Do Ionic filter systems really work?

Question

I don't trust ads for Ionic filters, like the ones advertised by Sharper Image, but I would like to get one, if they actually work. Any information as to their reliability, the truth of the claims, and/or better filters would be appreciated. Mostly, I'm looking for something where I don't have to keep buying and replacing filters.

Answer 1

The Ionic Breeze style does work. In my opinion, the "Negative Ion Generator" style does not work. The reliability on the Ionic Breeze style is not 100% though, that is the primary drawback. Some brands are much harder to clean than others. Since you clean the collection portion of the unit, rather than replace it, that is important.

I had a friend who had three of them. One had to be replaced within a couple of months. Another went almost a year before it broke. The company replaced them with no problem. It was the company that you mentioned.

I tried a "negative ion generator" aka "ion generator" for a while and hated it. I did not perceive any value in cleaning and I hated the smell that it put out. Some people like them, but I didn't. I got it on a free trial and turned it off before the trial period was over.

There are now regular filters, not electronic, with cleanable filters. They are like the traditional units, but the element can be washed. Replacing filters is extremely expensive.

Answer 2

I believe the answer by the medical person is not complete: I think the Ionic Breeze isn't used in hospitals because 1) it woudn't be as easy to clean (on a large scale building) and it is easier to throw away filters; 2) it could interfere w/equipment esp. computers. It should never be real near that kind of equipment, even though they sell desk models.
News came out that they produced toxic ozone; but now they have a addition to take the ozone and purify the air.

I have several and love them. Mine have never broken down; it is critical ( in the booklet ) to turn them upside down after inserting the cleaned collecter. This keeps it running smoothly.

I would never sleep w/it on however; but, check w/the company.

Also, Lillian Vernon sells window filters that work GREAT for filtering out pollen and stuff. Check it out.

Answer 3

Wife has allergies & is fairly well pleased w/ the Sharper image Ionic breeze.
Have it in relatively small bedroom & it does collect very small dust particles.
It really is silent & cleaning is easy.
Put it in a room where people were smoking.
Less odor & when I cleaned it , the plates were covered with brown stuff.
Tried aircleaners w /fans & hepafilters.
Got rid of them due to noise & cost of filters.
Hope that helps

Answer 4

I don't know hether you're installing this in your furnace or are looking for romm / house air purification. Anything with filters tends to be extensive in maintenance and parts plus it only cleans the air that actually goes through it. Are you trying to eliminate odors, is there allergy sufferers in your household?

There is a company which produces great air purifying units. They output negative ions to clean the air, eliminate odors and are filter less. PM me if you want to know more.

Answer 5

You're right not to trust the ads. Honeywell hepafilters are what most hospitals use. They sell them at Walmart. The Sharper Image isn't ever going to sell theirs to medical facilities, they'd get laughed out of the building. If it doesn't have a filter it is useless. Allergist and other m.d.'s in family, we have asthma and allergies, and we use the Honeywells at home.

Answer 6

a friend of mine ordered 3 of them 1 for each room they work great and her house smells nice and there are 4 that smoke easy to clean and she has had then 3 years and nothing has gone wrong with them yet