If you are new to air purifiers, you may be surprised to hear that some devices claim to remove viruses from the air. Unfortunately, a standard air purifier cannot effectively eliminate viruses. To deal with airborne viruses, you need a specialized air purifier that uses advanced disinfection technologies.
Let’s take a closer look at the technologies used for virus removal and how effective they really are.
Technologies Used to Filter or Kill Viruses
UV Radiation
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is well known for its ability to kill germs, bacteria, and viruses. However, for UV light to be effective, it must directly expose viruses for a long period.
Some air purifiers direct UV light toward the HEPA filter. In theory, when viruses pass through the filter, they are exposed to UV light and destroyed. However, there is no strong scientific evidence proving this method works efficiently. Because of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) considers UV-based air purification potentially ineffective.
Electrostatic Precipitators
Electrostatic precipitators work by charging airborne particles. The charged viruses become heavier and fall onto surfaces. However, this method does not kill viruses. To neutralize them, additional technologies such as heat or UV radiation are required.
If you choose this type of air purifier, look for models that combine electrostatic technology with UV or thermal disinfection.
Ozone Generators
Ozone generators are controversial. While ozone is very effective at killing bacteria and viruses, high concentrations are dangerous to human health.
Some ozone generators can produce up to 10 times more ozone than safety standards allow. If used, people must leave the room during operation and ventilate thoroughly afterward. Unfortunately, opening windows allows new pollutants and viruses to enter.
For safer use, select ozone generators that emit 0.01 ppm or less ozone, though their effectiveness may be limited at such low levels.
Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO)
Air purifiers using photocatalytic oxidation should be avoided. Research shows that while attempting to remove one pollutant, they may produce new harmful byproducts.
The EPA also warns against this technology, stating it may be ineffective and potentially harmful.
HEPA Filters
HEPA filters are the most common filtration system in air purifiers. While excellent for dust, pollen, and allergens, standard HEPA filters cannot capture viruses, as viruses are much smaller than the filter pores.
A newer version called HyperHEPA, developed by IQAir, claims to filter particles as small as viruses. However, the EPA remains skeptical because there is no independent testing to confirm these claims. Still, HyperHEPA systems are used in hospitals and cleanrooms, suggesting some level of effectiveness.
Summary
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, there are currently no standardized tests to measure how well air purifiers remove viruses. This makes it difficult to verify manufacturer claims.
However, air purifiers that combine proven technologies—such as UV light, ozone treatment, and advanced filtration—are more likely to reduce airborne pathogens. The real question is how well these technologies are implemented in each system.
Unfortunately, there is no universal testing standard to measure virus removal efficiency.
Budget-Friendly Solution
For users on a tight budget, a practical approach is:
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Run an ozone generator (while leaving the room)
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Ventilate the area thoroughly
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Use an air purifier with a True HEPA filter to remove remaining particles
This method helps reduce contamination while minimizing ozone exposure.
