monitor everyone’s health symptoms to see if allergy symptoms or other ailments can be traced back to the air quality inside
   
• Maintain the ventilation system and replace filters often, every 3-6 months
   
• Open windows regularly if the weather and outdoor air allow it
   
• Fix any plumbing problems or water leaks promptly to prevent mold from growing (mold can start growing after 24-48 hours of standing water)
   
• If you suspect an air quality problem without being able to pin down the cause, call professionals or look into high-quality testing kits.
   
• Use a portable air purifier with activated carbon and HEPA to help remove pollutants such as chemicals, gases, odors, particles, dust, allergens and pathogens.

Source: News 8000

Get the most filtration media for the best price

AllerAir offers highly efficient and portable air purifiers for the home and office that contain the most relevant filtration media in their price range.

AllerAir's
5000 Exec
air purifier

One of their most popular general purpose air purifiers, the 5000 Exec, features an 18 lb. carbon filter and medical-grade HEPA as well as pre-filters and optional UV filtration for maximum protection.

Activated carbon is the best filter media for chemicals, gases, odors, vapors and fumes – including formaldehyde, benzene, toluene and most household odors.

For allergy and asthma sufferers, AllerAir also developed a highly efficient air purifier for particle concerns, the AirMedic Series.

These air purifiers have a 360-degree air intake and feature the best HEPA and particle filters as well as a deep bed of activated carbon for all-around protection from allergens and other irritants.

For more information, contact AllerAir today.

The do and don’ts of air duct cleaning

Air ducts can get dirty over time.

The indoor air quality in most homes and buildings is compromised by a variety of factors.

It could be poor ventilation, high humidity, mold, chemicals and VOCs, particles, dust, allergens, and more.

And a lot of these indoor air pollutants may be spread throughout the house by the ventilation system – which is why many people like to get their ducts cleaned once in a while.

There is no scientific evidence that regular duct cleaning will improve the indoor air quality, but if you think about getting it done, there are many factors to consider when choosing a duct cleaning service.

Dos

• Establish a need. Is it really necessary to clean your ducts? Does it distribute excessive dust or debris throughout the home, or is it contaminated with mold, mildew or pests? Remember that some levels of dust will always be present in a home, even with clean ducts.
• Find a good professional service. There are many scam artists out there, and often, they will lure customers with low prices. Experts say a good air duct cleaning should start at around $300 and take about 3-5 hours. Check a company’s local reputation or references. 
• Be in the know. A qualified professional will not only clean the ducts, but also the other components of the HVAC system. This includes coils, drain pans, fans and humidifiers. Ask your service provider for a list of things they will do and ask them to verify all of them as they complete them. Most reputable air duct cleaners will also use a filter to trap the debris they remove, which allows you to see the progress.

Don’ts

• Don’t go by price alone. Any deal that sounds too good – usually is.
• Don’t forget to check if the air duct cleaners in your area require a license. Ask for proof of license and proof of insurance before you hire.
• Don’t go with a company that offers other cleaning services (like carpeting or chimney cleaning). Always use a specialist.

Want better indoor quality?

There are easier and better ways to reduce the level of indoor air contaminants in your home.

Avoid bringing in new pollutants such as harsh cleaning chemicals, pesticides, VOC-emitting paints or products, and so on.

AllerAir's AirMedic air purifiers

Make sure your home is ventilated. If you can, open the windows regularly to air out rooms!

Use a portable air purifier in the room you frequent the most. This could be your bedroom or the living area, for example.

The air purifier needs many pounds of activated carbon to be able to remove a wide range of harmful chemicals and gases, a HEPA filter to trap irritating particles and optional UV germicidal filtration to neutralize contaminants such as bacteria, viruses and mold.

Check out AllerAir’s extensive line of air purifiers or speak to an IAQ expert from AllerAir for more information and options.
  

Need better IAQ? Get organized!

A well-kept and decluttered home can be
soothing and better for your health.

Indoor air pollution poses a serious public health risk, according to agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Airtight construction, plug-in air fresheners, scented products and candles, high humidity and other indoor air concerns can pollute the indoor air in normal households.

One of the best ways to get the indoor air quality at home under control is to get organized.

