If you’re at all concerned about indoor air quality, then you’ve likely thought of purchasing an air purifier.
Here, we break down the differences between the five most common filters.
HEPA Filter
A High-Efficiency Particulate Air filter (HEPA) is a free-standing model with a cartridge that captures particles as air passes through it. If the aim is to reduce the amount of dust and dander floating around your home, it’ll do the job. Just be sure to do your research.
Air Ionizer
Unlike the HEPA filter, an air ionizer does not capture airborne particles with a filter. Instead, it emits negatively charged particles that cling to positively charged particles, such as dust, allergens, bacteria, and smoke. The neutralized particles then precipitate on the floor and furniture. If you don’t mind dusting, this could be the machine for you.
Electrostatic Filter
Similar to the air ionizer, an electrostatic filter charges particles to remove them from the air. Unlike the ionizer, an electrostatic filter traps the particles within the unit, sparing you from using the feather duster so much.
Activated Carbon Filter
Another odor-busting machine, an activated carbon filter tackles unpleasant aromas through chemical absorption. The unit contains a bed of powdered charcoal which traps impurities, including those produced by common household chemicals and VOCs, leaving only fresh air behind.
UV Light
Typically affixed to your HVAC system, a lamp zaps passing air with germicidal UV rays, rendering contaminates inert. This is also a good defense against mold, which grows in dark, damp places, i.e. your ducts.
