This post lists and compares the 7 best air purifiers to reduce VOCs (offgassing from new building materials).
I also focus on which units have the least amount of offgassing and are best for the chemically sensitive.
I have a separate post for air purifiers that work best for mold, however the True HEPA filter in these units does help in capturing mold spores.
This post contains affiliate links. Upon purchase, I earn a small commission through affiliate links at no extra cost to you.
What to Look for in a good Air Purifier:
Good Amount of Tolerable Sorbent Material – How many lbs, type of material, tolerability of material, does it have potassium permanganate (which may be harder to tolerate but provides better absorption of many VOCs), do they have test kits to try the material.
Ideally “True HEPA” – 99.97% of particles done to 0.3 microns.
Around 5 ACH – CFM to tell you the air exchanges/hour, you want a least 1 ACH, ideally 5.
Minimal Offgassing – Plastic or glue in the unit? Glue in the filters? Motors “burned in” or encased/sealed?
Other Comparisons – How loud they are (dB), the cost of replacing filters, and year established (so you can feel certain they will be around to replace filters and parts).
Air Exchange Per Hour(ACH)
What are Air Exchanges Per Hour (ACH) – Air exchange per hour is how many times you are “replacing” the air in the room per hour, this is a key area of comparison with air purifiers. ASHRAE (The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) recommends a minimum of 4 ACH for patient rooms in hospitals, 5 for intensive care units, and 25 for operating rooms.
How Many ACH Do We Need – For the purposes of those extremely sensitive to mold and VOCs, we want about 5-10 air exchanges per hour. To maximize how much air in the room the air purifier can process, put it in a central location.
How Do You Calculate the ACH From a Unit’s Specs – You always want to find the CFM of the unit. The CFM is the capacity of the unit to move air – how much air it moves through the machine. CFM stands for Cubic Feet Per Minute. You need the CFM to calculate ACH. I have two calculators here to properly size these units.
If you are interested in PCO technology that is more geared towards filtering mold, see my article on air purifiers that use that technology. This article is about the classic types.
Top Brands of Air Purifiers for MCS and Offgassing
AirMedic Pro 5 Ultra $1049 * 28-30 lbs carbon * “Super HEPA” * 400 CFM * dB 50-75 @1ft * EST 1994
Filter replacement: Carbon Filter 2-5 years $172; Super HEPA 2 years $131; Pre-filter 3 months $132
Some of the most extremely sensitive folks prefer this brand but not all have tolerated it. All-metal. Filters don’t offgas. No glue on the HEPA like true HEPA has. Option to have true HEPA which has glue.
AirMedic Pro 5 HD MCS is made for MCS – The burn-in motor by running and offgassing it for 6-8 hours. You can choose the carbon blend from an option of 7 blends in a test kit. It has 24lbs carbon and is dB 35-60 @1ft.
You can buy some models at Walmart or through some sellers on Amazon.
Healthmate Plus $885 * 250 CFM * 15 lbs of Activated Carbon Impregnated with Potassium Iodide and Zeolite * True HEPA * dB 50-66 3-5ft (they are not sure) * EST early 90s
There are different filter options with different types of carbon/absorptive material. Again, reactions are often attributed to Potassium permanganate. You can test out their different filter options.
Steel units, plastic on the wheels, not plastic inside.
Some with extreme MCS have picked up offgassing, but many with MCS prefer this brand.
EnviroKlenz is a slightly different technology than the others here. I have been using this unit and am happy with it.
Like the others, this unit has a HEPA filter, but instead of charcoal/PP/zeolite it uses minerals including magnesium oxide, zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide to neutralize VOCs, chemical odors, and smoke.
The EnviroKlenz according to the literature, destroys most pollutants. Contrary to odor masking methods, the nanocrystalline materials contact, adsorb and then neutralize the odor-causing substances.
It is effective against aldehydes and pollutants and particularly effective against different kinds of smoke and pesticides. Activated carbon does not help that much with formaldehyde and smoke can be difficult to filter as well. My preference for this unit comes from its ability to deal with formaldehyde and smoke.
EnviroKlenz materials will chemically dismantle many VOCs. Hydrocarbons will be absorbed but not chemically modified.
The company has a number of patents and it has been tested you can see that info here (you can search and read patents here), and for a summary of research articles and references on this technology the company also provides a technical report.
Filter replacement costs: Mineral cartridge 4-5 months 100$, HEPA every 2-3 years $150. Rated the same as true HEPA.
This air purifier has been in production for 8 years.
400 Series Air Purifier $775 * CFM 380 * 60% Coconut shell carbon / 40% potassium permanganate (Standard Mix) 8 lbs * not true HEPA, 99.97 * dB 22-24 @3ft * EST 1974
Filter replacement: HEPA which can last up to 2-3 years $112. Pre-filter 2-3 months $13. Carbon media tray 6-9 months, up to a year $75
They have a sealed motor – bearings are sealed in. They run the motors outside for 2-3 days first to offgas them.
Metal construction uses no adhesives, has HEPA filters without any glue. These are made for the chemically sensitive and some of the most extremely sensitive like this brand.
They sell filter sample kits so that you can check out the different materials used. Generally, for the extremely sensitive, PP is difficult to tolerate. The most sensitive should start with their pure Bituminous coal filters.
Having a sealed motor will be key for the most sensitive. The downside is this one has a lot less carbon than the other models.
IQAir Multigas $1299 * CFM 300 * 12 lbs granular activated carbon & impregnated alumina (Potassium Permanganate) * True HEPA * dB 35-69 – (the company will not state how many feet this test was done at). * EST 1963
Their HealthPro is (40 to 300 CFM) (2 air changes/hr in 1125 sq. ft), dB 25 to 59
Filter replacement: Multigas cartilage 2 years $400; Post Filter 2.5 year $129; HEPA about a year (on 10 hours a day on speed 3) $109; optional Filter Pads $79
This might be one of the best-known brand names in air purifiers. Some people with MCS swear by it. But, the most severely sensitive do not always tolerate it.
The unit is made of plastic and the offgassing of the unit itself might be an issue. The potassium insert can be hard to tolerate for many (which is not a unique issue to this brand). Some people have sent back filters that smelt especially sweet or strong and received ones that were more tolerable.
Nevertheless, this is a favorite and well-trusted brand for many with MCS who want a robust top-of-the-line air purifier.
You can buy the Healhpro and Multigas directly through the IQAir website. The Multigas can also be found on Amazon.
Amaircare 3000 $719 * 225 CFM (in 1688 sq ft 1 ACH) * Claims no offgassing * Depending on the option you choose it contains up to 30 lbs of carbon * True HEPA * dB 43 to 61 @ 6 ft * EST 1994 * Made in Canada
Made of metal, no plastic or foam. The HEPA is rated at 2-5 years when the prefilter is maintained. One person with moderate MCS said the HEPA filters smelled like chemicals. He requested a new one which was better.
The 3000 is available on Sylvane and sometimes on Amazon.
Corinne Segura is a Building Biologist Practitioner with 8 years of experience helping others create healthy homes.
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Reader Interactions
Comments
Julietsays
had closed cell spray foam installed in my home. installer didn’t have us leave during install and didn’t advise us to not sleep in the house that night. I developed some sort of allergy to product. or maybe it was installed incorrectly. just don’t know for sure until VOC testing comes back from the lab. having a company demo it but nee to know if painting over the odor and or chemicals that’s left behind in the timbers will block in the Vocs? kindly hope you have a suggestion other than I need to take my roof off and install new rafters as this is the area it was installed to. help plz!
If they installed it wrong it will have to be removed. If it was installed correctly then you just became sensitized to it, I would not seal, I would leave the house for a few weeks.
A couple of additional considerations to add to those listed by Corrine when thinking about buying an air purifier:
~ Return policy: Who pays for shipping back to the company? Is there a restocking fee?
~ Warranty: How long is it and what does it cove?
~ Data: Have they conducted third party testing on the unit and filters? If so, are they transparent about the data that was collected?
Can anyone recommend a good carbon filter than I could use to create a make-shift air purifier by attaching it to a strong fan? I realize this is less than ideal, but I’m running out of options and was inspired by what Smart Air started doing at the outset.
Unfortunately, as far as I can tell, all the presumably good air purifiers out there use filtration systems that are complex and can’t be used like, for example, a Blue Air filter. However, I’ve lost all faith in Blue Air and don’t want to use their filters to create a make shift set up for now.
