08-20-2004, 09:23 AM
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#18 (permalink)
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Devoted
Donor
Location: New England
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Quote:
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Originally Posted by MrSelfDestruct
According to Consumer Reports, they don't work. No idea how that relates to actual usage, but that's what I heard.
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I'll sample here from the CR report:
Quote:
Air cleaners like these are a type of electrostatic precipitator: They impart an electrical charge to particles that stick to oppositely charged collectors. Sharper Image, Honeywell, and Hoover precipitators are quiet and cost little to run. However, our tests show that they are not effective.
You should be able to rely on an air cleaner to deal with:
Dust
Smoke particles
Pollen
Pet dander
Dont rely on an air cleaner to protect you from:
Carbon monoxide
Odors
Viruses
Dust mites (they rarely become airborne)
Basic actions that may be more effective and less costly than using an air cleaner:
ELIMINATE CAUSES
Ban indoor smoking.
Remove sources of pollution, such as pressed-wood (particleboard) products. Avoid getting pets if youre allergic.
Get dust mites out in the laundry with the hottest water you can. Avoid furnishings that accumulate dust.
Vacuum with a low-emissions machine.
VENTILATE ROOMS
Open the windows whenever weather and outdoor air quality permit.
Use outdoor-venting exhaust fans in kitchen and baths to reduce moisture that can breed bacteria, insects, and dust mites.
Properly vent heating equipment and appliances. Keep the equipment, chimneys, and vents in good repair.
CONTROL HARMFUL GASES
Test for radon with a kit from a home center. If levels are too high, have a contractor fix the problem.
Use chemicals outdoors. Try to keep solvents and pesticides outdoors. If you use them indoors, open windows and vent with a fan.
Use a carbon-monoxide alarm.
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