Could you please elaborate on the difference between an ionizer and an air cleaner/purifier? Would one have both in the same room/area? What are some questions I might consider in choosing one or the other. My PT office is a small studio with no air ventilation other than the door opening and closing every hour.
A negative-ion generator or ionizer emits negatively charged air molecules (those that have excess electrons) that attract positively charged particle (these include most air pollutants -- auto/truck exhaust, cigarette smoke, dust, pollen, animal dander, mold, bacteria, and viruses. The combined heavier particle then drops from the air and falls to the floor or table top, taking it out of the breathing space. There is some evidence that negative ions increase the sweeping motion of the cilia on the respiratory mucosa, and subsequently enhance the movement of mucus and the clearing or filtering of inhaled pollutants. They also help to reduce pain (especially headaches), heal burns, suppress mold and bacterial growth, stimulate plant growth, and contribute to a sense of well-being and comfort.
The ionizer I recommend, the Sinus Survival Air Vitalizer, emits 3 trillion ions per second, has been laboratory tested to be as efficient an air cleaner as a HEPA filter (considered to be the best air cleaners, they have fans that draw the room air through a filter), is self-regulating (puts out more or less ions depending upon the ion level in the room), and will clean a room of about 150 to 200 sq. ft. This particular unit is small, quiet, mobile (can easily travel with it), and considerably less expensive than the best air cleaners (HEPA units). You would not use both ionizer and air cleaner in the same room. From the description of your office I think the ionizer would work quite well providing both air cleaning and the health benefits of negative ions (refer to pages 104-105 in Sinus Survival, 4th edition). HEPA and other air cleaners/purifiers provide only air cleaning. That is the primary reason I recommend ionizers.
I live at a high altitude (7000 feet) in a small town in a pine forest. I know that you have experience with this type of environment in Colorado. The air here is very clear of pollutants, except for occasional wood smoke from fire stoves (I don't use one). What specific modifications should I make to my environment? Is a negative ionizer important? I have a humidifier.
Congratulations on chosing such a wonderful place to live. While the outdoor air is cleaner, the indoor air is similar to most urban indoor environments - dusty, dirty air ducts, formaldehyde from building materials, carpet chemicals, pollen, viruses - plus it is much drier. However, you will not have as much of a problem with mold or dust mites. Not only does the negative ion generator clean the air but it enhances the function of the mucous membrane. I would recommend using one at least in your bedroom along with a humidifier.
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