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Oreck air purifier review: Summaries and Detailed Reviews.

Do you want to review other top brand name purifiers? click STEP 3 Reviews tab or return link at the end of this page

Oreck Air Purifier Summaries

Model: Oreck XL Tabletop – Points: 70/100

Up to 100 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 349.95

Conclusion: A good basic-duty, compact, competitive purifier.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Oreck XL Tower – Points: 59/100

Up to 150 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 599.95

Conclusion: A decent purifier, but if you want to buy Oreck, consider purchasing 2 tabletop units and strategically locating them.

Detailed Review Below

Oreck Air Purifier Detailed Reviews

Model: Oreck XL Tabletop

Rating Score: 70/100 points

Review note: I have personally used, tested, and evaluated this purifier.

Summary

This Oreck air purifier is generally easy to use, relatively cost effective to run and maintain, and a decent value. Air cleaning is good for particles, odors, and some

microorganisms. The purifier cleans best with the fan on medium or high. High is a little noisy. Overall, A good basic unit. Make sure to read STEP5 Buying Tips, for getting the most Oreck for

your money.

Specifications

The XL Tabletop is designed for use in a small room like a bedroom, office, or den up to 100 sqft (6 air changes per hour). This purifier is "passive technology" as

the air must travel through the purifier to be cleaned. The six-stage cleaning process includes a pre filter, Truman Cell (electrostatic precipitator), and a carbon filter. 3-speed fan, 3 year

warranty/ lifetime on Truman Cell, carbon filter – 12 month life 49.99, nightlight, payment options, 60-day risk free trial, free gift.

Rating Factors:

1) Value 16/20 pts – The MSRP is 350. Converting the "What is removed" to rating factors scale = 2/5 pts. I rate the cleaning ability for up to 100 sqft at 1.5/2 very well. My

equation is 350/(2*1.5)= 116.7. 116.7 equates to a 16/20 pts for value.

2) Quality 11/15 pts – Quality is good. The bottom serial number tag says "made in China". Plastic prevails; not a total negative. The Truman Cell is a cool design. Workmanship 3/5

pts, Technologies 4/5 pts, Support/ Setup material 3/3 pts, and intangibles 1/2 pts.

3) What is Removed 8/15 pts – The Oreck XL Tabletop has 6 "stages" + optional aromatherapy cartridges. The main technology is an electrostatic precipitator (they call a Truman

Cell) and a minimal sized carbon filter. Particles >0.3 microns 1/1 pt, Odors and Gases 2/3 pts, VOCs 1/2 pts, Basic Microorganisms 2/3 pts, Particles <0.3 microns 2/3 pts, Advanced

Microorganisms 0/2 pts, Any other additional 0/1 pt.

4) Yearly Operating Costs 9/15 pts – The Odor Absorber (carbon filter) needs replacement every 12 months 49.99. Other options for maintenance are optional and not included in costs.

Electricity = 85 watts/1000 X .0886 cents X 24 hours X 365 days = 65.97. Total Yearly cost 115.96.

5) Warranty 6/8 pts – The Oreck XL Tabletop has a basic 3 year warranty. The odor absorber filter and optional scent cartridges are not covered unless defective. The Truman cell is covered

for the life of the unit if used for residential use. If unit is used commercially, the entire warranty is reduced to 1 year.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning 5/7 pts – Cleaning is recommended every 2-4 weeks or as needed. You can use a special liquid to clean the Truman cell(14.99) or soak in warm water. Other parts

can be rinsed or lightly vacuumed. All are removed easily. Not counting dry time it takes 12 to 20 minutes to do a cleaning. The odor adsorber (carbon filter) can be lightly vacuumed, but needs

replacing every 12 months.

7) Manufacturer Years in Business 5/5 pts – David Oreck started the company in 1963. As of the date of this review, he is still active in the company.

8) Look and Feel 3/5 pts – I found the Oreck XL Tabletop very basic looking, but functional. Buttons were easy to find. No remote for fan settings. Some plastic pieces feel inexpensive.

9) Set-Up Time 5/5 pts – Open the box, find the quick start guide and 4 steps later you are up and running. Less than 10 minutes closed box to up and running. As with any purifier, studying

the materials further will allow you to get more out of your purchase.

10) Noise Level 2/5 pts – Quiet on low 2/2 pts. Oreck recommends running unit on low when around and medium and high when not. High is loud 0/3 points.

total = 70/100 points

Conclusion

A good basic-duty, compact, competitive purifier.

Model: Oreck XL Tower

Rating Score: 59/100 points

Review note: I have not personally test this unit; however, it is basically a "beefed up" version of the XL Tabletop which I did personally review above.

Summary

: This Oreck air purifier is generally easy to use, relatively cost effective to run and maintain, but is not as good a value as the XL tabletop. Air cleaning is good for particles,

odors, and some microorganisms. The purifier cleans best with the fan on medium or high. High and turbo are a little noisy. Overall, A good basic unit, but overpriced compared to the XL

tabletop. Make sure to read STEP5 Buying Tips, for getting the most Oreck for your money.

Basic Specifications

The XL Tower is designed for use in a larger rooms or open floor plans up to 150 sqft (6 air changes per hour). This purifier is "passive technology" as the

air must travel through the purifier to be cleaned. The six-stage cleaning process includes a pre filter, Truman Cell (electrostatic precipitator), and a carbon filter. 4-speed fan with

"turbo" mode, 5 year warranty/ lifetime on Truman Cell, carbon filter – 12 month life 49.99, nightlight, payment options, 60-day risk free trial, free gift.

Rating Factors:

1) Value 2/20 pts – The MSRP is 599.95. Converting the "What is removed" to rating factors scale = 2/5 pts. I rate the cleaning ability for up to 150 sqft at 1.5/2 very well. My

equation is 599.95/(2*1.5)= 200. 200 equates to a 2/20 pts for value.

2) Quality 11/15 pts – Quality is good. The bottom serial number tag says "made in China". Plastic prevails; not a total negative. The Truman Cell is a cool design. Workmanship 3/5

pts, Technologies 4/5 pts, Support/ Setup material 3/3 pts, and intangibles 1/2 pts.

3) What is Removed 8/15 pts – The Oreck XL Tower has 6 "stages" + optional aromatherapy cartridges. The main technology is an electrostatic precipitator (they call a Truman Cell)

and a minimal sized carbon filter. Particles >0.3 microns 1/1 pt, Odors and Gases 2/3 pts, VOCs 1/2 pts, Basic Microorganisms 2/3 pts, Particles <0.3 microns 2/3 pts, Advanced

Microorganisms 0/2 pts, Any other additional 0/1 pt.

4) Yearly Operating Costs 9/15 pts – The Odor Absorber (carbon filter) needs replacement every 12 months 49.99. Other options for maintenance are optional and not included in costs.

Electricity = 85 watts/1000 X .0886 cents X 24 hours X 365 days = 65.97. Total Yearly cost 115.96.

5) Warranty 8/8 pts – The Oreck XL Tabletop has a 5 year warranty. The odor absorber filter and optional scent cartridges are not covered unless defective. The Truman cell is covered for the

life of the unit if used for residential use. If unit is used commercially, the entire warranty is reduced to 1 year.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning 5/7 pts – Cleaning is recommended every 2-4 weeks or as needed. You can use a special liquid to clean the Truman cell(14.99) or soak in warm water. Other parts

can be rinsed or lightly vacuumed. All are removed easily. Not counting dry time it takes 12 to 20 minutes to do a cleaning. The odor adsorber (carbon filter) can be lightly vacuumed, but needs

replacing every 12 months.

7) Manufacturer Years in Business 5/5 pts – David Oreck started the company in 1963. As of the date of this review, he is still active in the company.

8) Look and Feel 4/5 pts – looks good and easy to use.

9) Set-Up Time 5/5 pts – Open the box, find the quick start guide and 4 steps later you are up and running. Less than 10 minutes closed box to up and running. As with any purifier, studying

the materials further will allow you to get more out of your purchase.

10) Noise Level 2/5 pts – 4-speed fan. Low is quiet, but not very effective 2/2 pts. High is called "turbo". Loud 0/3 pts.

total = 59/100 points

Conclusion

A decent purifier, but if you want to buy Oreck, consider purchasing two tabletop units and strategically locating them. See STEP 5 buying tips for more detailed information.

Return to STEP 3 Reviews from Oreck Air Purifier

IQ air purifier review: Summaries and Detailed Reviews.

Do you want to review other top brand name purifiers? Click the STEP 3 Reviews tab or return link at the bottom of this page

IQ Air Purifier Summaries

The HealthPro Plus is my top IQ choice.

Model: HealthPro Plus – Very Good Rating

Up to 300 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 835

Conclusion: Best IQ purifier for basic home use.

Detailed Review Below

Model: HealthPro – Fair Rating

Up to 325 sqft(6 AC/hr)

MSRP 735

Upgradeable to "Plus"

Conclusion: Recommend only if you plan to upgrade V5-cell later; otherwise get the HealthPro Plus.

Detailed Review Below

Model: HealthPro Compact – Fair Rating

Up to 300 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 689

Not Upgradeable to "Plus"

Conclusion: Not recommended over the HealthPro or HealthPro Plus.

Detailed Review Below

Model: GC MultiGas – Fair Rating

Up to 290 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 1035

Not Upgradeable to "Plus"

Conclusion: Recommended only to chemically sensitive individuals or specialized business locations.

Detailed Review Below

IQ Air Purifier Detailed Reviews

Model: HealthPro Plus

Rating Score: 79/100 points

Review note: I have personally used, tested, and evaluated this IQ air purifier.

Summary

I like the quality of this purifier and all the support and certification material. There is no doubt that the engineering is of the highest quality for a passive technology

purifier. Maintenance is minimal, but the ongoing filter cost is high. I like the remote. The overall value is high. This purifier is large, but it has good looks. It would look out of place in

a small room. I would recommend this unit over the HealthPro or HealthPro Compact because of the added Gas/odor and VOC removal. Make sure to read STEP5 Buying Tips, for getting the most IQ air

purifier for your money.

Basic Specifications

The HealthPro Plus is designed for spaces up to 300 sqft (6 air changes per hour). This purifier is "passive technology" as the air must travel through the

purifier to be cleaned. The HealthPro Plus uses a 3-step process. Particles pass through three high tech Filters: PreMax(for coarse and fine dust), V5-Cell(for Gas and odor), and HyperHEPA(for

fine particles like allergens, bacteria, and viruses). The HealthPro Plus has a 6-speed fan and offers a 5 year warranty. The PreMax needs changing every 6-18 months (59). The V5-Cell 1-2

years (89) . The HyperHEPA 2-4 years (189) This purifier is relatively easy to maintain with a long time between filter changing. Comes with remote. The purifier has non-outgasing

surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value 18/20 pts – The MSRP is 835. Converting the "What is removed" to rating factors scale = 4/5 pts. I rate the cleaning ability for up to 300 sqft 2/2 extremely well. My

equation is 835/(4*2)= 104.4. 104.4 equates to 18/20 pts for value.

2) Quality 15/15 pts – This is a well engineered purifier. Quality is top-notch and it shows. Workmanship 5/5 pts, Technologies 5/5 pts, Support/ Setup material 3/3 pts, and intangibles 2/2

pts

3) What is Removed 12/15 pts – This IQ unit has 3 massive filters. A pre-filter, a carbon like filter, and a better than HEPA filter called HyperHEPA. There is much precision and certified

testing done on particle size and air flow. Particles >0.3 microns 1/1 pt, Odors and Gases 3/3 pts, VOCs 2/2 pts, Basic Microorganisms 3/3 pts, Particles <0.3 microns 3/3 pts, Advanced

Microorganisms 0/2 pts, Any other additional 0/1 pt.

4) Yearly Operating Costs 3/15 pts – Actual filter life is hard to pinpoint. Each of the 3 filters has a digital readout indicator that measures when it needs replacing. The manual rates

filters at 10 hours per day on fan setting 3 (medium). Most people run their purifier 24 x 7. PreMax filter estimate 1 replace per year = 59/ year. V5-Cell filter estimate every 1.5 years =

89/1.5= 59/year. HyperHEPA filter estimate every 3 years = 189/3 = 63/year. Electricity ranges from 85 to 215 watts depending on fan speed. I'll make an assumption of 140 watts. 140

watts/1000 X .0886 cents x 24 hours X 365 days = 108.66 Total Yearly cost 289.66.

5) Warranty 8/8 pts – The IQ purifier has a 5 year warranty. Filters are not covered unless defective.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning 7/7 pts – A big plus for IQ units is precision. Air tightness is valuable for air purifiers. Very little leakage occurs around filters. This comes with a small

price though, the filters take a few additional steps to change. You do not have to change them often (some as little as 6 months and some as long as 2-4 years) and the instructions are fairly

clear. Additional cleaning is simply wiping the outside as needed with a damp rag.

7) Manufacturer Years in Business 5/5 pts – Air products designed and made in Switzerland for over 40 years.

8) Look and Feel 5/5 pts – It is large, but good looking. It has a modern look with modern looking controls. Controls may take a little time to learn to use, but the remote will help with

important settings.

9) Set-Up Time 5/5 pts – Opening the box, finding the Quick Start Guide and a few steps later you are up and running. Generally, less than 10 minutes if you can move around 35-40 lbs.

Putting the casters on is a snap, but means gently setting the purifier on its side. This is a larger air purifier and it may take a "little extra" to get it out of the box. Very well

wrapped. As with any purifier, studying the materials further will allow you to get more out of your purchase. This model will take a little study if you want to use the timer/day of the week

mode.

10) Noise Level 1/5 pts – Just below 45dB on lowest fan speed 1/2 pts. This is a 6-stage fan, so a desired speed vs. noise could be found. High is "high" at above 70 dB 0/3

pts.

total = 79/100 points

Conclusion

This is the Best IQ air purifier for basic home use.

Model: HealthPro Upgradeable to HealthPro Plus

Rating Score: 58/100 points

Review note: I have not personally tested this IQ air purifier; however, it is exactly same as the HealthPro Plus but without the V5-cell for VOCs, odors and other chemicals. I did

personally test the HealthPro Plus above.

