Air Purifier Help is dedicated to providing consumers with up to date detailed information on the usefulness, effectiveness, and health benefits of Air Purifiers.

Choosing Between Electrostatic and HEPA Air Cleaners

Air purifiers are designed to clean the air by filtering out particles and air pollutants like allergens and dust. Air cleaners come in a variety of sizes and types, the most common being electrostatic and HEPA air purifiers.

Most people purchase air purifiers to improve the air quality in their homes and reduce allergens or odors. Air purifiers are especially important to people who suffer from asthma, allergies, or other sensitivities to air pollutants. Choosing the right air purifier can be difficult, but, by understanding key differences, individuals can make educated decisions based on their unique needs.

HEPA and ULPA Air Purifiers

High Efficiency Particle Air (HEPA) and Ultra Low Penetration Air (ULPA) filters are commonly used in many types of air purifiers. These filters are designed to remove up to 99.9% of airborne particles. ULPA filters can remove up to 99.99% of airborne particles where HEPA, a common filter used in a large number of air purifiers, removes 99.97% of air pollutants.

The HEPA and ULPA filters focus on particles 0.3 microns and larger which includes allergens and particles such as smoke, pollen, dander, dust, and some chemicals. Experts recommend HEPA filters in air cleaners since they provide excellent filtration at a good price.

These types of air cleaners also provide good air purification of both large and small rooms depending on the model. Finding the appropriate model is easy since good air purifiers usually have ratings that describe the optimal square footage of air that passes through the filters. By comparing this with the desired square footage of a room, consumers can find the best air purifier for their needs.

Electrostatic Air Cleaners

Electrostatic air cleaners use static electricity to move and attract particles. Air particles and pollutants stick to the charged metal plates and remain there until the plates are cleaned. These types of air cleaners only cover smaller areas such as bedrooms, offices, or small living areas.

Electrostatic air cleaners have limited use since faster moving air prevents particles from adhering or sticking to the charged plates. The faster the air flows, the less effective the electrostatic purifier.

Although electrostatic air cleaners attract and collect larger air pollutants like dust and dander, they are not sufficient for collecting or reducing smaller particles or air pollutants such as smoke, molds, and chemicals. Furthermore, electrostatic air cleaners produce ozone as a by-product which is harmful to the body.