If you have been shopping for the best air purifier, you have probably noticed there are several different types. One such type is called an electromagnetic air purifier. How does an electromagnetic air purifier work? Keep reading and find out.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Electromagnetic air purifiers use electrostatic filters that rely on electricity for the capture and removal of air pollutants.
- Most electrostatic filters can be washed and reused, which can save money in the long run.
- Electrostatic filters are considered efficient and effective, though they do not work at removing ozone particles.
What is an Electromagnetic Air Purifier?
Electromagnetic air purifiers use electrostatic filters instead of the carbon filters or pleated HEPA filters found in other types of air purifiers. Electrostatic air filters use electricity to capture errant and unwanted particles. Check out this guide to know if your air purifier is working and also read how you know your air purifier functions correctly, and what you can do if you suspect it is not.
Insider Tip
Electromagnetic air purifiers use electrostatic filters instead of the carbon filters or pleated HEPA filters found in other types of air purifiers.
The Benefits of Going With Electrostatic Filters
Electrostatic filters are considered to be highly effective in certain use case scenarios. Here are some of the benefits of going with this type of air purifier.
Reusable and Washable
The rumors are true. Most electrostatic air filters are totally reusable and washable. This operates in direct contrast to HEPA filters, which must be disposed of when fully clogged. Feel free to hand-wash an electrostatic filter when it has become clogged, allowing it to dry and then reinserting it back into your air purifier. You should exercise caution, however, when washing one of these filters. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions as you clean these filters and avoid any harsh cleaning agents.
Low Buy-in Cost
Since electrostatic filters can be washed, this makes them fairly permanent, which is somewhat better than HEPA filters that may not last. In other words, you will only have to buy them one time. This could lead to some serious savings over the long haul. Electrostatic filters do tend to be slightly more expensive than HEPA filters, at $50 to $60, but HEPA filters need to be replaced every six months. Electrostatic filters can simply be washed and reused every month or so. If your purifier lasts three to five years, the savings will begin to add up quickly.
Insider Tip
Most electrostatic air filters are totally reusable and washable.
Efficient Operation
Generally speaking, electrostatic filters are reliable and efficient. These filters boast a MERV rating of around five or six depending on the brand (MERV means Minimum Efficient Rating Value). Electrostatic filters do a good job at eliminating many commonly found household air pollutants. Households equipped with an electromagnetic air purifier can expect increased overall air quality. But you may find some white power on the floor near your air purifier. It must be noted, however, that electrostatic filters do not do a great job when it comes to eliminating ozone particles. Keep this in mind as you shop. You can also check out this guide for personal air purifiers. You can also shop in our list of the leading whole-house air purifiers for more options.
F.A.Q.
Do air purifiers emit harmful radiation?
Air purifiers do produce a small amount of EMF radiation, but it is generally considered to be within safe and normal parameters. A 2002 study published by the World Health Organization (WHO) found no evidence of cancer caused by low-frequency electric & magnetic fields.
How do air purifiers release EMF radiation?
The process by which air purifiers release EMF radiation is a normal side effect of using electricity in the first place. As electrons work and move they create this EMF radiation.
Do electrostatic air filters actually work?
Yes, though the efficacy will depend on the make and model. Electrostatic air filters use electricity to pull in and destroy commonly found air pollutants and allergens.
STAT: Electrostatic precipitators have an efficiency of up to 98 percent according to this test (if the air passes through the device slowly), mainly because they can remove fine particles. (source)
