Do I need ionization in a humidifier and should buyers overpay for an additional option?

Water in the device begins to bloom and infect the air with bacteria

Another myth can lead to a state of horror if you do not know all the nuances and do not follow simple rules of operation. Yes, if you pour water into a container and forget about it, of course, it will bloom over time.

It is important to pay attention to the fact that in the case of using plain tap water, which is left unattended, the problem cannot be avoided. It contains microorganisms.In stagnant water they will cause flowering

This is very dangerous for human health, as bacteria begin to actively multiply, which later enter the air through the spraying process.

In stagnant water, they will cause flowering. This is very dangerous for human health, as bacteria begin to actively multiply, which later enter the air through the spraying process.

Owners of climate-type complexes should not be afraid of such a problem. The problem is observed only in simple devices that have only the humidification function installed. More complex devices have filters. They provide cleaning water in four steps. And proper care of the humidifier will ensure absolutely safe use.

What is an ionizer?

An air ionizer is a device that improves the air in a room by enriching it with ions. Why is this needed? The content of ions in enclosed spaces is negligible compared to the air in mountain and seaside resorts. Air ionization helps to correct this situation.

Let's give some terminology. An ion is an electrically charged particle. There are positively charged - cations, and negatively charged particles - anions.

Ionization is possible for both gases and liquids. The product of liquid ionization are water ions, and air - air ions.

An air ion is an ion of the atmosphere, that is, a negatively or positively charged air molecule. This term was introduced by the Soviet biophysicist A. L. Chizhevsky. He also called the process of air ionization air ionification.

Benefit and harm

The positive effect of using an ionizer is mainly due to an increase in gas exchange in the human lungs.The beneficial effect is manifested in:

• strengthening immunity;
• acceleration of metabolism;
• reducing the manifestations of allergic reactions (nasal congestion, sneezing);
• reducing the risk of ARVI and other diseases transmitted by airborne droplets;
• accelerated cell regeneration - small wounds heal faster when using the device;
• improving the quality of sleep;
• a general positive effect on the body (the work of the cardiovascular system improves, the condition of the skin and hair normalizes);
• neutralization of radiation from household appliances.

The ionizer will harm if you use it:

• in unventilated rooms - in the process of ion release, ozone can also be released along the way, in high concentrations adversely affecting human health;
• violating the rules of operation (for example, non-observance of the minimum distance from the device to a person);
• in heavily dusty rooms - ionization of polluted air is undesirable, because charged dust particles actively settle on all surfaces of the room, their concentration in the air space also increases;
• in case of individual intolerance to air ions;
• in oncological diseases (due to the acceleration of metabolism, cancer cells can become more active);
• with a disease of the respiratory system in the acute stage;
• children under 1 year old.

How to choose?

An electrical appliance that purifies and ionizes the air must be sold with a full package of documents:

• a standard confirming the hygienic safety of the device;
• quality certificate;
• operating instructions;
• warranty card.

If you are going to buy a humidifier with an ionization function, you should pay attention to the following parameters:

• power - the level of performance affects the radius of its effective action (the more powerful, the better);
• type of power supply - from the mains or on batteries;
• evaporation temperature - ionizers should have exceptionally cold steam, this function is especially relevant in dry climatic zones during the hot summer period;
• the size of the water tank - depends on the size of the room, apartment or house: the larger the area, the larger the tank should be;
• built-in water filter reduces the risk of white deposits on furniture;
• noise level during operation - silent or quiet working models are preferable for the home (optimally about 25 dB);
• the presence of automatic control - the device itself regulates the humidity and the degree of ionization based on the data received by means of sensors;
• the presence of a hydrometer sensor - contributes to precise control of the humidity level in the room and optimizes its level automatically;
• energy consumption level - an ionizer humidifier operates on average about 12 hours a day, the less energy it consumes, the better.

The number of ions per 1 cubic centimeter should not exceed 50 thousand ions.

