Advice on Air Purifiers

The Best

• According to Consumer Search, the best overall air purifier on the market as of 2011 is the IQ Air Health Pro Plus. The estimated starting price of $900 may be too expensive for some, but those who can afford it will experience six fan speeds, a filter-change alert system and a five-year warranty. Consumer Search and reviewers of the unit agree this model is ideal for those with severe allergies or for those living in areas with serious air pollution. A carbon filter is used to remove chemical pollutants and odors. The IQ has the ability to purify a 900 square foot space, making it ideal for larger rooms. The overall width of the IQ is 15 inches, the height 28 inches and the depth 16 inches. The IQ weighs 35 lbs.

Smaller Rooms

• Those looking to purify smaller rooms should invest in the Honeywell Enviracaire 50250-N. This unit has an estimated starting price of $185 as of 2011 and can purify a 390 square foot space. The Honeywell purifier comes standard with a filter-change alert system, three fan speeds and a five-year warranty. The overall width of the unit is 18 inches, the overall depth is 18 inches and the overall height is 19 inches. The Honeywell Enviracaire 50250-N weighs 20 lbs.. However, the Honeywell can create a lot of noise when in operation, making it less than ideal for bedroom use or other rooms in which quiet is desired.

Value

• Those shopping on a mid-range budget should purchase the Austin Air Health Mate purifier. With an estimated starting price of $450 as of 2011, the Austin Air Health Mate air purifier has the ability to purify a 1,500 square foot room. This unit comes standard with three fan speeds and a five-year warranty; however, it does not contain a filter-change alert system. The filter itself should be replaced every three to five years. The filter pack has an estimated cost of $180. The overall width of this unit is 14.5 inches, the depth is 14.5 inches and the height is 23 inches. The Health Mate has a weight of 45 lbs.

Types

• Those on the market for an air purifier should know the different types available. HEPA air purifiers utilize high-efficiency particulate arresting filters to clean the air and trap particles. Fans are utilized to pull the air through the filter, but these fans can also make the unit run at a noisy volume. Electronic ionizers cause particles to be charged and cling to clothing and furniture within the room as well as collection plates within the unit. UV purifiers utilize ultraviolet light to contain biological contaminants. However, UV purifiers must have a filter and a fan to be effective against pollen, pet dander and dust. Experts agree that HEPA air purifiers are the most effective purifiers and the most environmentally friendly.