How Air Filters Protect the Brain from Air Pollution

Learn how air filters and their ability to preserve indoor quality may hold the key to protecting the brain from the detrimental effects of air pollution.

Air pollution isn’t just “dirty” air. It’s a complex mix of gases, particles, and liquid droplets in the atmosphere generated by natural causes like wildfires and human activity such as vehicle traffic, power generation and manufacturing processes. What’s certain, however, is that prolonged exposure to air pollution is dangerous to human health, which is what makes air filters in homes and other places we spend inside such as commercial office buildings, industrial and retail facilities so important. 

In the United States, airborne pollutants are categorized as either criteria or hazardous air pollutants. 

• Criteria air pollutants generally come from combustion process in cars, power generation, and industrial processes. These pollutants include carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3), and particulate matter.
• Hazardous air pollutants, on the other hand, include toxic chemicals like benzene, mercury and arsenic.

“Long-term exposure to ultrafine particles can induce respiratory and cardiovascular diseases,” explains Joe Randolph Director of Distribution Sales at Camfil USA. “Below PM2.5, particles are more harmful because they penetrate deeper into the lung alveoli. The ultrafine particles can cross blood vessels walls and diffuse into the blood circulation to reach and affect organ function.”

But a recent report suggests that the effects of air pollution aren’t just limited to respiratory and cardiovascular health.

Poor Outdoor and Indoor Air Quality Main Cause of Pollution-associated Deaths

In 2017, The Lancet published a comprehensive review of diseases associated with pollution and found that air pollution was by far the biggest culprit of deaths and health complications caused by pollution. The report also referenced data from other studies, which raised concerns about the impact of air pollution on brain function, particularly among children and the elderly, who have developing and aging brains, respectively.

 

Air pollution, particularly pollution related to vehicle traffic, has been associated with an increased risk of neurodegenerative disease, particularly Alzheimer’s disease, and even neurodevelopmental disorders such as:

• Autism spectrum disorder
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
• Learning and intellectual disabilities
• Schizophrenia

More research, however, has to be done to determine whether these connections are causal and, if so, figure out which components in polluted air are responsible for these complications, and if individual factors such as age, genetics, and gender are critical.

High Efficiency Air Filters Particularly Important Near Roadways

Living near major roadways, which are heavily congested with vehicular traffic, has also been associated with a higher incidence of autism and Alzheimer’s disease, which only adds to the urgency of installing air filters with higher capture efficiency in homes and buildings near roads with heavy traffic congestion.

But again, scientists aren’t sure yet if this is due to higher levels of airborne pollutants from cars and trucks on the road, or because of noise and vibration. It may even be due to how individuals with lower incomes, who may have a poor diet, tend to live near heavily congested roads.

And even if air pollution is actually the cause of these neurological disorders, which pollutants are the culprit?

Importance of High Efficiency Air Filters or Stand-Alone Air Purifiers in Buildings Near Major Roads 

The focus on major roadways is important because while efforts to reduce air pollution have succeeded in significantly improving air quality in major cities across the United States, air quality in pockets close to sources of air pollution, such as roads, industrial facilities and power plants among others have lagged behind. It’s these areas where higher quality air filters or stand-alone  air purifiers are absolutely necessary. And because people living in these locations tend to have lower incomes, the risk of developing diseases, including neurological diseases, from exposure to air pollution is both a public health issue and an environmental justice issue. 

In fact, in 2017, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti ordered building inspectors to make sure homes and buildings near freeways were equipped with the proper-strength air filters to protect residents from exposure to pollution emissions.

How Air Filtration Systems May Help

As research continues on the link between neurological disease and air pollution, home and business air filtration systems still play a critical role in preventing diseases with a proven link to air pollution. 

 

• High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are designed to remove particulate matter (PM) down to a size of 0.3 microns in diameter, at an efficiency rate of 99.97 percent.
• Microfiltration systems, which typically use a superabsorbent fiber material like activated carbon, remove gaseous pollutants like volatile organic compounds, cigarette smoke and ozone among others.

Before Buying Air Purification Systems

Before upgrading to more efficient air filters to capture the smaller particles, it’s important to talk to a trusted air filter manufacturer to determine which solution is most appropriate for the air quality problems at hand. Air filter companies, reliable ones anyway, will always take the time to understand the containment needs of a home or building before recommending a proper-strength system.

At Camfil USA, we take pride in protecting people from the health problems posed by exposure to air pollution. Get in touch with our team to learn more about the different ways to protect your indoor air quality against air pollution. You may also explore our catalog of home air filters to learn more about our product line.

 

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How Commercial Air Filtration Systems Help with Office Productivity

While most people are generally aware of the negative health outcomes of air pollution, what most people don’t know is how air quality also has an effect on the productivity of workers. A study by Alberto Salvo, an associate professor in the economics department at the National University of Singapore, sought to understand the broader impact of air pollution by looking at its economic impact, specifically, how it affects the productivity of an organization’s workforce. The findings suggest that businesses may want to look at emissions control equipment and commercial air filtration solutions as a necessary investment that leads to operational efficiency, rather than a cost to comply with government regulations.

 

The study, published in the American Economic Journal: Applied Economics, saw researchers monitoring factories in China for more than a year. They also interviewed managers at 12 companies spread across four Chinese provinces and gathered data from two factories in Jiangsu and Henan.

 

How Impact of Indoor Air Quality on Productivity Was Measured

 

To measure and evaluate how indoor air quality affected the productivity records of employees during specific shifts, the researchers monitored how many pieces of fabric each worker made (they were paid for every finished piece). The researcher then compared the number of fabric pieces each worker produced per day to their exposure to particulate matter over time. 

 

It’s also worth noting that measuring PM2.5 or fine particulate matter, which refers to particles equal to or less than 2.5 microns, is the standard method of determining air pollution levels. 

 

Why the Study’s Factories Clearly Needed High Efficiency Air Filtration Systems 

 

Coincidentally, pollution levels in the two factories in the study, while varying from day to day, were consistently high throughout the duration of the research period. In fact, PM2.5 levels at one location were seven times over the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPAs) safe limit and registered at 85 µg/m3. It was not mentioned if both factories had commercial high efficiency filter air purifiers installed, but given these PM levels, it’s safe to say they did not have any emissions control equipment. 