It is better to buy models of ionizers with an indicator of the level of filter contamination.

Ultrasonic humidifier with ionization "Vitek"

To date, the most popular among consumers are humidifiers with ionization from the company "Vitek". Such devices combine high efficiency, durability and reliability. They are able not only to provide a level of air humidity sufficient for normal life activity, but also to saturate it with negatively charged ions.

The indisputable advantage of this type of household equipment is that it can also eliminate unpleasant odors in the apartment - from cigarettes, fried foods, etc.

Humidifiers-ionizers of the brand "Vitek" work on the principle of ultrasonic evaporation, which is implemented according to the following scheme:

1. Ultrasound "knocks out" microscopic droplets from the surface of the water.
2. The droplets that are knocked out are small, so they are weighed in the air and do not settle on furniture and the floor.
3. The droplets remain suspended in the air by Brownian motion until they are completely evaporated.

This provides the device with the following benefits:

• the device is almost silent;
• with a high degree of humidification, the energy consumption of the device is the lowest;
• the device is able to self-regulate its work depending on the level of humidity in the room itself;
• the user has the ability to set the required humidity in the range from 40 to 70%.

The Vitek ultrasonic vaporizer-ionizer is recommended for use in rooms where there are children, because it practically does not heat up, unlike most other models.

We offer you to watch a video review about the Vitek Airo 2 humidifier, which has been successfully and actively used by the blogger for about 2 years and he is not disappointed:

Features of the air ionization process

To understand why ionization is needed in a room humidifier and what it is in general, it is worth studying the features of the process. So, in nature, ionization occurs naturally. In nature, the ionization process is associated with powerful discharges of electricity (thunderstorms), as well as cosmic radiation.It is especially sharply felt in the mountains, on the sea coast, in a coniferous forest.

In fact, ionization is the process of knocking out individual electrons from gas molecules. At the end of the reaction, two charged molecules (negative and positive) are obtained from two neutral molecules.

Ionization is a natural process that constantly occurs in nature, improves air quality, reduces the level of oxygen vacuum. To run it in the apartment requires the use of special devices

Along with air ionizers, there are also universal devices on sale, for example, air humidifiers equipped with an ionizer. They are able to provide the necessary humidity, air purification in the room.

When figuring out when to use the ionization function in a room humidifier, keep in mind that ionized air helps prevent the development of cardiovascular diseases. Thanks to an excess of oxygen, metabolic processes are activated, the walls of blood vessels are strengthened, and the likelihood of blood clots is reduced.

Another important plus that ionization provides in a home humidifier is the deposition of dust. It is difficult to track visually, however, everyone understands that it is much easier to wipe the floor and wipe the dust from the surface of the furniture than to deal with the consequences of getting it into the lungs.

Scientists have recorded that a decrease in the level of occurrence, exacerbation of lung diseases, including asthmatic attacks, problems with the digestive tract, occur during the period of increasing the concentration of ions in the air

According to information from open sources, humidifiers with the function of air ionization will provide a number of undoubted advantages:

• improving the quality of sleep - healthy, good rest significantly improves the overall quality of life;
• acceleration of metabolism - allows you to look great, facilitates the course of various diseases, somewhat alleviates symptoms;
• increase in working capacity, concentration of attention;
• optimization of the immune system;
• good rest - allows you to increase the overall emotional state, the level of vitality, which helps in the fight against depression, neurosis.

For some diseases, it is sometimes recommended to carry out ionization of the air in the room.

Indications for using the ionization function

Air containing a large amount of negative ions is indicated in the cases listed below.

In the user's bronchial asthma, provoked by allergens, the air filled with particles with a negative charge makes it possible to notice an improvement after the first ionization.

In some situations, positively charged particles provide the best effect. Serious improvement is noted after 12 ionization procedures.