Summary

I like the quality of this IQ air purifier and all the support and certification material. There is no doubt that the engineering is of the highest quality for a passive technology

purifier. Maintenance is minimal, but the ongoing filter cost is high. I like the remote. The overall value is lower than the HealthPro Plus because of the missing gas/odor and VOC removal. The

unit is the same as the HealthPro Plus and you could upgrade this purifier at anytime by purchasing a V5-cell for 89. This purifier is large, but it has good looks. It would look out of place

in a small room. I would recommend this unit only if you plan to upgrade to the HealthPro Plus at a later date. Make sure to read STEP5 Buying Tips, for getting the most IQ air purifier for

your money.

Basic Specifications

The HealthPro is designed for spaces up to 325 sqft (6 air changes per hour). This purifier is "passive technology" as the air must

travel through the purifier to be cleaned. The HealthPro uses a 2-step process. Particles pass through two high tech Filters: PreMax(for coarse and fine dust) and HyperHEPA(for fine particles

like allergens, bacteria, and viruses). The HealthPro has a 6-speed fan and offers a 5 year warranty. The PreMax needs changing every 6-18 months (59). The HyperHEPA 2-4 years (189). There is

an open spot if you desire to add the V5-cell at a later date. This purifier is relatively easy to maintain with a long time between filter changing. Comes with remote. The purifier has

non-outgasing surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value 2/20 pts – The MSRP is 735. Converting the "What is removed" to rating factors scale = 2/5 pts. I rate the cleaning ability for up to 325 sqft 2/2 extremely well. My

equation is 735/(2*2)= 183.8. 183.8 equates to 2/20 pts for value.

2) Quality 15/15 pts – same as HealthPro Plus.

3) What is Removed 7/15 pts – This IQ unit has 2 massive filters. A pre-filter and a better than HEPA filter called HyperHEPA. There is much precision and certified testing done on particle

size and air flow. Particles >0.3 microns 1/1 pt, Odors and Gases 0/3 pts, VOCs 0/2 pts, Basic Microorganisms 3/3 pts, Particles <0.3 microns 3/3 pts, Advanced Microorganisms 0/2 pts, Any

other additional 0/1 pt.

4) Yearly Operating Costs 3/15 pts – Actual filter life is hard to pinpoint. Each of the 2 filters has a digital readout indicator that measures when it needs replacing. The manual rates

filters at 10 hours per day on fan setting 3 (medium). Most people run their purifier 24 x 7. PreMax filter estimate 1 replace per year = 59/year. HyperHEPA filter estimate every 3 years =

189/3 = 63/year. Electricity ranges from 85 to 215 watts depending on fan speed. I'll make an assumption of 140 watts. 140 watts/1000 X .0886 cents x 24 hours X 365 days = 108.66. Total

Yearly cost 230.66.

5) Warranty 8/8 pts – same as HealthPro Plus.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning 7/7 pts – same as HealthPro Plus.

7) Manufacturer Years in Business 5/5 pts – same as HealthPro Plus.

8) Look and Feel 5/5 pts – same as HealthPro Plus.

9) Set-Up Time 5/5 pts – same as HealthPro Plus.

10) Noise Level 1/5 pts – same as HealthPro Plus.

total = 58/100 points

Conclusion

I would only recommend this IQ air purifier if you plan to add the upgrade V5-cell at a later date; otherwise get the HealthPro Plus.

Model: HealthPro Compact Not upgradeable to HealthPro Plus

Rating Score: 60/100 points

I have not personally tested this IQ air purifier; however, it is exactly same as the HealthPro Plus but without the V5 cell for VOCs, odors and other chemicals. I did personally test the

HealthPro Plus above.

Summary

I like the quality of this IQ air purifier and all the support and certification material. There is no doubt that the engineering is of the highest quality for a passive technology

purifier. Maintenance is minimal, but the ongoing filter cost is high. I like the remote. The overall value is lower than the HealthPro Plus because of the missing gas/odor and VOC removal. The

unit is the same as the HealthPro Plus other than the missing V5-cell and space. This purifier is a little smaller than the HealthPro and it looks good. It may look out of place in a small

room. I generally would not recommend this unit over the HealthPro or HealthPro Plus because of the inability to upgrade or have the V5-cell for gas/odor and VOC control. Make sure to read

STEP5 Buying Tips, for getting the most IQ air purifier for your money.

Basic Specifications: Basic Specifications: The HealthPro Compact is designed for spaces up to 300 sqft (6 air changes per hour). This purifier is "passive technology" as the air

must travel through the purifier to be cleaned. The HealthPro Compact uses a 2-step process. Particles pass through two high tech Filters: PreMax(for coarse and fine dust) and HyperHEPA(for

fine particles like allergens, bacteria, and viruses). The HealthPro Compact has a 6-speed fan and offers a 5 year warranty. The PreMax needs changing every 6-18 months (59). The HyperHEPA 2-4

years (189). This purifier is relatively easy to maintain with a long time between filter changing. Comes with remote. The purifier has non-outgasing surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value 4/20 pts – The MSRP is 689. Converting the "What is removed" to rating factors scale = 2/5 pts. I rate the cleaning ability for up to 300 sqft 2/2 extremely well. My

equation is 689/(2*2)= 172.3. 172.3 equates to 4/20 pts for value.

2) Quality 15/15 pts – same as HealthPro Plus.

3) What is Removed 7/15 pts – This IQ unit has 2 massive filters. A pre-filter and a better than HEPA filter called HyperHEPA. There is much precision and certified testing done on particle

size and air flow. Particles >0.3 microns 1/1 pt, Odors and Gases 0/3 pts, VOCs 0/2 pts, Basic Microorganisms 3/3 pts, Particles <0.3 microns 3/3 pts, Advanced Microorganisms 0/2 pts, Any

other additional 0/1 pt.

4) Yearly Operating Costs 3/15 pts – Actual filter life is hard to pinpoint. Each of the 2 filters has a digital readout indicator that measures when it needs replacing. The manual rates

filters at 10 hours per day on fan setting 3 (medium). Most people run their purifier 24 x 7. PreMax filter estimate 1 replace per year = 59/year. HyperHEPA filter estimate every 3 years =

189/3 = 63/year. Electricity ranges from 85 to 215 watts depending on fan speed. I'll make an assumption of 140 watts. 140 watts/1000 X .0886 cents x 24 hours X 365 days = 108.66. Total

Yearly cost 230.66.

5) Warranty 8/8 pts – same as HealthPro Plus.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning 7/7 pts – same as HealthPro Plus.

7) Manufacturer Years in Business 5/5 pts – same as HealthPro Plus.

8) Look and Feel 5/5 pts – same as HealthPro Plus.

9) Set-Up Time 5/5 pts – same as HealthPro Plus.

10) Noise Level 1/5 pts – same as HealthPro Plus.

total = 60/100 points

Conclusion

I would not recommend this IQ air purifier over the HealthPro or HealthPro Plus.

Model: GC MultiGas

Rating Score: 67/100 points

I have not personally tested this IQ air purifier; however, everything is the same as the HealthPro Plus except the filters are focused on Gases and Odors for the chemically sensitive. I did

personally test the HealthPro Plus above.

Summary

I like the quality of this purifier and all the support and certification material. There is no doubt that the engineering is of the highest quality for a passive technology

purifier. Maintenance is minimal, but the ongoing filter cost is very high. I like the remote. This purifier is large, but it has good looks. It may look out of place in a small room. I

generally would not recommend this unit over the HealthPro Plus unless you seek superior gas/odor and VOC control. Make sure to read STEP5 Buying Tips, for getting the most IQ air purifier for

your money.

Basic Specifications

The GC MultiGas is designed for spaces up to 290 sqft (6 air changes per hour). This purifier is "passive technology" as the air must travel through the

purifier to be cleaned. The GC MultiGas uses a 3-step process. Particles pass through three high tech Filters: a Special PreMax(for coarse, fine, and ultra-fine particles), two Gas removing

cartridges(for gas, odor, and VOCs) and two statically charged post filter sleeves(for final clean-up). The GC MultiGas has a 6-speed fan. This is a commercial unit and only offers a 1 year

warranty. The PreMax needs changing every 6-18 months (59). The two Gas removing cartridges 1-3 years (265). The post-filter sleeves 1-3 years (96) This purifier is relatively easy to

maintain with a long time between filter changing. Comes with remote. The purifier has non-outgasing surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value 14/20 pts – The MSRP is 1035. Converting the "What is removed" to rating factors scale = 4/5 pts. I rate the cleaning ability for up to 290 sqft 2/2 extremely well. My

equation is 1035/(4*2)= 129.3. 129.3 equates to 14/20 pts for value.

2) Quality 15/15 pts – same as HealthPro Plus.

3) What is Removed 13/15 pts – This IQ unit has a special filter system. A pre-filter and specialized HEPA filter called HyperHEPA combined in one and Gas removing cartridges with

micro-charged sleeves. There is much precision and certified testing done on particle size and air flow. Particles >0.3 microns 1/1 pt, Odors and Gases 3/3 pts, VOCs 2/2 pts, Basic

Microorganisms 3/3 pts, Particles <0.3 microns 3/3 pts, Advanced Microorganisms 0/2 pts, Any other additional 1/1 pt for additional gaseous/odor control.

4) Yearly Operating Costs 0/15 pts – Actual filter life is hard to pinpoint. Each of the 3 filter types has a digital readout indicator that measures when it needs replacing. The manual

rates filters at 10 hours per day on fan setting 3 (medium). Most people run their purifier 24 x 7. PreMax filter estimate 1 replace per year = 59/ year. Gas and Odor cartridges estimate every

2 years = 265/2 = 132.50/year. Post Filter Sleeves estimate every 2 years = 96/2 =48/year. Electricity ranges from 85 to 215 watts depending on fan speed. I'll make an assumption of 140

watts. 140 watts/1000 X .0886 cents x 24 hours X 365 days = 108.66. Total Yearly cost 348.16.

5) Warranty 2/8 pts – This is considered a commercial unit, but works well for home use. Commercial units are generally run "harder". 1 year warranty except filters.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning 7/7 pts – same as HealthPro Plus.

7) Manufacturer Years in Business 5/5 pts – same as HealthPro Plus.

8) Look and Feel 5/5 pts – same as HealthPro Plus.

9) Set-Up Time 5/5 pts – same as HealthPro Plus.

10) Noise Level 1/5 pts – same as HealthPro Plus.

total = 67/100 points

Conclusion

I would recommend this IQ air purifier only to chemically sensitive individuals or specialized business locations.

Return to STEP 3 Reviews from IQ Air Purifier

Ionic Pro air purifier review: Summaries and Detailed Reviews.

Reviews are only as good as the underlying rating criteria used: CLICK HERE for my review criteria.

After you are done reviewing, STEP 5 Buying lists the best places to buy Ionic Pro purifiers.

Ionic Pro Air Purifier Summaries

Model: Therapure 100 Germicidal Air Sanitizer – Poor Rating

Small Room

MSRP 49.99

Conclusion: A sharp looking little purifier that couldn't.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Purepro Professional – Fair Rating

Smaller Room

MSRP 49.99

Conclusion: A bad Oreck knock-off; low cleaning power.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Ionic Pro Ionic Pro Air Purifier – Fair Rating

Single Room

MSRP 149.99

Conclusion: Knock-off of old sharper image design with poor cleaning ability.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Ionic Pro Turbo Ionic Pro Air Purifier – Fair Rating

Single Room

MSRP 179.99

Conclusion: Makes a great infomercial; questionable real cleaning power.

Detailed Review Below

Ionic Pro Air Purifier Detailed Reviews

Model: Therapure 100 Germicidal Air Sanitizer Ionic Pro Air Purifier

Rating Score: 49/100 points

Summary

In the world of generic towers and mini-towers, this purifier stands out with its unique looks. If it would actually do much cleaning we would have a winner. It is energy efficient,

easy to maintain, and quiet. These are all important, but when the cleaning power is lacking none of that matters.

Basic Specifications: The Therapure 100 Germicidal Air Sanitizer is designed for a small room. This purifier is passive as the air is drawn through the purifier and affected by the UV bulb.

Ionic Pro states the cleaning is a 3-stage process, but includes drawing the air in and pushing it out as two stages. The only cleaning stage is the UV lamp. The air that passes through the UV

chamber will incur a reduction in microorganisms. The actual reduction will depend on the actual microorganism and the air flow. No cleaning data or test results given. The UV bulb lasts a year

and will cost 14.95 to replace. There is a 3-speed fan and a 1-year warranty. This Ionic Pro air purifier has minor plastic outgassing smell out of the box.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 4/24 points – The MSRP is 49.99. The estimated square footage cleaned is 120 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((49.99 initial + 26.59/year)/120 sqft)/1

removal points)) = 36.18. 36.18 = 4 points – bad value.

2) What is Removed: 1/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of

Odors and Gases – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of VOCs – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal,

0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 15/15 points – The UV bulb has a lifespan of 1-year. Replacement cost is 14.95/year. Calculating electricity usage: 15 watts/1000 X .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X

365 days/year = 11.64/year. Total cost 26.59/year. Very Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 6/12 points – The quality is good for China plastic. I especially liked the mechanism and release lever for removing the UV bulb; slick. Unfortunately everything else is average

or below. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality, 3-points. Support Material – Poor Quality, 0-points.

5) Warranty: 2/8 points – The Therapure has a 1-year warranty. Fair Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – Changing the UV bulb every year is the only routine maintenance. The marketing information states the high quality bulb lasts for years; very

general statement. 1 year is more likely. Changing the bulb is easy; less than 10 minutes. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. The manual recommends cleaning the UV lamp every 3-4 months. You will need

to let the lamp cool for at least 15-20 minutes before wiping the bulb. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This is a decent looking little purifier. It is a small tower, but does not look generic like some of the lower cost models. Looks Good, 2-points. Plastic, but

a reasonable feel. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 3/5 points – The products are marketed through the Sylmark group and its group of companies. They are less than 9 years old.

