History of Air purifier in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 23, 2025

Air purifiers are devices designed to enhance indoor air quality by removing contaminants. Marketed particularly towards individuals with allergies and asthma, they aim to alleviate symptoms by filtering out irritants. Air purifiers also target the reduction or elimination of secondhand tobacco smoke, contributing to a healthier living environment.

1963: First Residential HEPA Filter Sold

In 1963, the first residential HEPA filter was reportedly sold by brothers Manfred and Klaus Hammes in Germany, who later founded IQAir corporation.

2005: Common Air Purification Methods

As of 2005, the most common methods for air purification were high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters and ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI).

September 2007: California Air Resources Board Announced a Ban of Indoor Air Cleaning Devices Which Produce Ozone Above a Legal Limit

In September 2007, the California Air Resources Board announced a ban on indoor air cleaning devices that produce ozone above a legal limit.

2010: California's Ban on High Ozone Air Purifiers Takes Effect

In 2010, California's law banning indoor air cleaning devices that produce excessive ozone took effect, requiring testing and certification.

2015: US Residential Air Purifier Market Size

As of 2015, the United States residential air purifier market was estimated at $2 billion per year.

January 2021: Air Purifier Study on Viral Transmission

In January 2021, a fluid dynamic modelling study suggested that air purifiers in confined spaces could theoretically enhance viral transmission. However, real-life testing showed portable HEPA/UV air filters completely eliminated airborne SARS-CoV-2 in hospital COVID-19 wards.