Air Filters and Allergies

Questions arise quite often about the use of Air Filters in the treatment of allergies and asthma.  Below are excerpts from Asthma Allergy Foundation of American discussion regarding the use of Air Filters in the home.What Do I Need to Know About Air Filters?When we think of air pollution, we usually associate it with outdoor air. But with the growing epidemic of asthma in the United States in the last 20 years, especially among infants and children who spend most of their time inside, much attention has been given to indoor air. In fact, in 1990 the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ranked indoor air pollution as "a high priority public health risk."The EPA recommends three strategies for reducing indoor air pollution:

• Controlling sources of pollution,
• Ventilating adequately and
• Cleaning indoor air.

Before you make any changes to your indoor home environment or purchase any air filtration products, make sure to speak with a doctor who knows your personal medical history and current condition.Will Air Filters Really Help my Asthma or Allergies?Although the EPA recommends air filtration, controlling the sources of allergy-causing pollution and ventilation are more important. Air filters are worth considering, but not as a solution to your asthma or allergy problems by themselves. In fact, research studies disagree on whether or not filters give much added relief in a clean and well-ventilated home.

While many allergens and irritants are suspended in household air, there are far more resting on surfaces like rugs, furniture and countertops. Keeping these areas clean is an important step in controlling your allergy and asthma triggers. However, the most effective step is to eliminate the source of these allergens and irritants in the first place.

It is important to note that an Air Filter is not a solution to allergies or asthma, but rather a mechanism to reduce particulate matter in the air.If you are thinking about buying a filter, here are several questions to consider:Questions to Ask Before Purchasing an Air Filter

• What substances will the cleaner remove from the air in my home? What substances will it not?
• What is the efficiency rating of the cleaner in relation to the "true HEPA" standard?
• Will the unit clean the air in a room the size of my bedroom?
• How easy/difficult is it to change the filter? (Ask for demonstration.) How often does it have to be changed? How much do filters cost? Are they readily available throughout the year?
• How much noise does the unit make? Is it quiet enough to run while I sleep? (Turn it on and try it, even though you will probably be in a noisy place.)

Before making an Air Filter purchase to relieve health conditions, please consult your health care provider.