An air purifier removes harmful particles from the air. Electric air purifiers use advanced technology to do so. These devices are beneficial if you suffer from allergies or respiratory disorders. You can use air purifiers as stand-alone units in your home or office; or you can have them installed in your home or building's heating and air conditioning systems.
History
In 1908, American chemist Frederick G. Cottrell patented an electrostatic precipitator. The device worked by passing air through a filter that gave the harmful particles an electric charge. While in the filter, the particles would stick to a material that had the opposite electric charge. The remaining air would then pass out the other side without the particles. Modern purifiers are derived from Cottrell's original invention.
HEPA Filter
A HEPA, or high efficiency particulate air, filter is designed to remove extremely small particulates from air. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, HEPA filters should, by industry standards, remove at least 99.97 percent of airborne particulates. A HEPA filter consists of mats containing randomly positioned, extremely thin fiberglass strands through which air passes. These mats trap the harmful particles contained in the air. HEPA filters are very effective if you have seasonal allergies.
Negative Ion Filter
Negative ion filters work by attaching electrons to particles. A negative ion is a molecule with an extra electron. As air passes through the filter, the particles touch the negative ions, gaining their extra electron and causing them to be negatively charged. The negatively charged particles then stick to the next solid material they touch. According to Consumer Reports magazine, ion filters are not recommended because they do not trap harmful particles in the filter.
Activated Carbon Filter
Activated carbon filters use heated carbon that has been removed of impurities to absorb chemicals in the air. Air passing through an activated carbon filter is stripped of its impurities, including odor-causing chemicals and pollutants. Activated carbon filters are effective if you are trying to remove odors.
Ozone generator
Ozone generators are machines that produce O3, which will oxidize anything it comes into contact with. These generators are effective if you are trying to get rid of a strong odor or mold. Use them under professional supervision and only when you are not inside your home. According to Aerias Air Quality Sciences, ozone can cause breathing issues and lung scarring if you are exposed to it for even 30 minutes.