And, also unfortunately, these presumably good air purifiers haven’t worked out for me and/or from reading comments here I’m skittish to try one or two alternatives. My experience has been that units arrive damaged, or they off gas horribly, or the decibel level is too loud to have running all day and certainly for a bedroom, or the company has little-to-no third party data, etc.
Corrine – The Walmart link for the Amaircare doesn’t apply anymore. It seems they don’t sell this. FYI. I can’t imagine how labor intensive it is for you to maintain all the data you have on your amazing website. Thank you for all that you do and share so generously with the public. Your passion, your smarts, your research, and your personal experience coupled with the stories of others is truly monumental in scope.
PS The Amazon link for this same product brings you to a page that says the product is not available. Sorry I didn’t notice that when I posted my comment above. Feel free to delete my comments to save space on your thread.
I’m struggling along with many others here trying to find a good air purifier. A couple of things I’ve stumbled upon along the way, should it be of use to anyone:
~ A lot of companies don’t share much data on third party testing of their machines/filters to provide hard evidence they do what they claim, no less, at what speed (what setting for how long to remove how much, etc).
~ If the air purifiers you’ve tried off gas nasty toxins, try taping a filter to a plain old fan. I think Blue Air makes filters with HEPA-like technology and carbon filters all in one that have a shape that fits a box fan pretty well. Another shape fits a window fan. It’s still possible the filter itself will off gas something nasty because who knows all of what they’re made of, but it’s one option that eliminates some of the variables by getting rid of the inner workings of the machine as well as the exterior container should those be made of materials that stink.
Question for Corrine about ozone: If you use too much ozone and it seems to change the smell in the house from one icky odor to another, will that new nasty odor eventually off-gas or is there something about ozone that can change it permanently?
I will never touch ozone again. But the byproduct smell has generally gone down in about a month. There are other materials that it permanently destroys though.
Thank you for your reply. My concern stems from use of Blue Air purifiers, which I will never use again. I’m glad to hear the smell the over-use produced went down after about a month.
Curious why you will never touch ozone! I thought I read that it would be good to get your car AC pumped through with ozone – is this okay to do or would you advise against it? Concerned for safety and I am sensitive to smells / want to try and rid my car of mold!
Hi! I love your site. you steered us away from two part foam in my basement – thank you! we found mold in our fireplace and a few other spots while doing a huge remodel. my oldest son is having more than usual asthma issues and my daughter skin seems more reactive. I was thinking about renting or buying an air scrubber to run down in the basement for a while and then eventually getting an air purifier for the house. is an air scrubber worth it? it has a merv 10 pre-filter, carbon filter then a hepa that says it’s will remove 99.97% of 0.3 micron. thanks in advance for your reply!
Air scrubbers are used temporarily during remediation. The most important thing to do is fully discover the problem that created the mold and properly fix it. You may want to consult with Cheryl Ciecko for advice because it’s not common to properly identify building defects and properly correct them.
Frustrated with not being able to get Amaircare filters during the pandemic, I called my local filter / air purifier supplier to discuss another unit. . I told him how I don’t like my Amaircare 2500 because of the design – airflow coming from the bottom and that I don’t think it does a good job. I told him that I love my Amaircare Roomaid(s) and I turn them upside down so the airflow comes out the top. I also told him that I have and Oreck that I use in a specific room to help off-gass new things or fragrant items. Bad but it works for me. I air the room out afterwards.
From all that information he recommended Sharp PF-K50UW., He said that the plastic does not smell and it has a plasmacluster. I bought it. The HEPA filter smelled when I opened the package (manual said it would smell and is not dangerous) so I kept it in the bag and put it in the garage for a few days to off-gas. After a few days, I gave it a try and I have it running ever since.
Because my neighbours (townhouse) are using a lot of fragrant products I am unable to run my exhaust fans so I move the unit into the kitchen and run the plasmacluster while cooking and it removes the cooking smells. Other than that I just use it on the regular settings.
We have considered an HRV but it would be difficult to install and there are so many people using fragrant laundry products – it would be sucking it in constantly.
It really pays to speak with your local air purifier dealer because they know their products well and listen to their customers.
I am selling the place and moving to a detached home.
Do you have any posts on crawl space encapsulation? We renovated an 80 year old house in humid north Georgia. The crawl space is actually very dry but would rather keep it that way with encapsulation. I am however, concerned about the air quality from the polyethylene vapor barrier affecting the interior of the house. It seems like that is something that could offgas for a long time with nowhere to go but up. I am not sure how bad those vapor barriers offgas either. If you have any posts or think that is anything to be concerned with please let me know. THanks!
Thanks so much for your super helpful site, Corrinne! I wanted to share what I just heard back from Airpura. We live in California where there are lots of wildfires, so we’re looking for something good both for MCS and wildfires. We’re also trying to cover a large open floorplan house. The Airpura looks like the only one that can cover 2000 sq ft, though only 2 exchanges per hour, but that seems better than the Austin or Enviroklenz which are the other two we’ve been considering. Our space is closer to 1600 sq ft. Anyhow, here’s the reply we got when asking which unit we should do if wildfires and MCS are both a concern: “The V700 is in fact the best unit for wildfires however can give off a sweetish scent, especially if in a humid environment. Some like it, some find it offensive, (If they have severe chemical sensitivities,) and some people simply don’t notice it. . . . The HEPA barrier filters 95%, (o.3 microns.) The G700 contains a true HEPA, (99.97% at 0.3 microns,) and the G700DLX contains the HEPA barrier due to the larger amount of carbon. The V700 can contain a True medical grade HEPA, Super HEPA 99.99% at 0.1 microns and ULPA 99.99% at 0.1. We recommend the HEPA barrier for an MCS sufferer as it doesn’t contain the borosilicate, glues and polymers that the True HEPAs contain.” Corrinne (or anyone reading who might have experience with Airpura), I’m wondering what your thoughts are on the G700 or G700DLX (which are marketed for MCS) vs the C600 or now C700 listed for chemicals on their site? We have a Coway Airmega AP-1512HH for smaller rooms and that has a True HEPA and has been fine. If we are okay with a True HEPA in the Coway machine, does that seem like we’d be okay with it in the G700? Thanks for any thoughts!
Since no one replied, if you see this, my suggestion is to call the company directly and speak w/someone in customer service who may be able to help you sort out. Of course, they work for the company, but my limited experience with this company is that they’re pretty straightforward. Just an idea…
In order to make the list it needs to contain a lot of carbon. That’s the only way it’s effective against VOCs. Air doctor looks like it only contains 2.2 lbs of carbon which is very little. It doesn’t make the cut. On the other hand if you only want HEPA and don’t need the carbon at all then just go for any brand with True HEPA, the cheapest one will do.
Corrine I am confused you made a comment about the EnviroKlenz unit that” activated carbon does not help that much with formaldehyde and smoke”
but in this post in order to make your list the unit needs a lot of carbon implying that carbon filters are very effective for VOC and formaldehyde
I was looking at the Enviroklenz because of your review but now I am not sure
I realize it is different technology-but is it more effective or equally effective as a carbon filter (it is a less expensive unit overall)
I have an Austin Air Healthmate Plus in my home
I have had it for about a year and have been happy with it but one day I noticed an odd smell and after reading these posts assume that it was off gassing something. Not really liking that
My employer is moving our practice to a new building that will be newly renovated (flooring, cabinets, paint etc and I am not sure I will be able to work there.
I want to get a unit for my office and was looking for recommendations
I would appreciate any clarification thank you
The air purifiers in this post are the only ones I have seen with really high carbon which is what you need for VOCs in a new house. Also I don’t promote anything with an ionizer as I don’t think it’s a good idea.
Ok thanks. I read on your post on new house offgassing about air exchangers which we do have. Will an air purifier be pointless if we have an air exchanger?
Hi Corrine! I’m trying to source an MCS-safer MERV-13 HVAC filter. Do you have any ideas?
I’ve got plenty of good quality MCS-type filtration. But, for diluting the amount of SARS-CoV-2 in the air, they don’t move enough air through quickly enough, and I need to work closely with my clients. The best way I’ve seen to do that is with a simple DIY 4 filters taped in a cube to a box fan: https://encycla.com/Corsi-Rosenthal_Cube. Problem is, the HVAC filters stink. I’ll contribute to your “buy me a cup of coffee” now, in hopes you’ll have an idea!
