Most people think that an air cleaner just takes in the air, cleans it and spits it back out.  This is an untrue statement.  Different air cleaners perform different types of functions and knowing the function of each is important.

There are two basic types of air cleaning units that remove particles from the air, electronic air cleaners, and mechanical air filters.  Mechanical air filters remove polluted particles from the air by bringing in the air and capturing the particles on filter materials.  Electronic air cleaners use an ionization section within the unit to give any particles an electrical charge then they fall to flat plates where they are oppositely charged.

Also classified as an electronic air cleaner is the ionizer that zaps the particles then releases into the air where they hunt for flat surfaces like walls and furniture.  Gas-phase air filters are yet another type that removes gases and odors by using activated carbon.  These are not recommended as they do not remove particles from the air but are specific only to a few select gasses.

Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) cleaners will destroy bacteria, allergens, and molds in the air or growing on HVAC surfaces, such as ductwork or the cooling coils on refrigeration units but also produce ozone gas that irritates your lungs.  This seems a little counterproductive, doesn’t it?

As air quality becomes more relevant in today’s society, be careful in choosing an air cleaner that will perform the duties that you wish to see.  All air cleaners are not alike in what they are designed to do.