Puraclenz PCO vs. HEPA: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters

When it comes to improving indoor air quality, two of the most widely used technologies are HEPA filtration and PCO purification. While both help reduce airborne pollutants, they work in fundamentally different ways—and understanding those differences can help you choose the right solution for your space. Puraclenz uses a patented PCO purification process to complement or replace HEPA filters by deactivating pollutants in the air and on surfaces.

What is HEPA and How Does It Work?

HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters use a dense mat of fibers to capture airborne particles as air passes through the filter. To meet HEPA standards, the filter must remove 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns in size. This includes dust, smoke, pet dander, and some types of bacteria ³.

HEPA is Ideal For:

• Capturing dust, pollen, and pet dander
• Reducing airborne particles in enclosed spaces
• People with sensitivities to airborne particles

HEPA Limitations:

• HEPA filters are passive—they only purify the air that flows through them
• They do not deactivate pollutants or neutralize odors and VOCs
• Frequent filter replacement is needed
• They do not purify surfaces or hard-to-reach areas

What is PCO and How Does Puraclenz Use It?

Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO) is an active purification method that uses light-activated catalysts to produce ions that travel through indoor spaces. These ions deactivate pollutants in the air and on surfaces. Puraclenz uses a patented version of PCO purification originally developed for use in spacecraft to deliver continuous purification without generating ozone.

Puraclenz PCO Is Designed to:

• Deactivate airborne and surface pollutants like viruses ², bacteria ³, and mold ¹ spores
• Reduce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and odors
• Purify hard-to-reach areas like corners, ducts, and high surfaces
• Operate without filters—low maintenance and quiet

Limitations of PCO:

• Does not physically trap large particles like dust or hair
• May be best paired with HEPA in dusty environments for optimal results

PCO vs. HEPA: What’s the Right Fit?

Why Not Both? Puraclenz Core Enhances HEPA Performance

Some indoor environments benefit from both technologies working together. That’s where the Puraclenz Core comes in. It’s specifically designed to complement traditional HEPA systems by proactively deactivating pollutants that filters can’t trap—like viruses ², bacteria ³, and mold ¹ spores in the air and on surfaces.

The Puraclenz Core generates a continuous flow of ions to fight pollutants throughout indoor spaces—including corners, vents, and surfaces where filters don’t reach. It’s filter-free, certified for zero ozone (UL 2998), and requires minimal maintenance. Together, HEPA and Puraclenz create a comprehensive purification solution.

Final Thoughts

HEPA filters and PCO purification both play an important role in cleaner indoor environments. HEPA captures particles. Puraclenz deactivates what filters miss. Whether you're looking to improve air quality at home, in the office, or in shared spaces, combining the two can deliver results beyond filtration alone.

Upgrade from filtration to full purification—with Puraclenz PCO.

Recommended Products

Photon

Air & Surface Purifier

Core

Air & Surface Purifier + HEPA

At the heart of all Puraclenz purifiers is our patented Recharge Cell that cleans your space with ions. Laboratory tests against pollutants were conducted with a model P3000 unit that uses the same Recharge Cell that powers all Core and Photon purifiers. Recharge Cell (model R0002) powers all Puraclenz purifiers (models C750, P3000X, P3000, P1500, and P750).

¹ In independent laboratory testing, the Photon purifier was 99.75% effective at reducing Candida albicans from surfaces and 95.1% effective at reducing Aspergillus brasiliensis in the air.

² In independent laboratory testing, the Photon purifier was 99.4% effective at reducing MS2 bacteriophage virus in the air and 58% effective at reducing SARS-CoV-2 on surfaces.

³ In independent laboratory testing, the Photon purifier was 99.7% effective at reducing dangerous bacteria Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis in the air and 95% effective at reducing dangerous bacteria Staphylococcus aureus on surfaces.

⁴ Non-living sources such as pet dander, cockroach matter allergens, dust mite matter allergens.