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The Myth of UV: Why It's Ineffective for Air Purification
Introduction: In the world of air purification, UV technology has garnered attention for its potential to disinfect the air. However, when scrutinized closely, it becomes evident that UV's effectiveness in air purifiers is largely a misconception. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the science behind UV, its limitations, and why focusing on proven methods like high-efficiency filtration and carbon filtration is a more sensible approach to cleaner air. The Need for Contact Exposure Time: One of the key reasons UV technology falls short in air purification is its reliance on contact exposure time. UV light requires a certain duration of exposure to effectively neutralize pathogens. In air purifiers, where air passes through swiftly, the minimal contact time renders the disinfection process ineffective. Unlike water filtration or surface cleaning, air purifiers lack the necessary conditions for UV to perform optimally. Ozone Emission: The Hidden Danger: A critical concern associated with UV technology is its emission of ozone. Despite claims to the contrary, UV-equipped air purifiers often release ozone, a harmful pollutant. Ozone, even in small amounts, can have adverse effects on respiratory health. Using an ozone detector will reveal the truth about these emissions, shedding light on the potential risks that UV air purifiers pose. Added Expenses and Energy Consumption: Apart from its ineffectiveness, UV technology introduces additional drawbacks. Installing UV components increases costs, both in terms of equipment and maintenance. Furthermore, these systems consume energy, contributing to higher electricity bills. The cumulative expenses and energy consumption make UV air purifiers an impractical choice. The Gimmick and Marketing Ploy: In an industry driven by innovation and competition, UV technology has been positioned as a marketable feature. However, the scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness in air purifiers is lacking. Many manufacturers leverage UV's reputation for germicidal properties to create a selling point, despite its minimal impact on air quality. This shift of focus from evidence-based purification to gimmicky marketing undermines the true purpose of air purification. The Jaspr Approach: Focus on the Essentials At Jaspr, we prioritize results over gimmicks. Our air purifiers rely on tried-and-true methods that have been proven to work: high-efficiency filtration and carbon filtration. These technologies effectively capture particles, allergens, and odors from the air, promoting a healthier indoor environment. By avoiding the distractions of UV technology, we stay committed to delivering practical solutions that make a difference. Conclusion: In the pursuit of cleaner air, it's essential to separate fact from fiction. UV technology's shortcomings in air purification are evident, from its need for contact exposure time to the emission of harmful ozone. By choosing Jaspr's high-efficiency filtration and carbon filtration systems, you embrace an approach grounded in science and proven results. Let's prioritize genuine air quality enhancement over marketing-driven myths and pave the way for healthier living spaces.
Read moreThe Truth About PCO Air Purifiers: What They Don't Tell You About Photocatalytic Oxidation
Navigating the complex world of air purification technologies requires discernment and knowledge. As innovation paves the way to cleaner air, the appeal of new methods may often mask their inherent risks. This article explores the potential shortcomings of Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO) technology and illustrates why high-efficiency filtration + Carbon filtration is the superior choice. Unraveling the Complexities: high-efficiency filtration + Carbon vs. PCO Air Purifiers In the pursuit of air purification, the decision between high-efficiency filtration + Carbon filtration and Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO) becomes central. Below, we probe into the reasons why PCO may be a choice that requires caution: Drawbacks of Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO): Ozone Exposure: PCO generates ozone, a molecule that can threaten respiratory health. Secondary Pollutants: Unforeseen byproducts may carry unknown health risks. Proven Technology: PCO is less established and lacks the track record of traditional methods. Health Concerns: Potential risks arise from the presence of unknown compounds. Unpredictable Efficacy: PCO's effectiveness varies, leaving gaps in pollutant coverage. Examining the Risks: The Hidden Dangers of PCO Selecting an air purifier means placing health and safety at the forefront. PCO presents several concerns that warrant a closer look: Ozone Exposure: More Than Just a Drawback Among the myriad issues associated with PCO technology, ozone exposure stands out as an alarming risk. Although ozone protects us from UV radiation in the atmosphere, at ground level, it becomes a respiratory hazard. The very purifiers designed to enhance our air quality may, ironically, produce ozone as a byproduct. This contradiction creates a situation where the pursuit of cleaner air results in potential health threats. Ozone's Hidden Costs Inhaled ozone can inflame lung tissues, causing symptoms that range from irritation to serious respiratory diseases over time. Beyond affecting human health, ozone can also damage materials, tarnish fabrics, and even hurt indoor plants. Making an Informed Choice: Health Above All Considering these substantial risks, choosing the right air purifier becomes a crucial health decision. Focus must remain on solutions that safeguard the well-being of everyone indoors. High-efficiency filtration + Carbon: The Proven Way Forward Innovation's promise must be balanced against the potential dangers it might pose. PCO's ozone generation stands out as a major concern. The best course of action is clear: choose a solution like high-efficiency filtration + Carbon filtration, which combines effectiveness with safety. Comparison of high-efficiency filtration + Carbon Filtration vs. Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO) In the quest for pristine air quality, understanding the differences between available technologies is paramount. The table below outlines key features and drawbacks of both high-efficiency filtration + Carbon Filtration and Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO): Feature / Concern High-efficiency filtration + Carbon Filtration Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO) Ozone Exposure No ozone emission Generates ozone; respiratory risks Secondary Pollutants Controlled & predictable Unintended byproducts; health impacts Proven Technology Established, decades of proven results Less established; evolving understanding Health Concerns Well understood & regulated Potential risks from unknown compounds Efficacy Across Pollutants Consistent effectiveness Variable; might not cover all pollutants Conclusion Your health and well-being should never be compromised. When it comes to air purification, choose a path that aligns with your core values. At Jaspr, we steadfastly support solutions that protect both your indoor environment and those you care about. Embrace the tested, trusted path to excellence with high-efficiency filtration + Carbon filtration. Breathe in the confidence of a healthier, safer indoor space. Additional Resources: - Certain air filters using photocatalytic oxidation have dangerous by-product - What are the adverse health effects from exposure to ozone?
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Luxury Air
Written by Brittany German There are practices in place that ensure we have access to healthy, clean food and water. Of the three pillars of health, food and water are always top of mind, while air, is not. Despite air being our most important biological requirement, it is probably the dirtiest and unhealthiest of our three intakes, of which we inhale 17,000 litres per day. Why settle for contaminated air, when you can breathe luxury air? How Serious is this? There are government protocols in place to clean food and water. However, there is nothing of the sort for air. Until this changes, we need to take matters into our own hands to protect ourselves and our loved ones. The American Lung Association publishes a yearly "State of the Air" report that outlines trends in air pollution around the world. This year's report shows close to 1.1 million people more than last year are living in areas with unhealthy levels of particle pollution. Studies have shown that consistently breathing contaminated air can have serious effects on your health. Unfortunately, 4 in 10 Americans risk experiencing new and/or worsening health problems. Luxury Air and Athletes We know that athletes stick to strict food regimes to optimize their nutritional intake. This includes drinking the best water. Why? By maintaining a healthy body, they in turn improve their performance. Kangen Water is a company that offers high-end technology that filters tap water in addition to producing ionized alkaline and acidic water using electrolysis. We have developed the technology to clean our water, but aren't actively paying attention to cleaning our air to the same degree. If we and athletes were all more aware of how unhealthy air affects us, then we would be able to make more informed decisions to apply to our overall health regime as we do with food and water. There can be mold and bacteria in food that we refuse to eat. There can be germs and diseases in water that we refuse to drink. There are particulates and contaminants in the air... yet we breathe them in, constantly. You don't have to be an athlete to provide your body with the best. Jaspr Air Purifiers: Built for Wildfire Air Originally engineered to combat wildfire air, Jaspr Air Purifiers are the ultimate product for filtering particulates and contaminants out of the air. Due to its advanced technology, doctors and dentists have taken notice. They are consistently choosing Jaspr as a solution to provide the cleanest air to their staff and patients in their practices. Jaspr Air Purifiers are the absolute go-to for people wanting luxury air. Jaspr provides a hands-off sense of security so you don't have to worry about what you're breathing. Using a Jaspr in addition to your existing food and water protocols ensures a long and healthy life is met. A few luxury air clients happily review how the Jaspr Air Purifier has improved their lives: Luxury air isn't just for medical and dental offices or athletes. We all deserve to be breathing clean, particulate and chemical-free air. These happy customers recognize the importance of clean, luxury air. What are you breathing?
