Air Purifier News: Formaldehyde - Is It In Your Home?

First synthesized by Russian chemist, Aleksandr Butlerov, formaldehyde exists in several forms and is an intermediate in the oxidation of methane, as well as other carbon compounds. Formaldehyde can be found in forest fire smoke, in automobile exhaust, and tobacco smoke, and most people are most familiar with the use of this compound in the funeral industry. Although formaldehyde-based solutions are used in the embalming process to disinfect and temporarily preserve human remains, it is also commonly used in industrial settings as a common and important building block for the synthesis of more complex compounds and materials.

According to the EPA, formaldehyde is often found in building materials and many types of household products. Sources of formaldehyde in the home can include fuel-burning appliances like gas stoves or kerosene space heaters; building materials such as particleboard and hardwood plywood paneling; permanent adhesives used in plywood or carpeting; paint; and in foam insulation installed in the wall cavities of homes as an energy conservation measure.

Even though it is a pungent-smelling gas, many people are unaware that it may be present in their homes. Formaldehyde can often cause watery eyes, burning sensations in the eyes and throat, nausea, breathing difficulties, and they can trigger attacks in people with allergies or asthma. High concentrations and prolonged exposure has been shown to cause cancer in animals, and has the potential to cause cancer in humans. As well, occupational exposure to formaldehyde can be a serious concern, as those working in chemical laboratories, construction sites, and funeral homes can be at great risk.

Although formaldehyde concentrations are low in newer homes, homes with significant amounts of new pressed wood products may have significantly high levels. In order to reduce formaldehyde exposure, the EPA recommends taking the following steps: use "exterior grade" pressed wood products; increase ventilation; and use air conditioning, humidifiers, and air purifiers to maintain moderate temperature and to filter out existing formaldehyde vapors. Air purifiers specifically geared towards chemical abatement, such as the Airpura C600 and the IQAir Chemisorber GC, are extremely effective in reducing formaldehyde levels, as they use large carbon beds to absorb harmful gases, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as formaldehyde. Because they work much like a gas mask, they have the ability to remove both particulate and gaseous hazards.