Air purifiers are devices that can improve the quality of the air in your home or office by removing pollutants such as dust, pollen, smoke, odours, bacteria, viruses, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). However, not all air purifiers are created equal. Different types of air purifiers use different technologies to clean the air. Two of the most common and popular technologies are HEPA and ionisers. But which one is better for your needs and preferences?
In this article, we will compare HEPA and ioniser air purifiers in terms of their effectiveness, cost, maintenance, noise, safety, and additional features. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of the pros and cons of HEPA and ioniser air purifiers and how to choose the best one for your home or office.
Key Takeaways
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Effectiveness
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing an air purifier is its effectiveness in removing pollutants from the air. Different types of pollutants have different sizes and characteristics, which affect how well they can be captured by different technologies. HEPA air purifiers and ionisers have different mechanisms of action that determine their effectiveness.
How HEPA Air Purifiers Work
HEPA stands for high-efficiency particulate air. HEPA filters are made of dense layers of fibres that trap particles as they pass through them. The fibres act like a sieve that captures particles based on their size and shape. There are three main ways that particles are trapped by HEPA filters:
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Interception: The particles are larger than the gaps between the fibres and are caught by them.
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Impaction: The particles are smaller than the gaps between the fibres but have enough inertia to collide with them.
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Diffusion: The particles are very small and move randomly due to Brownian motion, increasing their chances of hitting the fibres.
HEPA filters can trap particles as small as 0.3 microns in size, which is about 300 times smaller than a human hair. HEPA filters can remove up to 99.97% of airborne pollutants, including dust, pollen, smoke, bacteria, and viruses.
Here are some examples of brands that offer HEPA air purifiers:
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Stadler Form: Offers HEPA air purifiers that can remove up to 99.97% of airborne pollutants, including dust, pollen, smoke, bacteria, and viruses. They also have low noise levels and energy consumption, making them suitable for bedrooms and offices.
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Smart Air: This brand offers cost-effective HEPA air purifiers that are designed to provide clean and healthy air in various indoor environments.
How Air Ionisers Work
Air ionisers produce negative ions by mimicking the natural phenomenon of waterfalls. When water molecules collide with each other, they lose some of their electrons and become negatively charged. Similarly, when air molecules are disturbed by the electric field of an ioniser, they also undergo electron loss and form negative ions. When they encounter positively charged particles in the air, such as dust, pollen, smoke, bacteria, or viruses, they attach to them and form larger clusters. These clusters become too heavy to remain in the air and fall to the ground or a collection plate.
Air ionisers can remove particles as small as 0.01 microns in size, which is about 30 times smaller than a HEPA filter can capture. Ionisers can remove up to 99% of airborne pollutants, including dust, pollen, smoke, bacteria and viruses.
Here are some examples of brands that offer air ionisers:
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LightAir: Offers ioniser air purifiers with advanced ionisation systems that can remove up to 99% of airborne pollutants. These products are known for their low maintenance requirements and elegant designs.
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Teqoya: Provides ioniser air purifiers that are designed to provide clean and healthy air in various indoor environments. These products are known for their efficiency and durability.
Here is a comparison of HEPA filters and Air Ionisers based on various parameters:
| Parameter | HEPA Filter | Air Ioniser |
|---|---|---|
| Area Coverage | Typically covers smaller areas, for example, a standard room of about 20 sq. meters. | Generally covers larger areas, up to 100 sq. meters. |
| Particle Size | Efficient at capturing particles as small as 0.3 microns (e.g., bacteria, dust mites). | More suited to removing smaller particles between 0.01 and 0.1 microns (e.g., tobacco smoke particles). |
| Particle Type | Effective at removing dust, pollen, mould, bacteria, and any airborne particles. | Effective at removing particles like those in tobacco smoke. |
| Viruses and Bacteria | Can trap some viruses and bacteria which are ≤0.3 μm. | Can inactivate viruses in the air and on surfaces. However, they do not kill them. |
| Allergens | Efficient at removing common allergens such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and smoke. | Air ionisers are more effective at removing smaller particles, such as those found in tobacco smoke, rather than larger allergens like dust and pollen. |
| VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) | Not specifically designed to remove VOCs. | Ineffective at destroying odours and gases, including VOCs. |
| Smoke | Can remove smoke particles from the air. | Effective at removing smoke particles from the air. |
Cost
Another important factor to consider when choosing an air purifier is its cost. The cost of an air purifier can be divided into two categories: initial and ongoing. The initial cost refers to the purchase price of the device, while the ongoing cost refers to the expenses related to filter replacement, energy consumption, and warranty. HEPA and ioniser air purifiers have different costs that may affect your budget and preferences.
Initial Cost
The initial cost of an air purifier depends on several factors, such as the size, features, brand, and quality of the device.
The average initial cost of a HEPA air purifier can range from £100 to £1000, depending on the model and specifications. For example, Smart Air offers simple and affordable HEPA air purifiers for as little as £49, while Stadler Form offers a premium HEPA air purifier for £599.