A large amount of time spent at the computer, TV, leads to deionization. The lack of ions in the air leads to a decrease in the rate of redox processes, inhibition of the activity of the immune system

With neuroses, an increase in the number of ions in the air contributes to a general improvement in the patient's condition. An increase in the rate of wound healing was also noted at a high concentration of air ions.

When is ionization contraindicated?

Despite the many undoubted advantages, there are also contraindications.

Doctors do not recommend using the ionization function in the presence of the following diseases:

1. Accelerated metabolism can lead to exacerbation of chronic diseases, sluggish infections.It is not recommended to carry out ionization in the room where the patient with oncology lives.
2. Ionized air can harm a patient with a high fever. It can rise even more.
3. There is an individual intolerance to a large number of air ions in the air, hypersensitivity to them.

When using additional functions in a humidifier, it is important to listen to your well-being. If during the operation of the device there is a headache, other unpleasant sensations, it is better to refuse ionization

Varieties of devices

There are three types of humidifiers on the market. They are based on different principles of operation: natural humidification, steam generation, ultrasound. Let's take a closer look at each of them.

Natural type equipment

It is also called traditional or cold steam device. Performs its task by natural evaporation. Special cartridges are wetted with water, after which an air jet is supplied to them from a built-in fan. Its speed is adjustable, so the intensity of moisture can be changed. Devices of this type are the safest. They are environmentally friendly and reliable.

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Tap water can be used to wet the cartridges. An additional plus of the device is the purification of the flow entering the housing from dust. The only drawback is the high price of such devices.

Steam devices

Pure water is poured into the body, which is brought to a boil, after which it begins to evaporate. Humidification occurs very quickly, along with it, the temperature also rises. Steam equipment is good to install in cold rooms. Then it will perform two functions at once.Of course, this is not a full-fledged heating device, but it can provide a temperature increase of 2-3C.

It is desirable that the device be supplemented with a hygrometer and automation. Then waterlogging will not work, which can happen quite quickly with a steam generator. A significant drawback of the device is a large power consumption

In addition, it must be handled with care. Hot steam is not safe

Children's access should be restricted.

Ultrasound Systems

Water is supplied to an ultrasonic membrane, which breaks it into microdroplets. The human eye sees them as fog. By forced or natural flow, it is distributed throughout the room. In this way, large volumes of air masses are quickly moistened. The device is completely safe, it works almost silently.

The main disadvantage is sensitivity to water quality. In many models, a filter is installed in front of the ultrasonic membrane. But if the liquid is hard, it fails very quickly.

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It is best to pour distillate into the device, especially if there is no filter. Otherwise, the lime scale will get into the ultrasonic mist and settle on furniture, walls, etc. It is very difficult to remove it.

Models with additional useful features will be the best choice when you need a good humidifier. There can be several options: ionization, purification, aromatization. Such complexes not only moisturize, they purify the air mixture from dust and dirt particles.

There are so many sources of moisture in the room!

The second myth, which most people perceive as an axiom, is that there is a lot of moisture in the apartment, you don’t need to install anything additionally.For example, a boiling kettle, drying wet laundry. This cannot be called 100% delusion. But then in all corners of the apartment you need to place sources of moisture.

The optimal level of humidity is important in those rooms where residents spend most of their time.

It is especially important to observe it in the bedroom. If the air is very dry, a person constantly feels tired, he does not get enough sleep

You can fix this problem by installing a humidifier.

Do I need to pay extra for the ionization function?

The difficult ecological situation in large cities, industrial zones has a negative impact on the air in our apartments. The situation is aggravated by tightly closed plastic windows, as well as the constant use of computers and televisions.

In combination, all of the above factors can ruin the health of a modern person, bring him out of psychological balance. Children are especially sensitive to negative influences.

An air humidifier equipped with an ionization function provides an opportunity to “solve” environmental problems associated with dryness, a lack of negative ions at the level of one’s apartment

A humidifier with an ionization function is able to correct all the negative points, because as a result of its work:

• significantly increases the humidity in the room;
• the level of dust, allergens in the room is reduced due to cleaning;
• eliminates static electricity;
• the air is saturated with negative ions.

