Electrostatic precipitators are composed of two sections, a charging section and a collection section. The charging section uses ionizer wires to impart a positive electrostatic charge to the smoke, fume and dust particles in the incoming airstream. The positively charged particles are then drawn into a secondary electric field where they are collected on a series of metal plates. Clean air is recirculated back into the general airstream.

Fig. 1: Two-Stage Electrostatic Precipitator System

Electronic air cleaners maintain a relatively high efficiency on particles in a range of .01 micron to 1 micron. Because of their inherently open cell design, electronic air cleaners create a low pressure drop which greatly minimizes fan horse power which translates into energy savings as compared to other types of air cleaning systems. Lower fan horse power also translates into quieter operation. The primary filters are cleanable, an important factor in considering the on-going operational cost and disposal issues. Most are designed to be dishwasher-safe.