As you've learned, a HEPA air purifier is more efficient at removing pollutants from the air because it traps particulates inside a physical filter. An ionizer, on the other hand, does not remove contaminants, but causes them to be removed from the air you breathe. For air cleaning performance, HEPA filters are the best technology. They can capture 99.97% of particles with a diameter of 0.3 microns and are capable of removing most pollutants from the air, including the most dangerous particles.
Plus, HEPA filters become more efficient over time, meaning they get rid of more with use. However, HEPA air purifiers have a limited coverage area; most cannot cover an area of more than 2000 square meters. Therefore, if you have health problems such as asthma, COPD, bronchitis or emphysema, then you should choose a purifier with a HEPA filter since these units do not produce side effects. Ionizers don't have filters because they emit electrically charged particles to remove pollutants from the air.
Other brands name their filters with names similar to HEPA-type filters or use a marketing term where HEPA has been added. Although a dirty HEPA filter is more effective than a clean one, you should change it anyway. A HEPA air purifier works by drawing air into the device through a dense physical filter that traps air pollutants, such as dust, allergens, mold spores, bacteria, and smoke. In the case of air purifiers, HEPA filters trap particles inside the filter, so it needs to be changed regularly. The main difference between an ionic air purifier and a HEPA air purifier is that electrostatic collection plates can be washed and reused as they become dirty. As HEPA filters get dirtier, they become even more efficient (but you should change the HEPA filter regularly so you don't lose too much airflow).
We often see this in car air purifiers and it's not what you would expect from an air purification system. The main difference between ionic and HEPA air purifiers is that ionic purifiers use electricity to capture particles, while HEPA purifiers use air filters to capture particles. When it comes to choosing between an ionizer or a HEPA filter for your home's air purification system, it's important to consider your needs and budget. An expert in the technology and design of air purification systems will tell you that maintaining a HEPA filter also costs more unless you buy an air purifier with a washable filter. In conclusion, if you have health problems such as asthma or COPD, then you should choose a purifier with a HEPA filter since these units do not produce side effects. On the other hand, if you are looking for an affordable option that requires less maintenance then an ionic air purifier may be the right choice for you.