Hi Corrine – I am thinking of buying the MCI22K air purifier – I bought a sofa and it’s made our house smell horrible and is causing all sorts of symptoms. I had it taken away a month ago but the smell and symptoms persist! Where are the VOCs hiding now that the sofa is gone? Is this purifier a good unit to combat VOC:s?
I have not reviewed that air purifier. But this blog post is all about non-ionzer air purifiers. The post on best air purifiers for mold covers ion-producing types that I like.
Corrine my friend used an ozone generator in my house now the whole house seems toxic and we can’t even go in the house anymore. I am beside myself. I tried to sign up for an email consultation with you but no appointment times are available. Can I book with you?
Corinnesays
I’m off work for a while. Ozone is highly risky for that reason. It has happened to me as well.
Amysays
What can I do to get the house normal again? I was in for five minutes today to gather clothing and my tongue is still tingling and I feel like I need to spit. I have a little boy and a dog and I don’t know what to do.
Corinnesays
I don’t know of any remedy. I had to wait a month when I overdid it once.
Amysays
Oh my God. I ordered two of the air purifiers you recommend – is there any reason to believe that they might help now? Also it’s super cold outside – should I leave the windows open or closed? Will it help to clean walls and floors or am I beyond that now?
Elizabethsays
Hi, I’m a non-consenting host to TILT (toxic-induced loss of tolerance aka MCS) & I’ve had Foust 160R2 Air Purifier for abt 1.5 years. I’ve been having a LOT more laundry fragrance smells coming into my 817sq ft condo in the last 10 or so months—I put the Foust in my bathroom w/door closed due
to INTENSE/cut-it-w/a-knife laundry-soap/dryer-fragrance/gases and NO CHANGE/just as intense. So I figured I was due for new filter/outer sock, but no improvement w/the replacements-it used to clear air in abt 20min after I closed windows/patio-slider. I live in a neighborhood full of 3 deckers/can be hard to tell where VOCs’ coming from, but I finally realized it was coming from somewhere IN our 3-decker (I wish you could photograph off-gas-ing smells!!), Today realized it’s coming from bath-laundry-room below me downstairs neighbor who said she has changed to “Tide Original.” Think Kryptonite. Despite knowing it makes me really ill, she refuses to reconsider switching brands (even if I agree to pay for an unscented/safe one). I feel so controlled by this condition/stupid-unnecesary chems so much of the time & today I felt powerless/trapped—b/c you can’t even think –‘oh ok, I’ll move’ b/c you not only get joint pains/migraines, etc, but also the chems make it so you can’t-focus/think-clearly/get foggy-weird brain so trying to organize a move feels impossible/overwhelming & you already have a lot on your plate trying to manage CFS, et al…Then I remembered reading your info re: most filters don’t do much for fragrances or creosote (wood-burning stoves/barbeque swhich can also be painful), but that you found one that does. So, I came back here to look at that one, but now see the comment about it off-gassing & smelling weird & maybe it is ozone producing…do you think they might run it to off-gas it the way Foust does? Or maybe I can use it to get rid of the TideDetergent’s VOCs & the simultaneously run my Foust to eliminate any of it’s initial off-gassing? Thanks for reading all of this & for having this helpful info/site.
Hi, I’m a non-consenting host to TILT (toxic-induced loss of tolerance aka MCS) & I’ve had Foust 160R2 Air Purifier for abt 1.5 years. I’ve been having a LOT more laundry fragrance smells coming into my 817sq ft condo in the last 10 or so months—I put the Foust in my bathroom w/door closed due
to INTENSE/cut-it-w/a-knife laundry-soap/dryer-fragrance/gases and NO CHANGE/just as intense. So I figured I was due for new filter/outer sock, but no improvement w/the replacements-it used to clear air in abt 20min after I closed windows/patio-slider. I live in a neighborhood full of 3 deckers/can be hard to tell where VOCs’ coming from, but I finally realized it was coming from somewhere IN our 3-decker (I wish you could photograph off-gas-ing smells!!), Today realized it’s coming from bath-laundry-room below me downstairs neighbor who said she has changed to “Tide Original.” Think Kryptonite. Despite knowing it makes me really ill, she refuses to reconsider switching brands (even if I agree to pay for an unscented/safe one). I feel so controlled by this condition/stupid-unnecesary chems so much of the time & today I felt powerless/trapped—b/c you can’t even think –‘oh ok, I’ll move’ b/c you not only get joint pains/migraines, etc, but also the chems make it so you can’t-focus/think-clearly/get foggy-weird brain so trying to organize a move feels impossible/overwhelming & you already have a lot on your plate trying to manage CFS, et al…Then I remembered reading your info re: most filters don’t do much for fragrances or creosote (wood-burning stoves/barbequeswhich can also be painful), but that you found one that does (EnviroKlenz).So, I stopped crying & came back here to look at that one, but now see the comment about it off-gassing & smelling weird & maybe it is ozone producing…do you think they might run it to off-gas it the way Foust does before sending it out? Or maybe I can use it to get rid of the TideDetergent’s VOCs & then simultaneously run my Foust to eliminate any of it’s initial off-gassing? Also, it’s listed here as $699.00, but their page says $799.00—do they give a promo code thru your site? Thanks for reading all of this & for having this helpful info/site.
Thanks, Sorry abt double post—when I checked back for a reply, my post wasn’t’ there so re-posted it. Put ‘keeping out fragrances and smoke from neighbors’ in search space–but got message there is no such topic…(I’m assuming it isn’t the same as the cleaning post under “healthy Interiors”?) can you direct me, please, if you meant a different post. Also, am I trying to access the calculators for air filter machines wrong? When I click on the space it seems to bring me to a site for people who want to add calculators to their websites. Lastly, I see for MCS you suggest at least 5-ACH so I was surprised the Enviroklenz lists only 2 & it is one you use–so, is that b/c it clears smoke & fragrances, where as the others w/higher ACHs don’t & the trade-off is worth it? If this is too many questions & you prefer I email you, pls say so. Thanks very much. Elizabeth
THANK YOU SO MUCH for that post & YIKES/Stripes–uhm…uh… guess who has been turning on her dryer & kitchen-stove exhausts to try to get rid of the toxic Tide fumes?!! I do the same when dryer vent fumes come in from outside–I’ve just made it worse, didn’t I? Friend is coming to help w/caulking later in week–tho I’m a bit fearful that will make me ill, too-had bad reaction to AFM paint years ago…(wish I’d addressed this in summer w/windows open vs now & heat on). Need to re-read post to try to get the science down better–but if I get a box fan, open a window on the opposite wall of bathroom & put the box fan in the bathroom doorway/aimed at the open bathroom window (it’s only a small louver ~12″wide x ~3 long), so you think that might help get me thru next few days/tilI can get better air filter? Thanks again. Elizabeth
The fumes from my neighbor downstair ‘s “Tide Original Scent” laundry detergent inundate my livingroom, hallway, bedroom, & bathroom. Her W & D face are behind louvered door; separated from her bathroom by drywall & face her hallway & livingroom (which are in same location as mine). My W/D do not open to hallway-opening was closed years ago & drywall installed. The fragrance-VOCs are especially bad in the bathroom & bedroom–lasting for 3-4 days–1st 2 days are at about same intensity (scale 1-10–10/10). I’d been putting the bathroom & kitchen exhaust fans on, w/out much success in alleviation; also no help from cross ventilating front slider & back sliders…so I thought (based on your article) I should stop using the exhausts–they probably just draw-in the fumes– & instead put a box fan in my living room window, which is on outside wall opposite bathroom wall– to draw outside air in (tho LR door’s isn’t exactly aligned with bathroom’s doorway) & then place another box fan at bathroom doorway pointed to bathroom’s small (13″x6″)-jalosie window to push the detergent’s VOCs outside. ‘Know how this probably isn’t a winter option–but hopefully will buy me time til I get the $$ for the Enviroklenz. If this description is still as clear as mud–pls let me know & I will email you for a consult. AGAIN–thank you so much for your time & energy & good brain:) Elizabeth
Cynthia Lewissays
Can you tell me are there any office desktop units for MCS, I need VOC and formaldehyde removal.. They spray chemicals for disinfection, bug spray and just got all new office furniture, I have been working from home due to my reactions to all this, however they want me to return to the office with the new renovations. The last few times I have tried I continue to get major reactions. Thanks
When my neighbors do laundry, my house and yard are basically enveloped in a heavy cloud of fragrance. My ventilation system was pulling the scent in, so, after getting some professional advice, I installed an IQ Air whole home filtration system that is combined with an Amaircare filter — all the air that comes into the house passes through both systems and they also filter the air that’s already in the house. I was expecting great things… and then my neighbors started their laundry and my house filled up with the scent cloud. These might be great filters, but they are no match for modern fragrance chemicals.
