Air Purifier 101: Your information guide to air purifiers

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Ionic (Electronic) Air Purifiers

Ionic air purifiers, also called electronic air cleaners or ionizers, operate by electrically charging particles and pollutants. This type of purifier removes dust, bacteria, mold, dust mites, and other allergens from the air. There are two types of ionic air purifiers:

Electrostatic precipitator - this type of ionic air purifier negatively charges particles as they enter the purifier. Positive metal plates attract the particles, where they stick to. The metal plates must be cleaned often to remove the soot.

Negative ionizer - this air purifier emits negative ions that are attracted to any positively-charged particles, such as dust, smoke, and allergen particles. The increased size of the particles cause them to settle to the ground, where they can be vacuumed.

All ionic air purifiers produce some amount of ozone as a byproduct of operation. Some also contain a separate ozone generator. Keep in mind however that too much ozone in a room can be hazardous to your health.