What is UL2998?

Although they may have seen the number in a product description, many people are unaware of what UL2998 is. It is an environmental claim validation number created by the Underwriters Laboratory (UL) that signifies that a product emits zero ozone. 

The Underwriters Laboratory is a safety certification company with offices throughout the world. The organization performs safety analysis and testing on products and is approved by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).  

Ozone is a concern for many people when choosing an air cleaning device. When you see this UL2998 it provides assurance that the air purifier does not release ozone. To view products that have received this verification, visit the UL SPOT Database.

What is Ozone?

Ozone is a gas made up of three oxygen atoms. It is a natural product found in the Earth’s atmosphere. It helps block the amount of UV radiation that reaches the surface of the planet. This reduces the harmful effects of the sun that includes cataracts and skin cancer. Ozone also forms on the earth’s surface when air pollutants such as volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxide react to each other. This contributes to smog and occurs in high concentrations in chemical plants, at gas stations and auto shops as well as in gas-powered cars and power plants.

When ozone enters our lungs it reacts with biomolecules and affects our ability to breathe fully. Symptoms of ozone exposure include:

• Coughing
• Tightness in the chest or pain while inhaling deeply
• Shortness of breath
• Throat irritation

Some of the same devices we use to clean the air also emit ozone. Even in low concentrations, this leads to lung damage in some cases. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sets the limit on ozone emissions for medical devices at 50 parts per billion. What UL2998 is, however, is a zero ozone emission designation. To qualify for UL2998, a product must prove it releases less than 5 parts per billion. 

What is UL2998 and Air Purifier Connection

Consumers concerned about the effects of ozone emissions on the health of their families, look for UL2998 validation when choosing air cleaning products. Without it, the device may release ozone into the air at unsafe levels. This puts your family at risk in your home but also is a danger for school children, office workers, and anyone who spends time indoors. 

What is UL2998 Validation?

Commercial-grade PlasmaPURE air purifiers clean the air in hospitals, medical and dental clinics, and school classrooms. For example, the Plasma Air 602 features commercial-grade construction but works in homes as well. It removes contaminants from the air to improve air quality in spaces up to 2,000 square feet. It’s also ideal for small offices and workspaces. These low-maintenance, self-contained units install easily. Above all, they have UL2998 verification so they do not release harmful ozone into the air.

The device uses bipolar ionization which releases thousands of charged ions into the air. These ions form clusters around particulates such as mold and bacteria. They also attack pollen, VOCs, and viruses. This neutralizes pathogens while also making them easier to trap in filters. With harmful particles removed, the air is cleaner and therefore healthier as a result. These devices turn the HVAC system or furnace into an air purification system that protects your family.

Another product offering protection against airborne contaminants is the PlasmaPURE AutoClean 1500. This self-cleaning needlepoint ionizer is also UL2998 validated for zero ozone emissions making it a safe and sustainable choice for cleaning indoor air. It fits on both new and older AC systems and furnaces. It’s low maintenance too as it removes dust and dirt on the needles automatically.

Learn More About UL2998 Validated Products

It’s important to know what products have UL2998 verification. If you have questions or would like to order an air purifier with zero emissions, call us today at 727-572-4550.