In the quest to breathe healthier air, some people are turning to salt lamps. They’re thought to have strong air purification properties and emit negative ions that are associated with good health and well being.
How They’re Supposed to Work
Although the lamps are attractive and unique, it’s not known scientifically if they live up to their marketing claims. The salt comes from Himalayan salt deposits and is said to have properties that attract humidity that might be loaded with impurities like bacteria and viruses.
When the lights turn on, the salt heats up and when the water molecules land on the lamp, the water evaporates and leaves behind the contaminants on the surface of the lamp. The lamp manufacturers often recommend that you wipe off the lamp’s surface periodically to remove the deposits on the surface of the salt crystal.
Besides air purification, manufacturers also claim that the salt lamps emit negative ions that improve mental, emotional and physical health. Other than their claims, there is no concrete evidence that negative ions create such benefits or that the salt lamps emit them.
Other Air Purification Means
The experts conclude that salt lamps are beneficial because of their aesthetics and soft, relaxing light they emit. Scientists haven’t yet established that they offer any concrete benefits for health. They suggest that anyone who wants better indoor air quality turn to the time-tested and proven tools like:
- Room or whole-house air purifiers. Some of these purifiers combine UV (ultraviolet) light with filtration to rid the air of harmful particles, viruses, bacteria, mold spores and VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
- Ion generators emit negative ions that reduce airborne particulates. If you’re considering such a product, make sure it doesn’t produce ozone.
- High density filters. HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters will trap the smallest airborne particles including viruses and bacteria. They can be connected to your HVAC system using a special air filtration system or used as portable air cleaners.
If you’re interested in effective air purification, give Ace Hardware Home Services a call. We provide trusted HVAC services for Dayton-area homeowners.
