Many believe air purifiers eliminate all pollutants; however, they primarily filter particles and may not remove gases or odors effectively.
Air purifiers have surged in popularity, but misinformation persists about their capabilities. Let’s separate fact from fiction and explore what these devices can truly accomplish for your indoor air quality.
Myth 1: Air Purifiers Eliminate All Indoor Pollutants
While effective, air purifiers have limitations. HEPA filters capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, but they don’t remove:
- Gases and odors (without carbon filters)
- Particles embedded in furniture or carpets
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from some household products
What They Actually Filter
| Particle Type | Size (microns) | HEPA Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Pollen | 10-100 | 99.97% |
| Dust mites | 5-10 | 99.97% |
| Bacteria | 0.3-10 | 99.97% |
| Viruses | 0.005-0.3 | Partial capture |
Myth 2: Air Conditioners Replace Purifiers
This is completely false. While some AC units have basic filters, they primarily:
- Regulate temperature
- Recirculate existing air
- May harbor mold in moist components
For comprehensive air cleaning, consider pairing your AC with a dedicated purifier like those discussed in our guide to combined AC/heater units.
Myth 3: All HEPA Filters Are Equal
Beware of misleading marketing terms:
- True HEPA: Meets strict DOE standards
- HEPA-type: May filter only 85-90% of particles
- HEPA-style: No performance guarantees
Myth 4: Purifiers Completely Protect Against COVID-19
While EPA research shows HEPA filters can capture virus particles, they’re not foolproof:
- Don’t replace ventilation
- Only work in their immediate area
- Can’t prevent all transmission risks
Myth 5: Odors Indicate Purifier Failure
This depends on your filter type:
- HEPA-only: Won’t remove smells
- Carbon filters: Absorb odors effectively
For comprehensive odor removal, consider units with both filter types, similar to the technology in propane heaters with air cleaning features.
Myth 6: Bigger Units Always Work Better
Effectiveness depends on:
- Room size vs. unit capacity
- Air changes per hour (ACH)
- Proper placement (avoid corners)
Myth 7: No Visible Movement Means It’s Not Working
High-quality purifiers often operate silently. Check:
- Filter replacement indicators
- Air quality sensors
- Smart app monitoring (if available)
According to American Lung Association guidelines, proper air purification should complement other strategies like source control and ventilation for optimal indoor air quality.
