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4104 Old Vestal Road, Ste 108, Vestal, NY 13850
Tel (607) 729 0726 Fax (607) 729 1341
have been giving for several years, all based on current research data. According to a recent article in the Wall Street Journal
(April 7, 2000), Americans spend about $350 million per year on portable air cleaners, so this is big business! These are the
basic types and our current stance on there value:
1. HEPA filters: This stands for "High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter", using a fine mesh which traps small particles. These have
been shown to remove cat allergen from air. They must not be placed on carpets unless they send the vented air out the top
(e.g. Vornado brand), but can be placed on pedestals or coffee tables.
2. Ionizers: these devices put a small electric "charge" on airborne particles, making them "stick" to walls and other surfaces, but
do not remove the particles from the air. We do not recommend them. A few types combine ionizers with filters, but most create
ozone, which is a poison and irritates the respiratory membranes, so we don't like any ionizer device, with or without filters.
3. Electrostatic filters: these contain fibers which put a minute electric charge on particles passing through one side of the filter
material, and then collect the particles on an opposite charge on the other side of the filter. These are ok, although may need
frequent cleaning.
4. Electronic air cleaners: These work similarly to the electrostatic type, except they have a wired grid which electrifies the
particles at a higher voltage, and theoretically can remove more and smaller particles (smoke). These tend to be more
expensive, can create ozone, must be cleaned frequently, and can create an annoying "crackling" as the particles are "zapped".
We do not think they are as useful as the HEPA types, and usually are more expensive.
Also please note: While there is evidence that HEPA filters remove cat allergen from the air, research has shown that they do not
make cat-allergic sufferers feel better! However, when used in a conscientous program of environmental control customized for
you, and combined with immunotherapy (allergy vaccine) for cat allergen--a holistic approach--they can be beneficial.
Bottom line: Before spending money on an air cleaner, consult us or another allergist to find out what is causing your allergies,
and whether an air cleaner is an cost-effective addition to your care! (Read the Wall Street Journal article referenced above for
additional information)