As a result of the use of humidifiers with additional functions, a good rest is provided, the energy level of those living in the apartment is significantly increased.

Are you thinking about buying a humidifier? We recommend that you familiarize yourself with the rating of the best humidifiers according to users.

Types of air humidifiers with ionization

What is an inexpensive but effective humidifier with an ionizer? Today, almost all types of humidifiers are equipped with an ionization unit:

• steam. They saturate the air with water vapor formed during the boiling of water. The ionization function in such devices can be implemented by two engineering solutions: by creating a corona discharge between the electrodes or by using a UV ionizer. This block in steam humidifiers is used to a greater extent for cleaning the air flow, since such designs are rarely equipped with filters;
• ultrasonic. The process of moisturizing occurs due to the breaking of water droplets into molecules using ultrasound. Under the action of negative ions, dust, bacteria and other contaminants are attracted to the electrically conductive plate of the dust collector and stick to the dust collectors. For better distribution of air ions throughout the room, a built-in humidifier fan is used;
• climatic/traditional. Air is driven by a fan through a porous material impregnated with water. As a result, the liquid evaporates and, as a result, the level of air humidity increases. Most models that use traditional humidification technology are equipped with a UV ionizer that disinfects the air.

Despite different humidification technologies, the ionization unit works autonomously in almost all models. The only common thing is the power supply of the device and the use of a humidifier fan for better distribution of air ions throughout the room.

Features of classic humidifiers

In a traditional humidifier, a fan blows air through a fan blows air through wet, porous material. Evaporation of moisture occurs naturally.

Most classic models are equipped with an ionization function, equipped with ultraviolet lamps that disinfect the air.

The benefits of using them include:

• profitability - the low cost of the device is perfectly combined with minimal costs in the process of use;
• low noise</strong>;
• high efficiency - rapid increase in humidity, high-quality air purification.

Among the minuses is the lack of precise control, since the regulation of the evaporation of the liquid is carried out “by eye”. If the humidifier has replaceable antibacterial filters, you will have to constantly buy them.

Should I use steam appliances?

Their name corresponds to the principle of work. The water is heated to a boil, steam enters the room, raising the level of humidity.

A steam humidifier cannot purify the air because it does not have filters. However, it is often used to flavor a room, less often as an inhaler.

The benefits of a steam humidifier include:

• high performance, which is combined with the affordable cost of the device;
• lack of replaceable filters and other consumables that increase the cost of operating the device;
• low requirements for the liquid to be filled - you can use tap water;
• nozzles for inhalation, which are equipped with individual models.

The disadvantage of a steam humidifier is high energy consumption, noisy operation, and an increase in air temperature.In addition, hot steam can be a source of danger.

Benefits of Ultrasonic Humidifiers

Air humidification is carried out as a result of breaking water molecules into tiny particles. Water splashes are picked up by the fan and moved outside the device.

Ultrasonic devices operate at frequencies that are absolutely safe for humans. Often they are equipped with hygrometers, provide the ability to adjust the humidity automatically or manually.

The advantages of such models are:

• high performance with minimal energy consumption;
• a wide range of humidity that the device is able to provide (40-70%);
• low noise</strong>;
• the presence of an air filter that provides thorough cleaning of air flows.

In addition to high cost, ultrasonic devices impose strict requirements on the liquid poured into the tank. It is recommended to use well-purified, and preferably distilled water. More information about the pros and cons of ultrasonic humidifiers, we have covered in the following article.

Types of household humidifiers

Climatic devices of this category are distinguished by their ergonomic design and compact size, do not require installation and do not interfere with normal life within the home or in the office.

