Austin Air HealthMate Plus and MCS – The Right Kind of Air Purifier

After years of health issues, I finally figured out that I suffered from Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). For those who haven’t heard about it, it’s a condition that affects people who are sensitive to low levels of chemical exposure. The best thing MCS sufferers can do is to limit their exposure to chemicals. When it comes to removing airborne chemicals, getting an air purifier is necessary, though you have to make sure you get the right kind of purifier. That’s what I did and I’ve been so happy with the results.

Lots of research convinced me that the Austin Air HealthMate Plus was the best choice. Along with its HEPA filter, it also includes an activated carbon filter, one that’s treated with potassium iodide. Activated carbon is the most effective way to remove airborne toxins and odors. The carbon is treated with oxygen, “activating” it and causing it to be so dense that it traps the chemicals along its surface area. The more activated carbon there is, the more chemicals it traps before it needs to be replaced. That’s why the filter in the HealthMate Plus is so heavy – it has a lot of activated carbon in it. Treating it with potassium makes it better able to trap certain types of hard-to-catch gases, as well.

Anyone with chemical sensitivity should ensure that they get a purifier with an activated carbon filter. I liked the HealthMate Plus because it comes with the filter standard, one which includes potassium-treated carbon to remove the widest range of chemicals.

Because of my sensitivity to chemicals, I also have allergies that affect my sinuses. They’re aggravated by seasonal changes and all the usual suspects. What’s great about the HealthMate Plus is that it cleans the air of chemicals as well as other allergens like dander and pollen. I know I get the best protection possible, all in one unit. The proof is in the results – I feel better, I’ve had less congestion, and I get more rest.

Ever since I got the Austin Air HealthMate Plus and began using it, I’ve noticed that the air in my apartment seems clearer and fresher. I also haven’t had the usual flare-ups from my chemical sensitivity. Unexpectedly, I seem to get much better sleep. The noise of it running doesn’t bother me at all. I just keep it on its lower settings during nighttime. If it’s a particularly smoggy day, I leave it on a higher setting while I’m off at work, just in case. I’ve been really happy with the air purifier.

In my research, I noticed that some people mentioned about getting some vanilla-like smell when they first turned on the air purifier. I didn’t have this experience, thankfully. But after reading up on it, it seems that the activated carbon can soak up chemicals even while it’s in the box. Anyone doing research and noticing comments in that vein, that’s why. I suppose that’s an example of the purifier working too well.

When deciding which unit to buy, cost was a big factor. Yes, the HealthMate Plus is expensive. But it works. I decided that it didn’t make much sense to buy a cheaper purifier, one that didn’t work as well, just to save some money. Besides, in the long-run, you have to change filters on the HealthMate Plus less often than on other models. It even comes with a five year warranty. I chose quality and effectiveness over the cheaper options. If I had it to do all over again, I’d make the same decision. There’s nothing like coming home to a fresh-smelling apartment where you know you won’t be exposed to a lot of everyday chemicals that harm your health over the long-term. The Austin Air HealthMate Plus has really worked for me and I’d recommend that everyone consider it.

Lorraine B., Pittsburgh, PA

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