Breathing negative ions in normal environmental concentrations, such as those found near waterfalls, beaches, and forests, is generally considered safe and may even have modest mood benefits, but breathing high concentrations produced by some electronic air ionizers can be problematic. Negative ions are simply oxygen molecules with an extra electron, and they occur naturally. Natural levels of 1,000 to 5,000 ions per cubic centimeter are harmless. Some air purifiers generate negative ions to make particles clump together and fall out of the air, and these are usually safe if they produce low ozone as a byproduct. However, many cheap ionizers and electrostatic precipitators produce ozone as a byproduct, and ozone at levels above 0.05 ppm can irritate lungs, cause coughing, chest tightness, worsen asthma, and with long-term exposure cause lung damage. The concern is not the negative ions themselves but the ozone and the fact that ionizers can cause particles to stick to walls and lungs rather than being filtered. The California Air Resources Board certifies low-ozone ionizers. For most people, a True HEPA filter without ionizer is safer and more effective for mold and dust removal than an ionizer. If you use an ionizer, choose one that is certified to produce less than 0.05 ppm ozone, do not use it in a small sealed room continuously, and ensure good ventilation. Pregnant people, children, and those with asthma should be especially cautious with high-output ionizers.
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