How to Choose an Air Purifier

Choose an Air Purifier

• 1

  Choose a type of air purifier. Most air purifiers use either filters or ionic air purification. Filters remove particles from the air by trapping them, and HEPA filters are required to remove 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger in size. Ionic or ionizer air purifiers charge particles in the air in the order to collect them.

• 2

  Decide on any additional air purifier features you need, such as odor removal. Most air purifiers use activated carbon filters to help remove odors, such as pet odors, chemical smells and smoke from the air. Make sure the filter you choose removes or neutralizes the odors rather than just masking them.

• 3

  Pick a size of air purifier. Some air purifiers are small enough to wear around your neck, while others are appropriate for an office desk, small room, large room or whole house. The air purifier should say how many square feet of air it’s designed to filter.

• 4

  Check to see how often the filters need to be replaced, and how much they cost. Some air purifiers have filters that can be vacuumed or washed, which can save money, but can also cause more problems with allergies than replacing the filter. Make sure that replacement filters or parts are readily available.

• 5

  Find out how much noise the air purifier makes, especially if you plan to let it run constantly or in your bedroom at night. The data sheet or customer service department should be able to give you the noise level in decibels.

• 6

  Find out how much energy the air purifier uses, especially if you plan to use it all the time. Some air purifiers are designed to be energy efficient, or certified by Energy Star.

• 7

  Compare prices of various air purifiers. The costs for air purifiers vary widely, from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars. Although price can be a sign of quality, more expensive air purifiers are not necessarily more efficient or reliable. Make sure to include the cost of running the air purifier (including filters or replacement parts and energy costs) in your comparison.

• 8

  Pick a style of air purifier. Make sure it fits in the area you want to use it for. Many air purifiers need to placed at least several inches away from walls in order to maximize air circulation.