9) Noise Level: 5/5 points – This purifier has a 3-speed fan, but it is quiet from low to high. Very Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Remove from the box and attach the AC adapter to the unit. Plug and go.Easy Set-up.

total = 49/100 points

Conclusion

A sharp looking little purifier that couldn't.

Model: Purepro Professional

Rating Score: 54/100 points

Summary

There are many tower purifiers out there, so look-a-likes are expected, but here is an Oreck knock-off. The Purepro states the "Highest Clean Air Rating" and "Whisper

Quiet", but shows no proof. They do seem to be Energy Star rated, but use an artificial CADR rating (they are not certified by AHAM). The actual cleaning ability is average or below.

Unfortunately some of the marketing material here reminds me of a Tupperware-Like product I once bought with lifetime warranty. Once I got the product home and it broke I could not find anyone

to talk to to get a replacement. Everything was a blank dead-end. Ionic Pro is not that bad, but some of the claims are inflated and it is very hard to find substantial factual data on their

air purifiers.

Basic Specifications

The Purepro Professional is designed for rooms up to 178 sqft. This purifier is passive/active with a pre filter, electrostatic precipitator, oxygen plus filter, and

negative ionizer (see technology section for explanation why this is questionable). There are no filters or parts to replace and all maintenance is done by wiping and washing. This unit has a

3-speed fan and 1-year warranty. This Ionic Pro air purifier has minor plastic outgassing smell out of the box.

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures (AHAM) Smoke 178/ Dust 178/ Pollen 178 *** Special Note *** Ionic Pro Uses this measure for this

purifier, but has not actually submitted to the AHAM. This makes the reading less meaningful as a comparison to other CADR rated units.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is 199.95. The estimated square footage cleaned is 178 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((199.95 initial + 65.97/year)/178 sqft)/5

removal points)) = 70.12. 70.12 = 12 points – fair value.

2) What is Removed: 5/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Good Removal, 1-point, Removal of Odors

and Gases – Good Removal, 1-point, Removal of VOCs – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Good Removal, 1-point, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal,

0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 12/15 points – This purifier has no replacement filters or parts. Calculating electricity usage: 85 watts/1000 X .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year =

65.97/year. Total cost 65.97/year. Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 6/12 points – Basic plastic quality from China. Average or below. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality, 3-points. Support

Material – Poor Quality, 0-points.

5) Warranty: 2/8 points – The Purepro has a 1-year warranty. Fair Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – There is no routine maintenance with this purifier. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Frequent cleaning of the electrostatic plates will be needed. The

pre filter will also need periodic cleaning. Expect to clean every 1-2 weeks or as needed. Intensive Cleaning 1-point.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This is obviously a knock-off of Orecks XL Tabletop Professional. It comes in graphite or white. Looks Good, 2-points. Plastic, but a reasonable feel. Feels

Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 3/5 points – The products are marketed through the Sylmark group and its group of companies. They are less than 9 years old. The products are marketed through the

Sylmark group and its group of companies. They are less than 9 years old.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – Quite on low and louder on high. No actual dB information available. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 54/100 points

Conclusion

A bad Oreck knock-off; low cleaning power.

Model: Ionic Pro Ionic Pro Air Purifier

Rating Score: 55/100 points

Summary

Ionic Pro goes head to head with Sharper Image in its infomercial. They do not use this purifier (they use the Ionic Pro Turbo) because it is an older model. This is an old Ionic

Breeze knock-off. The Ionic Breeze was a successfully marketed unit, but it lacked durability and actual cleaning power. This purifier runs in that same line. What we have here is a low cost,

knock-off of a dated, questionable cleaning power air purifier. Part of the cleaning problem is the silent air flow. Without real good air flow, this purifier has trouble doing much of

anything.

Basic Specifications

The Ionic Pro is designed for rooms up to 200 sqft. This purifier is passive which means the air must pass through the purifier. It uses a basic electrostatic

precipitator and relies on its design to move the air silently. There are no filters or parts to replace and all maintenance is done by wiping and washing. This unit has 3-output settings and

2-year warranty. This Ionic Pro air purifier has minor plastic outgassing smell out of the box.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 8/24 points – The MSRP is 149.99. The estimated square footage cleaned is 200 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((149.99 initial + 31.04/year)/200 sqft)/3

removal points)) = 69.83. 69.83 = 8 points – poor value.

2) What is Removed: 3/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Odors

and Gases – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of VOCs – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal,

0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 15/15 points – This unit has no replaceable parts. Calculating electricity usage: 40 watts/1000 X .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = 31.04/year. Total

cost 31.04/year. Very Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 6/12 points – Basic plastic quality from China. Average or below. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality, 3-points. Support

Material – Poor Quality, 0-points.

5) Warranty: 4/8 points – A 2-year warranty is standard. Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – There is no routine maintenance with this purifier. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. This purifier needs cleaning every week. You may wipe the collection

blades or fully wash them with soap and water. They need to be fully dry before sliding them back into the purifier. You will also need to clean the wire by pulling a "wire cleaning

mechanism" up and down a few times. Wipe the outside of the unit as needed. Intensive Cleaning 1-point.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This unit looks like an old Sharper Image knock-off. The price is right, but the old Sharper Image units were flaky. Looks Good, 2-points. Plastic, but a

reasonable feel. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 3/5 points – The products are marketed through the Sylmark group and its group of companies. They are less than 9 years old. The products are marketed through the

Sylmark group and its group of companies. They are less than 9 years old.

9) Noise Level: 5/5 points – Billed as silent, except for the crackling when it needs cleaning and down the road when it becomes less cleanable. Very Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 55/100 points

Conclusion

: Knock-off of old sharper image design with poor cleaning ability. Return to Top Model: Ionic Pro Turbo Ionic Pro Air Purifier Last Reviewed: 01-17-08 Rating Score: 58/100

points

Summary

Ionic Pro Turbo goes head to head with Sharper Image in its infomercial. The talk around and around about its improved silent air flow being "second generation". They say

this gives them an edge over Sharper Image. Since it is a "copy" with improved air flow it should end up closely rated. It is and they both are not recommended.

Basic Specifications: The Ionic Pro Turbo is designed for a single room. This purifier is passive which means the air must pass through the purifier. It uses a basic electrostatic

precipitator and relies on its design to move the air silently. They claim improved air flow because of second generation technology. There are no filters or parts to replace and all

maintenance is done by wiping and washing. This unit has 3-output settings and 1-year warranty standard. This Ionic Pro air purifier has minor plastic outgassing smell out of the box.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is 179.99. The estimated square footage cleaned is 200 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((179.99 initial + 31.04/year)/200 sqft)/4

removal points)) = 73.62. 73.62 = 12 points – fair value.

2) What is Removed: 4/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Odors

and Gases – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of VOCs – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal,

0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 15/15 points – This unit has no replaceable parts. Calculating electricity usage: 40 watts/1000 X .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = 31.04/year. Total

cost 31.04/year. Very Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 6/12 points – Basic plastic quality from China. Average or below. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality, 3-points. Support

Material – Poor Quality, 0-points.

5) Warranty: 2/8 points – A 1-year warranty is standard, but if you order online and pay full price upfront instead of the Free Trial, you get a 2-year warranty. I would do that if I

purchased this purifier. Fair Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – There is no routine maintenance with this purifier. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. This purifier needs cleaning every week or two. You may wipe the

collection blades or fully wash them with soap and water. They need to be fully dry before sliding them back into the purifier. Wipe the outside of the unit as needed. Intensive Cleaning

1-point.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This an improved Shaper Image knock off with a front removed collection blade array. Even though it is an improvement over the Ionic Pro, it is still just

another generic looking plastic tower. Looks Good, 2-points. Plastic, but a reasonable feel. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 3/5 points – The products are marketed through the Sylmark group and its group of companies. They are less than 9 years old. The products are marketed through the

Sylmark group and its group of companies. They are less than 9 years old.

9) Noise Level: 5/5 points – Billed as silent, except for the crackling when it needs cleaning. Very Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 58/100 points

Conclusion

Makes a great infomercial; questionable real cleaning power.

Return to STEP 3 Reviews I-Z from Ionic Pro Air Purifier

STEP 3 is to rate air purifiers against each other, brand against brand. On this page you will find brands I-Z.

Each review shows an overall rating score from 0 low to 100 high. Here is the criteria I use to rate air purifiers. Go directly to my air purifier review top 10 page.

Brands I to Z

Ionic Pro:

All Ionic Pro Reviews

Ionic Pro was formulated for the infomercial age. The Sylmark Group was founded in 1998. They have sold nearly 3 billion of products using the TV. Ionic Pro is mainly marketed through “long-form” infomercials. You know the ones; they tend to grab your attention. These infomercials appeal to a vast audience for one reason, they use a proven marketing strategy. The products vary from great to good to marginal. It doesn’t matter; they can all be sold if they fit and use the right marketing strategy. Ionic Pro is also sold on the Web and has landed at many big box retail stores. They are look-a-like versions of the popular Sharper Image and Oreck air purifiers. Priced right, but unfortunately marginal for cleaning the air, they serve the lower end of the air purifier market. Rate Air Purifiers. I currently have four reviews posted: Therapure 100 Germicidal Air Sanitizer, Purepro Professional, Ionic Pro, and the Ionic Pro Turbo.

IQAir:

All IQ Reviews

The IQAir Company was founded about 40 years ago by two German brothers. Based in Switzerland, IQ does in-house research, development, manufacturing, and marketing. They offer residential and commercial solutions including larger custom commercial projects. I currently have four reviews posted: the HealthPro Plus, the HealthPro, the HealthPro Compact, and the GC MultiGas. IQ is high on quality and high on detail. They are a top Brand.

NQ

All NQ Reviews

NQ Industries founded in 1993. They currently have a product line that is for hospitals and larger industries. They also have a residential/ small commercial line of products. Their focus is on commercial applications and the residential models they offer appear very “commercial” in nature. Very heavy duty. They are marketed online and through dealerships. Rate Air Purifiers. I currently have two reviews posted: NQ Clarifier with UV Sterilization and the NQ Clarifier Medical Air Defense System.

Oreck:

All Oreck Reviews

The Oreck Company got its start in Vacuum Cleaner sales in 1963. David Oreck still runs the company at 84 as I write this; an inspiration. Oreck seems to be everywhere on the TV, Radio, and Internet. Maybe it’s the market I’m in, but I hear/see their advertising often. They have sold several different purifiers for quite a few years. I currently have two reviews posted: the Oreck XL Tabletop Professional and the Oreck XL Tower Professional. Oreck is definitely high on marketing and making the transaction easy, but their purifiers are worth a look as well.

Panasonic<h/3>

All Panasonic Reviews

Panasonic got its start in Japan in 1918 when founder Konosuke Matsushita invented a two-socket light fixture. Today Panasonic is one of the world’s leaders in consumer electronics. They appear to have stepped back from their air purification line as of late, but may or may not introduce new models as time goes on. Their current models are still available on the internet, but signs point to them being discontinued. They are basic purifiers with some electronic gadgetry. The electronics are nice, but a better air cleaning technology would be nicer. I currently have three reviews posted: F-P10HU1 HEPA, F-P15HU2 HEPA, and the F-P20HU1 HEPA.

Pionair

All Pionair Reviews

Pionair is a newcomer to the air purification industry having started business in 2004. They have a few endorsements including: The Townsend Letter, Health & Wellness Magizine, and The Healthy Living Magazine. In addition, the Pionair is recommended in the New York times best-selling book, The Maker’s Diet. Rate Air Purifiers. I currently have three reviews posted: 350/Smart Pointe 350, 750/Smart Pointe 750, and the 1500/Pionair Smart Pointe 1500.

Rabbit Air

All Rabbit Air Reviews

Rabbit Air started business in 2001. They have a partner ship with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. They have products of excellent quality and provide excellent technical information and support. You will find them at a few select electronic retailers in the USA as well as online direct and from a handful of authorized online retailers. I currently have three reviews posted: Minus A2 AP-1004, BioGS SPA-582A, and the BioGS SPA-421A.

Secure Air/Safe Air:

All Secure Air/Safe Air Reviews

Secure Air has been involved in the air purifier industry for just over three years. They are also marketed under the Safe Air Brand. They are an Ohio based company with manufacturing occurring in China. You can find their products at a few big box stores and online. Both models focus on killing and disabling microorganisms, but miss the mark on cleaning much else. They also offer scent cartridges in the larger model, which totally defeats the purpose of cleaning the air. Interestingly enough, the 1200 model is the first throw away model I have encountered that is not a plug-in. Rate Air Purifiers. I currently have two reviews posted: Secure Air 1200 and the Secure Air 3500.

Shaklee

All Shaklee Reviews

Shaklee was started in 1956 as a nutrition company by Dr. Forrest C. Shaklee Sr. Shaklee currently has a full line of natural products including vitamins, minerals, diet products, cleaning products, and personal products. They are also in the air and water business, but I think it is one step away from their main focus. With that said, they did work with RGF Environmental Group to design their air purifiers. RGF is a leader in several forms of air and water purification mainly in the commercial and custom design arenas. Shaklee uses the network marketing business model and to get products you need to work with a distributor or become a distributor. Products may become available from time to time on eBay as well. Rate Air Purifiers. I currently have two reviews posted: AirSource 3000, and the AirSource Mobile.

Sharp:

All Sharp Reviews

Tokuji Hayakawa started Sharp at age 19 in the year 1912. He owned a small metal working shop that grew and changed over the years to one of the world ‘s largest manufacturers of consumer electronics. These models are available on the internet and from other Sharp partners. They are one of the few mainline purifiers that offer positive and negative ionization with their Plasmacluster technology. I currently have five reviews posted: KC-C150U, KC-C100U, Plasmacluster FP-P60CX and FP-P40CX, and the FP-P35CX.