The average initial cost of an ioniser can range from £50 to £500, depending on the model and specifications. For example, Boneco offers a compact and portable ioniser for under £60, while LightAir offers stylish and eco-friendly ionisers for over £300.
Ongoing Cost
The ongoing cost of an air purifier depends on several factors, such as the frequency of filter replacement, the price of filter replacement, the energy consumption of the device, and the warranty period and coverage of the device. Generally speaking, HEPA air purifiers tend to have higher ongoing costs than ioniser air purifiers because they require regular filter replacement, which can be costly and inconvenient.
The average ongoing cost of a HEPA air purifier can range from £20 to £100 per year, depending on the model and specifications. The operating cost of an ioniser can vary greatly depending on the model and usage, but generally, they are considered low-energy, low-maintenance devices.
Maintenance
Another important factor to consider when comparing a HEPA-based air purifier with an air ioniser is its maintenance. HEPA and ioniser air purifiers have different maintenance requirements that may affect your convenience and preferences.
How HEPA Air Purifiers Require Maintenance
HEPA filters require regular maintenance to ensure their effectiveness and durability. The maintenance of HEPA filters involves changing the filter when it becomes dirty or clogged. The frequency of filter replacement depends on several factors, such as the quality of the filter, the level of pollution in the air, and the usage of the device. Generally speaking, HEPA filters need to be replaced every 6 to 12 months, depending on the model and specifications.
The process of filter replacement can be easy or difficult depending on the design and features of the device. Some devices have indicators or alerts that notify you when the filter needs to be replaced. Some devices have easy access to the filter compartment and simple instructions on how to remove and install the filter. Some devices have tools or accessories that help you with filter replacement.
How Air Ionisers Require Maintenance
Ionisers require less maintenance than HEPA filters because they do not have a physical filter that needs to be replaced. However, ionisers still need some maintenance to ensure their effectiveness and safety. The maintenance of ionisers involves cleaning the collection plate (if there is one) when it becomes dirty. The frequency of collection plate cleaning depends on several factors, such as the quality of the ionisation system, the level of pollution in the air, and the usage of the device. Generally speaking, ionisers need to be cleaned every 1 to 3 months, depending on the model and specifications.
Both HEPA and ioniser air purifiers have different costs that may affect your budget and preferences. However, some trade-offs between them may balance out their advantages and disadvantages.
Here is a comparison of the operating costs between the Stadler Form Roger, the Smart Air Blast Mini, the LightAir Evolution and the Teqoya 200:
| Stadler Form Roger | Smart Air Blast Mini | LightAir Evolution | Teqoya 200 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Purchase Cost | £349 | £399 | £329 | £285 |
| Replacement Filter Cost | £80 |
HEPA filter £90 Carbon filter £60 |
No replacement filter needed | No replacement filter needed |
| Electricity Consumption | 6-100 watts | 49-122 watts | 7 watts | 1.2 watts |
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Average Yearly Electricity Cost* *Assuming the device runs 24/7 and the UK Energy Price Guarantee rate of £0.34/kWh (for the period April 2023-June 2023) |
£160 | £250 | £20 | £4 |
Noise
Another important factor to consider when choosing an air purifier is its noise. HEPA and ioniser air purifiers have different noise levels and features that may affect your convenience and preferences.
How HEPA Air Purifiers Produce Noise
HEPA filters produce noise mainly due to the fan that circulates the air through the filter. The fan creates a constant and steady sound that can be loud or quiet depending on the speed and design of the fan. The noise level of a HEPA filter can also vary depending on the quality and condition of the filter, as a dirty or clogged filter can create more resistance and friction for the fan.
The noise level of a HEPA filter is measured in decibels (dB), which is a unit of sound pressure. The average noise level of a HEPA filter ranges from 30 dB to 70 dB, depending on the model and specifications. For comparison, 30 dB is equivalent to a whisper, while 70 dB is equivalent to a vacuum cleaner.
The noise quality of a HEPA filter can also vary depending on the frequency and tone of the sound. Some people may find the sound of a HEPA filter soothing or relaxing, as it can create a white noise effect that masks other sounds. Some people may find the sound of a HEPA filter annoying or disturbing, as it can interfere with their concentration or sleep.
How Air Ionisers Produce Noise
Ionisers produce noise mainly due to the ionisation process that creates negative ions. The ionisation process creates a faint and high-pitched sound that can be heard or not depending on the sensitivity and distance of the listener. The noise level of an ioniser can also vary depending on the quality and design of the ionisation system, as a more powerful or advanced system can create more ions and more noise.
The average noise level of an ioniser ranges from 10 dB to 40 dB, depending on the model and specifications. For comparison, 10 dB is equivalent to breathing, while 40 dB is equivalent to a library.