 

“Long-term exposure to ultrafine particles can induce respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. It increases the mortality rates for people living in highly polluted urban areas,” points out Camfil USA’s Charlie Seyffer, Manager of Marketing & Technical Materials for commercial air filters and 37-year ASHRAE member and active committee participant. “Below PM2.5, particles are more harmful because they penetrate deeper into the lung alveoli. They cross blood vessels walls, diffuse into the blood circulation to reach and affect organs function.”

 

How Higher Efficiency Air Filtration Systems Are Key to Improved Productivity

 

The researchers also found that while daily particulate matter fluctuations were not enough to affect the productivity of the factory workers, they did find a noticeable drop in output when tracking exposure levels versus productivity over a 30-day period. This observation would suggest that HEPA filtration systems and other emissions control equipment show their value over the long term.

 

The researchers were able to determine that an increase in PM2.5 levels by 10µg/m3 sustained over a 25-day period reduced workplace productivity by one percent. The air pollution was equally harmful to the overall health of workers.

 

Aside from entering the lungs and crossing into the bloodstream, PM2.5 at high levels may also have a psychological impact on employees, the researchers note. 

 

Why the Connection to Improving Indoor Air Quality through Better Filtration  is Unique

 

This study is unique because it’s among the first to look at how air pollution affects workers in an indoor setting, highlighting the importance of air quality control equipment like industrial HEPA air filters. But it complements an earlier study, this time conducted in a California farm, which found that workers picking fruit were six percent less productive when PM2.5 levels increased by 10µg/m3.

 

Look for Air Filter Manufacturers Who Publish Capture Efficiency Ratings For Each Filter

When searching for air filtration solutions designed for workspaces, offices and factories, be sure to look only at air filter manufacturers who can provide test reports indicating the filter’s performance on capturing PM2.5 particulate matter.

 

Although the major concern in these indoor environments is airborne particles, odors and gases can also make workers uncomfortable and affect their short-term or long-term health. Another class of air filters, known as molecular filters,  can also control gases known as bio effluents (i.e. gases produced by human smells) as well as restroom exhaust and gases from attached commercial establishments which are common in large buildings with multiple commercial tenants.

 

Talk to Camfil USA to learn more about these commercial air filtration systems and how to control your workplace’s indoor air quality. 

 

 

 

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How Airports Are Using High Efficiency Filters to Lower Air Pollution

Learn how major airports in the country are turning to high efficiency air filters to protect the indoor air quality inside terminals and other airport buildings.

With a high volume of vehicle traffic, not to mention hundreds of airplanes flying in and out on a daily basis, it’s no surprise why airport terminals and buildings face a greater need for industrial quality air filters. The environments in and around airports are heavily polluted with gaseous contaminants and particulate matter (PM), making it all the more important to ensure that airline passengers and workers are breathing clean, purified air. 

“Air travel demand is forever increasing and airplanes, push-back trucks, passenger buses, staff buses, baggage wagons, cleaning team vehicles and catering trucks will further challenge the air filtration systems,” explains Greg Herman, National Accounts Manager at Camfil USA. “Most of these vehicles are powered by diesel engines and operate in very close proximity to gates and other passenger holding areas. As a consequence, they are the likely source of most pollution inside terminals and other airport buildings.”

Why Airports Need Both Particulate and Molecular Air Filters to Protect Indoor Air Quality

Airport buildings and the communities near them are constantly exposed to air pollution from jet fumes, airborne dust particles caused by the movement of thousands of people, particulate matter from construction work, and chemical gases from the use of cleaning chemicals. High efficiency filters designed to capture particles and molecular filters designed to capture gases play a big part in preventing these contaminants from affecting indoor air quality, and in turn, the health of passengers and airport staff. In recent years, their importance has become more pronounced after the public became aware of the dangers of carbon dioxide and greenhouse gases (GHG) being released by fossil fuels for power generation, power vehicles, and heating. 

Ground-based GHG emissions are particularly common in airport settings, where airport vehicles and ground support trucks use diesel fuels that tend to be more polluting. And while particulate and molecular air filters offer an effective way to prevent people from beating these emissions, airport management teams and local governments are taking it upon themselves to reduce GHGs in an effort to reduce operating costs and airport energy bills.

How Commercial HEPA Filters Can Fix the Problem

Most higher efficiency air and molecular filters can usually be installed in an airport’s existing HVAC system without modification. However, there are situations where modifications are required to the filter holding frame to allow for a greater number or larger size of filters. 

Another option available to airports are industrial-style stand-alone air purification systems that can be located in  areas that are particularly prone to a high volume of contaminated air. The value of using units like this is they can be set to activate when sensors detect air quality that needs immediate attention. These units are capable of utilizing either particulate filters for particle removal or molecular filters for gaseous contaminant removal.

Where Airports Can Get Funding for Industrial Air Filters

The good news is there are several State and Federal incentives that allow airports to receive funding to improve their energy efficiency and pollution emissions. These measures include tax-exempt leases, cooperatives for renewable energy, agreements for power purchasing, and other low-risk and low-cost options. There are also grants that provide funding to airports and other public facilities, allowing them to procure industrial air filter systems, buses that run on renewable energy, and even solar panel arrays.  

An example of a grant program comes from the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Sustainability Planning Program, which offers grants to certain airports working on Sustainability Master Plans or Airport Sustainability Plans. Such plans tend to include GHG inventories and initiatives for emissions reduction. 

EPA Working on Solutions Beyond Industrial HEPA Air Filtration Systems

While high efficiency air filters are a solution for improving air quality inside airports, the Federal Government knows it must look toward the root cause of the pollution itself. And so, government interventions like the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) and the Clean Air Act play a critical role in creating changes that reduce GHG emissions from the source, rather than just react to its consequences.

DERA, for example, provides funding to municipalities, schools, and other local government units. In this case, however, the money will be used to help them make the transition from dirty diesel cars and trucks, to fuel efficient alternatives. 

Choosing High Efficiency Particulate and Molecular Filters for AirportsWhile such changes take place, it’s important for airports to be proactive and use both high efficiency particulate and molecular filters to protect their staff and passengers. With the proper-strength air filtration system, the air inside terminals and airport buildings can be kept safe from pollutants such as:

 

• Black carbon (also known as soot)
• Smoke 
• Sulfur dioxide
• Nitrogen dioxide
• Volatile organic compounds

For more than 50 years, Camfil USA has been a leading provider of air filtration systems that meet the demands of airports when it comes to capturing and removing both particulate matter and gaseous pollutants. Get in touch with our experts for the airport air filters o learn how we can help solve your air quality problems.

