Do Air Purifiers Remove Smells?

Everyone likes a clean home, and the quality of the air we breathe indoors is a significant factor in achieving that. From cooking fumes to pet odors, several factors can influence the air we breathe and the lingering, unpleasant smells. Air purifiers have become increasingly popular as concerns about indoor air quality grow. These devices are designed to filter out airborne particles, allergens, and pollutants, improving the air quality. 

One common question people have when considering an air purifier is whether it can remove unpleasant odors. While air purifiers excel at trapping dust, pollen, and smoke, their ability to eliminate smells depends largely on the type of filtration technology they use. Odors, caused by volatile organic compounds (VOCs), bacteria, and other microscopic particles, often require specialized filters to be effectively removed. Choosing the right combination of filters and ensuring proper maintenance are key to maximizing the air purifier’s effectiveness in odor control.

So, in this article we will discuss everything you need to know, examining how air purifiers tackle odors, the types of filters best suited for this, the factors that can influence their effectiveness, and how to choose the right air purifier for odor removal.

Let’s get started.

Do air purifiers remove smells?

Yes, air purifiers remove smells. They are designed to clean the air by removing harmful contaminants, and they can effectively reduce unpleasant smells under the right conditions. These devices work best in enclosed spaces, and their ability to remove odors largely depends on the size of the room and the type of air purifier in use. 

If you’re concerned about lingering odors, it’s important to choose a model with the right filtration technology. So, let’s look at the types of filters that address odors.

• HEPA filters: High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are designed to capture small airborne particles like dust, pollen, bacteria, and viruses. While they are not primarily intended to remove odors, when paired with carbon pre-filters, HEPA filters can help reduce smells by trapping particulate matter that may be contributing to the issue. This combination offers both particulate control and some level of odor removal.

• Carbon filters: Air purifiers with activated carbon filters are highly effective for removing odors. These filters work through adsorption, trapping odor molecules and VOCs that cause smells, such as those from cooking, pets, or smoke. Carbon filters need periodic replacement to maintain their effectiveness, but they offer a reliable solution for those looking to tackle persistent odors.

• Bipolar ionization: Bipolar ionization technology helps to neutralize odors by breaking down the molecules responsible for unpleasant smells. Unlike carbon filters, this technology is usually maintenance-free and works by releasing ions into the air, which attach to odor particles, breaking them down and making them easier to eliminate. This method is especially effective when paired with HEPA or carbon pre-filters.

• Daikin’s Streamer Technology:, Daikin's advanced Streamer Technology provides powerful air purification through oxidative decomposition. This innovative plasma discharge technology, developed in 2004, generates high-speed electrons that work continuously to break down odors, bacteria, and other indoor air pollutants, including formaldehyde. Streamer Technology has proven highly effective, even inactivating over 99.9% of certain viruses like SARS-CoV-2. When combined with HEPA filters, it adds a new layer of protection, making Daikin air purifiers a strong choice for cleaner, fresher air.

Factors affecting the effectiveness of air purifiers

Several factors influence how effectively an air purifier can clean and freshen indoor air. The size of the room, the type of filter used, and proper maintenance all play crucial roles. Understanding these elements will help you get the most out of your air purifier and ensure better air quality in your home. 

Let’s explore these factors in more detail:

• The size of the room: One of the most important factors to consider is the size of the room. A small bedroom and a large living area have different air purification needs. To ensure optimal performance, choose an air purifier that is appropriately sized for the room it will be used in. Measure your space and select a model with sufficient coverage for effective air cleaning.

• Choosing the right filter: The type of filter used in an air purifier affects its efficiency. Different filters serve different purposes: HEPA filters excel at capturing allergens like dust mites and pet dander, while activated carbon filters are effective at absorbing odors and VOCs. UV-C filters are often used to neutralize bacteria and viruses.

• Maintenance: Failing to clean or replace filters can significantly reduce the device’s ability to purify the air. Regularly checking and following the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning or replacing filters is essential for optimal performance.

• The environment: Factors like humidity and temperature affect air quality. For instance, high humidity levels can encourage mold growth, meaning you may need to run your air purifier more frequently during humid conditions. Adjusting usage based on environmental factors ensures better performance and cleaner air.

How to choose the right air purifier for odor removal

Choosing the right air purifier for odor removal requires careful consideration of the filtration technology and your specific needs. Factors like room size, the type of odors you’re dealing with, and the filter system will impact its effectiveness. Let’s now look at this in more detail to ensure that you select the best air purifier to keep your space smelling fresh and clean.

• Smoke smell: Air purifiers with a combination of HEPA filters and robust activated carbon filters are particularly effective for removing smoke particles and the associated odor.

• Pet odors: HEPA filters are great for capturing pet dander, while activated carbon filters target the smells left behind by pets.

• Food smells: If cooking odors like fish or spices are a concern, air purifiers with activated carbon filters are your best bet.

• Household odors: HEPA filters excel at capturing small airborne particles, which can help reduce household odors that stem from dust, pet dander, and other particulates in the air. This filtration can help maintain fresher indoor air.
• Persistent odors: While HEPA filters are not specifically designed to eliminate strong odors, they can contribute to air freshness by trapping particles associated with these smells.

While air purifiers are not a one-stop solution for all odor issues, they are highly effective when used alongside proper ventilation and regular cleaning. Investing in a high-quality purifier not only helps to keep the air smelling fresh but also improves the overall indoor air quality.

About Daikin

Daikin air purifiers guarantee cleaner, healthier, and fresher air. Our air purifiers deliver superior air quality, providing you with clean air that allows you to breathe easily and enjoy greater comfort.

Daikin is the global pioneer and leader in the HVAC and refrigeration industry, driving innovation and sustainability across our extensive product range, including chillers, splits, VRV systems, air handling units (AHUs), fan coil units (FCUs), controls, refrigeration solutions, and comprehensive service and parts support. Through this portfolio of products, Daikin meets and exceeds the needs of residential, commercial, and industrial applications.

At the core of our philosophy is the belief in the infinite potential of people, and we are constantly working toward a future where comfort and environmental responsibility coexist harmoniously. We are proud to employ over 98,000 people and operate in over 170 countries, with a worldwide network of 115 factories. In 2023, Daikin generated net sales of USD 30bn.

Daikin’s emphasis on pioneering solutions reflects our understanding of the crucial role air quality plays in all our lives. By safeguarding the future of our planet’s air, we are committed to enhancing the environment for future generations. Contact Daikin today. for more information.