I also have a portable IQ Air multigas and this unit eliminates fragrance chemicals in just a few minutes. I LOVE this unit. I just wish they made a whole house system using this filter.
A while ago, we finished some floors in our house with something that was supposed to be totally non-toxic, but turned out to be beyond awful. The fumes were horrendous. When we went to sleep, we locked ourselves in one room with the Austin air filter and put our animals in another with the IQ Air multigas. In the morning, the room with the IQ multigas filter smelled like a forest. Having slept with the Austin filter, I felt completely poisoned. It hadn’t worked at all.
Just sharing my experience in case it’s of help to anyone doing research.
I should also add that for general day-to-day filtration, I’ve been happy with all of my filters. It’s just when it comes down to really heavy-duty air cleaning, most of them completely fail.
Very interesting to read your post. I’ve been looking into the IQ Air, but the company has no data, or at least none they’re willing to share w/prospective customers. And that’s a red flag for me. If they did rigorous third party testing and the data was strong, they should be willing, and even happy, to share it. But your post makes me wonder if the unit might be ok. On the other hand, there are a lot of complaints at Amazon that perhaps it’s good for particle filtration but not much else. Anyway, thank you for sharing your experience. It was helpful to read your post…
I have MCS and am so so sensitive to odors. I started using an AirDoctor air purifier some months ago and found out it emitted and odor and scrambled my brain, nervous system, and hurt my lungs to the same extent that an ozonator did years ago. It has an ionizer option and I wondered if it was giving off ozone. I stopped using it and did research and purchased in Austin Air Healthmate Plus purifier specifically to remove ozone odor. It did not remove the odor I was reacting to and actually seemed to emit the same odor. I now am left wondering if I’m reacting to potassium iodide, activated carbon, or residual ozone. Whatever the smell is, it is now stuck in my hotel air conditioning unit, my safe space. Making my life hell. I have a small Germ Guardian that uses activated carbon but I don’t seem to react to that. Any thoughts? Tips?
There are a number of odors from air purifiers, the motor when new, the plastics and other components, the filter materials – people can react to the charcoal, potassium permanganate, it’s possible to react to one brand and not another, and then the ionizer yes, almost all ionizers give off ozone. Some UV lights give off ozone as well.
The IQ Air multigas removes ozone — I checked with the company just a little while ago. I can’t recall the percentage of the ozone it takes out, but it was very high. If this is indeed what you’re reacting to, it might help, but it’s an expensive experiment. I’ve tried a few filters and, in my experience, this is by far the best one.
The only thing I care about is how well it will filter out VOCs because of a brand new house. I’m not allergic to anything else, but I am concerned about my health/toxicity. However, I’m worried Austin Air will filter out all the HARMLESS bacteria and viruses and therefore my immune system won’t have any work to do, and I won’t build immunity to bacteria and viruses in the real world. Any comments or recommendations on which would be best given my situation? Best VOC protection.
I wouldn’t worry about that with these air purifiers, they are *that* good at filtering out viruses and bacteria to the point of sterilizing the space. There are lots of other sources of exposure as well other than the air – food, hands, other people, etc
I saw your reply to Anon regarding returns. I would like to caution that I’ve contacted Amaircare’s office in Mississauga, ON, Canada. The sales rep there said that no returns are allowed for any of their products.
I tried Enviroklenz but it was awful loud and I felt like I was in a wind tunnel! Also didn’t react well to the mineral components—
Very hard to return…
I have mc MCS and bought the Enviroklenz. It made me sooo sick. I swear it produces ozone. The air smelled like after a rain and my chest got super tight and a lot of other issues. By the time I had finally dared to use it, it was too late to return. I am really struggling with dust and mold allergies and finding something I can tolerate even just for that.
I tried enviroklenz; for three days , inside and outside . My husband who can’t smell well even smelled a chemical smell . I was so sick for hours after minutes of exposure. They let me return it since I contacted them day 2 of having the product. I didn’t even want to get a new one , felt like a Guine pig (sorry spelling!) with figuring out which part was making me feel nauseous.
Thank you for this post. We have recently moved into a home and we are having trouble getting rid of a chemical smell that I believe is causing migraines. My doctor recommended Triad Aer. Can you tell me if you think this would help? Do you think the ionic types are not effective and/or not safe?
Thank you!
Thanks for this post Corinne. Do you know of HRVs (heat recovery ventilators) that have appropriate filtering of incoming air for chemically sensitive people?
If you find a good hvac technician, they may be able to install a whole house filter that connects to the HRV so all the air that comes into your house is filtered. I don’t have an HRV, but I did have a whole house filter install and the techs completely rebuilt my furnace like a maze so that it goes through a couple of different filters more than once
.
One thing I want to add here; so far no one can tell me in real terms, and I’ve talked to enough researchers and scientist about UV-C, At this time, I don’t believe it’s safe… EPA says that a UV-C air purifier does not seem effective as a stand-alone unit because it cannot trap or remove particles.
And, it is the production of ozone from these ionic air cleaners that pose a risk to human health.
I only recommend no ozone bulbs in all my posts. No trapping particles does not equal not being safe. I agree on ozone but many UV bulbs don’t produce ozone. Non of the options on this list are ionic.
I see a lot of no name filters listed or talked about…make sure they are real hepa’s or true hepa filtration? Just because it says HEPA, doesn’t mean it is a true HEPA filtration. Right now I only recommend two filtration units, IQAir and Air Doctor units, no gimmicks!
IQ Air is good but is absolutely overpriced compared to other quality brands. All of the brands here are good quality known brands. These are definitely not no name. If you are using comments to promote the products you sell that’s not what the discussion is for. Especially if you are going to put down the competition without good reason.
Thank you for sharing this, Corinne. Your site has been very helpful in our remodel decisions. Good indoor air has helped out family so much. Especially living in a moldy city with high PM2.5. We like the Air Doctor for portable options. The Reme Halo has been a great whole house option with minimal off gassing. We use it in conjunction with an Aprilaire ozone free filtration system on our HVAC. The combo was a lifesaver during the west coast wildfires we had a few months ago. I also get a lot of information for the California Air Resources Board website.
Do you have any knowledge on systems air purifying systems installed in the HVAC system? Two products that I am interested in are the APCO-UV and the iWave system (R or C).
You don’t have filter list for the most common problem of actual fragrances….? Pthlates, fabric softener, “vape” which is killing random babies, cleaners etc….
We got a 160R2 from E. L. Foust (cheaper than the 400 series you review above, though with less airflow and no UV lamp).
It is somewhat noisier than we expected (and at a varying pitch than can trigger my wife’s tinnitus), and it was a little messy coming out of the box (they warn about bits of carbon coming out of the cylinder, and some of this carbon also got into the fan which then blew out after starting it up). But once it was wiped down with a cloth it was fine.
After turning it one the longer it ran the more relaxed my wife said she was feeling. It was not only clearing the air of the scented candle smell from our neighbors but my wife thinks it may have been clearing the air of pollutants she wasn’t smelling.
We bought the standard mix. The only smell coming from the machine seems to be that of the carbon/purapel mix itself. And this is a smell that reminded my wife of a place she enjoyed, so not bad at all, and anyone else could try out the various other mixes Foustco provides in their sample pack.
It’s not 100%, and doesn’t compare to fresh air from the outside, but this is a purchase we are definitely happy with.. It’s small size is a bonus, as unlike the Enviroklenz or the E. L. Foust 400 series it fits under our table. https://imgur.com/a/QyUXAa7
I recently bought and received an EnviroKlenz and it immediately started off-gassing a noxious rubber/plastic smell. Based on BBB reviews (mentioned in a one-star review on Amazon with a similar problem) this has happened to other people.
Perhaps running it for the two-day “acclimate the system to your environment” period would fully off-gas, but I live in a small place where this is not possible.
Beware if you don’t have a garage or similar room in which you can isolate it while off-gassing it (presuming this smell does off-gas).
And no, I don’t have MCS, so this isn’t me being overly sensitive.
And not to be critical or cast blame, but your review and personal testimonial is one of the primary reasons I chose EnviroKlenz. That’s why I’m posting my personal experience here.