The noise quality of an ioniser can also vary depending on the frequency and tone of the sound. Some people may find the sound of an ioniser pleasant or calming, as it can create a natural or fresh effect that mimics outdoor air. Some people may find the sound of an ioniser irritating, as it can create a sharp or metallic effect that hurts their ears.
Safety
Another important factor to consider when choosing an air purifier is its safety. The safety of an air purifier refers to the potential risks or hazards that the device may pose to your health or environment. HEPA and ioniser air purifiers have different safety aspects and features that may affect your convenience and preferences.
How HEPA Air Purifiers Affect Safety
HEPA filters are generally safe and do not produce any harmful by-products. HEPA filters only trap particles in the air and do not alter their chemical or physical properties. Therefore, HEPA filters do not emit any ozone, which is a lung irritant and a pollutant. HEPA filters also do not create any secondary pollutants, such as formaldehyde or nitric oxide, which can cause odours and health problems.
However, HEPA filters may still pose some safety risks if they are not maintained properly. HEPA filters can accumulate dust, pollen, smoke, bacteria, viruses, and other pollutants over time, which can create a breeding ground for microbes and allergens. Therefore, HEPA filters need to be cleaned or replaced regularly to prevent the growth of mould, fungi, or bacteria. HEPA filters also need to be handled with care to avoid releasing the trapped particles back into the air.
How Air Ionisers Affect Safety
Ionisers can improve the air quality by removing pollutants from the air. However, ionisers may also produce some harmful by-products, such as ozone and secondary pollutants. Ozone is a gas that consists of three oxygen atoms. Secondary pollutants are substances that are formed when ozone reacts with other chemicals in the air.
Ozone can be beneficial when it is in the upper atmosphere, as it protects the earth from harmful ultraviolet rays. However, ozone can be harmful when it is in the lower atmosphere, as it can irritate the lungs and cause respiratory problems.
The amount of ozone and secondary pollutants that are produced by ionisers depends on several factors, such as the quality and design of the ionisation system, the level of pollution in the air, and the ventilation of the room. Generally speaking, ionisers that have higher voltage and current can produce more ozone and secondary pollutants than ionisers that have lower voltage and current. Ionisers that are used in rooms that have high levels of VOCs or other chemicals can also produce more ozone and secondary pollutants than ionisers that are used in rooms that have low levels of VOCs or other chemicals. Ionisers that are used in rooms that have poor ventilation or air circulation can also produce more ozone and secondary pollutants than ionisers that are used in rooms that have good ventilation or air circulation.
The safe levels of ozone exposure for humans are 0.1 parts per million (ppm) for 40-hour exposure or 0.3 ppm for 15-minute exposure. However, some ionisers may exceed these limits and pose health risks. Therefore, it is important to check the specifications and certifications of ionisers before buying or using them.
Comparison
Both HEPA and ioniser air purifiers have different safety aspects and features that may affect your convenience and preferences. However, some trade-offs between them may balance out their advantages and disadvantages.
Here is a comparison table between HEPA air purifiers and air ionisers considering safety.
| Safety Aspect | HEPA Air Purifiers | Air Ionisers |
|---|---|---|
| Ozone Emission | HEPA air purifiers do not emit ozone. | Air ionisers, which can produce ozone as a by-product, are subject to restrictions on the amount of ozone produced, with the European Union and the United States setting safety limits at 0.050 parts per million (50 ppb) to protect consumer health and the environment. |
| By-product Formation | HEPA air purifiers do not produce harmful by-products. |
Air ionisers use high voltage to ionise air molecules, a process that can produce ozone and other free-radical species as by-products due to reactions of atmospheric trace gases and the conversion of oxygen molecules into charged ionic components. |
| Fire Risk | Like any electrical device, there is a risk of overheating and fire, but this is generally low. | Similar to HEPA air purifiers, there is a risk of overheating and fire due to the electrical components. |
| Child Friendliness | Many HEPA air purifiers are equipped with child lock buttons to prevent children from meddling with the settings. They are generally safe for use around children. |
While air ionisers are generally child-safe, they can produce ozone and static shocks from collection plates and ionising needles. Therefore, it’s best to place them out of children’s reach. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, HEPA and ioniser air purifiers are two of the most common and popular technologies that can improve the quality of the air in your home or office by removing pollutants such as dust, pollen, smoke, odours, bacteria, viruses, and VOCs. However, not all air purifiers are created equal. There are different factors that you need to consider when choosing an air purifier, such as effectiveness, cost, maintenance, noise, and safety. HEPA and ioniser air purifiers have different advantages and disadvantages in each of these factors, and they may suit different needs and preferences. Therefore, you need to weigh the pros and cons of each technology and compare the features and benefits of different products before making your decision.
We hope that this article has helped you to understand the differences between HEPA and ioniser air purifiers and how to choose the best one for your home. Aerify also offers expert advice and support on air purifiers and other air treatment products. Thank you for reading this article and happy shopping!