 

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Can Commercial Air Filtration Systems Remove Viruses in the Atmosphere?

Learn about the risks posed by atmospheric viruses on outdoor and indoor air quality, and how commercial air filtration systems can remove these contaminants.

While much has been said about the air inside public transport, schools and hospitals being full of biological contaminants like germs and viruses from people, a recent study notes that there is also a surprisingly large number of viruses in the atmosphere and that, worse, they are falling from the sky. The study is the first to quantify the viruses being carried into the troposphere, above the planet’s weather systems but below the stratosphere where planes fly at cruising altitude, highlighting the critical role played by commercial air filtration systems. 

According to the research team composed of scientists from the United States, Canada and Spain, these viruses are swept up from the ground and transported thousands of miles from their place of origin, before being deposited back onto the surface of the Earth. 

According to University of British Columbia virologist Curtis Suttle, one of the senior authors of the research paper published in the January 2018 issue of the International Society for Microbial Ecology Journal, over 800 million viruses fall down on every square meter (11 square feet) of the planetary boundary layer on a daily basis—the equivalent of 25 viruses for every person in Canada. 

The Problems Posed by Biological Contaminants on Indoor Air Quality

According to the researchers, the viruses and bacteria are pushed into the atmosphere in small particles from sea spray and soil particles. These particles eventually fall back down and enter homes and buildings, affecting indoor air quality. 

Sutter and his colleagues, however, wanted to know exactly how much of this material is being carried up into the atmosphere, specifically, above 2,500 to 3,000 meters, or roughly 10,000 feet above sea level. At this altitude, these liquid and solid particles can travel thousands of miles, unlike particles in the lower layer of the atmosphere, which tend to stay within an immediate locality. 

Gathering air quality data from platform sites atop the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Spain, the researchers found billions of viruses and millions of bacteria deposited per square meter every day. Furthermore, the deposition rates for viruses were at least nine to 461 times greater than those for bacteria. The bacteria and viruses are deposited back onto the Earth’s surface through rain or dust intrusions from the Sahara—the rain, however, was less effective than previously thought, at removing viruses from the upper atmosphere. 

The research team also discovered that the majority of viruses in the atmosphere bore signs of being swept up into the air by sea spray. The viruses and bacteria attach themselves to smaller and lighter organic particles, which effectively allowed them to stay airborne for much longer.

Capturing Viruses and Bacteria with Commercial Air Filters

Viruses are just one of many biological contaminants that pose health risks for the occupants of homes and buildings. In fact, the EPA recommends the use of proper-strength commercial air filters to maintain higher indoor air quality and assist in removing contaminants such as:

 

• Bacteria
• Viruses
• House dust
• Pollen
• Animal dander
• Cat saliva
• Cockroach droppings
• Mites 
• Rat and mice urine

 

“The challenge for home and building owners are keeping an eye on the countless sources of these pollutants,” explained Camfil USA’s Charlie Seyffer, Manager of Marketing & Technical Materials for commercial air filters and 37-year ASHRAE member and active committee participant. “This makes monitoring the presence of biological pollutants in indoor spaces extremely difficult.”

Common sources of biological pollutants include:

• Plants, which produce allergy-causing pollen
• People, animals, and pests, all of which carry bacteria and viruses 
• Household pests, which produce animal dander and saliva
• Pests, which produce urine
• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, which can turn into the perfect breeding environment for mold and mildew when left unclean. When air passes through the HVAC unit to be heated or cooled, it carries with it the mold and mildew spores in the ductwork.

And, because of the difficulty of identifying the presence of biological contaminants in the air, it can be hard to take preventive action. The most practical solution is to first determine if the current HVAC system is capable of handling the greater size and resistance of high-efficiency air filters.  If not, the next step would be to consider adding a stand-alone air purification system. In either case, seek out and remove the source of these pollutants or prevent them from growing. 

Where Industrial Air Filtration Can Be a Factor

To prevent the buildup of biological contaminants inside, say,  a crowded school, an airport, or a hospital, the building must be ventilated to ensure that indoor air containing pollutants are released outside. But this also introduces another problem—dirty outside air with high levels of air pollution like smoke, industrial runoff, and, as the researchers learned, even more biological contaminants. This is a problem that  industrial and commercial air filtration systems are designed to solve. 

“High efficiency air filters can be installed in HVAC systems, filtering out biological pollutants and particulate matter carried by the airstream, preventing them from recirculating back into the room,” said Seyffer,. “As unfiltered air flows through the HVAC unit’s ductwork, the air filter captures and holds the airborne pollutants.”

 

The Ability of Commercial HEPA Filters to Remove Bacteria and Viruses

Since the 1940s, commercial HEPA filters have been used across a wide range of nuclear plants, healthcare facilities and life sciences applications, controlling the spread of airborne particles and organisms such as viruses and bacteria. However, assuming the existing HVAC system is capable of handling the additional stress to the system, care must be taken when choosing a HEPA filter for the purpose of controlling the smallest of all airborne pollutants. Many products labeled as HEPA filters are essentially “HEPA-like” as opposed to tested and certified HEPA filters. 

True high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters most commonly are rated by test methods that begin with a minimum capture efficiency of 99.97 percent of particles larger than 0.3 microns in diameter. Bacteria and viruses are often smaller than that but as mentioned earlier, typically attach themselves to larger particles. It’s also important to understand HEPA filters do not actively kill living organisms. They capture and hold them within the matrix of the filter. 

Getting the Best Out of Industrial HEPA Air Filtration Systems

While industrial HEPA air filtration systems are a tried and proven way to capture and remove biological contaminants in indoor environments, going out of your way to minimize the sources of these pollutants, or at the very least, discourage their growth, goes a long way toward maximizing the performance of these air filters.

For example, you can discourage the growth of mold and mildew by cleaning up pooling water or areas with high-moisture content—think bathrooms or basements where a leaking pipe could cause black mold to grow. For pet dander, on the other hand, you can take your pet regularly to a groomer or brush its hair outside. For pests like rats, mice and roaches, a comprehensive pest control program is the best way to remove them from the building.

To learn more about Camfil US commercial air filtration systems for the control of biological pollutants, talk to Camfil USA. Our team can assess your building’s containment needs and recommend the best air filter for the job. You can also explore our product line to learn the benefits of air filters for indoor air quality. 

If you are located in Canada, explore our Canadian website for commercial air filtration.