Yes this happened to me ; so encouraging to hear I wasn’t the only one . It made me sick for days (nausea , head fog, overall sick feeling hard to describe.
I tried this one too and I did pick up what seemed to me to be a mineral smell and like with all new appliances a bit of a new appliance motor smell. The only other one I have tried is Vornado which also had a new appliance odor. There are a couple brands in the post on air purifiers for MCS that try and offgas the motor first or have it more sealed in.
No dont worry about it sounding critical. All feedback is welcome.
My wife said the odor most closely reminded her of new car scent.
Over the years we’ve also bought Hamilton (box-fan sized) and Holmes (HAP9415) HEPA air purifiers and despite them being made from plastic they did not generate an odor out of the box. (The Hamilton motor seized within the warranty period and was returned to us smelling strongly, but did not smell out of the box.) So I don’t think all new appliances smell.
I emailed some questions to E. L. Foust. If they get back to me we’ll probably try one of their purifiers next.
My god I just hung up on a customer service representative. I have never, ever been treated so rudely. Fortunately the rep said I would be fully refunded and could keep the unit (which I will have to dispose of).
Rude customer service agents ad deceptive marketing practices.
I just received a polite email from another customer support person saying the full refund has been initiated, and that they are scheduling a pickup to ship the product back to them. This polite customer support person also stated to contact him directly if I need to for any other reason.
Hooray, now I can go about my day without seething in anger!
Corinnesays
That’s good. Yes I think all are returnable or refundable.
annasays
Please continue to post and keep me in your data base. Appreciate the information. Need safe housing and researching best locale-problem is I need to be near major medical centers for family members health concerns, Thank you-Anna Heltzer [email protected]
Juliet says
had closed cell spray foam installed in my home. installer didn’t have us leave during install and didn’t advise us to not sleep in the house that night. I developed some sort of allergy to product. or maybe it was installed incorrectly. just don’t know for sure until VOC testing comes back from the lab. having a company demo it but nee to know if painting over the odor and or chemicals that’s left behind in the timbers will block in the Vocs? kindly hope you have a suggestion other than I need to take my roof off and install new rafters as this is the area it was installed to. help plz!
Corinne says
If they installed it wrong it will have to be removed. If it was installed correctly then you just became sensitized to it, I would not seal, I would leave the house for a few weeks.
Sarah says
A couple of additional considerations to add to those listed by Corrine when thinking about buying an air purifier:
~ Return policy: Who pays for shipping back to the company? Is there a restocking fee?
~ Warranty: How long is it and what does it cove?
~ Data: Have they conducted third party testing on the unit and filters? If so, are they transparent about the data that was collected?
Sarah says
Can anyone recommend a good carbon filter than I could use to create a make-shift air purifier by attaching it to a strong fan? I realize this is less than ideal, but I’m running out of options and was inspired by what Smart Air started doing at the outset.
Unfortunately, as far as I can tell, all the presumably good air purifiers out there use filtration systems that are complex and can’t be used like, for example, a Blue Air filter. However, I’ve lost all faith in Blue Air and don’t want to use their filters to create a make shift set up for now.
And, also unfortunately, these presumably good air purifiers haven’t worked out for me and/or from reading comments here I’m skittish to try one or two alternatives. My experience has been that units arrive damaged, or they off gas horribly, or the decibel level is too loud to have running all day and certainly for a bedroom, or the company has little-to-no third party data, etc.
Any and all ideas would be most welcome.
Sarah says
Corrine – The Walmart link for the Amaircare doesn’t apply anymore. It seems they don’t sell this. FYI. I can’t imagine how labor intensive it is for you to maintain all the data you have on your amazing website. Thank you for all that you do and share so generously with the public. Your passion, your smarts, your research, and your personal experience coupled with the stories of others is truly monumental in scope.
Sarah says
PS The Amazon link for this same product brings you to a page that says the product is not available. Sorry I didn’t notice that when I posted my comment above. Feel free to delete my comments to save space on your thread.
Sarah says
I’m struggling along with many others here trying to find a good air purifier. A couple of things I’ve stumbled upon along the way, should it be of use to anyone:
~ A lot of companies don’t share much data on third party testing of their machines/filters to provide hard evidence they do what they claim, no less, at what speed (what setting for how long to remove how much, etc).
~ If the air purifiers you’ve tried off gas nasty toxins, try taping a filter to a plain old fan. I think Blue Air makes filters with HEPA-like technology and carbon filters all in one that have a shape that fits a box fan pretty well. Another shape fits a window fan. It’s still possible the filter itself will off gas something nasty because who knows all of what they’re made of, but it’s one option that eliminates some of the variables by getting rid of the inner workings of the machine as well as the exterior container should those be made of materials that stink.
Question for Corrine about ozone: If you use too much ozone and it seems to change the smell in the house from one icky odor to another, will that new nasty odor eventually off-gas or is there something about ozone that can change it permanently?
Corinne says
I will never touch ozone again. But the byproduct smell has generally gone down in about a month. There are other materials that it permanently destroys though.
Sarah says
Thank you for your reply. My concern stems from use of Blue Air purifiers, which I will never use again. I’m glad to hear the smell the over-use produced went down after about a month.
Lauren Barbour says
Curious why you will never touch ozone! I thought I read that it would be good to get your car AC pumped through with ozone – is this okay to do or would you advise against it? Concerned for safety and I am sensitive to smells / want to try and rid my car of mold!
Quianna says
Hi! I love your site. you steered us away from two part foam in my basement – thank you! we found mold in our fireplace and a few other spots while doing a huge remodel. my oldest son is having more than usual asthma issues and my daughter skin seems more reactive. I was thinking about renting or buying an air scrubber to run down in the basement for a while and then eventually getting an air purifier for the house. is an air scrubber worth it? it has a merv 10 pre-filter, carbon filter then a hepa that says it’s will remove 99.97% of 0.3 micron. thanks in advance for your reply!
Corinne says
Air scrubbers are used temporarily during remediation. The most important thing to do is fully discover the problem that created the mold and properly fix it. You may want to consult with Cheryl Ciecko for advice because it’s not common to properly identify building defects and properly correct them.
Lou says
Frustrated with not being able to get Amaircare filters during the pandemic, I called my local filter / air purifier supplier to discuss another unit. . I told him how I don’t like my Amaircare 2500 because of the design – airflow coming from the bottom and that I don’t think it does a good job. I told him that I love my Amaircare Roomaid(s) and I turn them upside down so the airflow comes out the top. I also told him that I have and Oreck that I use in a specific room to help off-gass new things or fragrant items. Bad but it works for me. I air the room out afterwards.
From all that information he recommended Sharp PF-K50UW., He said that the plastic does not smell and it has a plasmacluster. I bought it. The HEPA filter smelled when I opened the package (manual said it would smell and is not dangerous) so I kept it in the bag and put it in the garage for a few days to off-gas. After a few days, I gave it a try and I have it running ever since.
Because my neighbours (townhouse) are using a lot of fragrant products I am unable to run my exhaust fans so I move the unit into the kitchen and run the plasmacluster while cooking and it removes the cooking smells. Other than that I just use it on the regular settings.
We have considered an HRV but it would be difficult to install and there are so many people using fragrant laundry products – it would be sucking it in constantly.
It really pays to speak with your local air purifier dealer because they know their products well and listen to their customers.
I am selling the place and moving to a detached home.
Robby says
Do you have any posts on crawl space encapsulation? We renovated an 80 year old house in humid north Georgia. The crawl space is actually very dry but would rather keep it that way with encapsulation. I am however, concerned about the air quality from the polyethylene vapor barrier affecting the interior of the house. It seems like that is something that could offgas for a long time with nowhere to go but up. I am not sure how bad those vapor barriers offgas either. If you have any posts or think that is anything to be concerned with please let me know. THanks!
