Air purifiers are an increasingly popular and essential tool in maintaining healthy air indoors. But who invented this powerful device? To answer that question, one must look back to the 1950s and the pioneering work of engineer and inventor Farren Jacobi. Jacobi’s invention of the air purifier revolutionized indoor air quality and brought us closer to creating a safe, clean environment inside our homes.
His invention remains relevant today as more people seek to rid their homes of pollutants like dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, pollen, and other allergens.
In this blog article, we’ll explore the history of the air purifier and take a deeper dive into Farren Jacobi’s incredible contribution to modern living.

History of Air Purifiers
Air purifiers have a relatively short history, with the first models appearing in the mid-20th century—however, the concept of air purification dates back to ancient times. The Greeks and Romans used plants and herbs to purify the air in their homes and public spaces. In the Middle Ages, people burned aromatic woods and spices to cleanse the air during the plague.
The modern air purifier, as we know it today, was invented by Farren Jacobi in the 1950s. Jacobi was an engineer with a keen interest in improving indoor air quality. He was particularly concerned about the impact of airborne pollutants on human health.
The Father of Air Purifiers
Farren Jacobi was born in 1918 in New York City. Farren Jacobi attended Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to study engineering, and upon graduating, he worked for several HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) organizations.
In the early 1950s, Jacobi began to develop a device that could remove airborne particles from indoor air. His invention was based on a simple principle: using a fan to draw air through a filter that trapped particles. This was the first air purifier.
Jacobi’s invention was revolutionary. Being the first device to remove airborne particles successfully, it decreased the risk of respiratory disorders and improved interior air quality. His invention was patented in 1955 and quickly became popular in homes and offices across America.
The Legacy of Farren Jacobi
Farren Jacobi’s invention has had a profound impact on our lives. Today, air purifiers are used worldwide to improve indoor air quality. They are essential in urban areas, where air pollution is often high.
Air purifiers have also become essential tools in healthcare settings, where they help to prevent the spread of airborne diseases. They are used in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities to protect patients and staff from airborne pathogens.
Development of the First Air Purifier
Farren Jacobi’s first air purifier was a relatively simple device. It consisted of a fan that drew air into the machine and through a filter. The filter was made of a dense material that could trap airborne particles, preventing them from being recirculated back into the room.
The product was created to be easy to use and portable. It could be placed in any room and plugged into an electrical outlet. The user could then adjust the fan speed to control the rate at which air was drawn into the device.
Despite its simplicity, Jacobi’s air purifier was highly effective. It could remove up to 99% of airborne particles, including dust, pollen, mold spores, and bacteria. This made it an invaluable tool for people with allergies or respiratory conditions.
Over time, Jacobi’s invention has been refined and improved. Modern air purifiers use advanced filtration technologies, such as HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, to remove even smaller particles. They also often include features like ionizers and UV lights to kill bacteria and viruses.
Despite these advancements, the basic principle of Jacobi’s invention remains the same: drawing air through a filter to remove airborne particles. This simple yet effective approach has made air purifiers an essential tool for maintaining healthy indoor air quality.
Features of Early Air Purifiers
Early air purifiers, like Jacobi’s original model, were relatively simple in design and function. They primarily consisted of a fan and a filter. The fan would draw in air from the room, passing through the filter to remove airborne particles.
Fan: The fan was a crucial component of early air purifiers. It was responsible for drawing in air from the room and pushing it through the filter. The fan’s speed could often be adjusted to control the rate at which air was purified.
Filter: The filter was the heart of the air purifier. It was typically made of a dense material that could trap airborne particles as the air passed through it. The filter would need to be replaced periodically to ensure the effectiveness of the air purifier.
Portability: Early air purifiers were designed to be portable. They were relatively small and lightweight, allowing them to move from room to room as needed quickly.
Simplicity: One of the key features of early air purifiers was their simplicity. They were easy to use, with minimal controls and settings. This made them accessible to a wide range of users.
Efficiency: Despite their simplicity, early air purifiers were highly efficient. They could remove up to 99% of airborne particles, significantly improving indoor air quality.
Noise Level: Early models were often quite noisy due to the fan mechanism, but this was a small price to pay for cleaner air.
Power Source: These devices need to be plugged into an outlet and are usually powered by electricity.
Cost: Early air purifiers were relatively expensive due to the new technology, but as they became more popular and production increased, prices gradually decreased, making them more accessible to the general public.
Despite their basic design and features, these early air purifiers laid the foundation for the advanced models we have today. They introduced the concept of air purification to the public and paved the way for developing more sophisticated and efficient devices.
Growth in the Popularity of Air Purifiers
The popularity of air purifiers has grown significantly since Farren Jacobi’s initial invention. As awareness about the importance of indoor air quality increased, so did the demand for air purifiers. This was further fueled by urbanization and industrialization, which increased air pollution.
In the 1960s and 1970s, air purifiers became increasingly popular in offices and commercial spaces. They were seen as a way to improve worker productivity by reducing the incidence of respiratory illnesses caused by poor indoor air quality.