 

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https://www.camfil.com/en-us

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Taking the Fight to Air Pollution with Air Filters and Vitamins

Learn how vitamin B, along with air filters, could be the key to solving the air pollution affecting indoor air quality in buildings across the country. 

While ambient air quality across much of the United States has steadily improved over the years, homes and buildings should still be outfitted with air filters to ensure indoor air is healthy. 

Aside from air filters, there’s a growing body of literature on other methods that mitigate the effects of poor air quality. According to one study conducted at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, healthy non-smoking individuals who took vitamin B supplements almost reversed any harmful effects of exposure to polluted air on their immune and cardiovascular function.

Medication and Air Filters Just Two of Many Ways to Address Air Pollution

The results of the study prove that air pollution is a crisis that can be addressed on several fronts, one being the capture and removal of airborne pollutants with air filters. 

In fact, the test subjects’ supplement regimen reduced the effects of air pollution on:

• Heart rate, by 150 percent
• White blood cell count, by 139 percent
• Lymphocyte count, by 106 percent

While it has yet to be determined if the results of this study can be replicated, it’s nevertheless worth considering, given the dangers of poor air quality on public health.

“Long-term exposure to ultrafine particles can induce respiratory and cardiovascular diseases,” explained Mark Davidon, Manager of Marketing & Technical Materials, at Camfil USA. “Below PM2.5, particles are more harmful because they penetrate deeper into the lung alveoli. They cross blood vessels walls, diffuse into the blood circulation to reach and affect organ function (heart, liver, brain, and endocrine system).”

The Dangers of Particulate Matter on Indoor Air Quality

Air pollution from particulate matter, or PM, is especially dangerous to indoor air quality, contributing to more than 3.7 million premature fatalities annually around the world, with the causes of death predominantly attributed to cardiovascular disease. At the population level, PM pollution is cited as the most frequent cause of myocardial infarction. 

Particulate matter is composed of solid or liquid substances that are small and light enough to be airborne. The largest PM particles can be seen with the naked eye as dust-like particles under beams of sunlight. For the most part, the human body does a fairly good job of keeping these larger particles out of the body. It’s the smaller PM that you can’t even see, especially PM2.5, or particles 2.5 microns in diameter, that represents a serious problem to public health.

Particles of this size and below can penetrate the smallest alveoli of the lungs, where they can cross into the bloodstream and reach the body’s vital organs, increasing the risk of developing cardiovascular, respiratory, and immune system issues.  

PM Exposure Requires Intervention by High Efficiency Air Filters

The results of the study concerning particulate matter raise the urgency of protecting homes and buildings with higher efficiency air filters.

The researchers tested 10 healthy non-smokers, ages 18 to 60, who were not put on any kind of vitamin B supplement program or any other kind of medication. The 10 volunteers, however, received a placebo over a four-week period before being exposed to ambient air with PM2.5 for two hours. During the next four-week period, the volunteers were given vitamin B supplements before being exposed to low air quality for two hours. 

The researchers found that just two hours of exposure to concentrated levels of PM2.5 in the air had significant effects on the heart rate, white blood counts, and heart rate variability of the test subjects. The good news is that these effects were nearly reversed with a four-week vitamin B regimen.

Other Pollutants Captured by Particulate and Molecular Air Filters

While the results of the study are obviously important in the field of medical science, this doesn’t mean that vitamin B can be considered a wonder supplement against the effects of air pollution. And even if it were, it’s important to remember that air pollution contains pollutants other than particulate matter. This is why air filtration systems, designed to remove a wide variety of pollutants, are so important.

These contaminants include:

• Chemical pollutants – This includes volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are produced by paints, solvents, finishes, construction materials, and even office equipment.
• Gaseous pollutants – This includes pollutants such as carbon monoxide, cigarette smoke, and car exhaust, all of which are in gas form.
• Biological contaminants – These pollutants are composed of airborne bacteria, viruses, and fungi, which are common in hospitals, workplaces, and even schools. 

Beware of Cheap Air Filters

As interest in air filtration systems increases due to serious air pollution levels in parts of the country, some manufacturers have taken advantage of this demand by selling cheap air filters that promise “premium performance.” Most of these are too good to be true; focus on high-quality air filters from a trusted manufacturer instead.

For more than five decades, Camfil USA has been a leading name in the air purifier industry, protecting the indoor air quality in homes and buildings all over the world. To learn about the importance of protecting indoor air quality from outdoor air pollution, talk to Camfil USA. As one of the world’s top commercial air filter manufacturers, we have a wide range of air filter solutions for you to explore.

Media Contact:

Lynne Laake 

Camfil USA Air Filters 

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What the Donora Smog Crisis Can Teach Us About the Need for Air Filters

Most people will have never heard of Donora, a borough in Pennsylvania that experienced one of the worst environment-related public health disasters in United States history, forcing government officials to recognize the problem of air pollution. This disaster would eventually pave the way for the Clean Air Act and awareness of the importance of air filters.

The catastrophic event, known as the 1948 Donora Smog, played a pivotal role in pushing for air quality regulations in the country. The air quality phenomenon saw the whole town exposed to extremely high levels of smog pollution, which left 27 people dead in a single weekend and twice as many in the month that followed. Hundreds of residents also fell ill, and later reports indicate that the death rate continued to remain high for another 10 years.

Scientists attributed the unusually high levels of airborne pollutants in the town that year to atmospheric inversion.

The Effect of Atmospheric Inversion on Indoor Air Quality

An atmospheric inversion is an event in which air stops circulating and is trapped close to the ground. Under normal circumstances, this phenomenon means that cool air is trapped at ground level by a higher layer of warm air. What happened in Donora, however, is that the inversion also trapped toxic gasses at ground level, causing indoor air quality in the town to plunge to dangerously poor levels.

“Indoor air quality refers to the aerosol and gas content, temperature, and humidity of the air inside a structure,” said Camfil USA’s Mark Davidson, Manager of Marketing & Technical Materials for commercial air filters and ASHRAE member and active committee participant. “In the case of human habitation, the quality of the air is determined by its ability to maintain the health and well-being of humans occupying the structure.”

And in 1948, the air in Donovan was indeed teeming with airborne pollutants.

Could Higher Efficiency Air Filters Have Prevented the Problem?

As it turns out, higher efficiency air filters could have helped save lives and protect people from airborne pollutants if they had spent most of their time indoors.

Residents recounted how during the early hours of October 26, 1948, a fog had settled over the town, which was also home to U.S. Steel Corporation’s Donora Zinc Works and American Steel and Wire. The fog became thicker in the hours that followed, so much so that witnesses remember being able to taste it. 

