HEPA Air Purifier for Home and Office

The HEPA air purifier is often compared to ionic air cleaners, but it's really like comparing apples and oranges. There are many differences between a HEPA air purifier and an ionic air cleaner.

One of the biggest problems with ionic air cleaners is their safety. The May 2005 issue of Consumer Union's Consumer Reports reported that ionic air cleaners emit potentially hazardous levels of ozone. In addition, the report found that they are not very effective as air cleaners.

In contrast to ionic air cleaners, HEPA air purifiers work and are safe.

Which Type of Air Cleaner?

HEPA-based filter technology has been used for years in hospitals, labs and other environments that require pristine air quality. It is a scientifically proven air cleaning technology.

HEPA air purifiers are highly effective because of the dual filter design. A fan is used to move the air first through a pre-filter to trap large particles like pet dander, dust and pollen. After this initial filtering the air then passes through the pleated HEPA filter, which is designed to trap more than 99 percent of airborne pollutants. This includes microscopic particles like smoke, dust and mold spores.

Ionic air cleaners, on the other hand, usually do not use a fan. These cleaners use a set of ionizing wires to positively or negatively charge air particles. Collection plates with the opposite charge act as a magnet to trap these charged air particles.

A major concern with ionic air cleaners is that they create significant levels of ozone. This is a potential health hazard, especially for people with asthma and respiratory allergies.

HEPA air purifiers are safer than ionic air cleaners because they do not use ionic technology and therefore do not emit significant levels of ozone.

Buying a HEPA Air Purifier 

When buying an air cleaner look for a product which is CADR certified. The CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) is a standard verified by am independent laboratory under the direction of the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM). The CADR tells you how effective a particular device is for removing pollutants like tobacco smoke, dust and pollen from the air.

The CADR rating is for a particular volume of air. You should always select an air purifier which is rated for the size of the room in which it will be used.

A HEPA air purifier in the home or office is the key to a healthier indoor environment. HEPA air purifiers are available with permanent filters and feature quiet operation and attractive designs.