Sharper Image:

All Sharper Image Reviews

The Sharper Image Company got its start as a specialty gadget catalog company in 1977. The company now has over 180 stores, the monthly catalog, website, as well as business to business incentive programs. Their air purifiers have remained a large part of their overall business even though they have had some ups and downs with them over the years. Rate Air Purifiers. I currently have six reviews posted: Hybrid GP Germicidal, Ionic Breeze GP Silent, Ionic Breeze Quadra Silent, Ionic Breeze Tabletop, Ionic Breeze Air Freshener 2.0, and the Ionic Breeze Air Freshener for Bathrooms.

Surround Air:

All Surround Air Reviews. The Surround Air Company is a division of Indoor Purification Systems, Inc. located in Layton, UT. They started business in 1998. They distribute mainly on the internet through their website. They appear to have a solid business in Mexico as well. They offer purifiers that have multiple technologies at affordable prices. They are a mid-level brand. Rate Air Purifiers. I currently have eight reviews posted: Multi-Tech S2000/S3000/S4000, Intelli-Pro XJ-3800, N-Lite 5000, XJ-2100UV, XJ-202 Plug-In, and XJ-800 for Vehicles.

Return to HOME PAGE from STEP 3 Rate Air Purifiers I-Z

Honeywell air purifier review: Summaries and Detailed Reviews.

Reviews are only as good as the underlying rating criteria used.

After you are done reviewing, STEP 5 Buying lists the best places to buy Honeywell purifiers.

Honeywell Air Purifier Summaries

Model: Quietclean Tower HFD-120-Q Fair Rating

Up to 170 sqft

MSRP 169.99

Conclusion: "HEPA like" filter with negative ionizer.

Detailed Review Below

Model: UV Air Treatment System – RUVLAMP1 Fair Rating

Works only in HVAC Ductwork

MSRP 159.99

Conclusion: Very limited cleaning scope.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Enviracaire HEPA 50250 Honeywell Air Purifier Fair Rating

Up to 312 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 199.99

Conclusion: An average HEPA filter with limited odor and gas removal.

Detailed Review Below

Model: QuietCare 17005 Honeywell Air Purifier Poor Rating

Up to 168 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 149.99

Conclusion: Another average HEPA filter with limited odor and gas removal.

Detailed Review Below

Other Current Honeywell air purifier Models:

Honeywell has many models to fit every marketable, low-cost niche. If you want to buy one of these air purifiers, shop around as they go

"on sale" often.

Model: HEPA-Type Tabletop 16200 – "HEPA like", negative ionizer, some odor control MSRP 59.99

Model: Quietcare Permanent True HEPA 17000 – Similar and same "family" as 17005 aboveMSRP 129.99

Model: Quietcare Programmable True HEPA 17006 – Similar and same "family" as 17005 above MSRP 179.99

Model: Slientcomfort True HEPA 18150 – true HEPA filter w/ carbon filter for odors MSRP 169.99

Model: Permanent True HEPA Slientcomfort 18155 – true HEPA filter w/ carbon filter for odors MSRP 179.99

Model: Quietclean Compact Tower HFD-010 -"HEPA like" filter and negative ionizer MSRP 89.99

Model: Tower HFD-100 – "HEPA like" filter, negative ionizer and pre filter MSRP 149.95

Model: Quietclean Tower HFD-110 – "HEPA like" filter, negative ionizer and pre filter MSRP 199.95

Model: Quietclean Anti-Bacterial HFD-130 – "HEPA like" filter, negative ionizer and pre filter MSRP 219.99

Model: Quietclean Anti-Bacterial HFD-135 – UV and electrostatically charged "HEPA like" filter MSRP 399.75

Model: Hepaclean Compact HHT-011 – "HEPA like" filter, negative ionizer and pre filter MSRP 159.99

Model: Hepaclean Tower HHT-080 – "HEPA like" filter w/ pre filter MSRP 119.99

Model: Hepaclean Tower HHT-081 – "HEPA like" filter w/ pre filter MSRP 119.99

Model: Hepaclean Tower HHT-090 – "HEPA like" filter w/ pre filter MSRP 149.99

Model: Hepaclean Tower HHT-100 – "HEPA like" filter, negative ionizer and pre filter MSRP 149.95

Model: Hepaclean Germ Reducing HHT-145 – UV, "HEPA like" filter, carbon filter, negative ionizer MSRP 269.99

Model: Quietclean Tower w/ UV HHT-215 – UV,"HEPA like" filter, and negative ionizer MSRP 399.75

Model: True Hepa 50100 – Similar and same "family" as 50250 above MSRP 107.99 Model: True Hepa 50150 – Similar and same "family" as 50250 above MSRP 159.99

There are probably more, but you get the idea … low-end, highly marketed in big-box type stores. Lower on actual cleaning power; low on actual cleaning results.

Honeywell Air Purifier Detailed Reviews

Model: Quietclean Tower HFD-120-Q Honeywell Air Purifier

Rating Score: 52/100 points

Summary

There are several grades of purifier and since I did find this at a local "big box" store it would follow that it is lower consumer grade. Most rating categories score

average or higher except the ones in the actual cleaning capability department. This purifier does a poor job of cleaning the air.

Basic Specifications: The HFD-120-Q is designed for rooms up to 170 sqft. This purifier is passive/active with a pre filter and 99% HEPA on the passive side for particle filtration and a

negative ionizer putting out just negative ions into the air on the active side (see technology section for explanation why this is questionable). This Honeywell air purifier has no replaceable

filters and a 3-speed oscillating fan. A 5-year limited warranty is standard. Expect outgassing plastic smell out of the box.

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures (AHAM) Smoke 110/ Dust 100/ Pollen 132

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 4/24 points – The MSRP is 169.99. The estimated square footage cleaned is 170 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((169.99 initial + 41.91/year)/170 sqft)/2

removal points)) = 37.68. 37.68 = 4 points – bad value.

2) What is Removed: 2/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Fair Removal, 1-point. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Fair Removal, 1-point. Removal of Odors

and Gases – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of VOCs – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal,

0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 15/15 points – This unit has cleanable filters, so no filters or other parts to replace. Calculating electricity usage: 54 watts/1000 X .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X

365 days/year = 41.91/year. Total cost 41.91/year. Very Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 5/12 points – The workmanship and technology is below average. Support material is very basic. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Fair

Quality, 2-points. Support Material – Poor Quality, 0-points.

5) Warranty: 8/8 points – This purifier comes with a 5-year limited warranty. Excellent Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 5/6 points – There is little ongoing maintenance with this purifier. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. The box says clean every 3 months and the instruction manual

says every 1 month. A little marketing? The Electronic Filter Reminder light will light when the filter needs cleaning. Follow the instructions to vacuum or rinse and dry as needed. Reset the

reminder light after cleaning and you're done. Cleaning should take 10-20 minutes per month or less. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 2/6 points – This purifier looks like any generic tower model. Questionable Looks, 1-point. Plastic look and feel. Not too impressive. Questionable Feel, 1-point.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – Most Honeywell Air Purifiers are made by KAZ. Kaz has been manufacturing products since 1926.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – This model has 3-speeds plus an oscillating option. Noise level is relatively low with no actual dB data. Estimate 30dB on low and 45-55 on high. Average Noise

Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 52/100 points

Conclusion

"HEPA like" filter with negative ionizer.

Model: UV Air Treatment System – RUVLAMP1 Honeywell Air Purifier

Rating Score: 50/100 points

Summary

There are two types of UV air purifiers for HVAC systems. Honeywell's type has a limited cleaning scope and kills some mold, some types of bacteria, and several other

microorganisms. These types of airborne pollutants have different "kill rates" and they may or may not be effected as they pass by the UV lamp. The other type of UV purifier has the

same effect plus it works in conjunction with additional technology modifications to emit an oxidizing plasma into the entire home, thus being much more effective. I do not recommend this

Honeywell air purifier unless you want to have added protection in conjunction with other purifiers. If you do want to put a UV system into your ductwork, check out Ecoquest or Air Oasis Brands

or other HVAC based purifiers that offer more cleaning power.

Basic Specifications

Very little information is given on this purifier on the box or in the instructions or even online at the Honeywell website. Generally a contractor or do-it-your-selfer

will purchase and install this type of purifier. The replaceable UV bulb will run you about 50 a year. A 1-year warranty is offered.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is 159.99. The estimated square footage cleaned is 1000 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((159.99 initial + 63.97/year)/1000 sqft)/1

removal points)) = 77.60. 77.60 = 12 points – fair value.

2) What is Removed: 1/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Poor Removal, 0-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Poor Removal, 0-points. Removal of

Odors and Gases – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of VOCs – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal,

0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 15/15 points – A replacement UV bulb will run you about 50/year. Calculating electricity usage: 18 watts/1000 X .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year =

13.97/year. Total cost 63.97/year. Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 5/12 points – About Average quality with below average documentation. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Fair Quality, 2-points.

Support Material – Poor Quality, 0-points.

5) Warranty: 4/8 points – 1-year warranty on this unit. Fair Warranty. 6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – There is little ongoing maintenance with this purifier. You will need to

replace the UV bulb every year. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. The manual states that quarterly bulb cleaning should be preformed. After letting bulb cool for at least 15 minutes, the actual

cleaning should take only a minute or so. Then reinstall. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 2/6 points – This model looks a little like the other HVAC UV cell type purifiers, but it uses a different bulb and does not have the additional technology. Mostly hidden

in the HVAC system. Looks Good, 2-points. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – Most Honeywell Air Purifiers are made by KAZ. Kaz has been manufacturing products since 1926.

9) Noise Level: 5/5 points – Works with standard HVAC. Noise is not an issue. Very Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 1/3 points – The box had limited information, but promised a 15-minute install. Installation time will vary. This unit will mostly be installed by professionals or

do-it-yourselfers. I would count on 1 hour or more. Involved Set-up.

total = 50/100 points

Conclusion

Very limited cleaning scope.

Model: Enviracaire HEPA 50250 Honeywell Air Purifier

Rating Score: 56/100 points

Summary

This is a good solid HEPA filter which will get rid of most dust and pet dander. It is easy to use. It has a good 5-year warranty. The maintenance costs are moderate for this type

of purifier mainly because of the "permanent" HEPA filter. If you want an average HEPA filter, then this may do the job.

Basic Specifications

: The Enviracaire HEPA 50250 is designed for spaces up to 312 sqft (6 air changes per hour). This purifier is "passive technology" as the air must travel

through the purifier to be cleaned. The 50250 uses a 2-step process. Initially the air passes through a thin carbon filter and then through a more substantial HEPA filter. The purifier has a

3-speed fan, filter change indicators, and a 5-year warranty. The carbon filter is a bit on the thin size and will need to be replaced every 3 months (15.99). Expect some initial plastic

outgassing smell from this Honeywell air purifier.

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures (AHAM) Smoke 250 / Dust 250/ Pollen 250

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is 199.99. The square footage cleaned is 312 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((199.99 initial + 153.22/year)/312 sqft)/4 removal

points)) = 71.70. 71.70 = 12 points – fair value.

2) What is Removed: 4/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Fair Removal, 1-point. Removal of Odors

and Gases – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of VOCs – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal,

0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 6/15 points – Carbon Filter Replacement will cost you 4 X 15.99 = 63.96/year. The HEPA filters do not need to be replaced unless damaged or wore out. There are 3

stackable filters running about 60 to replace them all. Electricity ranges from 50 to 170 watts. I'll estimate 115 watts. Calculating electricity usage: 115 watts/1000 X .0886/kwh x 24

hours/day X 365 days/year = 89.25/year. Total cost 153.22/year. Above Average to operate.

4) Quality: 7/12 points – The design and quality are adequate. The technology is basic. The setup manual is better than some of the Honeywell models. Presented at KAZ as made in the USA,

I'm a little suspect, if not surprised. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality, 3-points. Support Material – Good Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 8/8 points – This purifier comes with a 5-year limited warranty. Excellent Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 5/6 points – Maintenance is limited to changing the carbon filter every 3 months. Changing filters and cleaning should take 20-30 minutes every 3 months. Easy

Maintenance, 3-points. Cleaning is limited to vacuuming the HEPA filter every 3-6 months. The HEPA filter is listed as permanent and lifetime, but may need replacement depending on your

perception of need and/or actual usage level. If you take care of the HEPA filter, it should last awhile. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 3/6 points – This looks like a big plastic donut. Efficient as a HEPA air purifier, but definitely not as easy to fit into decor as some purifiers. Questionable Looks,

1-point. Easy to use and run. Feels Good, 2-point.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – Most Honeywell Air Purifiers are made by KAZ. Kaz has been manufacturing products since 1926.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – Just below 35dB on lowest fan speed. High is at 57 dB. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Instructions are simplified. Easy Set-up.

total = 56/100 points

Conclusion

An average HEPA filter with limited odor and gas removal.Return to Top Model: QuietCare 17005 Honeywell Air Purifier Last Reviewed: 01-11-08 Rating Score: 49/100 points

Summary: This is a good solid HEPA filter which will get rid of most dust and pet dander. It is easy to use. It has a good 5-year warranty. The maintenance costs are moderate to high for

this type of purifier. If you want an average HEPA filter, then this model may do the job.

Basic Specifications: The QuietCare 17005 is designed for spaces up to 168 sqft (6 air changes per hour). This purifier is "passive technology" as the air must travel through the

purifier to be cleaned. The 17005 uses a 2-step process. Initially the air passes through a thin carbon filter and then through a more substantial HEPA filter. The purifier has a 3-speed fan,

filter change indicators, remote control and a 5-year warranty. The carbon filter is a bit on the thin size and will need to be replaced every 3 months (15.99). The HEPA filter needs

replacement every 1 to 3 years. It costs just under 50 per replacement. Expect some initial plastic outgassing smell.

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures (AHAM) Smoke 130/ Dust 130/ Pollen 130

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 8/24 points – The MSRP is 149.99. The square footage cleaned is 168 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((149.99 initial + 179.98/year)/168 sqft)/4 removal

points)) = 50.90. 50.90 = 8 points – poor value.

