How does an electronic air cleaner collect particles?

An electronic air cleaner operates by utilizing the principles of electrostatic precipitation to collect particles from the air. In this process, air passes through an ionization area where particles become electrostatically charged. These charged particles are then attracted to and collected on oppositely charged plates within the cleaner. This method is highly effective for capturing a wide range of particulate matter, including dust, pollen, smoke, and even some pathogens.

The effectiveness of this process lies in the ability of the charged plates to attract a diverse array of particles, allowing for a more efficient cleaning of the air compared to some mechanical filters, which often rely on size exclusion. This unique mechanism allows electronic air cleaners to achieve high levels of filtration without as much restriction to airflow, making them advantageous for maintaining indoor air quality.

Other methods, such as mechanical filtration or chemical processes, do not utilize electrostatic charging and rely on different mechanisms that may not be as efficient in capturing smaller particles or may involve additional complexities.