By October 29, atmospheric inversion had trapped so much fog and pollution in the town that attendees of a local football game said they could barely see the players on the field. Recognizing the health risks posed by the smog, doctors sounded the alarm and ordered the sick and elderly to leave town right away. The doctors themselves had trouble breathing, and firefighters, who tried to provide people with oxygen, were prevented from doing so due to the poor visibility—in the middle of the day. 

Finally, on October 30, Donora Zinc Works and American Steel and Wire stopped operations. The next morning the fog began to disappear, but not before leaving survivors with permanent lung damage. 

Today, these events are memorialized in the Donora Smog Museum as a reminder never to take breathable air for granted. 

Even Today, Air Filters with a Higher Capture Efficiency are Still Needed for the Same Problems

Unfortunately, air pollution problems exacerbated by inversion continue to happen today, highlighting the importance of air filtration systems. 

In the Greater Salt Lake area, for example, the inversion is usually at its worst during January and February, when cool air, snow on the ground, and little to no wind create the perfect conditions to keep cold air from escaping the valley. These conditions happen when a high-pressure system hovers over the Wasatch Mountains and traps cold air in the valley, where it combines with pollutants from automobiles and fireplaces. 

The fog that hangs over the valley transforms into smog and turns a shade of brown. But what people can’t see is that the amount of pollutants in the air when this happens already exceeds the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s air quality standards.

Frequent Wildfires Create the Same Problem, Creating Demand for Businesses, Hospitals and Residences to Upgrade Air Filters

The wildfires that have become more frequent in California also raise the importance of air filters for maintaining indoor air quality due to two reasons:

• First, homes and buildings near wildfires are exposed to plumes of smoke full of airborne pollutants, including toxic gasses and particulate matter.
• Second, homes and buildings located hundreds of miles away from the fires can still suffer from smoke exposure caused by the inversion.

Take the San Joaquin Valley, for example. Despite being far from the wildfires raging in the north, the valley’s topography and weather patterns have the effect of trapping pollutant-laden air that drifts into the area. Heat from the sun pushes the cool and polluted air to the ground, preventing it from escaping. Indeed, the Ferguson Fire and the Mendocino Complex Fires have dumped wildfire smoke into the valley, causing ambient air quality levels to decline rapidly. 

High Efficiency Air Filters Have Never Been More Important

For cities with air quality problems exacerbated by inversion, air filters are obviously vital to the health and safety of residents. When choosing an air filter, it’s important to choose a solution from a reliable manufacturer. 

At Camfil USA, we take our responsibility of protecting buildings from air pollution seriously. Talk to our team to learn about the importance of protecting indoor air quality against air pollution. You may also explore our product finder for air filters to learn more about our product line.

Media Contact:

Lynne Laake 

Camfil USA Air Filters 

T: 888.599.6620 

E: Lynne.Laake@camfil.com

F: Friend  Camfil USA on Facebook

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The Health Risks of Using Wood-Burning Stoves

Learn whether filters such as HEPAs, high efficiency and molecular filters are capable of capturing and removing particulate and vapors  from the smoke of wood-burning stoves and furnaces.

high efficiency or molecular air filters, they could be putting their health and safety at risk.

Wood-burning stoves continue to be popular even in an era of sophisticated heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems. They’re inexpensive, easy to maintain, though some would say difficult to clean, and they’re able to reduce heating bills by as much as 30 percent. 

And then there’s the obvious appeal of a fireplace, which becomes the centerpiece of many living rooms in the winter months. It’s hard to deny the nostalgia and romance that comes with lighting a fire on a cold night and sitting near the fire for some quality time, with the mood punctuated by the occasional cracking of firewood. It’s no small wonder why fireplaces can add to the value of a home. 

But wood burning also introduces a wide range of indoor air pollutants that reduce indoor air quality and trigger severe allergy symptoms. This reaction is especially true when indoor air is unable to vent properly.

“Burning of gas heaters produces NO2 and CO which must be vented to the outdoors. Space heaters emit particles, CO, NO2, and sometimes SO2,” says Mark Davidson, Manager of Marketing & Technical Materials at Camfil USA. “In reality, gas wood and coal stoves all emit particles  as well as gases.”

Emissions from Wood Stoves that Reduce Indoor Quality

Anyone who has ever smelled smoke coughed after inhaling it or seen darkened surfaces near a smoke source understands there are both particles and gases involved.

But what exactly is smoke? 

The answer depends on what is burning at the time. We know that smoke is made up primarily of gases and particles, mostly water and carbon—a major component of soot. If the smoke comes from the process of burning wood, the particles can be made up of organic compounds and chemicals such as:

• Formaldehyde
• Acrolein
• Propionaldehyde
• Benzene
• Butyraldehyde
• Acetaldehyde
• Furfural

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the key to reducing the presence of these chemicals in the air is to burn the wood efficiently by using an EPA-certified wood stove and dry, seasoned wood.

A Warning on the Danger of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning 

Every winter there are tragic stories in the news due to carbon monoxide poisoning from faulty furnaces, portable space heaters or automobile exhaust entering enclosed spaces. All facilities including homes, retail spaces, and commercial office buildings that rely on the combustion of fuel as a heating source or for power generation as well as any that have indoor garages or any other type of equipment that generates carbon monoxide, must ensure the facilities are inspected and up to local building codes. While molecular filters do exist that capture this dangerous gas, no one should ignore building and equipment inspections that ensure proper ventilation procedures have been followed. A filter is NOT the primary defense against these carbon monoxide tragedies.

What Will Help Against Smoke from Wood-burning Stoves and Fireplaces?

Smoke from inefficient combustion can be especially dangerous to at-risk segments of the population like pregnant women, children, infants and the elderly. When inhaled, the chemical compounds in wood smoke can cause lung cancer and trigger allergic reactions such as sneezing, coughing, wheezing, sinus irritation, runny nose and headaches. Smoke can be especially dangerous to people suffering from asthma.

There are two main issues associated with fireplace smoke.

First, there is the particulate matter (PM) in the smoke itself. Second, there are the chemicals released in the actual process of burning wood. 

For particulate matter, Camfil high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are designed to remove the smallest particles down to .3 micron in size. Other air filters, while not as efficient as HEPA filters, are considered to be high efficiency and can capture up to 90% of particles 1 micron and above.