2) What is Removed: 4/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Fair Removal, 1-point. Removal of Odors

and Gases – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of VOCs – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal,

0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 6/15 points – Carbon Filter Replacement will cost 4 X 15.99 = 63.96/year. The HEPA filter is listed as permanent, but the manual states life at 1-3 years

depending on usage. If lasting 2 years, the cost per year would be (2 filters needed X 22.99)/2 = 22.99/year. Calculating electricity usage: 120 watts/1000 X .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365

days/year = 93.03/year. Total cost 179.98/year. Above Average to operate.

4) Quality: 5/12 points – The design and quality are adequate. The technology is basic. The setup manual is better than some of the Honeywell models. Presented at KAZ as made in the USA,

I'm a little suspect, if not surprised. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality, 3-points. Support Material – Fair Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 8/8 points – This purifier comes with a 5-year limited warranty. Excellent Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 5/6 points – Maintenance is limited to changing the carbon filter every 3 months. Changing filters and cleaning should take 20-30 minutes every 3 months. Easy

Maintenance, 3-points. Cleaning is limited to vacuuming the HEPA filter every 3-6 months. The HEPA filter is listed as permanent, but the manual states life at 1-3 years depending on usage. If

you take care of the HEPA filter, it should last awhile. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 2/6 points – A little better looking than the "plastic donut" above (50250), but it still will be a challenge with some decors. Questionable Looks, 1-point. Easy

to use and run. Feels Good, 2-point.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – Most Honeywell Air Purifiers are made by KAZ. Kaz has been manufacturing products since 1926.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – This purifier is marketed as quiet. User reviews state otherwise. No dB given, but I'm giving it an average rating based on user reviews. Average Noise

Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Instructions are simplified. Easy Set-up.

total = 49/100 points

Conclusion

Another average HEPA filter with limited odor and gas removal.Return to Top

Return to STEP 3 Reviews A-H from Honeywell Air Purifier

Holmes air purifier review: Summaries and Detailed Reviews.

Reviews are only as good as the underlying rating criteria used.

After you are done reviewing, STEP 5 Buying lists the best places to buy Holmes purifiers.

Holmes Air Purifier Summaries

Model: HEPA-Type Mini Tower HAP412-UPoor Rating

Up to 120 sqft

MSRP 49.99

Conclusion: Generic Min-Tower with limited cleaning power.

Detailed Review Below

Model: LifeLong HEPA-Type Tower HAP1200-UPoor Rating

Up to 170 sqft

MSRP 99.99

Conclusion: A low-end Tower with limited cleaning power.

Detailed Review Below

Model: 99.97% HEPA for Large Rooms HAP650Fair Rating

Up to 340 sqft

MSRP 99.99

Conclusion: Low priced HEPA filter with some odor control; yearly cost almost 3X purchase price.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Arm & Hammer Fresh 'N Clean Odor Grabber AOR240FC-UFair Rating

Up to 62 sqft

MSRP 69.99

Conclusion: Limited actual cleaning ability.

Detailed Review Below

Other Current Holmes air purifier Models:

Holmes has many models to fit every marketable, low-cost niche. If you want to buy one of these purifiers, shop around as they go "on sale" often.

Model: 99.97% HEPA for Small Rooms HAP615 – Smaller Version of HAP650 above MSRP 49.99, – Fair Rating

Model: 99.97% HEPA for Medium Rooms HAP625 – Smaller Version of HAP650 above MSRP 69.99, – Fair Rating

Model: Allergen Remover Mini-Tower HAP706-U – HEPA, pre filter, and negative ionizer MSRP 59.99, – Poor Rating

Model: HEPA-Type Desktop HAP243-UC – HEPA-Type Enhanced filter w/ neg. ionizer MSRP 39.99, – Poor Rating

Model: HEPA-Type Tower HAP422B-U – HEPA-Type Enhanced filter w/ neg. ionizer MSRP 69.99, – Poor Rating

Model: HEPA-Type Tower HAP424G-U – Tower HEPA-Type Enhanced filter w/ neg. ionizer MSRP 69.99, – Poor Rating

Model: Odor Grabber HAP2234-U – Odor Grabber w/ HEPA-Type Enhanced filter w/ neg. ionizer MSRP 19.99, – Poor Rating

Model: Odor Grabber Plus HAP222-UC – Odor Grabber w/ HEPA-Type Enhanced filter w/ neg. ionizer MSRP 24.99, – Poor Rating

Model: Odor Grabber HAP223-UC – Odor Grabber w/ HEPA-Type Enhanced filter w/ neg. ionizer MSRP 29.95, – Poor Rating

Model: Personal Space Ionizing HAP115Z-U – Personal Space HEPA-Type filter w/ negative ionizer MSRP 19.99, – Poor Rating

Model: Personal Space HAP1004 – Personal Space 3-layer HEPA-Type filter MSRP 24.99, – Poor Rating

Model: Pet Fresh Odor Grabber AOR100PF-U – Pet Fresh Odor Grabber MSRP 19.99, – Poor Rating

Model: Pet Fresh Odor Grabber AOR118PF-U – Pet Fresh Odor Grabber MSRP 39.99, – Poor Rating

Model: Pet Fresh Odor Grabber AOR1000PF-U – Pet Fresh Odor Grabber MSRP 59.99, – Poor Rating

There are probably more, but you get the idea … low-end, highly marketed in big-box type stores. Limited on actual cleaning power; low on actual cleaning results.

Holmes Air Purifier Detailed Reviews

Model: HEPA-Type Mini Tower HAP412-U Holmes Air Purifier Last Reviewed: 01-15-08 Rating Score: 43/100 points

Summary

This is a very low-end air purifier. It has the bare basics of technology. It blows air. It will clean some large particles and the negative ionizer may remove a few more small

particles, but that is about it. The odor control is minimal with an "enhanced" filter. It appears that the filter was dipped in a name brand baking soda. A Bad Value.

Basic Specifications:

• Designed for small rooms up to 120 sqft.
• Passive and Active purification technology
• Step 1: washable pre filter for larger particles
• Step 2: negative ionization
• Step 3: HEPA-Type filter enhanced for odor control
• 3-speed fan
• black or white colors
• Yearly Operating Costs 142.43
• 3-year warranty
• has a plastic smell out of the box

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures (AHAM) Smoke 76/ Dust 55/ Pollen 55

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 4/24 points – The MSRP is 49.99. The estimated square footage cleaned is 120 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((49.99 initial + 142.43/year)/120 sqft)/2

removal points)) = 19.83. 19.83 = 4 points – Bad Value.

2) What is Removed: 2/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Fair Removal, 1-point. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Fair Removal, 1-point. Removal of Odors

and Gases – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of VOCs – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal,

0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 9/15 points – Replacing the HEPA-Type filter every 6 months will cost you 2 X 19.99 = 39.98/year. Calculating electricity usage: 132 watts/1000 X .0886/kwh x 24

hours/day X 365 days/year = 102.45/year. Total cost 142.43/year. Average to operate.

4) Quality: 5/12 points – The Purifier is made in China and the filters are made in Mexico. This purifier is basic plastic. The quality is average or below. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship –

Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Fair Quality, 2-points. Support Material – Poor Quality, 0-points.

5) Warranty: 6/8 points – This purifier has a 3-year warranty. Very Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – The manual says to check the filters every two weeks. There is a color indicator on the side of the HEPA-Type filter that will visually help you

determine if it needs changing. Change every 3-6 months. Average Maintenance, 2-points. The pre filter can be vacuumed or hand washed. Expect to clean monthly for 10-15 minutes plus dry time.

Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 3/6 points – It looks a little like a plastic coffee maker gone bad. Actually it is a mini-tower in white or black plastic. Nothing exciting, nor detracting here. The word

"generic" comes to mind. Questionable Looks, 1-point. This unit has functional controls. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Holmes has been making air purifiers for over 10 years. They are owned under the Jarden Products umbrella as are Bionaire air purifiers. Jarden ships out

of Missouri.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – Typical of big box consumer level purifiers, they are listed as quiet, but are sold without any substantial data. Quiet on low. Louder on high. Average Noise

Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Open box and plug and play. Easy Set-up.

total = 43/100 points

Conclusion

Generic Min-Tower with limited cleaning power

Model: LifeLong HEPA-Type Tower HAP1200-U Holmes Air Purifier

Rating Score: 49/100 points

Summary

The HAP1200-U is another big-box store special. The best feature of this purifier is its looks. It will clean some large particles and the negative ionizer may remove a few more

small particles, but that is about it. A Poor Value.

Basic Specifications:

• Designed for rooms up to 170 sqft.
• Passive and Active purification technology
• Step 1: washable pre filter for larger particles
• Step 2: negative ionization
• Step 3: "Permanant" HEPA-Type filter
• 3-speed fan
• Yearly Operating Costs 102.45
• 2-year warranty
• has a plastic smell out of the box

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures (AHAM) Smoke 110/ Dust 110/ Pollen 110

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 8/24 points – The MSRP is 99.99. The estimated square footage cleaned is 170 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((99.99 initial + 102.45/year)/170 sqft)/2

removal points)) = 40.46. 40.46 = 8 points – Poor Value.

2) What is Removed: 2/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Fair Removal, 1-point. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Fair Removal, 1-point. Removal of Odors

and Gases – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of VOCs – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal,

0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 9/15 points – The HEPA-Type filter is listed as permanent. Calculating electricity usage: 132 watts/1000 X .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year =

102.45/year. Total cost 102.45/year. Average to operate.

4) Quality: 6/12 points – The Purifier is made in China and the filters are made in Mexico. This purifier is basic plastic. The quality is average or below. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship –

Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Fair Quality, 3-points. Support Material – Poor Quality, 0-points.

5) Warranty: 4/8 points – This purifier has a 2-year warranty. Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 5/6 points – Minimal maintenance. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. This purifier has two filters to clean. The pre filter can be washed as needed. They HEPA-Type

filter should be vacuumed as needed. Both are sold as permanent filters. Expect to clean every 4-8 weeks for 20 minutes plus dry time. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 5/6 points – The black and silver is attractive for a tower. Looks Great, 3-points. The controls are standard and functional. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Holmes has been making air purifiers for over 10 years. They are owned under the Jarden Products umbrella as are Bionaire air purifiers. Jarden ships out

of Missouri.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – Typical of big box consumer level purifiers, they are listed as quiet, but are sold without any substantial data. Quiet on low. Louder on high. Average Noise

Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Open box and plug and play. Easy Set-up.

total = 49/100 points

Conclusion

A low-end Tower with limited cleaning power.

Model: 99.97% HEPA HAP650 Holmes Air Purifier

Rating Score: 52/100 points

Summary

The HAP650 is a basic HEPA and carbon filter. It does do a decent job at cleaning particles and removing minor odors and gases. The cost on the front-end lures many people into

purchasing this purifier. The yearly ongoing cost between electricity and filters is about 3X the purchase price. It reminds me of many ink jet printers … the upfront cost is reasonable, but

you go broke buying ink for so so printing results. I upgraded to a laser printer for that reason. Consider the same here. A Fair Value.

Basic Specifications:

• Designed for rooms up to 340 sqft.
• Passive purification technology
• Step 1: 99.97% HEPA Filter – 3 of them
• Step 2: Carbon Filter Add-on – 3 of them
• 4-speed fan
• Yearly Operating Costs 264.47
• heavy user of electricity
• 2-year warranty
• has a plastic smell out of the box

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures (AHAM) Smoke 225/ Dust 225/ Pollen 225

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is 99.99. The estimated square footage cleaned is 340 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((99.99 initial + 264.47/year)/340 sqft)/4

removal points)) = 73.20. 73.20 = 12 points – Fair Value.

2) What is Removed: 4/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Fair Removal, 1-point. Removal of Odors

and Gases – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of VOCs – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal,

0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 3/15 points – HEPA filters replaced every 12 months at 3 filters each replacement period X 23 = 69. Carbon filters replaced every 3 months are replaced in

3's at 3 filters X 4 replacements X 4 = 48/year. Calculating electricity usage: 190 watts/1000 X .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = 147.47/year. Total cost 264.47/year.

Expensive to operate.

4) Quality: 5/12 points – The Purifier is made in China and the filters are made in Mexico. This purifier is basic plastic. The quality is average or below. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship –

Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Fair Quality, 2-points. Support Material – Poor Quality, 0-points.

5) Warranty: 8/8 points – This purifier has a 5-year warranty. Excellent Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – The HEPA filter lasts 12-18 months and the Carbon filter lasts 3-6 months. Replacement takes 10 minutes. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Periodic wiping

down of the outside and inside of purifier is all the additional maintenance needed. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – A basic, box-like looking purifier. Looks Good, 2-points. Plastic look and feel. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Holmes has been making air purifiers for over 10 years. They are owned under the Jarden Products umbrella as are Bionaire air purifiers. Jarden ships out

of Missouri.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – Typical of big box consumer level purifiers, they are listed as quiet, but are sold without any substantial data. Quiet on low. Louder on high. Average Noise

Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Open box and plug and play. Easy Set-up.

total = 52/100 points

Conclusion

Low priced HEPA filter with some odor control; yearly cost almost 3X purchase price.

Model: Arm & Hammer Odor Grabber AOR240FC-U Holmes Air Purifier

Rating Score: 46/100 points

Summary

The Arm & Hammer Odor Grabber AOR240FC-U is more of an inexpensive marketing gimmick than a true air purifier. I was generous in the scoring of what it will actually clean. A

Bad Value.

Basic Specifications:

• Designed for very small areas up to 68 sqft.
• Passive and Active purification technology
• Step 1: washable pre filter for larger particles
• Step 2: negative ionization
• Step 3: HEPA-Type filter enhanced for odor control
• Yearly Operating Costs 117.59
• 3-year warranty
• has a plastic smell out of the box

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 4/24 points – The MSRP is 69.99. The estimated square footage cleaned is 62 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((69.99 initial + 117.59/year)/62 sqft)/2 removal

points)) = below 0. 0 = 4 points – Bad Value.

2) What is Removed: 2/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Fair Removal, 1-point. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Poor Removal, 0-points. Removal of Odors

and Gases – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of VOCs – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal,

0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 9/15 points – Replacing a HEPA-Type/carbon-like filter every 6 months will cost 2 X 19.99 = 39.98/year. Calculating electricity usage: 100 watts/1000 X

.0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = 77.61/year. Total cost 117.59/year. Average to operate.