When choosing household appliances for specific tasks, it is important to distinguish between their types. In general, all devices are classified into:

• classic. Simple, convenient and effective models. They do not require the use of filtered water, therefore they do not form white deposits on the surfaces. Intensively saturate the air masses with moisture, cleaning them from large dust particles;
• ultrasonic. The undisputed leaders of the ratings and the most popular humidifiers with an ionizer option. Functional, do not overheat, provide a clear control of the level of moisture. Suitable for children's rooms, music studios, spaces where there are a lot of wood and antiques;
• climatic. Hybrid productive devices with the functions of ionization, humidification, purification, ozonation and aromatization. Some of them can partially warm or cool the atmosphere;
• steam. High-performance and completely autonomous gadgets that work on the principle of a hot aerosol vaporizer. They saturate oxygen with moisture using absolutely sterile steam that does not contain pathogenic microflora.

How to choose?

When choosing a humidifier for a child's room, you should pay attention to such parameters as:

• The volume of the room where the humidifier will be installed;

• Device performance (devices capable of pumping air through themselves at least 2 times per hour should be preferred);

• The volume of the built-in water tank (the humidifier consumes up to 5 liters of water per night);

• Automatic control. The presence of this option will allow you to accurately simulate the daily cycle of the baby's life;

• Noise level (it is recommended to give preference to models with a minimum noise level).

Well, the design of the humidifier is also of no small importance - we choose it for the children's room, at least the appearance of the device should not frighten the child

In the next video, Dr. Komarovsky and a product consultant will tell you what humidifiers are and how to choose them.

Read our article on how to choose a humidifier for an apartment, useful tips and the best models.

Steam

This type of humidifier has a number of significant advantages, among which, first of all, its high performance should be attributed. Also, the undoubted advantages of humidifiers of this type are the following characteristics:

• Durable body made of heat-resistant plastic. Even a “well-aimed hit” with a heavy metal toy will not cause “irreparable” damage to the humidifier design;

• Low cost device. The answer to the question: "how much does a humidifier for a child's room cost" will not plunge you into discouragement;

• The absence of consumables (filters, etc.), which greatly simplifies its operation and makes it more economical;

• As air humidifiers for frequently ill children, steam units are indispensable, because they can easily perform the function of an inhaler.

Steam Humidifier

cold steam

Do newborns need a humidifier? This question is often asked by young mothers. Certainly needed. To the same extent and for the same reasons that adults need it. But there are some features.

Humidifier for a newborn

The humidity of the air for a newborn, of course, is important, but the purity of this air is even more important for him.

Installing a cold steam humidifier in a place of intensive air circulation will allow you to quickly clean and humidify the room air without making, which is very important, significant changes in the temperature regime established in the room

Additional arguments in favor of these devices include:

• economical consumption of electrical energy;
• low noise level;
• the ability to destroy harmful microorganisms using an antibacterial cassette;
• high level of security;
• simplicity of design (“just add water” and plug it into the outlet).

Cold steam humidifier

The disadvantages of humidifiers of this type include:

• the need for regular replacement of filters;
• use of well-purified or distilled water;
• larger than other types of devices, dimensions.

Humidifier in the nursery

Read in our article how to properly design a children's room for a newborn.

Ultrasonic

Speaking about the advantages of ultrasonic humidifiers, it is customary, first of all, to note the high degree of safety of such devices.

They are absolutely safe for children in their "external", "momentary" manifestations, but the effect of ultrasound on a child's body, as well as on an adult's body, has not been thoroughly studied.

Therefore, you will not find categorical prohibitions anywhere (however, as well as “laudatory reviews”) of this equipment. Assessing its technical and operational characteristics, compact design and low power consumption should be attributed to the number of advantages.

Ultrasonic Humidifier

The disadvantages of ultrasonic humidifiers are high cost and mandatory use of distilled water. Even with the timely replacement of cartridges, which also have a considerable cost, the use of ordinary water is not recommended.

This video will tell you why you need a humidifier, how to choose it, how they differ, about the principle of operation of an ultrasonic humidifier.