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The Effects a Humidifier has on Indoor Air Quality
Dry throats and snoring normally have people reaching for a humidifier - it seems like an easy solution. When we're starting to feel the effects of dry air, we know we need to add moisture to it. There's more to it than that. There are certainly benefits of using a humidifier, but there are risks attached. In our quest to ensure we're all breathing cleaner air, we must first consider how humidifiers affect our indoor air quality (IAQ). Is using a humidifier the right way to go? Humidifier Basics Most people know a humidifier adds moisture to the air but there's more to consider. To further understand humidifiers and their effect on our everyday lives, we need to know how they work, what types of humidifiers there are, and what we're hoping to get out of them. Let's figure out if you should actually be installing a humidifier. Types of Humidifiers and How they Work Ultrasonic humidifiers create cool or warm mist using ultrasonic sound vibrations. Cool mist humidifiers use high-speed rotating disks to produce a cool mist. Evaporative humidifiers use fans to push air through a moistened absorbent material to create humidity. Steam vaporizer humidifiers release steam by heating water with an electrical heating element. Ideal Outcome The ideal outcome of purchasing a humidifier might vary from person to person. A humidifier will add moisture to the air but this can serve many things: Ideally, you want a humidifier that adds moisture to the air, helps with any problems you have due to dry air and doesn't cause further problems. There lies the rub; humidifiers will solve one problem while creating another. 4 Factors that Determine the Success of Humidifiers 1. The Type of Humidifier Ultrasonic and impeller humidifiers are more known to expel microorganisms and minerals. Evaporative and steam vaporizer humidifiers are less likely to expel pollutants into the air but they can allow for the growth of microorganisms if filled with standing water. 2. The Type of Water The type of water used in your humidifier has an impact on how it can affect your indoor air quality. Tap water is filled with minerals so when it is aerosolized, minerals that can be digested as water become minerals that are not safe to be inhaled. To avoid dispersing these particulates into the air, use distilled bottled water. Distilled water will have a significantly lower concentration of minerals. Do not use bottles labelled 'spring', 'artesian', or 'mineral' which are rich with minerals. An experiment ran by Awair tested different types of water in a humidifier showing the difference water can make in the amount of fine dust released into the air. 3. The Humidity Level An optimal humidity level is between 30% and 50%. When humidity levels are lower than 30%, you're most likely to experience the above symptoms. When the humidity levels are higher than 50%, dust mites and mold are more likely to flourish and send additional particulates into the air causing further health problems. This is outlined well by Air Quality Canada: 4. The Cleaning Frequency It is very important to keep your humidifier as clean as possible. Where water (especially standing water) is present, germs can grow - at an even higher rate as the humidity levels climb. Anything that grows in your humidifier will blow into the air you breathe if not cleaned. To keep germs, microorganisms, and scale from affecting your air quality, clean your humidifier daily and follow the manufacturer's guidelines. The Benefits and Risks of a Humidifier Benefits A properly functioning humidifier can alleviate allergy symptoms by soothing dry coughs, eyes, throats, and noses. It can also help with bloody noses, congestion, as well as headaches, and migraines. Risks Fine Dust: Fine dust is made up of particulates with a diameter of fewer than 2.5 micrometers. You can fit 40 fine dust particles across the width of a single strand of hair. Their minute size allows them to sneak into your lungs unnoticed and thus, your bloodstream. Exposure to fine dust particles can have serious effects on your health: Too much moisture: If the humidifier isn't monitored and too much moisture is being added to the air, mold, fungus, and microorganisms will thrive. Condensate from excess moisture can deteriorate furniture, walls, and the humidifier's surrounding area. Particulates: Without diligent cleaning, your humidifier can become infested with mold, germs, and scale which will then be dispersed into the air and inhaled into your lungs. Humidifier Considerations Do you need a humidifier? Do the risks outweigh the benefits? They can as long as you make the right choices. Use a steam humidifier and clean it regularly Use distilled water Maintain a humidity level of 30% to 50% Use a high-efficiency air purifier to mitigate any particles that do enter the air