Regan says
Thanks so much for your super helpful site, Corrinne! I wanted to share what I just heard back from Airpura. We live in California where there are lots of wildfires, so we’re looking for something good both for MCS and wildfires. We’re also trying to cover a large open floorplan house. The Airpura looks like the only one that can cover 2000 sq ft, though only 2 exchanges per hour, but that seems better than the Austin or Enviroklenz which are the other two we’ve been considering. Our space is closer to 1600 sq ft. Anyhow, here’s the reply we got when asking which unit we should do if wildfires and MCS are both a concern: “The V700 is in fact the best unit for wildfires however can give off a sweetish scent, especially if in a humid environment. Some like it, some find it offensive, (If they have severe chemical sensitivities,) and some people simply don’t notice it. . . . The HEPA barrier filters 95%, (o.3 microns.) The G700 contains a true HEPA, (99.97% at 0.3 microns,) and the G700DLX contains the HEPA barrier due to the larger amount of carbon. The V700 can contain a True medical grade HEPA, Super HEPA 99.99% at 0.1 microns and ULPA 99.99% at 0.1. We recommend the HEPA barrier for an MCS sufferer as it doesn’t contain the borosilicate, glues and polymers that the True HEPAs contain.” Corrinne (or anyone reading who might have experience with Airpura), I’m wondering what your thoughts are on the G700 or G700DLX (which are marketed for MCS) vs the C600 or now C700 listed for chemicals on their site? We have a Coway Airmega AP-1512HH for smaller rooms and that has a True HEPA and has been fine. If we are okay with a True HEPA in the Coway machine, does that seem like we’d be okay with it in the G700? Thanks for any thoughts!
Sarah says
Since no one replied, if you see this, my suggestion is to call the company directly and speak w/someone in customer service who may be able to help you sort out. Of course, they work for the company, but my limited experience with this company is that they’re pretty straightforward. Just an idea…
sandy says
Is this one of the toxic air fresheners?
Heaven Fresh XJ-2100UV Ionic Air Purifier
http://www.heavenfresh.ca/catalog/product_info.php/products_id/121/?osCsid=0efb950f0fb02289755d96ae4d3c9777
it looks like this
sandy says
I tried a couple of times it won’t post the picture
unless it does some magic on send it won’t post a pict
sandy says
is it ozone creating? sorry for so many posts my brain is a bit messy today… too many chemicals in my life… still.
E. H. says
I, too, would like to know your thoughts on the AirDoctor brand, and particular units they offer, if you have reviewed them.
WellnessMama gives AirDoctor a verygood review.
Thanks very much.
Corinne says
In order to make the list it needs to contain a lot of carbon. That’s the only way it’s effective against VOCs. Air doctor looks like it only contains 2.2 lbs of carbon which is very little. It doesn’t make the cut. On the other hand if you only want HEPA and don’t need the carbon at all then just go for any brand with True HEPA, the cheapest one will do.
Ann says
Corrine I am confused you made a comment about the EnviroKlenz unit that” activated carbon does not help that much with formaldehyde and smoke”
but in this post in order to make your list the unit needs a lot of carbon implying that carbon filters are very effective for VOC and formaldehyde
I was looking at the Enviroklenz because of your review but now I am not sure
I realize it is different technology-but is it more effective or equally effective as a carbon filter (it is a less expensive unit overall)
I have an Austin Air Healthmate Plus in my home
I have had it for about a year and have been happy with it but one day I noticed an odd smell and after reading these posts assume that it was off gassing something. Not really liking that
My employer is moving our practice to a new building that will be newly renovated (flooring, cabinets, paint etc and I am not sure I will be able to work there.
I want to get a unit for my office and was looking for recommendations
I would appreciate any clarification thank you
Corinne says
Yes carbon is not that affective against formaldehyde. Potassium permanganate is added to many air purifiers to help with formaldehyde.
Ann-Margret Morgan says
Do you think the Enviroklenz is equally effective as an
activated carbon and K permanganate purifier for VOC and
formaldehyde
thank you for all your incredible info on your site
It has been so helpful
Corinne says
I don’t have side by side testing to know the answer
Char says
Hi! We’re building a new house and I want to get an air purifier for when we move in. Do you know anything about the Air Doctor or Alen?
Corinne says
The air purifiers in this post are the only ones I have seen with really high carbon which is what you need for VOCs in a new house. Also I don’t promote anything with an ionizer as I don’t think it’s a good idea.
Char says
Ok thanks. I read on your post on new house offgassing about air exchangers which we do have. Will an air purifier be pointless if we have an air exchanger?
miriam says
Anything less costly? for a smallish room?
BTW I’d like to donate, but do not use Paypal. Any alternative?
Corinne says
Less costly will equal less carbon (or other sorbent material).
Beth Baron says
Hi Corrine! I’m trying to source an MCS-safer MERV-13 HVAC filter. Do you have any ideas?
I’ve got plenty of good quality MCS-type filtration. But, for diluting the amount of SARS-CoV-2 in the air, they don’t move enough air through quickly enough, and I need to work closely with my clients. The best way I’ve seen to do that is with a simple DIY 4 filters taped in a cube to a box fan: https://encycla.com/Corsi-Rosenthal_Cube. Problem is, the HVAC filters stink. I’ll contribute to your “buy me a cup of coffee” now, in hopes you’ll have an idea!
Thanks.
Beth
Corinne says
I don’t know brands of those and their different odor. I don’t work with HVAC equipment.
Amy says
Hi Corrine – I am thinking of buying the MCI22K air purifier – I bought a sofa and it’s made our house smell horrible and is causing all sorts of symptoms. I had it taken away a month ago but the smell and symptoms persist! Where are the VOCs hiding now that the sofa is gone? Is this purifier a good unit to combat VOC:s?
Corinne says
I have not reviewed that air purifier. But this blog post is all about non-ionzer air purifiers. The post on best air purifiers for mold covers ion-producing types that I like.
Amy says
Thank you so much for your response. So would a non-ionizer type of purifier be best to deal with VOCs?
Corinne says
Yes, in my opinion.
Amy says
Corrine my friend used an ozone generator in my house now the whole house seems toxic and we can’t even go in the house anymore. I am beside myself. I tried to sign up for an email consultation with you but no appointment times are available. Can I book with you?
Corinne says
I’m off work for a while. Ozone is highly risky for that reason. It has happened to me as well.
Amy says
What can I do to get the house normal again? I was in for five minutes today to gather clothing and my tongue is still tingling and I feel like I need to spit. I have a little boy and a dog and I don’t know what to do.
Corinne says
I don’t know of any remedy. I had to wait a month when I overdid it once.
Amy says
Oh my God. I ordered two of the air purifiers you recommend – is there any reason to believe that they might help now? Also it’s super cold outside – should I leave the windows open or closed? Will it help to clean walls and floors or am I beyond that now?
Elizabeth says
Hi, I’m a non-consenting host to TILT (toxic-induced loss of tolerance aka MCS) & I’ve had Foust 160R2 Air Purifier for abt 1.5 years. I’ve been having a LOT more laundry fragrance smells coming into my 817sq ft condo in the last 10 or so months—I put the Foust in my bathroom w/door closed due
to INTENSE/cut-it-w/a-knife laundry-soap/dryer-fragrance/gases and NO CHANGE/just as intense. So I figured I was due for new filter/outer sock, but no improvement w/the replacements-it used to clear air in abt 20min after I closed windows/patio-slider. I live in a neighborhood full of 3 deckers/can be hard to tell where VOCs’ coming from, but I finally realized it was coming from somewhere IN our 3-decker (I wish you could photograph off-gas-ing smells!!), Today realized it’s coming from bath-laundry-room below me downstairs neighbor who said she has changed to “Tide Original.” Think Kryptonite. Despite knowing it makes me really ill, she refuses to reconsider switching brands (even if I agree to pay for an unscented/safe one). I feel so controlled by this condition/stupid-unnecesary chems so much of the time & today I felt powerless/trapped—b/c you can’t even think –‘oh ok, I’ll move’ b/c you not only get joint pains/migraines, etc, but also the chems make it so you can’t-focus/think-clearly/get foggy-weird brain so trying to organize a move feels impossible/overwhelming & you already have a lot on your plate trying to manage CFS, et al…Then I remembered reading your info re: most filters don’t do much for fragrances or creosote (wood-burning stoves/barbeque swhich can also be painful), but that you found one that does. So, I came back here to look at that one, but now see the comment about it off-gassing & smelling weird & maybe it is ozone producing…do you think they might run it to off-gas it the way Foust does? Or maybe I can use it to get rid of the TideDetergent’s VOCs & the simultaneously run my Foust to eliminate any of it’s initial off-gassing? Thanks for reading all of this & for having this helpful info/site.
