The invention is directed towards an efficient and ozone free ion generator in which the ion emitter is open to the surrounding space while the collector is provided by electrical ground remote and away from the ion emitter. In the case of a household generator, the ground is the electrical ground of the house. In the case of a car generator, the ground is the car frame. A safety circuit is arranged to turn the high voltage off if a hand or other body member (or pet) comes near or touches the exposed emitter to prevent electrical shock.