By the 1980s, air purifiers had become a common household item. As more people became aware of the health risks associated with indoor air pollution, they turned to air purifiers to improve the air quality in their homes.
Today, air purifiers are used in various settings, from homes and offices to hospitals and schools. They are essential for maintaining healthy indoor air quality and protecting against airborne diseases.
The Future of Air Purifiers
The future of air purifiers looks promising. As technology advances, we expect to see even more efficient and effective air purifiers. For example, some companies are already developing “smart” air purifiers to monitor air quality in real time and adjust their settings accordingly.
There is also a growing interest in developing air purifiers that can remove not just particles but also gases and odors. This would make them even more effective at improving indoor air quality.
Modern-Day Air Purifier Technologies
Modern air purifiers have come a long way since Farren Jacobi’s initial invention. Today, they incorporate a variety of technologies to clean the air effectively.
HEPA Filters: High-efficiency particulate Air (HEPA) filters are one of the most common filters used in air purifiers today. They can trap 99.97% of particles that are 0.3 microns in diameter or more extensive, which increases their ability to effectively remove allergens such as pet dander, mold spores, dust, pollen, and others.
Activated Carbon Filters: These air filters eliminate volatile organic compounds (VOCs), smells, and gasses. By adhering these materials to their surface, they work.
UV-C Light: Some air purifiers use ultraviolet (UV) light to eradicate viruses, germs, and other microbes. The DNA of these organisms is harmed by UV light, which stops them from reproducing.
Ionizers: By releasing negatively charged ions into the atmosphere, ionizers function. Particles in the air fall out of the air because these ions bond to them, making them heavier. Some ionizers also produce ozone, which can kill bacteria and other microorganisms.
Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO): PCO is a newer technology that uses UV light and a catalyst (usually titanium dioxide) to create a reaction that breaks down harmful substances in the air.
Innovative Technology: Many modern air purifiers have intelligent features, such as air quality sensors and Wi-Fi connectivity. These features allow the air purifier to automatically adapt its parameters to the present state of the air and enable users to control the device remotely using a smartphone app.
Despite these advancements, the basic principle of air purification remains the same: drawing air through a filter to remove airborne particles. This simple yet effective approach, first introduced by Farren Jacobi, continues to be the foundation of modern air purifiers.
Benefits of a Home Air Purifier
Air purifiers offer numerous benefits, particularly for individuals with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory conditions. Here are some of the critical benefits of having an air purifier in your home:
Removes Allergens: Air purifiers are designed to remove airborne allergens like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. People with allergies or asthma may find this to be especially helpful.
Reduces Dust: By filtering out airborne particles, air purifiers can significantly reduce the amount of dust in your home. This can help to keep your home cleaner and reduce the need for frequent dusting.
Eliminates Odors: Many air purifiers include activated carbon filters that absorb odors. This can maintain a clean, fresh scent throughout your house.
Reduces Exposure to Secondhand Smoke: An air purifier can aid in lowering the quantity of secondhand smoke in the air if you or anybody else in your house smokes.
Improves Sleep: By improving the air quality in your bedroom, an air purifier can help you sleep better. This is particularly true for individuals with allergies or asthma, as these conditions can often interfere with sleep.
Protects Against Illness: By removing airborne bacteria and viruses, an air purifier can help to protect you and your family from illness.
Improves Overall Air Quality: Even if you don’t suffer from allergies or a respiratory condition, an air purifier can still improve the overall quality of the air in your home, enhancing its comfort and health as a place to live.
How to Choose the Right Air Purifier
Choosing the right air purifier for your home depends on several factors, including the size of your space, your specific needs, and your budget. When selecting an air purifier, keep the following things in mind:
Size of Your Space: The size of the space you want to purify is one of the most important factors to consider. Air purifiers are designed to clean the air in a specific square footage, so choose a suitable model for your space.
Specific Needs:
- Consider what you need the air purifier for.
- If you have allergies or asthma, consider a model with a HEPA filter that can remove small particles like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander.
- Choose a type with an activated carbon filter if gasses or smells bother you.
Noise Level: There are certain noisy air purifiers, especially in higher settings. If noise is a concern for you, look for models that are known for being quiet.
Energy Efficiency: Running an air purifier continuously can consume a significant amount of energy. Choose energy-efficient models to assist in reducing your electricity costs.
Cost: Air purifiers can range from around $50 to several hundred dollars. Consider your spending limit and your ability to make purchases.
Filter Replacement: Most air purifiers require regular filter replacements, which can add to the ongoing cost of the device. Consider the price and availability of replacement filters when choosing a model.
Extra Features: Some air purifiers have features like air quality sensors, intelligent controls, and sleep modes. While these can add to the cost of the device, they can also make it more convenient and practical to use.
Conclusion
Air purifiers have come a long way since their invention in the 1950s by Farren Jacobi. Today, they are an essential tool in maintaining healthy indoor air quality, protecting against allergens and airborne diseases, and improving overall comfort. With advancements in technology, modern air purifiers are more efficient and effective than ever before.
Whether you suffer from allergies or asthma, want to reduce dust and odors in your home, or want to improve the overall quality of your indoor air, your home may benefit from adding an air purifier.