Imagine this: you’re at work. You’re coughing, tired, dizzy and have a nasty headache on top of that. The thing is, after you leave, you feel better. Why is that? It may not always be that you’re just happy to leave the workplace. In fact, those are classic symptoms for Sick Building Syndrome (or SBS). SBS is used to describe situations in which building occupants experience health effects that appear to be linked to time spent inside a building, but no specific cause or illness can be identified. The complaints may be localized in a particular room or may be widespread throughout the building.
According to numerous studies, SBS is an increasing problem in the US and around the world. The main culprit behind SBS is inadequate ventilation, which could also occur if heating, ventilation and HVAC systems do not effectively distribute air in the building. With this problem increasing, and with allergy season in full swing, we can’t forget that we have a weapon to fight with – Air Purifiers. Air purifiers will help to reduce the spread of viruses, bacteria and other airborne contaminants that could seriously affect air quality. We have spotlighted two air purifiers that will help you fight off SBS and seasonal allergies.
The Virus Zero Portable Air Purifier (SP-PA4) is a lightweight purifier that neutralizes airborne allergies such as pet dander, tobacco smoke and dust mites. This small and lightweight purifier can sit on a desktop or even fit in your car’s cup holder. The Virus Zero Purifier treats up to 231 square feet of space and only uses 4 watts of power.
The 3M Filtrete Air Cleaner Purifier helps to purify the air in your office, by reducing airborne particles such as mold spores and pet dander. The 3M Filtrete Air Cleaner will reduce odor and captures microscopic allergens such as smoke, dust, smog particles and pollen. The 3M Filtrete Air Purifier releases filtered air from the top of the unit to increase air circulation.
With levels of indoor air pollution rising, we cannot underestimate the value of an air purifier. Consider this: air purifiers can also help you obtain a better night’s sleep by removing many of the allergens that keep us awake all night with an itchy or sore throat. Who wouldn’t want a better night’s sleep?
Kory says
Hi Debbie, for the mold issues it is best to consult a professional to ensure it is all removed correctly and the source of the problem can be fixed. Has the apt been made aware of this? For the air filters, we suggest a higher-grade air filter such as a MERV 11 air filter. Please check with your apt to make sure they do not have any issues with you putting your own air filter in place. This blog could help provide some light on MERV ratings and air filters http://www.filtersfast.com/blog/index.php/2013/07/difference-between-merv-ratings/
Please let us know if there is anything else we can help with.
Debbie says
I have black mold on the kitchen ceiling I live in an apt.the attic space is above I had combustion in the furnace dec.you couldn’t see smoke but the air was heavy both me and my one cat were sneezing uo to 7time’s in a row.I have thin filter’s on the ceiling vent’s as all air is ventilated into the attic space and then pushed down into my apt.they are black after a mth.so I knew what was wrong in dec.I shut all circuit breakers and took the furnace and there was black mold in there too took me 5and half hours.I’m disabled and have sect8 I know this is why I can’t walk up a walk up staire’s anymore without hyperventilating Help thanks Deb