Electronic air purifiers are an important addition to any home or office today. With indoor air pollution up to five times that of outdoor air, many respiratory health problems are on the rise. Indoor air pollution is quickly becoming a major problem in our country. The ironic part is that people complain about outdoor air pollution and claim that they can’t go outside because of poor air quality, when the air outside may actually be cleaner.
To help clean up air pollution in your home or office, there are five main types of electronic air purifiers on the market today. These types are HEPA air filter, air ionizer, germicidal UV lamp, activated carbon air filter, and ozone generator. Several different models of air purifiers incorporate several of these different technologies into their units. The following is an overview and function of the five main types of electronic air cleaners.
HEPA air filters – This electronic air purifier is one of the best available on the market for filtering particles as small as 0.3 microns. HEPA filters remove dust, pollen, dust mites, many bacteria, and many other allergens.
Disadvantages include that it does not remove pet dander, chemical fumes, organic and inorganic gases, cigarette smoke, odors, viruses, and germs. Also, any bacteria that is captured by the filter can breed if it is not cleaned regularly.
air ionizers – This electronic air cleaner uses an electrically charged field to cause very small particles, such as cat dander, to clump together as they pass through the air filter. It is very good at eliminating viruses, bacteria, cigarette smoke and chemical vapors.
The disadvantages are that it does not eliminate odors, it kills germs or fungus, and it eliminates all airborne chemicals.
germicidal ultraviolet lamp – This electronic air purifier uses ultraviolet light to kill germs, viruses, bacteria, and mold.
The disadvantages are that it has no effect on allergens, chemical vapors, gases, odors and cigarette smoke.
Activated Carbon Air Filters – This electronic air purifier works well to absorb chemical vapors, gases, cigarette and cigar smoke and odors.
The disadvantages are that it has no effect on microorganisms, dust and allergens.
ozone generators – This electronic air purifier works great for removing strong odors such as pet odors, cigarette and cigar smoke, and some chemicals.
Disadvantages include irritated eyes and respiratory system if the purifier is in a closed room or too high up, smells, and has no effect on particles and chemicals.
Since each of these electronic air purifiers has strengths and weaknesses, your best bet is to do your research, check many different sources, and purchase an electronic air purification system that is multifunctional to meet your specific requirements.
