Electronic air cleaners use magnetic forces to trap dust, dander, and allergens, improving indoor air quality by removing airborne contaminants.

Electronic Air Cleaner: How Does It Work?

Electronic air cleaners improve indoor air quality by capturing dust, dander, mold, and other airborne particles that can trigger allergies or asthma. Using an electrostatic process, these devices charge particles passing through them, attracting and trapping them inside for cleaner, healthier air.

How an Electronic Air Cleaner Filters Indoor Air

Typically installed within your home’s ductwork by a professional, electronic air cleaners function like large magnets. An electrostatic precipitator charges particles as they pass through, attracting them to oppositely charged collector plates, where they remain trapped instead of recirculating in your home.

Pros and Cons of Electronic Air Cleaners

Pros:

• Improved Air Quality: Helps reduce allergens like dust and pet dander, making it beneficial for people with respiratory issues.
• Reusable Filters: Filters can be washed and reused, saving money on replacements.

Cons:

• Limited Gas Filtration: While effective against particles, electronic air cleaners do not capture gases like VOCs or odors.
• Ozone Emissions: Some older models emit ozone as a byproduct. For reduced emissions, choose units that meet UL Standard 2998.

Comparison to Other Air Purification Systems

• Media Air Cleaners: These use particle-trapping materials without generating electric fields, avoiding ozone emissions but potentially increasing pressure on the HVAC system.
• Filters: Options like HEPA filters are highly effective for particle removal, especially for those with allergies, but may require additional fans due to high density.
• Purifiers: These sanitize air through UV or ionization and can address particles and some gases, though they may produce byproducts.

Electronic Air Cleaner Maintenance

To maintain efficiency:

• Clean the Filter: Rinse with warm water and allow to dry every three months to ensure optimal particle capture.
• Vacuum Collection Cells: Regularly vacuum the collection cells to prevent buildup.
• Annual Professional Inspection: Have our licensed HVAC technician inspect the system yearly for potential issues.

How to Clean an Electronic Air Filter

To clean, turn off the HVAC unit, remove the filter, and rinse it under warm water or soak it for about 30 minutes. Some filters may even be dishwasher-safe; consult your owner’s manual for guidance.