Elizabeth says
Hi, I’m a non-consenting host to TILT (toxic-induced loss of tolerance aka MCS) & I’ve had Foust 160R2 Air Purifier for abt 1.5 years. I’ve been having a LOT more laundry fragrance smells coming into my 817sq ft condo in the last 10 or so months—I put the Foust in my bathroom w/door closed due
to INTENSE/cut-it-w/a-knife laundry-soap/dryer-fragrance/gases and NO CHANGE/just as intense. So I figured I was due for new filter/outer sock, but no improvement w/the replacements-it used to clear air in abt 20min after I closed windows/patio-slider. I live in a neighborhood full of 3 deckers/can be hard to tell where VOCs’ coming from, but I finally realized it was coming from somewhere IN our 3-decker (I wish you could photograph off-gas-ing smells!!), Today realized it’s coming from bath-laundry-room below me downstairs neighbor who said she has changed to “Tide Original.” Think Kryptonite. Despite knowing it makes me really ill, she refuses to reconsider switching brands (even if I agree to pay for an unscented/safe one). I feel so controlled by this condition/stupid-unnecesary chems so much of the time & today I felt powerless/trapped—b/c you can’t even think –‘oh ok, I’ll move’ b/c you not only get joint pains/migraines, etc, but also the chems make it so you can’t-focus/think-clearly/get foggy-weird brain so trying to organize a move feels impossible/overwhelming & you already have a lot on your plate trying to manage CFS, et al…Then I remembered reading your info re: most filters don’t do much for fragrances or creosote (wood-burning stoves/barbequeswhich can also be painful), but that you found one that does (EnviroKlenz).So, I stopped crying & came back here to look at that one, but now see the comment about it off-gassing & smelling weird & maybe it is ozone producing…do you think they might run it to off-gas it the way Foust does before sending it out? Or maybe I can use it to get rid of the TideDetergent’s VOCs & then simultaneously run my Foust to eliminate any of it’s initial off-gassing? Also, it’s listed here as $699.00, but their page says $799.00—do they give a promo code thru your site? Thanks for reading all of this & for having this helpful info/site.
Corinne says
I would read the post on keeping out fragrances and smoke from neighbors. It’s listed at 699 now.
Elizabeth says
Thanks, Sorry abt double post—when I checked back for a reply, my post wasn’t’ there so re-posted it. Put ‘keeping out fragrances and smoke from neighbors’ in search space–but got message there is no such topic…(I’m assuming it isn’t the same as the cleaning post under “healthy Interiors”?) can you direct me, please, if you meant a different post. Also, am I trying to access the calculators for air filter machines wrong? When I click on the space it seems to bring me to a site for people who want to add calculators to their websites. Lastly, I see for MCS you suggest at least 5-ACH so I was surprised the Enviroklenz lists only 2 & it is one you use–so, is that b/c it clears smoke & fragrances, where as the others w/higher ACHs don’t & the trade-off is worth it? If this is too many questions & you prefer I email you, pls say so. Thanks very much. Elizabeth
Elizabeth says
Put the “keeping out fragrances…”topic in regular google–found it! https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2021/06/how-to-stop-fragrance-smoke-coming-in-from-neighbours.html.
So, if can spare the time/energy to address the other questions, I appreciate it.
Elizabeth says
THANK YOU SO MUCH for that post & YIKES/Stripes–uhm…uh… guess who has been turning on her dryer & kitchen-stove exhausts to try to get rid of the toxic Tide fumes?!! I do the same when dryer vent fumes come in from outside–I’ve just made it worse, didn’t I? Friend is coming to help w/caulking later in week–tho I’m a bit fearful that will make me ill, too-had bad reaction to AFM paint years ago…(wish I’d addressed this in summer w/windows open vs now & heat on). Need to re-read post to try to get the science down better–but if I get a box fan, open a window on the opposite wall of bathroom & put the box fan in the bathroom doorway/aimed at the open bathroom window (it’s only a small louver ~12″wide x ~3 long), so you think that might help get me thru next few days/tilI can get better air filter? Thanks again. Elizabeth
elizabeth says
meant bathroom vent not dryer…
Corinne says
I didn’t understand this and what you were hoping to do with the box fans.
Elizabeth says
The fumes from my neighbor downstair ‘s “Tide Original Scent” laundry detergent inundate my livingroom, hallway, bedroom, & bathroom. Her W & D face are behind louvered door; separated from her bathroom by drywall & face her hallway & livingroom (which are in same location as mine). My W/D do not open to hallway-opening was closed years ago & drywall installed. The fragrance-VOCs are especially bad in the bathroom & bedroom–lasting for 3-4 days–1st 2 days are at about same intensity (scale 1-10–10/10). I’d been putting the bathroom & kitchen exhaust fans on, w/out much success in alleviation; also no help from cross ventilating front slider & back sliders…so I thought (based on your article) I should stop using the exhausts–they probably just draw-in the fumes– & instead put a box fan in my living room window, which is on outside wall opposite bathroom wall– to draw outside air in (tho LR door’s isn’t exactly aligned with bathroom’s doorway) & then place another box fan at bathroom doorway pointed to bathroom’s small (13″x6″)-jalosie window to push the detergent’s VOCs outside. ‘Know how this probably isn’t a winter option–but hopefully will buy me time til I get the $$ for the Enviroklenz. If this description is still as clear as mud–pls let me know & I will email you for a consult. AGAIN–thank you so much for your time & energy & good brain:) Elizabeth
Cynthia Lewis says
Can you tell me are there any office desktop units for MCS, I need VOC and formaldehyde removal.. They spray chemicals for disinfection, bug spray and just got all new office furniture, I have been working from home due to my reactions to all this, however they want me to return to the office with the new renovations. The last few times I have tried I continue to get major reactions. Thanks
Corinne says
The desktop units wouldn’t be big enough to make an impact, I would use one of these in your office.
Helen says
When my neighbors do laundry, my house and yard are basically enveloped in a heavy cloud of fragrance. My ventilation system was pulling the scent in, so, after getting some professional advice, I installed an IQ Air whole home filtration system that is combined with an Amaircare filter — all the air that comes into the house passes through both systems and they also filter the air that’s already in the house. I was expecting great things… and then my neighbors started their laundry and my house filled up with the scent cloud. These might be great filters, but they are no match for modern fragrance chemicals.
I also have a portable IQ Air multigas and this unit eliminates fragrance chemicals in just a few minutes. I LOVE this unit. I just wish they made a whole house system using this filter.
A while ago, we finished some floors in our house with something that was supposed to be totally non-toxic, but turned out to be beyond awful. The fumes were horrendous. When we went to sleep, we locked ourselves in one room with the Austin air filter and put our animals in another with the IQ Air multigas. In the morning, the room with the IQ multigas filter smelled like a forest. Having slept with the Austin filter, I felt completely poisoned. It hadn’t worked at all.
Just sharing my experience in case it’s of help to anyone doing research.
Helen says
I should also add that for general day-to-day filtration, I’ve been happy with all of my filters. It’s just when it comes down to really heavy-duty air cleaning, most of them completely fail.
Sarah says
Very interesting to read your post. I’ve been looking into the IQ Air, but the company has no data, or at least none they’re willing to share w/prospective customers. And that’s a red flag for me. If they did rigorous third party testing and the data was strong, they should be willing, and even happy, to share it. But your post makes me wonder if the unit might be ok. On the other hand, there are a lot of complaints at Amazon that perhaps it’s good for particle filtration but not much else. Anyway, thank you for sharing your experience. It was helpful to read your post…
Jillian says
I have MCS and am so so sensitive to odors. I started using an AirDoctor air purifier some months ago and found out it emitted and odor and scrambled my brain, nervous system, and hurt my lungs to the same extent that an ozonator did years ago. It has an ionizer option and I wondered if it was giving off ozone. I stopped using it and did research and purchased in Austin Air Healthmate Plus purifier specifically to remove ozone odor. It did not remove the odor I was reacting to and actually seemed to emit the same odor. I now am left wondering if I’m reacting to potassium iodide, activated carbon, or residual ozone. Whatever the smell is, it is now stuck in my hotel air conditioning unit, my safe space. Making my life hell. I have a small Germ Guardian that uses activated carbon but I don’t seem to react to that. Any thoughts? Tips?
Corinne says
There are a number of odors from air purifiers, the motor when new, the plastics and other components, the filter materials – people can react to the charcoal, potassium permanganate, it’s possible to react to one brand and not another, and then the ionizer yes, almost all ionizers give off ozone. Some UV lights give off ozone as well.