Molecular filters are an effective way to help control the gases and vapors found in smoke. Molecules that make up the VOCs are up to 10,000 times smaller than the particles that are captured by HEPA and other high efficiency filters, so they are able to pass right through the filters.  However, molecular filters are produced from media with millions of sub-micron sized cave-like structures that are able to trap molecules deep in these miniature caves and hold them in place. Molecular filtration media has an enormous surface are relative to its size. While difficult to believe, a single gram of molecular media could have surface area, if laid flat, up to 1,000 square meters.

When HEPA or high efficiency air filters are paired with a molecular filter, this creates a filtration system that doesn’t just capture and remove PM (particulate matter) but also removes chemicals in smoke. 

Additional Ways to Minimize Wood-Burning Stove Pollution

Aside from installing HEPA, high efficiency air filters or molecular filters to help control the VOCs from fireplace smoke, homeowners can turn to a wide range of measures to limit their exposure to wood-burning stove pollution, such as:

• Ensuring the fireplace is well-constructed and inspected regularly 
• Installing well-sealed doors in front of the fireplace to contain smoke emissions
• Burning only natural wood—never trash or treated wood
• Using only dry wood
• Using smaller pieces of wood instead of larger pieces to limit inefficient combustion

If you are interested in learning more about protecting your indoor quality with commercial air filters from Camfil USA, please click here.

 

Media Contact: 

Lynne Laake 

Camfil USA Air Filters 

T: 888.599.6620 

E:Lynne.Laake@camfil.com

F: Friend  Camfil USA on Facebook

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The Benefits of Air Filtration Against Biological Contaminants

Learn why air filters are being used to limit the presence of biological air pollutants inside buildings. 

One of the main reasons buildings use air filters is to control the presence of biological contaminants in the air.  According to the Environment Protection Agency (EPA), these biological contaminants include:

• Bacteria
• Viruses
• Animal dander
• Cat saliva
• House dust
• Pollen
• Mites 
• Cockroach droppings
• Rat and mice urine

Controlling the presence of biological pollutants in indoor spaces is easier said than done because of the countless sources of these pollutants:

• Pollen comes from plants; people, animals, and pests carry viruses and bacteria.
• Animal dander and saliva come from household pets.
• Even urine from mice and rats can cause an allergic reaction in many people. When the urine dries, it leaves behind particles that can become airborne and then inhaled.
• When not properly maintained, dirty, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can become breeding grounds for mold and mildew, which can circulate with the heated or cooled air in the rooms of a building or home

In other words, even if a building appears spotless, it can still have biological contaminants growing without the owner knowing. In fact, completely removing biological contaminants from indoor spaces is next to impossible. without However, installing high efficiency air filters or stand-alone room air purifiers is one way to significantly improve the air quality. Attacking the sources that generate these pollutants is an additional method that should also be undertaken.  

“Biological contaminants usually come from biologic organisms like fungi, mold, mildew, animals, and humans,” notes Greg Herman, National Accounts Manager at Camfil USA. “So, unless a building is uninhabited or devoid of any furnishings, doors, and windows, it will always have airborne biological contaminants.”

As such, the challenge for home and building owners is to create an environment that discourages the presence of biological contaminants. For example, the EPA suggests the following measures:

• Keeping indoor humidity levels at 30 to 50 percent 
• Removing standing water
• Cleaning up wet surfaces
• Addressing materials damaged by water

 

Anything damp and moist serves as a breeding ground for mildew, mold, bacteria, and even insects. In fact, dust mites, the bane of anyone suffering from allergies, love to grow in warm, damp environments.

What Are Biological Pollutants and How Do They Affect Indoor Air Quality?

Biological contaminants are living or dead organisms. They promote poor indoor air quality by causing a host of health issues such as asthma, allergy attacks and a host of respiratory and skin problems. 

According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI), allergies affect more than 28 million children, with 7.1 million suffering from asthma. Allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose and headaches are also the second most common reason adults miss work. 

Airborne biological contaminants can also wreak havoc on surfaces inside and outside buildings. Mold and mildew growth on plumbing, attics and basements can take thousands of dollars to repair; severe mold infestations also represent a serious health threat to the building’s occupants.

“Biological contaminants require two conditions to grow: nutrients and moisture,” said Herman. “Unfortunately, these conditions can be found in many locations, such as bathrooms, wet appliances like air conditioners and humidifiers, wet carpets, or flooded basements.” And don’t be fooled into thinking these conditions only exist in homes. Commercial office buildings, retail spaces and industrial facilities are all susceptible to conditions like these.” 

Proper ventilation is one possible solution for preventing the buildup of moisture in indoor spaces, allowing damp air to escape and replacing it with air drawn through filters. However, ventilation can introduce another set of problems, especially if the building location is in an area with high outdoor pollution levels. 

Where high efficiency air filters Come In

The challenge with ventilating facilities and buildings is that it becomes dangerous when the outside air brought inside contains high levels of pollutants like smoke, industrial runoff and carbon monoxide. This problem is where air filters with a high capture efficiency rating come in. 

Many of the biological contaminants identified by the EPA are far too small to be seen by the naked eye. Capturing them  requires better air filters than what are often installed in HVAC systems. ASHRAE Standard 52.2 indicates a MERV 13/13A filter will capture 90% of all particles 1 micron and larger and is a good starting point when upgrading air filters. 

HEPA Filters in existing HVAC systems and Stand-Alone Air Purifiers  

HEPA filters are a step up from MERV rated air filters. A true HEPA filter will remove 99.97% of particles down to as small as .3 microns. It’s possible to install these filters in some existing HVAC systems, but not all. A qualified air filtration professional near you will need to make that determination.

If the existing HVAC system is not capable of handling a HEPA filter, a stand-alone air purification system with a HEPA filter should be considered. Portable systems with HEPA filters have the advantage of being able to be placed in specific areas where contamination is highest or near the most likely points of entry into a building.

HEPA filters are especially important in medical facilities, where airborne contaminants may disrupt the health and well-being of patients. Poor indoor air quality and exposure to biological contaminants and dangerous chemicals can add to the list of risk factors that may cause patients to develop minor and potentially fatal illnesses. 

Check out Camfil Megalam Energuard HEPA filter for the cleanrooms and life sciences industry.

Can Commercial HEPA Filters Remove Bacteria and Viruses?

Commercial HEPA filters have been used in biomedical applications since the 1940s to control the spread of airborne organisms like viruses and bacteria. Like most air filters, HEPA filters are rated based on their ability to capture a percentage of various particle sizes.  