4) Quality: 5/12 points – The Purifier is made in China and the filters are made in Mexico. This purifier is basic plastic. The quality is average or below. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship –

Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Fair Quality, 2-points. Support Material – Poor Quality, 0-points.

5) Warranty: 6/8 points – This purifier has a 3-year warranty. Very Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – This purifier has a HEPA-Type filter and a pre filter. The HEPA-Type filter change every 4-6 months is easy; 10 minutes tops. Easy Maintenance,

3-points. Washing the pre filter is also 10 minutes plus dry time. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – A small unit that could fit in many spaces. Looks Good, 2-points. Generic plastic look and feel. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Holmes has been making air purifiers for over 10 years. They are owned under the Jarden Products umbrella as are Bionaire air purifiers. Jarden ships out

of Missouri.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – Typical of big box consumer level purifiers, they are listed as quiet, but are sold without any substantial data. Quiet on low. Louder on high. Average Noise

Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Open box and plug and play. Easy Set-up.

total = 46/100 points

Conclusion

Limited on actual cleaning ability. Return to Top

Return to STEP 3 Reviews A-H from Holmes Air Purifier

Blueair air purifier review: Summaries and Detailed Reviews.

Reviews are only as good as the underlying rating criteria used.

After you are done reviewing, STEP 5 Buying lists the best places to buy Air Oasis purifiers.

Blueair Air Purifier Summaries

Model: Blueair 601Both Rating – Very Good

Up to 679 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 599.99/669.95 smokestop

Conclusion: Use the 501 unless you need the larger sqft.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Blueair 501Both Rating – Very Good

Up to 580 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 499.95/569.95

Conclusion: the 501 is best in the smokestop version.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Blueair 402Both Rating – Very Good

Up to 310 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 399.95/ 469.95 smokestop

Conclusion: I would recommend the smokestop version over the basic 402.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Blueair 201/250EAll 4 Rating – Good

Up to 175 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 201 299.95/329.95 carbon

M250E 349.95/379.95 carbon

Conclusion: Either purifier is good in the carbon version.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Blueair AirPodRating – Very Good

Portable/ personal or 45 cubic feet

MSRP 99.95

Certainly cost effective; not as "clean" effective.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Blueair Eco10Rating – Good

Up to 200 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 899.95

Conclusion: I don't recommend unless they improve the filter medium to remove gases/odors/VOCs.

Detailed Review Below

Blueair Purifier Detailed Reviews

Model: Blueair 601

Rating Score: 68 points/ 67 points with smokestop

Review note: I have personally used, tested, and evaluated this Blueair air purifier.

Summary

I like that this purifier is simple to use. It has an exceptional warranty. Maintenance is easy. Sometimes we pay for easy though and the 601 does have a higher maintenance cost.

Overall a good purifier. If using for one room consider buying the 501 or 402 if the square footage is a match as they are very similar in technology and cost less. Make sure to read STEP5

Buying Tips, for getting the most Blueair for your money.

Basic Specifications

The 601 is designed for spaces up to 679 sqft (6 air changes per hour). This purifier is "passive technology" as the air must travel through the purifier to

be cleaned. The 601 uses a 2-step process. Particles are first charged and then pass through one of three high tech HEPA Filters with carbon (electrostatic precipitator/ charged media filter).

The Smokestop upgrade is enhanced with three specialized filters adding extra protection against particles, odors and some VOCs. The 601 has a 3-speed fan and offers a 10 year warranty. The

HEPA w/ carbon filter needs changing every 6 months to keep the warranty intact (80 X 2 = 160/yr). The Smokestop version = 300/yr. This purifier is easy to maintain with quick change

filters. The purifier has non-outgasing surfaces.

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures (AHAM) Smoke 438/ Dust 400/ Pollen 450 – This model has received high awards from AHAM.

Rating Factors:

1) Value 10/20 pts or 16/20 pts (smokestop) – The MSRP is 599.95/ 669.95 (smokestop). Converting the "What is removed" to rating factors scale = 2/5 pts or 3/5 pts (smokestop). I

rate the cleaning ability for up to 679 sqft at 2/2 extremely well. My equation is 599.95/(2*2)= 150 or 669.95/(3*2)= 111.7 (smokestop). 150 equates to 10/20 pts for value. (smokestop = 16

pts)

2) Quality 12/15 pts – Materials are made for the long-haul. Powder coated, galvanized steel parts are used throughout. Documentation is compact and a little on the minimal side. What is

there is well done. Workmanship 5/5 pts, Technologies 5/5 pts, Support/ Setup material 1/3 pts, and intangibles 1/2 pts

3) What is Removed 8/15 pts or 10/15 pts (smokestop) – A 2-step process is utilized. The particles are charged and these charged particles pass through one of three HEPA Filters with carbon

(electrostatic precipitator/ charged media filter). Smokestop adds protection against smaller particles and some VOCs. Particles >0.3 microns 1/1 pt, Odors and Gases 2/3 pts, VOCs 1/2 pts,

Basic Microorganisms 2/3 pts, Particles <0.3 microns 2/3 pts, Advanced Microorganisms 0/2 pts, Any other additional 0/1 pt. Add 2 points for smokestop for odors and gases and some VOC

protection.

4) Yearly Operating Costs 3/15 pts or 0/15 (smokestop) – Particle filters with carbon changed every 6 months costs 80 x 2 = 160/yr. The Smokestop version costs 149.95 X 2 = 299.90/yr.

Electricity ranges from 35 to 120 watts depending on fan speed. I'll assume 77.5 (midway). 77.5 watts/1000 X .0886 cents x 24 hours X 365 days = 60.15. Total Yearly cost 220.15 or 360.05

(smokestop)

5) Warranty 8/8 pts – The Blueair 610 has a 10 year warranty. Filters are not covered unless defective.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning 7/7 pts – Simplicity describes the cleaning and maintenance. Lift off the top, pull out 3 filters, lightly vacuum, and wipe outside as if dusting a piece of

furniture. Clean when changing filters every 6 months. Total time, less than 30 minutes every 6 months.

7) Manufacturer Years in Business 4/5 pts – Founded in Sweden, the company has been around since 1996.

8) Look and Feel 4/5 pts – My wife stated that it looked like an old computer (back in the 70's when they were huge). It is a simple design. No remote. The only control is the 3 speed

operation dial. Large unit 35lb. See quality for a discussion on materials.

9) Set-Up Time 5/5 pts – Opening the box and paging through the User Guide. Less than 10 minutes closed box to up and running. This is a larger air purifier and it may take a "little

extra" to get it out of the box. As with any purifier, studying the materials further will allow you to get more out of your purchase.

10) Noise Level 3/5 pts – Quiet on low (32dB) 2/2 pts. 490 CFM fan on high (68dB) 1/3 pts. Low speed is presented as "nighttime" use, medium speed as "daytime" use, and

high speed as "fast initial cleaning or very polluted air".

total = 64 points/ 68 points with smokestop

Conclusion

Use the 501 unless you need the larger sqft.

Model: Blueair 501

Rating Score: 67 points/ 71 points with smokestop

Review note: I have not personally tested this Blueair air purifier; however, it is a slightly lighter duty version of the 601 which I did personally review above.

Summary

: I like that this purifier is simple to use. It has an exceptional warranty. Maintenance is easy. Sometimes we pay for easy though and the 501 does have a higher maintenance cost.

Overall a good purifier. If your room size fits, I would recommend the 501 over the 601. The 501/ 601 difference is the 501 has a lighter duty fan. Make sure to read STEP5 Buying Tips, for

getting the most Blueair for your money.

Basic Specifications

The 501 is designed for spaces up to 580 sqft (6 air changes per hour). This purifier is "passive technology" as the air must travel through the purifier to

be cleaned. The 501 uses a 2-step process. Particles are first charged and then pass through one of three high tech HEPA Filters with carbon (electrostatic precipitator/ charged media filter).

The Smokestop upgrade is enhanced with three specialized filters adding extra protection against particles, odors and some VOCs. The 501 has a 4-speed fan and offers a 10 year warranty. The

HEPA w/ carbon filter needs changing every 6 months to keep the warranty intact (80 X 2 = 160/yr). The Smokestop version = 300/yr. This purifier is easy to maintain with quick change

filters. The purifier has non-outgasing surfaces.

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures (AHAM) Smoke 388/ Dust 377/ Pollen 378 – This model has received high awards from AHAM.

Rating Factors (see similar 601 above for more details)

1) Value 14/20 pts or 20/20 pts (smokestop) – The MSRP is 499.95/ 569.95 (smokestop). Converting the "What is removed" to rating factors scale = 2/5 pts or 3/5 pts (smokestop). I

rate the cleaning ability for up to 580 sqft at 2/2 extremely well. My equation is 499.95/(2*2)= 125 or 569.95/(3*2)= 95 (smokestop). 125 equates to a 14/20 pts for value. (smokestop = 20

pts)

2) Quality 12/15 pts – same as 601.

3) What is Removed 8/15 pts or 10/15 pts (smokestop) – same as 601.

4) Yearly Operating Costs 3/15 pts or 0/15 (smokestop) – Particle filters with carbon changed every 6 months will cost 80 x 2 = 160/yr. The Smokestop version will cost 149.95 X 2 =

299.90/yr. Electricity ranges from 35 to 90 watts depending on fan speed. I'll assume 62.5 (midway). 62.5 watts/1000 X .0886 cents x 24 hours X 365 days = 48.50. Total Yearly cost 208.50

or 348.40 (smokestop)

5) Warranty 8/8 pts – same as 601.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning 7/7 pts – same as 601.

7) Manufacturer Years in Business 4/5 pts – same as 601.

8) Look and Feel 4/5 pts – same as 601.

9) Set-Up Time 5/5 pts – same as 601.

10) Noise Level 2/5 pts – has a 4-speed fan with highest db at 71.

total = 67 points/ 71 points with smokestop

Conclusion

This is the Best Blueair purifier for basic home use. Model: Blueair 402 Last Reviewed: 11-12-07 Rating Score: 57 points/ 70 points with smokestop

Review note: I have not personally tested this Blueair air purifier; however, it is a smaller version of the 601 which I did personally review above.

Summary

I like that this purifier is simple to use. It has an exceptional warranty. Maintenance is easy. Sometimes we pay for easy though and the 402 does have a higher maintenance cost. If

your room size fits, I would recommend the 402 over the 501/601. I would only recommend the 402 smokestop version as the regular doesn't even have carbon filters for gaseous/odor/VOC

control. Overall a good purifier. Make sure to read STEP5 Buying Tips, for getting the most Blueair for your money.

Basic Specifications

The 402 is designed for spaces up to 310 sqft (6 air changes per hour). This purifier is "passive technology" as the air must travel through the purifier to

be cleaned. The 402 uses a 2-step process. Particles are first charged and then pass through a high tech HEPA Filter (electrostatic precipitator/ charged media filter). The Smokestop upgrade is

enhanced with a specialized filter adding extra protection against particles, odors and some VOCs. The 402 has a 4-speed fan and offers a 10 year warranty. The HEPA filter needs changing every

6 months to keep the warranty intact (60 X 2 = 120/yr). The Smokestop version = 240/yr. This purifier is easy to maintain with quick change filters. The purifier has non-outgasing

surfaces.

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures (AHAM) Smoke 335/ Dust 253/ Pollen 240

Rating Factors (see 601 for more details):

1) Value 2/20 pts or 16/20 pts (smokestop) – The MSRP is 399.95/ 469.95 (smokestop). Converting the "What is removed" to rating factors scale = 1/5 pts or 2/5 pts (smokestop). I

rate the cleaning ability for up to 310 sqft at 2/2 extremely well. My equation is 399.95/(1*2)= 200 or 469.95/(2*2)= 117.5 (smokestop). 200 equates to 2/20 pts for value. (smokestop = 16

pts)

2) Quality 12/15 pts – same as 601.

3) What is Removed 5/15 pts or 7/15 pts (smokestop) – The 402 filter does not have carbon (-3) pts on odors and VOCs vs. the 501/601. Same with smokestop – filter not as effective (-3) pts

on odors and VOCs vs. the 501/601.

4) Yearly Operating Costs 6/15 pts or 3/15 (smokestop) – Particle filters changed every 6 months will cost 60 x 2 = 120. The Smokestop version will cost 120 X 2 = 240. Electricity ranges

from 20 to 55 watts depending on fan speed. I'll assume 40. 40 watts/1000 X .0886 cents x 24 hours X 365 days = 31.05. Total Yearly cost 151.05 or 271.05 (smokestop)

5) Warranty 8/8 pts – same as 601.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning 7/7 pts – same as 601.

7) Manufacturer Years in Business 4/5 pts – same as 601.

8) Look and Feel 4/5 pts – same as 601.

9) Set-Up Time 5/5 pts – same as 601.

10) Noise Level 4/5 pts – quiet unit 32dB on low 2/2 pts/ 51 dB on high 2/3 pts.

total = 57 points/ 70 points with smokestop

Conclusion

I would recommend the smokestop version over the basic 402. Model: Blueair 201/250E Last Reviewed: 11-12-07 Rating Score: 201 59 points/ 74 points with carbon Rating Score: 250E

57 points/ 70 points with carbon

Review note: I have not personally tested this purifier; however, it is basically the same technology, but a much smaller version of the 601 which I did personally review above.

Summary

The old simple style (201) and the new digital style (250E). Pick which one you like. They have good warranties. Maintenance is easy, but moderately priced. I would recommend the

carbon version over the regular in both cases. The extra cost is worth it. Overall good purifiers. Make sure to read STEP5 Buying Tips, for getting the most Blueair for your money.

Basic Specifications

The 201/250E are designed for spaces up to 175 sqft (6 air changes per hour). The 201 and 250E are the same except for the interface on the 250E is digital. The 250E

has timers, remote, automatic mode, and air quality sensors. Passive technology – electrostatic precipitator/ charged media HEPA filter with carbon. Quiet 3-speed fan, 5 year warranty, HEPA – 6

month life 50 = 100/yr. Carbon version = 160/yr. Easy to maintain with quick change filters. The purifier has non-outgasing surfaces.

