As with other types of smoke, marijuana smoke creates tenacious residues and odors. Similar to cigarette smoke, marijuana smoke can offend non-smoking neighbors and guests, and residual odors can alert others to the habit.
The legalization of cannabis for both medical and recreational purposes in the United States and Canada has made it much more accessible and accepted than it was previously. In the US, 37 states now allow access to medical marijuana while 21 states have legalized recreational use. Canada has also legalized recreational use of cannabis.
Whether someone smokes cannabis for recreational or medicinal purposes, cleansing the air after smoking is usually a good idea. The right air purifier can cleanse indoor air of both harmful particles and unwanted smells from marijuana smoke.
Cannabis smoke contains two types of pollutants: particulates and VOCs (volatile organic compounds). While there are no cannabis odor control requirements listed by the Government of Canada for residential areas, the United States Environmental Protection Agency recommends ventilating thoroughly when using products that impact the quality of your indoor air.
Particulates
Particles in marijuana smoke usually fall into the category of microscopic ‘liquid particles’ which are easily inhaled deep into the lungs and can cause lung disease in the long term.
Volatile Organic Compounds
The VOCs in cannabis smoke are similar to those found in other types of smoke, such as cigarettes and wildfires. These gaseous chemicals include carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, benzene and formaldehyde, among hundreds of others. Exposure to VOC’s has been known to cause:
There are a few ways you can minimize your exposure to the more harmful products in cannabis smoke.
If possible, smoke near an open window or fan. Reduce the amount of paper used to produce less smoke overall. This also allows you to inhale the active compound THC while minimizing exposure to other chemicals.
You can also clean your home frequently to avoid the build-up of toxic products in furniture, carpets and upholstery.
The fewer chemicals you inhale, the lower your risk of associated side-effects. Using the right air filter can mean exposing yourself to fewer toxins after you’ve finished smoking.
There are a variety of air purifiers on the market. Here is a quick look at which air purifiers work for cannabis smoke.
HEPA filter
HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are widely acknowledged to be the most effective filters for eliminating particulates from the air. Made from a very fine paper, a HEPA filter traps over 99% of allergens from the air, including dust, pollen, smoke particulates, bacteria and pet dander.
Unfortunately, an air purifier with a HEPA filter will not be able to capture VOCs. However, an air purification unit that combines a HEPA filter and a carbon filter will guarantee you clean, healthy indoor air.
Carbon filter
An active carbon filter contains carbon that has been exposed to high heat, which causes it to become more porous. Carbon filters remove chemicals and some particulates from the air.
Used alone, an active carbon filter will be less efficient than when used in tandem with a HEPA filter. Together, these filters will remove both visible smoke particles and invisible airborne toxins from your indoor air, making this type of residential air purification unit your best choice for eliminating cannabis smoke and smells.
UV light air purification
Other types of air purifier can also get rid of smells quickly and efficiently, including the smell of marijuana smoke. Recently developed UV light air purification technology uses UV rays to eliminate VOCs, chemicals, odors, mold, viruses and bacteria from indoor air.
While UV units may be best suited to commercial facilities, including growers, they are a state-of-the art method for cleansing and purifying indoor air that is safe, eco-friendly and affordable.
Remember, the longer cannabis smoke remains in the air, the more likely it is to damage your health and surroundings. In addition to bad odors, tiny particles from marijuana smoke can create a sticky brown dust that damages your walls, clothing and furniture.
Turn on your air purifier immediately or set it to start automatically for best results.
Cleaning your home regularly can help to reduce lingering marijuana smoke and smells, but to be sure you are breathing fresh, clean air indoors after smoking, the most effective solution is to install an air purifier.
Sanuvox offers a range of powerful, high-performance commercial and residential air purifiers that are scientifically proven to remove smoke, VOCs and other allergens from the air in your home or business. Contact us today and breathe more easily!