As mentioned earlier, true HEPA filtration has a 99.97 percent rate of efficiency when capturing particulate matter down to 0.3 microns in size. However, HEPA filters can be produced that capture an even higher percentage, up to 99.9995%.  

The good news is that HEPA filters in properly maintained air filtration systems, have proven effective against bacteria, viruses and other microbiological contaminants. 

Final Words on Industrial Air Purification Systems

Remember that while air filters can be effective at capturing airborne biological contaminants, an overall strategy includes  having proper ventilation and removing the source of these pollutants if possible. 

• In the case of mold and mildew growth, no amount of ventilation will fix a mold or mildew infestation if the root of the problem isn’t addressed. 
• For pet dander, the best solution is to brush the pet’s hair outside. 
• For allergens, it pays to stay away from known causes of allergic reactions.

For everything else, air filters should help reduce issues with biological pollutants. If you are interested in learning more about commercial air filters by Camfil USA, please click here. We can also guide you in deciding which filter to get based on your biological contaminant needs. 

Lynne Laake 

Camfil USA Air Filters 

T: 888.599.6620 

E:Lynne.Laake@camfil.com

F: Friend  Camfil USA on Facebook

T: Follow Camfil USA on Twitter 

Y: Watch Camfil Videos on YouTube

L: Follow our LinkedIn Page

 

Sources:

1. https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/biological-pollutants-impact-indoor-air-quality
2. https://www.webmd.com/allergies/features/allergies-at-work#1

 

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Reasons Why Homes Near Freeways in L.A. Need Home Air Filters

Learn about the air pollution situation in L.A. and why homes near freeways experience poor indoor air quality without the protection of home air filters.

For years, the Los Angeles City Council has sent health advisories to housing developers, warning them about the health risks of building real estate developments near freeways. Unfortunately, some of these warnings went unheeded, which is why many homeowners living near freeways have had no choice but to turn to alternative air filtration solutions to maintain safe and breathable indoor air. 

But when the city government tried to shift its focus to warning residents instead, some officials rejected the move.

In 2015, city planning commissioners rejected an environmental ordinance requiring the installation of warning signs for new multifamily developments constructed near high traffic areas. The signs would have warned about the dangers of air pollution created by nearby vehicles. Why was the ordinance rejected? The commissioners felt it would have placed too high a burden on real estate developers and hurt the local housing market.  

Los Angeles’s History of Poor Outdoor and Indoor Air Quality

The move was concerning, given L.A.’s long history of struggling to control the high volume of cars in the city. And, as almost anyone knows, cars are a major producer of airborne pollutants, hence the city’s outdoor and indoor air quality issues.  

“Internal combustion engines can be a source of indoor air pollution in offices, schools, hospitals, hotels, shopping centers, and retail stores, especially where garages are attached,” explains Steve Smith, CamCleaner & Portable Air Cleaner Segment Manager at Camfil USA. “In large cities with a high number of vehicles present, the ambient air normally contains a high number of particles and various gas or molecular contaminants.”

“Efficient particle filtration of submicron and ultrafine particles as well as molecular filtration of the air coming into the building can reduce this contamination significantly,” he adds. “The challenge is evaluating the air handling systems to determine whether  they are capable of utilizing air filters able to accomplish this. If the air handling system is not capable, than portable air cleaners may be a consideration. ” 

Why Understanding Air Filters and Air Purification Systems Has Never Been More Important in L.A.

Critics of the decision said that it was proof city officials are reluctant to do anything that will discourage homebuilding, even if it means taking action to protect public health. The move, which could have helped disincentivize building near freeways, is just one of many examples of L.A. and other cities in California flouting state air quality guidelines on building near freeways. . 

Furthermore, since 2005, state air quality officials have repeatedly advised city governments to avoid building dwellings within 500 feet of roads with heavy traffic. Since then, the body of literature linking air pollution generated by vehicle traffic to health problems like asthma, cardiac arrest, cancer, and preterm births among others has only grown. 

The result is affected home and building owners have no choice but to seek out experts in air filtration and air purification systems to protect themselves. The solution could be simply installing a better filter in your existing air handling system. Based upon the configuration of your building’s equipment, you may need to consider a stand alone air purification system.  

How Air Filters Are Helping Turn the Tide in Los Angeles

In 2017, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti ordered building inspectors to assess whether suitable air filters  are being installed in buildings and homes near freeways. Personnel from the Department of Building Safety were assigned to ensure dwellings had the appropriate type of air filters, to better protect residents from air pollution from cars and trucks.

The city also enhanced its building inspection systems, which now help staff stay abreast of current air filtration standards and keep track of filter installation information. This change was after the Department of Building Safety reported that it did not have procedures for monitoring whether new developments near freeways were complying with the enhanced air filter installation requirements.

It’s not quite what critics of the 2015 decision had in mind, but nevertheless,  it’s a welcome development after the City Council acknowledged the health risks of residential development near traffic pollution hotspots.

A Future Where Clean Air is Demanded by All.

Reports, such as the 2016 State of the Air (SOTA) by the American Lung Association (ALA), point out that Los Angeles continues to have some of the worst levels for particle pollution and ozone pollution in the country, respectively taking the fourth and first spot.  What most people don’t know is that in recent years, Los Angeles has actually done a better job of improving its ambient air quality. 

Much of the city’s success can be attributed to California’s strict adherence to the provisions of the Clean Air Act, which was supported by the state’s own initiatives to improve ambient air quality. Los Angeles, on the other hand, has implemented additional anti-air pollution measures such as:

• • Rideshare incentives for employers
  • Improving public transport
  • Promoting electric vehicles
  • Land-use restrictions for polluted neighborhoods

How to Choose air filters and Home Air Purification Systems

When shopping for air filters or home air purification systems, it’s important to base your purchase decision on the type  of contaminants you are dealing with, the size of the rooms being “treated,” and the level of air quality you desire. You should factor in any known health issues of those living in the building as well.  For example, asthma sufferers report an improved quality of life with when able to spend more time in buildings with improved indoor air quality.  

An air filter manufacturer will be in the best position to help buyers make an informed decision. At Camfil USA, we understand our customers’ concerns about outdoor and indoor air quality, which is why we are committed to providing the best home air filters for their needs. Get in touch with our team or explore our product line.