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures (AHAM) 107/ Dust 112/ Pollen 140

Rating Factors

note 201 and 250E models both rated

1) Value 2/20 or 0/20 pts and 18/20 pts or 14/20 (carbon) – The MSRP is 299.95 or 349.95 / 329.95 or 379.95 (carbon). Converting the "What is removed" to rating factors scale =

1/5 pts or 2/5 pts (carbon). I rate the cleaning ability for up to 175 sqft at 1.5/2 very well. My equation is 299.95 or 349.95/(1*1.5)= 200/233.3 and 329.95 or 379.95/(2*1.5)= 110/126.7

(carbon). 200/233.3 equates to 2/20 or 0/20 pts for value. (carbon = 18/20 or 14/20 pts)

2) Quality 12/15 pts – same as 601.

3) What is Removed 4/15 pts or 6/15 pts (carbon) – Particles >0.3 microns 1/1 pt, Odors and Gases 0/3 pts, VOCs 0/2 pts, Basic Microorganisms 1/3 pts, Particles <0.3 microns 2/3 pts,

Advanced Microorganisms 0/2 pts, Any other additional 0/1 pt. Add 2 points for smokestop for odors and gases and some VOC protection.

4) Yearly Operating Costs 9/15 pts or 6/15 (carbon) – Particle filters changed every 6 months will cost 50 x 2 = 100. The carbon version will cost 80 X 2 = 160. Electricity ranges from

20 to 50 watts depending on fan speed. I'll assume 40. 40 watts/1000 X .0886 cents x 24 hours X 365 days = 31.05. Total Yearly cost 131.05 or 191.05 (carbon)

5) Warranty 8/8 pts – warranty on these two models is 5 years.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning 7/7 pts – same as 601.

7) Manufacturer Years in Business 4/5 pts – same as 601.

8) Look and Feel 4/5 pts – same as 601.

9) Set-Up Time 5/5 pts – same as 601.

10) Noise Level 4/5 pts – Quiet on low 34dB 2/2 pts and on high at 55dB 2/3 pts.

total 201 = 59 points/ 74 points with carbon total 250E = 57 points/ 70 points with carbon

Conclusion

Either purifier is good in the carbon version.

Model: Blueair AirPod

Rating Score: 84 points

Review note: I have not personally tested this purifier; however, it is a mini-version of the 601 which I did personally review above.

Summary

The AirPod is simple, energy efficient, and effective against standard HEPA particles. Good warranty (5 years). Keep in mind the 84 points is relative as this purifier is limited in

what it cleans and the size room it cleans. Compare to other like purifiers. Make sure to read STEP5 Buying Tips, for getting the most Blueair for your money.

Basic Specifications

The AirPod is designed for spaces up to 45 cubic feet. Passive technology – electrostatic precipitator/ charged media HEPA filter. Quiet 1-speed fan, 5 year warranty,

HEPA – 6 month life 40/yr. Energy efficient. Easy to maintain with quick change filters. The purifier has non-outgasing surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value 20/20 pts – The MSRP is 99.95. Converting the "What is removed" to rating factors scale = 1/5 pts. I rate the cleaning ability for up to 45 cubic feet at 1/2 well. My

equation is 99.95/(1*1)= 100. 100 equates to a 20/20.

2) Quality 12/15 pts – rated same as 601.

3) What is Removed 3/15 pts – Particles >0.3 microns 1/1 pt, Odors and Gases 0/3 pts, VOCs 0/2 pts, Basic Microorganisms 1/3 pts, Particles <0.3 microns 1/3 pts, Advanced

Microorganisms 0/2 pts, Any other additional 0/1 pt.

4) Yearly Operating Costs 15/15 pts – Particle filters changed every 6 months will cost 40/yr (2 pack). Electricity 5 watts. 5 watts/1000 X .0886 cents x 24 hours X 365 days = 3.88. Total

Yearly cost 43.88.

5) Warranty 8/8 pts – warranty is 5 years.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning 7/7 pts – same as 601.

7) Manufacturer Years in Business 4/5 pts – same as 601.

8) Look and Feel 5/5 pts – Good.

9) Set-Up Time 5/5 pts – Simple.

10) Noise Level 5/5 pts – one speed quiet.

total = 84 points

Conclusion

Certainly cost effective; not as "clean" effective.

Model: Blueair Eco10

Rating Score: 58 points

Review note: I have not personally tested this purifier; however, it is an advanced version of the 601 which I did personally review above. The advancements appear to be mostly in how the

purifier operates as opposed to how it cleans. The 601 review above covers the technology.

Summary

Very simple, energy efficient, and quiet. The lifetime warranty is fantastic. I have trouble recommending this purifier without some type of an odor/gas/VOC option. At this time it

appears to only have quality HEPA filtration for particles. I will update review as time goes on if changes occur. Make sure to read STEP5 Buying Tips, for getting the most Blueair for your

money.

Basic Specifications

The Eco10 is designed for spaces up to 200 sqft (6 air changes per hour). Passive technology – electrostatic precipitator/ charged media HEPA filter. Quiet 2-speed fan,

lifetime year warranty, HEPA – 12 month life 100/yr. Extremely energy efficient. Easy to maintain with quick change filters. The purifier has non-outgasing surfaces.

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures(AHAM) Smoke 190/ Dust 195/ Pollen 200

Rating Factors (see 601 for more details):

1) Value 0/20 pts – The MSRP is 899.95. Converting the "What is removed" to rating factors scale = 1/5 pts. I rate the cleaning ability for up to 200 sqft at 2/2 extremely well.

My equation is 899.95/(1*2)= 450. 450 equates to a 0/20 for value.

2) Quality 12/15 pts – same as 601.

3) What is Removed 5/15 pts – Particles >0.3 microns 1/1 pt, Odors and Gases 0/3 pts, VOCs 0/2 pts, Basic Microorganisms 2/3 pts, Particles <0.3 microns 2/3 pts, Advanced

Microorganisms 0/2 pts, Any other additional 0/1 pt.

4) Yearly Operating Costs 9/15 pts – Particle filters changed every 12 months will cost 100. Electricity 10 watts. 10 watts/1000 X .0886 cents x 24 hours X 365 days = 7.76/yr. Total Yearly

cost 107.76.

5) Warranty 8/8 pts – Lifetime warranty – impressive!

6) Maintenance and Cleaning 7/7 pts – same as 601.

7) Manufacturer Years in Business 4/5 pts – same as 601.

8) Look and Feel 4/5 pts – same as 601.

9) Set-Up Time 5/5 pts – same as 601.

10) Noise Level 4/5 pts – a good 49 dB on High

total = 58 points

Conclusion

I don't recommend unless they improve the filter medium to remove gases/odors/VOCs.

Return to STEP 3 Reviews from Blueair Air Purifier

The Biozone Air Purifiers, once popular for its effectiveness in purifying indoor air, do not appears to be available on Amazon at the moment.

I recommend considering the COWAY AP-1512HH Mighty Air Purifier as a worthy replacement.

It has gained a reputation for exceptional performance and advanced features.

For a comprehensive review of the Coway Air Purifier.

In summary, the COWAY Air Purifier is an excellent choice to replace the Biozone Air Purifier.

Biozone Scientific air purifier review: Summaries and Detailed Reviews.

Do you want to review other top brand name purifiers? Click the STEP 3 Reviews tab or return link at the bottom of this page

Biozone Scientific Purifier Summaries

Model: PureHome 500Points: 56/100

Up to 500 sqft

Conclusion: Ok for odors and gases, questionable for rest.

Detailed Review Below

Model:PureHome 1000Points: 54/100

Up to 1000 sqft

Conclusion: Ok for odors and gases, questionable for rest.

Detailed Review Below

Model: PureHome 2000Points: 54/100

Up to 2000 sqft

Conclusion: Ok for odors and gases, questionable for rest.

Detailed Review Below

Model: PureHome 3000Points: 54/100

Up to 3000 sqft

Conclusion: Ok for odors and gases, questionable for rest.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Induct 1500Points: 51/100

Up to 1500 sqft

Conclusion: Added protection, but not complete cleaning.

Detailed Review Below

Biozone Scientific Purifier Detailed Reviews

Model: Biozone PureHome 500

Rating Score: 56/100 points

Review note: I have not personally tested this purifier; however, it is a lighter duty version of the Biozone Purehome 2000 which I did personally review below.

Summary

I was slightly intrigued by this unit until I used it and figured out the technology. I took this unit apart and found it to be a very simple design (actually too simple). Not much cleaning power beyond odor and gas control. The fan is underpowered and in order to get good results it would definitely need to be positioned with air flow. All of the units (500, 1000, 2000, 3000) are basically the same, just slightly scaled up as they get bigger. I do not recommend this purifier.

Basic Specifications

The Biozone Purehome 500 is designed for rooms up to 500 sqft. This purifier is passive/active with a special UV light that also creates small amounts of ozone and questionable numbers of negative ions (negative ions can remove particles, but in this case the production of ions is limited; it should also be noted that an abundance of negative ions is not necessarily a benefit). Overall, it is an efficient although cheap way of producing “cleaning power”. Very little maintenance with the UV light needing replacing every year (32.95). The purifier has a small 3-speed fan and comes with a 3 year warranty. Purifier does out-gas plastic smell in the beginning.

Rating Factors:

1) Value 2/20 pts – The MSRP is 189.99. Converting the “What is removed” to rating factors scale =

1/5 pts. I rate the cleaning ability for up to 500 sqft at 1/2 well. My equation is 189.99/(1*1)= 190. 190 equates to 2/20 pts for value.

2) Quality 8/15 pts – Small, compact unit is a very simple design. Made in China. Workmanship 3/5 pts, Technologies 3/5 pts, Support/ Setup material 2/3 pts, and intangibles 0/2 pts.

3) What is Removed 5/15 pts – The special UV light does emit low levels of ozone which reaches beyond the purifier and cleans odors and gases. The small fan draws air through the unit which passes by the UV light killing some basic microorganisms. Negative ions are also a byproduct of the process, but the cleaning power for particles is limited. Note some large and small particles will be cleaned (stick to surfaces or drop out of air) but not enough to be worthy of 2 pts. Particles >0.3 microns 0/1 pt, Odors and Gases 2/3 pts, VOCs 1/2 pts, Basic Microorganisms 1/3 pts, Particles <0.3 microns 1/3 pts, Advanced Microorganisms 0/2 pts, Any other additional 0/1 pt.

4) Yearly Operating Costs 12/15 pts – UV bulb should be replaced every year. Bulb cost for this purifier is 32.95. 23 watts/1000 X .0886 cents x 24 hours X 365 days = 17.85/year. Total Yearly cost 50.80.

5) Warranty 6/8 pts – 3 years on basic purifier and 1 year pro-rated on UV bulb. Warranty can be voided if bulb is not replaced yearly.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning 5/7 pts – This purifier has limited maintenance. The UV bulb requires replacement every year. The back pops open easily to allow removal and replacement of the bulb. The fan is low input/output which does allow some air to flow through the unit. A wipe down and infrequent cleaning of the inside may be needed. 4 screws to get inside which could be made easier.

7) Manufacturer Years in Business 3/5 pts – Offices worldwide, Headquarters in Finland. In business about 5 years.

8) Look and Feel 5/5 pts – This is a small purifier available in white or black. The looks are basic, but not generic. One dial to run. Very simple.

9) Set-Up Time 5/5 pts – Four steps and you are up and running 1) open the box and unpack 2) read the setup manual 3) Plug in the power 4) locate and turn on the purifier. Should be able to accomplish in 10 minutes or less. As with any purifier, studying the materials further will allow you to get more out of your purchase.

10) Noise Level 5/5 pts – Fan is small (too small) and very quiet on all 3 levels. Low (2/2). High (3/3).

total = 56/100 points

Conclusion

Ok for odors and gases, questionable for rest.

Model: Biozone PureHome 1000

Rating Score: 54/100 points

Review note: I have not personally tested this purifier; however, it is a lighter duty version of the Biozone Purehome 2000 which I did personally review below.

Summary

I was slightly intrigued by this unit until I used it and figured out the technology. I took this unit apart and found it to be a very simple design (actually too simple). Not much cleaning power beyond odor and gas control. The fan is underpowered and in order to get good results it would definitely need to be positioned with air flow. All of the units (500, 1000, 2000, 3000) are basically the same, just slightly scaled up as they get bigger. I do not recommend this purifier.

Basic Specifications

The Biozone Purehome 1000 is designed for rooms up to 1000 sqft. This purifier is passive/active with a special UV light that also creates small amounts of ozone and questionable numbers of negative ions (negative ions can remove particles, but in this case the production of ions is limited; it should also be noted that an abundance of negative ions is not necessarily a benefit). Overall, it is an efficient although cheap way of producing “cleaning power”. Very little maintenance with the UV light needing replacing every year (59.95). The purifier has a small 3-speed fan and comes with a 3 year warranty. Purifier does out-gas plastic smell in the beginning.

Rating Factors:

1) Value 0/20 pts – Converting the “What is removed” to rating factors scale = 1/5 pts. I rate the cleaning ability for up to 1000 sqft at 1/2 well. My equation is 229.99/(1*1)= 230. 230 equates to 0/20 pts for value.

2) Quality 8/15 pts – Small, compact unit is a very simple design. Made in China. Workmanship 3/5 pts, Technologies 3/5 pts, Support/ Setup material 2/3 pts, and intangibles 0/2 pts.

3) What is Removed 5/15 pts – The special UV light does emit low levels of ozone which reaches beyond the purifier and cleans odors and gases. The small fan draws air through the unit which passes by the UV light killing some basic microorganisms. Negative ions are also a byproduct of the process, but the cleaning power for particles is limited. Note some large and small particles will be cleaned (stick to surfaces or drop out of air) but not enough to be worthy of 2 pts. Particles >0.3 microns 0/1 pt, Odors and Gases 2/3 pts, VOCs 1/2 pts, Basic Microorganisms 1/3 pts, Particles <0.3 microns 1/3 pts, Advanced Microorganisms 0/2 pts, Any other additional 0/1 pt.