Clutter is a bad idea – it can harbor dust, mold and pests and make it difficult to clean and air out the space.

Having a lot of stuff takes up space, makes it hard to find things and can be demoralizing.

A rule of thumb is – if you haven’t touched it in years, then it should probably go.

According to one professional organizer, a lot of stuff can have the following effects:

• Increase particle and chemical emissions into the air
• Become a breeding ground for mold
• Become a nest for rodents
• Affect a person’s health and well-being

By contrast, an organized home is easier to keep clean, reduces stress about finding things and gives people the ability to focus on more important things like family, career etc.

Source: CDA Press

Clean your space – and your air!

A well-kept home should be free of bad smells and pollutants. AllerAir offers portable and powerful air purifiers for general purpose air cleaning as well as specific IAQ concerns, including mold, tobacco smoke, allergy and asthma.

The air purifiers consistently feature more relevant filtration media than other units on the market, especially when it comes to activated carbon, the most important filter media for chemicals, gases, odors, fumes and mold mycotoxins.

AllerAir air purifiers can remove the widest range of indoor air pollutants with their multistage filtration system containing deep-bed activated carbon filters, HEPA filters, UV germicidal filtration and pre-filters.

Contact AllerAir for more information.

Is your vacuum cleaner polluting the air?

Some vacuum cleaners release fine dust and bacteria into
the air, a new study shows. Photo credit: Heather

Vacuum cleaners have become an invaluable tool for home cleaning – but they may not be as good as you think.

A new study shows that some vacuum cleaners actually contribute to poor indoor air quality by releasing bacteria and dust back into the air. These could spread infections and trigger allergies, the researchers say.

The scientists tested 21 vacuum cleaners from 11 manufacturers, which are marketed for household and commercial use. The vacuum cleaners were between 6 months and 22 years old and cost between $100 to almost $800.

The researchers found that all of the vacuum cleaners released some fine dust and bacteria into the air.

Even the vacuums with HEPA filters released only slightly lower levels of dust and bacteria.

Older and less expensive models contributed more to the indoor air pollution than newer and more expensive vacuum cleaners.

The study appeared in ACS’ journal Environmental Science & Technology.

Source: American Chemical Society press release

Improve indoor air quality around the clock

Along with regular cleaning, source control and ventilation, a powerful air purifier can help keep the air clean and healthy.

AllerAir specializes in personalized air purifiers with a multistage filter system for optimum performance:

1. A large activated carbon filter to remove many chemicals, gases and odors
2. A HEPA filter to trap particles and dust
3. UV germicidal filtration

The portable air purifiers can easily be moved from room to room, and they are designed for around-the-clock operation.

Choose between general purpose air purifiers, air cleaners for asthma and allergies (with optimal design and filtration for particle concerns) and more specializations, or contact an AllerAir IAQ expert for even more personalized service and options.
  

Dust storms result in more ER admissions

Dust storms pose a risk to people with chronic lung disease.

Over the past few months, news reports have often focused on extreme weather events – and dust storms were part of that.

While dust storms are often seen as affecting motorists the most by causing unsafe driving conditions, researchers warn that they may also affect people with chronic lung conditions.

A study published in the journal Respirology shows that emergency hospital admissions rise in the aftermath of dust storms for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

The study, focusing on dust storms in East Asia and Southern China, found that dust storms caused by wind-blown dust from Northern China can carry high concentrations of coarse particles with a diameter from 2.5 to 10 micrometers.

The researchers looked at data collected between 1998 and 2002 and found that two days after dust storms, there was a significant increase in emergency hospital admission due to COPD. The increase in risk was 5%.

The findings show that people with chronic lung diseases need timely warnings in order to avoid exposure to air pollution during dust storms, the researchers say.

Source: Wiley-Blackwell press release

Dust outside? Keep indoor air clean

Once dust and tiny particles are airborne, they can stay in the air for a long time and find their way indoors through windows, doors, cracks etc.

AirMedic Series: Powerful
particle and chemical air filters.

After a dust storm, experts recommend changing HVAC and car air filters to make sure they can cope with the higher pollutant count, and an indoor air purifier with HEPA can help keep the indoor air clean.