 

Media Contact:

 

Lynne Laake 

Camfil USA Air Filters 

T: 888.599.6620 

E:Lynne.Laake@camfil.com

F: Friend  Camfil USA on Facebook

T: Follow Camfil USA on Twitter 

Y: Watch Camfil Videos on YouTube

L: Follow our LinkedIn Page

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How the Air Purifier Industry Can Help Save the U.S. Billions of Dollars

Time and again we hear that air pollution is bad for the health of the public, hence the important role played by the air purifier industry in keeping the air inside our homes, offices and schools safe to breathe.

But just how bad is the problem of air pollution? 

According to a 2016 report, air pollution is one of the factors contributing to 16,000 premature births in the United States each year, costing Americans more than $4.33 billion annually. Of that number, $3.57 billion comes from lost productivity related to the physical and mental disabilities—side effects of being born prematurely. The rest comes from hospital visits and other healthcare expenses caused by premature birth. 

The study looked beyond the regular culprits of air pollution such as carbon monoxide and ozone; instead, it used particulate matter (PM) with a diameter of less than 2.5 microns (PM2.5) as a stand-in for air pollution. This particulate matter includes liquid and solid particles such as metals, acids, organic chemicals, and dust among others, all of which can be floating in the air at any time. 

“Prolonged exposure to ultrafine particles can dramatically increase the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, increasing the mortality rates of people living in highly dense and polluted urban areas,” notes Camfil USA’s Charlie Seyffer, Manager of Marketing & Technical Materials for commercial air filters and 37-year ASHRAE member and active committee participant. “Below PM2.5, particles become more dangerous because they have the potential of penetrating deeper in the smaller alveoli of the lungs, crossing blood vessel walls and affecting the different organs of the body.”

While the study was the first of its kind to look at the economic effects of polluted air from the perspective of preterm births in the United States, it is far from being the only study to look at the economic implications of air pollution as a whole. 

Global Need for Commercial High Efficiency Filters

That same year, the World Bank published a report stating that air pollution costs the global economy more than $5 trillion in welfare costs alone every year. The report also suggests that people in developing nations are the ones needing commercial high efficiency filters the most.

The welfare figure includes financial factors associated with air pollution such as consumption and health. When looking at the effect on income, air pollution costs the global economy over $225 billion each year. The report accounts for both outdoor and indoor air pollution. The latter, which includes pollution sources like heating, cooking, and lighting, has remained constant over the last few decades despite technological advancements in these areas. 

On the other hand, while first world nations have made significant progress in reducing outdoor air pollution levels, the same can’t be said for the developing world, where rapid growth in industry and transportation have also increased air pollution levels.

“Reports on high air pollution levels around the world are an urgent call for governments and ordinary citizens to take action,” said Seyffer. “Unfortunately, of the many risk factors we know that lead to premature death, the air we breathe is something we have little control over.”

This lack of control is mostly true when spending time outdoors, but we can do something about the air inside homes and buildings thanks to the advent of air purification systems. 

Why the Developing World Desperately Needs Commercial High Efficiency Filters

The effects of air pollution and need for commercial high efficiency filters are perhaps most evident in the developing world, where in some places, the economic impact of lost labor income accounts for one percent of an entire country’s GDP. 

Countries in South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa, for example, lose approximately 0.83 percent of their respective GDP because of air pollution. As for the human price of pollution, nine out of ten people in low to middle-income nations live in areas where outdoor air pollution levels are dangerously high.

Take Nigeria, for example, which is home to four of the world’s worst cities for air pollution: Onitsha, Kaduna, Aba, and Umuahia. Nigeria and other African cities are rapidly experiencing increasing levels of outdoor air pollution due to a booming economy and industrialization, which often come at the expense of the environment due to the lack of or absence of regulatory controls.

Subtle Dangers of Low-Level Pollution Highlight Need for High Efficiency Air FiltersMost studies on air pollution, however, look at the health and economic effects of severe air pollution. Yes, we know that things like smog and exposure to traffic pollution have a negative impact on respiratory and cardiovascular function, hence the need to spend as much time indoors under the protection of high efficiency air filters.

But another study suggests that even at low levels, air pollution can have the subtle impact of impairing our ability to perform everyday tasks. The researchers theorize that because the brain is one of the most oxygenated organs in the body, any contaminants inhaled may impact our brain function as well. 

In fact, the researchers found that air pollution at levels below regulatory standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) can still have an impact on work productivity within the call center, manufacturing, and agricultural industries.

There is also a growing body of literature showing that exposure to low-level air pollution by the fetus, or when the brain is still developing, can leave long-lasting and possibly permanent cognitive issues, which manifest themselves in demonstrable deficiencies on mental performance in school. 

Commercial Air Filtration Systems Are Not Permanent Solutions

Unfortunately, commercial air filtration systems only address the symptoms of air pollution. It will take concerted actions by both the private and public sector to make a lasting effect on reducing air pollution levels. The good news is that we now have a record of environmental success, proving that concrete steps towards solving environmental crisis work.

In the 1980s, the world woke up to the news that harmful gases in the atmosphere had punched a hole in the ozone layer, increasing the risk of people developing skin cancer from UV exposure. In response, governments around the world came together to sign the Montreal Protocol, a treaty that banned ozone-depleting substances such as CFCs.

Today, studies show that these efforts have worked and continue to work—the ozone layer may be finally healing. 

Go for Quality When Choosing a Room Air Purification System

If you do decide to install an air purification system in your building or home to address specific problems within an area, remember to avoid cheap, bargain units that promise to remove 99.99 percent of indoor air contaminants. Portable air purifiers should remove particulates and gaseous contaminants. The best air purifiers incorporate a HEPA filter and activated carbon.  A true HEPA filter will have this kind of performance, but it will not come cheap. More often than not, you get what you pay for when it comes to air purifiers. Save your time and money and invest in a high-quality unit instead.\

To avoid any problems when choosing an air purifier or commercial high efficiency air filters, be sure to consult with a trusted supplier or manufacturer of air filtration systems. Remember, the best air filter isn’t necessarily the most expensive one or the one with the most features—it’s one that matches your containment needs and budget. To learn more about the importance of indoor air quality control, talk to Camfil USA. You may also explore our catalog of air filtration systems to learn more about our products.

Lynne Laake 

Camfil USA Air Filters 

T: 888.599.6620 

E: Lynne.Laake@camfil.com

F: Friend  Camfil USA on Facebook

T: Follow Camfil USA on Twitter 

Y: Watch Camfil Videos on YouTube

L: Follow our LinkedIn Page

 

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