Types of Air Purifier Filters

Shopping for the best air purifier can be difficult and confusing, as some models on the market actually pollute the air with harmful levels of ozone that acts as a powerful lung irritant and can be dangerous to people with sensible lungs. Other can simply confuse you with the high number of options, filters, prices and sizes available. Because different technologies have strengths and weaknesses, modern purifiers combine one or more types of filter. The most popular air purifiers use a HEPA filter along with a thick bed of Activated Carbon to eliminate pollutants and odors. In order to find a product that best fits your needs, start by choosing the best filter for your household.

HEPA Filtration

HEPA air purifiers are the most popular, as they are very effective in eliminating household allergens such as animal dander, pollen and dust. The technology was developed during the World War II to protect soldiers from radioactive dust particles in the air. A HEPA air purifier has the capacity to remove 99.97% of all airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns. However, HEPA filters alone do not have the capacity to remove fumes, cigarette smoke and chemicals, so they are usually paired with an Activated Carbon filter. Moreover, they are not effective in capturing small viruses and the micro-organisms can reproduce and breed inside.

Activated Carbon Filters

Activated Carbon filters have small pores that chemically react to contaminants as they pass through, causing them to bond with the carbon and stick to the filter. Air purifiers with this type of filters are very effective in clearing smoke, chemicals, gases and odors from the air. Moreover, they are the most absorbent and do not release contaminants back in the air. However, they cannot remove micro-organisms, dust and other allergens and that is why they are rarely used alone to purify air.

Ionic Filters

Ionic Filters use a negative ion generator that releases negative ions that attract positive airborne allergen and dust particles. The particles become too heavy and fall on the floor or are attracted by other surfaces. However, some ionizers have special features that trap particles on a plate that needs regular cleaning. Using an ionic air purifier is an inexpensive way to clear smoke, toxic fumes and sterilize the air. However, they produce ozone as a byproduct and does not remove odor. Ozone is very dangerous to the lungs and can pose a health risk, so make sure your air purifier has low to no ozone emission.When reading air purifier reviews, make sure to see whether any dangerous byproducts are generated on account of the purification process. You can find the best air purifier reviews on bestairpurifier.reviews.

Ultraviolet Light Air Purifiers

An ultraviolet light air purifier uses UV light to destroy bacteria and other pathogens. Without any filtration, the UV light kills these particles and eliminates them as they pass. This technology is effective in removing viruses, yeasts, bacteria and molds from the air. If you get sick often this type of air purifier can help prevent disease and illness. For optimal results, UV filters are used in unison with other types of air filters. However, some generate ozone so make sure you find a system that is ozone-free.

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