The capability of standard air purification devices to mitigate carbon monoxide (CO) is a common query. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and highly toxic gas produced by the incomplete combustion of fuels such as natural gas, propane, wood, and gasoline. Malfunctioning appliances, blocked chimneys, or running vehicles in enclosed spaces are common sources of this dangerous gas.
Understanding the limitations of typical air purifiers is critical for safety. The primary function of most air purifiers is to remove particulate matter, allergens, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air using filters such as HEPA filters and activated carbon filters. While these filters are effective at capturing various airborne contaminants, they are not designed to remove gases like carbon monoxide. The molecular structure of carbon monoxide is such that it passes through these filters without being captured or altered.