Helen says
The IQ Air multigas removes ozone — I checked with the company just a little while ago. I can’t recall the percentage of the ozone it takes out, but it was very high. If this is indeed what you’re reacting to, it might help, but it’s an expensive experiment. I’ve tried a few filters and, in my experience, this is by far the best one.
Mandy says
The only thing I care about is how well it will filter out VOCs because of a brand new house. I’m not allergic to anything else, but I am concerned about my health/toxicity. However, I’m worried Austin Air will filter out all the HARMLESS bacteria and viruses and therefore my immune system won’t have any work to do, and I won’t build immunity to bacteria and viruses in the real world. Any comments or recommendations on which would be best given my situation? Best VOC protection.
Corinne says
I wouldn’t worry about that with these air purifiers, they are *that* good at filtering out viruses and bacteria to the point of sterilizing the space. There are lots of other sources of exposure as well other than the air – food, hands, other people, etc
John says
I saw your reply to Anon regarding returns. I would like to caution that I’ve contacted Amaircare’s office in Mississauga, ON, Canada. The sales rep there said that no returns are allowed for any of their products.
Tad says
Dust is a big nemesis for me. How do you think the Enviroklenz and the other units do with dust particles?
Corinne says
For dust I definitely think it’s all about the HEPA and the fan size. Enviroklenze has that covered.
Katie Pollock says
I tried Enviroklenz but it was awful loud and I felt like I was in a wind tunnel! Also didn’t react well to the mineral components—
Very hard to return…
Robyn says
I have mc MCS and bought the Enviroklenz. It made me sooo sick. I swear it produces ozone. The air smelled like after a rain and my chest got super tight and a lot of other issues. By the time I had finally dared to use it, it was too late to return. I am really struggling with dust and mold allergies and finding something I can tolerate even just for that.
Anna says
I tried enviroklenz; for three days , inside and outside . My husband who can’t smell well even smelled a chemical smell . I was so sick for hours after minutes of exposure. They let me return it since I contacted them day 2 of having the product. I didn’t even want to get a new one , felt like a Guine pig (sorry spelling!) with figuring out which part was making me feel nauseous.
Amanda says
Thank you for this post. We have recently moved into a home and we are having trouble getting rid of a chemical smell that I believe is causing migraines. My doctor recommended Triad Aer. Can you tell me if you think this would help? Do you think the ionic types are not effective and/or not safe?
Thank you!
Mary says
Thanks for this post Corinne. Do you know of HRVs (heat recovery ventilators) that have appropriate filtering of incoming air for chemically sensitive people?
Corinne says
On the ones I have seen it’s very minimal but on some whole house units it can be a lot more.
Helen says
If you find a good hvac technician, they may be able to install a whole house filter that connects to the HRV so all the air that comes into your house is filtered. I don’t have an HRV, but I did have a whole house filter install and the techs completely rebuilt my furnace like a maze so that it goes through a couple of different filters more than once
.
Robert says
One thing I want to add here; so far no one can tell me in real terms, and I’ve talked to enough researchers and scientist about UV-C, At this time, I don’t believe it’s safe… EPA says that a UV-C air purifier does not seem effective as a stand-alone unit because it cannot trap or remove particles.
And, it is the production of ozone from these ionic air cleaners that pose a risk to human health.
Corinne says
I only recommend no ozone bulbs in all my posts. No trapping particles does not equal not being safe. I agree on ozone but many UV bulbs don’t produce ozone. Non of the options on this list are ionic.
Robert says
I see a lot of no name filters listed or talked about…make sure they are real hepa’s or true hepa filtration? Just because it says HEPA, doesn’t mean it is a true HEPA filtration. Right now I only recommend two filtration units, IQAir and Air Doctor units, no gimmicks!
Corinne says
IQ Air is good but is absolutely overpriced compared to other quality brands. All of the brands here are good quality known brands. These are definitely not no name. If you are using comments to promote the products you sell that’s not what the discussion is for. Especially if you are going to put down the competition without good reason.
Lauren says
Thank you for sharing this, Corinne. Your site has been very helpful in our remodel decisions. Good indoor air has helped out family so much. Especially living in a moldy city with high PM2.5. We like the Air Doctor for portable options. The Reme Halo has been a great whole house option with minimal off gassing. We use it in conjunction with an Aprilaire ozone free filtration system on our HVAC. The combo was a lifesaver during the west coast wildfires we had a few months ago. I also get a lot of information for the California Air Resources Board website.
Corinne says
Great to hear some good news!
Lesley Davis says
Do you have any knowledge on systems air purifying systems installed in the HVAC system? Two products that I am interested in are the APCO-UV and the iWave system (R or C).
Raven says
You don’t have filter list for the most common problem of actual fragrances….? Pthlates, fabric softener, “vape” which is killing random babies, cleaners etc….
nicole says
is “air doctor” a good unit?
Anon says
We got a 160R2 from E. L. Foust (cheaper than the 400 series you review above, though with less airflow and no UV lamp).
It is somewhat noisier than we expected (and at a varying pitch than can trigger my wife’s tinnitus), and it was a little messy coming out of the box (they warn about bits of carbon coming out of the cylinder, and some of this carbon also got into the fan which then blew out after starting it up). But once it was wiped down with a cloth it was fine.
After turning it one the longer it ran the more relaxed my wife said she was feeling. It was not only clearing the air of the scented candle smell from our neighbors but my wife thinks it may have been clearing the air of pollutants she wasn’t smelling.
We bought the standard mix. The only smell coming from the machine seems to be that of the carbon/purapel mix itself. And this is a smell that reminded my wife of a place she enjoyed, so not bad at all, and anyone else could try out the various other mixes Foustco provides in their sample pack.
It’s not 100%, and doesn’t compare to fresh air from the outside, but this is a purchase we are definitely happy with.. It’s small size is a bonus, as unlike the Enviroklenz or the E. L. Foust 400 series it fits under our table. https://imgur.com/a/QyUXAa7
Anon says
A URL that works: https://imgur.com/a/OROlCzR
Corinne says
Thanks for sharing!
Anon says
I recently bought and received an EnviroKlenz and it immediately started off-gassing a noxious rubber/plastic smell. Based on BBB reviews (mentioned in a one-star review on Amazon with a similar problem) this has happened to other people.
Perhaps running it for the two-day “acclimate the system to your environment” period would fully off-gas, but I live in a small place where this is not possible.
Beware if you don’t have a garage or similar room in which you can isolate it while off-gassing it (presuming this smell does off-gas).
And no, I don’t have MCS, so this isn’t me being overly sensitive.
Anon says
And not to be critical or cast blame, but your review and personal testimonial is one of the primary reasons I chose EnviroKlenz. That’s why I’m posting my personal experience here.
Anna says
Yes this happened to me ; so encouraging to hear I wasn’t the only one . It made me sick for days (nausea , head fog, overall sick feeling hard to describe.
Corinne says
I tried this one too and I did pick up what seemed to me to be a mineral smell and like with all new appliances a bit of a new appliance motor smell. The only other one I have tried is Vornado which also had a new appliance odor. There are a couple brands in the post on air purifiers for MCS that try and offgas the motor first or have it more sealed in.
No dont worry about it sounding critical. All feedback is welcome.
Anon says
Thanks Corinne.
My wife said the odor most closely reminded her of new car scent.
Over the years we’ve also bought Hamilton (box-fan sized) and Holmes (HAP9415) HEPA air purifiers and despite them being made from plastic they did not generate an odor out of the box. (The Hamilton motor seized within the warranty period and was returned to us smelling strongly, but did not smell out of the box.) So I don’t think all new appliances smell.
I emailed some questions to E. L. Foust. If they get back to me we’ll probably try one of their purifiers next.
Anon says
My god I just hung up on a customer service representative. I have never, ever been treated so rudely. Fortunately the rep said I would be fully refunded and could keep the unit (which I will have to dispose of).
Rude customer service agents ad deceptive marketing practices.
Anon says
Last comment, hopefully 🙂
I just received a polite email from another customer support person saying the full refund has been initiated, and that they are scheduling a pickup to ship the product back to them. This polite customer support person also stated to contact him directly if I need to for any other reason.
Hooray, now I can go about my day without seething in anger!
Corinne says
That’s good. Yes I think all are returnable or refundable.
anna says
Please continue to post and keep me in your data base. Appreciate the information. Need safe housing and researching best locale-problem is I need to be near major medical centers for family members health concerns, Thank you-Anna Heltzer [email protected]