However, it’s not only dust people need to worry about. Indoor air pollution also comes from chemicals and gases from common household products and building materials, mold, bacteria and viruses.

AllerAir offers complete air purification systems with activated carbon + HEPA + UV (optional) to remove the widest range of contaminants from the ambient air.

Check out our general purpose air purifiers, air filters for mold and air purifiers for allergies and asthma.

For more information, contact AllerAir and speak to one of our air quality experts.

Asthma and allergy alert: Dusty and moldy holiday decorations

Many people look forward to the holiday season – not only because of the gifts, but also because of the food, the festive decorations and the stunning lights.




But storing the decorations and lights for almost a year can lead to a buildup of dust and mold, experts warn, so this time of year can be challenging for asthma and allergy sufferers.

In fact, storing decorations in the attic may even cause them to be contaminated by asbestos dust, a mesothelioma awareness group says.

Many homes were built with asbestos-containing materials in the 20th century and an estimated 33 million U.S. buildings contain vermiculite insulation tainted with asbestos, the United States Environmental Protection Agency warns.

Asbestos was also a main ingredient in many holiday decorations themselves, including snowflakes. These are not being sold on the market anymore, but heirloom decorations may still be contaminated.

Storing decorations in the basement or garage often leads to dust and mold problems in the home as mold counts go up. Even bringing in a real Christmas tree can trigger allergies or asthma flare-ups.

Experts suggest wearing a mask when handling dusty or moldy decorations, using an artificial tree and storing holiday decorations in a way to minimize dust and mold infiltration.

Air purifiers for mold, dust and other contaminants

When the temperature gets below freezing outside and you turn up the heat and keep the windows tightly closed or even sealed, indoor air quality often deteriorates over time.

Running a portable, powerful air purifier on low 24/7 can help keep the air clean and healthy.

AllerAir’s specialized air purifiers for dust and particles (allergies and asthma), mold and chemical or odor concerns feature many pounds of activated carbon plus HEPA and other filters such as UV germicidal filtration to remove the widest range of indoor air pollutants.

Keep your family safe this holiday season with an AllerAir air purifier. 

Contact us for more information or recommendations.
  

Extreme weather caused by air pollution: Study

Weather extremes like drought and flooding can affect your indoor air quality, health and well-being

Cloud formation can be influenced by aerosols in the air,
researchers say, and lead to extreme weather conditions.

A new study shows that increases in air pollution and other particulate matter in the atmosphere can influence the way clouds are formed and therefore reduce rainfalls in dry regions and seasons.

At the same time, the phenomenon may lead to more rain, snowfalls and severe storms in wet regions or seasons, the researchers found.

The study was published in the journal Nature Geoscience and provides evidence how aerosols (soot, dust and other particulates) can affect weather and climate.

"Using a 10-year data set of atmospheric measurements, we have uncovered the long-term, net impact of aerosols on cloud height and thickness and the resulting changes in precipitation frequency and intensity," says Zhanqing Li, an atmospheric scientist at the University of Maryland and lead author of a paper reporting the results.

The scientific community is trying to understand aerosols’ effects on cloud and precipitation development, human activities’ effects on climate change and other issues related to air pollution, disaster relief and water resource management, for example.

Aerosols are tiny solid particles or liquid particles suspended in air and can include soot, dust and sulfate particles (as in smog).

The researchers found that aerosols can impact the heating and phase changes (like condensing and freezing) of clouds, which can either inhibit or intensify clouds and precipitation.

Fires contribute to aerosol
levels in the air.

Aerosols come from the combustion of fossil fuels, industrial processes, agricultural activities and field and forest fires.

Source: National Science Foundation

Air pollution and extreme weather can lead to poor indoor air quality

Whether it’s air pollution from outside seeping in, airborne dust particles turning up everywhere or flooding in the home – extreme weather conditions can wreak havoc on the air quality inside and your personal health and well-being.

When it comes to extreme weather, it’s often best to leave windows closed, reduce chemical use indoors, change the filters for the HVAC system and continuously run an air purifier with a multistage filtration system.

AllerAir specializes in air purifiers designed to remove odors, chemicals, dust, particles, bacteria, viruses, mold as well as many other pollutants.