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Indoor Air isn't as Clean as it Smells
Written by Brittany German Have you ever left your home for a day or two and come back to this weird odour, but nothing has actually changed in your home? What if I told you that odour was there before you left, but you just didn't notice? Humans are the most adaptable species on the planet, of course, our noses are not exempt from this! We actually develop a form of nose blind to the odours within a space that we are consistently in. We just don't realize it. So what does this mean for the quality of our indoor air if we can't notice odours? It means the air is not necessarily as clean as it smells... More often than not, the air inside can be far more contaminated than the air outside, or in extreme external conditions, almost as bad. Wildfire Smoke and Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) It is currently wildfire season (extreme external conditions) in British Columbia, BC. Interior BC is experiencing dangerously high levels of air contamination: The higher the number, the more severe the health effects can be to those exposed to this air for longer than 24 hours. Sensitive groups are more at risk. Residents of Kamloops and other areas in BC affected by wildfire smoke are at risk as the unhealthy air begins to affect their indoor air quality. A healthy number for indoor air in British Columbia typically ranges around 5 but during wildfire season, with outdoor air reaching levels of 200 to 250, your indoor air can reach unhealthy levels in the low 100's without you even knowing. It's easily undetected, when you've spent the day outside smelling fire all day, coming into your house the air will comparatively smell much cleaner. However, without a way to monitor the IAQ, your nose may very well be fooling you. Just because you don't smell the contaminants in the air, doesn't mean they aren't there. Especially when you've adapted to worse air. How Does Smoke Affect Indoor Air Quality? Staying indoors during wildfire season is safer, but not bulletproof. The contaminated outdoor air can enter your home through the windows, through your ventilation system, and through any cracks, joints, or openings. Your home is not completely sealed off from what's around it. Smoke Inhalation Risks Burning wood and other organic materials produce gases and fine particles. These particles can then enter your eyes or be inhaled. Once these particles are in your system, you'll likely begin experiencing some of the following symptoms: For those in the sensitive groups that have chronic heart and lung diseases, the inhaled particles can be deadly. What Can You Do To Make Wildfire Season Safer? To lower the amount of smoke you may be inhaling during wildfire season, you can do the following: Purchase an air purifier with a high-efficiency filter that reads/monitors and displays IAQ Use face masks Control air circulation using your HVAC system Avoid activities that will produce even more particulates Drink water Stock up on medication The BCCDC says to "prepare for the worst" as this year's wildfires have the potential of being equally or more devastating than the previous 2016 and 2020 wildfires. Make sure you prepare for wildfire season accordingly; when you can't smell the smoke anymore, don't be fooled. Going nose blind happens when we are consistently exposed to the same smells. Don't just rely on your nose to judge your air quality. Using an air purifier that monitors and shows you accurate readings of the IAQ in addition to the above recommendations is a great way to ensure that your air inside is safe to breathe.
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The Three Pillars of Health
What are the three pillars of health? We drink clean water, we eat good food, but we breathe contaminated air. Let's treat air the same way we treat our other intakes.
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Monitoring Air Quality: Volatile Organic Compounds
Monitoring indoor air quality is important to gauge the level of volatile organic compounds you're breathing. Learn what these are and how you can purify your air.
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Sick Building Syndrome: What it is and How to Prevent it
Sick Building Syndrome is often mistaken for allergies, or the seasonal flu. Actually, it's because of poor indoor air quality in many sealed office buildings. Learn about Sick Building Syndrome and how can you prevent it.
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