When it comes to air purification, there are a variety of technologies to consider, such as HEPA air purifiers and electrostatic air purifiers. It's important to understand the differences between these two technologies in order to make an informed decision about which one is best for your home. True electrostatic HEPA filters use static electricity to charge particles inside the air purifier. This means that charged particles adhere to the sides of the internal filtration system and are removed from the indoor air.
On the other hand, HEPA air purifiers use HEPA-style filtration to capture and remove particles from indoor air. A true HEPA filter is 99.97% efficient at removing dust particles from 0.3 microns to 10 microns, while a LakeAir electrostatic cell has an efficiency of 97% in removing dust particles from 0.1 microns to 10 microns. It's important to consider all the variables when deciding on the best air purification technology for your home. Electrostatic cells must be cleaned regularly or their efficiency will decrease, while HEPA filters do not clog due to low pressure.
Ozone is not an effective way of removing dust or particles from the air, and is documented as a health hazard by the American Lung Association. When choosing an air purifier, it's important not to be confused by manufacturers' claims of “99.97% filtration at 0.3 microns”, as this refers to the capacity of the HEPA filter under ideal conditions and is not synonymous with the actual clean air produced by the device or with its overall efficiency. Data from independent testing laboratories can provide valuable information when making a decision about which air purifier is best for you. Granular activated carbon can be effective in eliminating gases and odors that are extracted through the unit, but often significantly reduces the air flow of the air purifier, meaning that it doesn't clean enough air.
Carbon impregnated pads are also used as pre-filters, but their effectiveness is limited due to small amounts of activated carbon used and glue used to bind carbon dust to the fibers. Ionization by itself uses high voltage to negatively charge airborne particles, but these charged particles are simply released into the room and can have a greater propensity to become trapped in our lungs when inhaled. It's important to remember that air purifiers are not a magic solution and are no substitute for thoroughly cleaning the house and removing settled dust with a good HEPA vacuum purifier. An educated consumer must know several factors when choosing an air purifier, and should consider all variables when deciding on the best air purification technology for their home.