Among the specialized units are air purifiers for mold (which often becomes an issue after floods), air purifiers for allergies and asthma (superior particle control and odor removal) and general purpose air purifiers.

To find out which one is best for your home or office, consult our model selection and sizing guides or contact us directly.

7 common allergens in your home - and what to do about them

Allergies affect millions of people.

How many people suffering from allergies do you know?

Chances are, a lot of them.

With about 40 million people being affected by indoor or outdoor allergies, the growing phenomenon has become the fifth leading cause of chronic illness and is now big business for the healthcare industry: The estimated annual cost of allergies in the US is $7 billion.

Indoor air quality can play a huge role in people’s exposure to allergens that cause a stuffy nose, nasal discharge, itchy and bloodshot eyes, sneezing, scratchy throat, cough, wheezing and/or tightness in the chest.

Indoor allergens often find their way into airtight homes and get trapped, meaning they can cause irritation to allergy sufferers all winter long.

Here are some tips on how to deal with common household allergens, courtesy of Rapid News Network:

Dust

• Remove drapes, feather pillows, upholstered furniture, non-washable comforters and soft toys (better: blinds, leather or easily cleanable furniture)
• Replace carpets with linoleum or wood or tiles
• Mop the floor and wipe surfaces with a damp cloth
• Vacuum regularly with a cleaner that features a HEPA filter
• Use a room air purifier with a HEPA or electrostatic filter

Dust Mites

• Wash all bedding in hot water every 7 to 10 days
• Do not use mattress pads
• Cover mattresses and pillows with plastic covers

Pets can add to the allergen count in
the home

Pet Dander

• Use allergen-resistant bedding
• Bathe pets frequently
• Use an air filter

Pollen

• Be aware of how pollen get indoors: Clothes, hair, ventilation, pets, wind
• Shower or bathe before going to bed
• Avoid going outside on dry, windy days
• Keep windows and doors closed on days with high pollen counts
• Use an air conditioner or air filter

Cockroaches

• Don’t leave food or pet food out
• Seal cracks and holes
• Clean behind areas like the stove and fridge
• Bug bomb twice a year or find natural alternatives

Mold

Clean mold and fix the humidity issues
before it becomes a big IAQ problem.

• Curb the number of houseplants you have
• Clean all areas of the bathrooms regularly
• Remove mold and mildew when you see it (get professional help for big infestations)
• Use the bathroom fan, open doors and windows to increase airflow
• Never put carpet in bathrooms; use mold-proof bathroom paint when renovating

Endotoxins

• Endotoxins come from bacteria living in household dust and can cause or aggravate asthma symptoms. Keep their count low with the same steps as for dust control.

Portable air filters remove allergens indoors

AllerAir's Air Medic Series
and AirMedic+ with UV

AllerAir takes indoor air quality seriously and has designed a number of powerful air purifiers for the home and office that feature a multistage filtration system for the most efficient and safe air cleaning possible.

AllerAir offers:

• Air purifiers for allergies and asthma
• Air purifiers for mold
• General air purifiers for the home and office
• and much more

Use our sizing and selection guides to find the right model for you – or contact an AllerAir account executive to assist in the selection process. We care about every breath you take.

More dust storms expected in Texas – keep your air filters in mind

Wildfires are a common side effect of
droughts and dust storms.

Texas may have gotten some rain lately, but the drought is far from over, and more dust storms could roll in any time, experts warn.

With more than 90 percent of the state in the extreme drought stage and a lack of vegetation on farmland, there is nothing that will prevent loose particles from flying up into the air, they say.

Effects of dust storms include:

• Loss of productive farmland
• Impaired visibility and dangerous driving conditions
• Higher risk of wildfires
• Respiratory conditions in vulnerable individuals

Recommendations on handling dust storms include being prepared for a dust storm, slowing down and stopping on the side of the road if a dust cloud rolls in and changing air filters in cars and homes regularly.

AllerAir has designed portable, powerful air purifiers for the home and office with activated carbon and HEPA that can remove the widest range of indoor air pollutants from the ambient air, including particles, dust, gases, chemicals, fumes and odors.

Worried about wildfires and the effect on the air quality? Check out AllerAir’s air purifiers for smoke.

Call us for more information.

Source: My West Texas