4) Yearly Operating Costs 12/15 pts – UV bulb should be replaced every year. Bulb cost for this purifier is 59.95. 23 watts/1000 X .0886 cents x 24 hours X 365 days = 17.85/year. Total Yearly cost 77.80.

5) Warranty 6/8 pts – 3 years on basic purifier and 1 year pro-rated on UV bulb. Warranty can be voided if bulb is not replaced yearly.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning 5/7 pts – This purifier has limited maintenance. The UV bulb requires replacement every year. The back pops open easily to allow removal and replacement of the bulb. The fan is low input/output which does allow some air to flow through the unit. A wipe down and infrequent cleaning of the inside may be needed. 4 screws to get inside which could be made easier.

7) Manufacturer Years in Business 3/5 pts – Offices worldwide, Headquarters in Finland. In business about 5 years.

8) Look and Feel 5/5 pts – This is a small purifier available in white or black. The looks are basic, but not generic. One dial to run. Very simple.

9) Set-Up Time 5/5 pts – Four steps and you are up and running 1) open the box and unpack 2) read the setup manual 3) Plug in the power 4) locate and turn on the purifier. Should be able to accomplish in 10 minutes or less. As with any purifier, studying the materials further will allow you to get more out of your purchase.

10) Noise Level 5/5 pts – Fan is small (too small) and very quiet on all 3 levels. Low (2/2). High (3/3).

total = 54/100 points

Conclusion

Ok for odors and gases, questionable for rest.

Model: Biozone PureHome 2000

Rating Score: 54/100 points

Review note: I have personally used, tested, and evaluated this purifier.

Summary

I was slightly intrigued by this unit until I used it and figured out the technology. I took this unit apart and found it to be a very simple design (actually too simple). Not much cleaning power beyond odor and gas control. The fan is underpowered and in order to get good results it would definitely need to be positioned with air flow. All of the units (500, 1000, 2000, 3000) are basically the same, just slightly scaled up as they get bigger. I do not recommend this purifier.

Basic Specifications

The Biozone Purehome 2000 is designed for rooms up to 2000 sqft. This purifier is passive/active with a special UV light that also creates small amounts of ozone and questionable numbers of negative ions (negative ions can remove particles, but in this case the production of ions is limited; it should also be noted that an abundance of negative ions is not necessarily a benefit). Overall, it is an efficient although cheap way of producing “cleaning power”. Very little maintenance with the UV light needing replacing every year (59.95). The purifier has a small 3-speed fan and comes with a 3 year warranty. Purifier does out-gas plastic smell in the beginning.

Rating Factors:

1) Value 0/20 pts – The MSRP is 279.99. Converting the “What is removed” to rating factors scale = 1/5 pts. I rate the cleaning ability for up to 2000 sqft at 1/2 well. My equation is 279.99/(1*1)= 280. 280 equates to 0/20 pts for value.

2) Quality 8/15 pts – Small, compact unit is a very simple design. Made in China. Workmanship 3/5 pts, Technologies 3/5 pts, Support/ Setup material 2/3 pts, and intangibles 0/2 pts.

3) What is Removed 5/15 pts – The special UV light does emit low levels of ozone which reaches beyond the purifier and cleans odors and gases. The small fan draws air through the unit which passes by the UV light killing some basic microorganisms. Negative ions are also a byproduct of the process, but the cleaning power for particles is limited. Note some large and small particles will be cleaned (stick to surfaces or drop out of air) but not enough to be worthy of 2 pts. Particles >0.3 microns 0/1 pt, Odors and Gases 2/3 pts, VOCs 1/2 pts, Basic Microorganisms 1/3 pts, Particles <0.3 microns 1/3 pts, Advanced Microorganisms 0/2 pts, Any other additional 0/1 pt.

4) Yearly Operating Costs 12/15 pts – UV bulb should be replaced every year. Bulb cost for this purifier is 59.95. 23 watts/1000 X .0886 cents x 24 hours X 365 days = 17.85/year. Total Yearly cost 77.80.

5) Warranty 6/8 pts – 3 years on basic purifier and 1 year pro-rated on UV bulb. Warranty can be voided if bulb is not replaced yearly.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning 5/7 pts – This purifier has limited maintenance. The UV bulb requires replacement every year. The back pops open easily to allow removal and replacement of the bulb. The fan is low input/output which does allow some air to flow through the unit. A wipe down and infrequent cleaning of the inside may be needed. 4 screws to get inside which could be made easier.

7) Manufacturer Years in Business 3/5 pts – Offices worldwide, Headquarters in Finland. In business about 5 years.

8) Look and Feel 5/5 pts – This is a small purifier available in white or black. The looks are basic, but not generic. One dial to run. Very simple.

9) Set-Up Time 5/5 pts – Four steps and you are up and running 1) open the box and unpack 2) read the setup manual 3) Plug in the power 4) locate and turn on the purifier. Should be able to accomplish in 10 minutes or less. As with any purifier, studying the materials further will allow you to get more out of your purchase.

10) Noise Level 5/5 pts – Fan is small (too small) and very quiet on all 3 levels. Low (2/2). High (3/3).

total = 54/100 points

Conclusion

Ok for odors and gases, questionable for rest. Model: Biozone PureHome 3000 Last Reviewed: 12-05-07 Rating Score: 54/100 points

Review note: I have not personally tested this purifier; however, it is a heavier duty version of the Biozone Purehome 2000 which I did personally review above.

Summary

I was slightly intrigued by this unit until I used it and figured out the technology. I took this unit apart and found it to be a very simple design (actually too simple). Not much cleaning power beyond odor and gas control. The fan is underpowered and in order to get good results it would definitely need to be positioned with air flow. All of the units (500, 1000, 2000, 3000) are basically the same, just slightly scaled up as they get bigger. I do not recommend this purifier.

Basic Specifications

The Biozone Purehome 3000 is designed for rooms up to 3000 sqft. This purifier is passive/active with a special UV light that also creates small amounts of ozone and questionable numbers of negative ions (negative ions can remove particles, but in this case the production of ions is limited; it should also be noted that an abundance of negative ions is not necessarily a benefit). Overall, it is an efficient although cheap way of producing “cleaning power”. Very little maintenance with the UV light needing replacing every year (59.95). The purifier has a small 3-speed fan and comes with a 3 year warranty. Purifier does out-gas plastic smell in the beginning.

Rating Factors:

1) Value 0/20 pts – Converting the “What is removed” to rating factors scale = 1/5 pts. I rate the cleaning ability for up to 3000 sqft at 1/2 well. My equation is 319.99/(1*1)= 320. 320 equates to 0/20 pts for value.

2) Quality 8/15 pts – Small, compact unit is a very simple design. Made in China. Workmanship 3/5 pts, Technologies 3/5 pts, Support/ Setup material 2/3 pts, and intangibles 0/2 pts.

3) What is Removed 5/15 pts – The special UV light does emit low levels of ozone which reaches beyond the purifier and cleans odors and gases. The small fan draws air through the unit which passes by the UV light killing some basic microorganisms. Negative ions are also a byproduct of the process, but the cleaning power for particles is limited. Note some large and small particles will be cleaned (stick to surfaces or drop out of air) but not enough to be worthy of 2 pts. Particles >0.3 microns 0/1 pt, Odors and Gases 2/3 pts, VOCs 1/2 pts, Basic Microorganisms 1/3 pts, Particles <0.3 microns 1/3 pts, Advanced Microorganisms 0/2 pts, Any other additional 0/1 pt.

4) Yearly Operating Costs 12/15 pts – UV bulb should be replaced every year. Bulb cost for this purifier is 59.95. 23 watts/1000 X .0886 cents x 24 hours X 365 days = 17.85/year. Total Yearly cost 77.80.

5) Warranty 6/8 pts – 3 years on basic purifier and 1 year pro-rated on UV bulb. Warranty can be voided if bulb is not replaced yearly.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning 5/7 pts – This purifier has limited maintenance. The UV bulb requires replacement every year. The back pops open easily to allow removal and replacement of the bulb. The fan is low input/output which does allow some air to flow through the unit. A wipe down and infrequent cleaning of the inside may be needed. 4 screws to get inside which could be made easier.

7) Manufacturer Years in Business 3/5 pts – Offices worldwide, Headquarters in Finland. In business about 5 years.

8) Look and Feel 5/5 pts – This is a small purifier available in white or black. The looks are basic, but not generic. One dial to run. Very simple.

9) Set-Up Time 5/5 pts – Four steps and you are up and running 1) open the box and unpack 2) read the setup manual 3) Plug in the power 4) locate and turn on the purifier. Should be able to accomplish in 10 minutes or less. As with any purifier, studying the materials further will allow you to get more out of your purchase.

10) Noise Level 5/5 pts – Fan is small (too small) and very quiet on all 3 levels. Low (2/2). High (3/3).

total = 54/100 points

Conclusion

Ok for odors and gases, questionable for rest.

Model: Biozone Induct 1500

Rating Score: 51/100 points

Review note: I have not personally tested this purifier; however, I have tested the Purehome 2000 which is reviewed above.

Summary

The Induct 1500 is the smallest of the HVAC purifiers offered by Biozone. It provides decent odor and gas elimination, but has two major limitations. The first is that most HVAC systems only run some of the time. The second is this purifier does not remove particles. It is an incomplete cleaning solution. If it was an add-on to another particle removing technology it would be sufficient. A super low-speed fan setting (additional component; did not see offered by company) on the HVAC would also help with year round cleaning.

Basic Specifications: The Induct 1500 is designed for use in spaces up to 1500 sqft. This purifier is “active technology” as the purifier extends the cleaning out into the home or business by using the air flow of the HVAC system. This purifier will not work in homes without HVAC. This purifier has a 3 year warranty and the UV bulb lasts about 1 year (40.95).

Rating Factors:

1) Value 0/20 pts – Converting the “What is removed” to rating factors scale = 1/5 pts. I rate the cleaning ability for up to 1500 sqft 1/2 well. My equation is 299.99/(1*1)= 300. 300 equates to 0/20 pts for value.

2) Quality 8/15 pts – Workmanship 3/5 pts, Technologies 3/5 pts, Support/ Setup material 2/3 pts, and intangibles 0/2 pts.

3) What is Removed 5/15 pts – The special UV light does emit low levels of ozone which reach beyond the purifier and cleans odors and gases. The small fan draws air through the unit which passes by the UV light killing some basic microorganisms. Negative ions are also a byproduct of the process, but the cleaning power for particles is limited. Note some large and small particles will be cleaned (stick to surfaces or drop out of air) but not enough to be worthy of 2 pts. Particles >0.3 microns 0/1 pt, Odors and Gases 3/3 pts, VOCs 1/2 pts, Basic Microorganisms 1/3 pts, Particles <0.3 microns 0/3 pts, Advanced Microorganisms 0/2 pts, Any other additional 0/1 pt.

4) Yearly Operating Costs 12/15 pts – UV bulb should be replaced every year. Bulb cost for this purifier is 40.95. 25 watts/1000 X .0886 cents x 24 hours X 365 days = 19.40/year. Total Yearly cost 60.35.

5) Warranty 6/8 pts – 3 years on basic purifier and 1 year pro-rated on UV bulb. Warranty can be voided if bulb is not replaced yearly.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning 7/7 pts – Change a UV bulb every year. Should take less than 30 minutes/year.

7) Manufacturer Years in Business 3/5 pts – Offices worldwide, Headquarters in Finland. In business about 5 years.

8) Look and Feel 5/5 pts – Unit is generally hidden from view near your furnace.

9) Set-Up Time 0/5 pts – Allow a few hours to set-up properly. Uses a 12 VDC adapter, so in most cases it can plug right in to a wall outlet providing you have an outlet near the ductwork of your furnace.

10) Noise Level 5/5 pts – Works with the HVAC. No added noise level.

total = 51/100 points

Conclusion

Added protection, but not complete cleaning.

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Bionaire air purifier review: Summaries and Detailed Reviews.

Do you want to review other top brand name purifiers? Click the STEP 3 Reviews tab or return link at the bottom of this page

Bionaire Purifier Summaries

Model: PERMAtech BAP2000-UPoints: 52/100

One room up to 170 sqft

MSRP 199.99

Conclusion: Focused on cleaning larger particles, not recommended.

Detailed Review Below

Model: BAP725 QUIETechPoints: 61/100

One room up to 256 sqft

MSRP 139.99

Conclusion: Basic HEPA and carbon filter air purifier

Detailed Review Below

Model: BAP1250-UPoints: 57/100

One room up to 418 sqft

MSRP 149.99

Conclusion: Basic HEPA and carbon filter with questionable ability.

Detailed Review Below

Bionaire Purifier Detailed Reviews

Model: PERMAtech BAP2000-U

Rating Score: 52/100 points

Review note: I have personally used, tested, and evaluated this purifier.

Summary

This is an interesting purifier. It looks ok, has a good warranty, operates fine, is relatively easy to setup, the quality is average, is relatively easy to clean, and cost

effective to use. The kicker is that it really doesn't clean too awful much. Mostly show and not much go. I'm not sure what else to say, but I do not recommend this purifier.

Basic Specifications: The PERMAtech BAP2000-U is designed for rooms up to 170 sqft. This purifier is passive/active with a pre filter and 99% HEPA on the passive side for particle filtration

and a negative ionizer putting out negative ions into the air (see technology section for explanation why this is questionable). No replaceable filters, 3-speed fan, remote Galileo operation

center controls many bells and whistles. 5 year warranty parts and labor. Smells like plastic out of the box – outgassing.

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures (AHAM) Smoke 110/ Dust 110/ Pollen 110

Rating Factors:

1) Value 0/20 pts – The MSRP is 199.99. Converting the "what is removed" to rating factors scale = 1/5 pts. I rate the cleaning ability for up to 170 sqft at .5/2 not well. My

equation is 199.99/(1*.5) = 400. 400 equates to 0/20 pts for value. It just doesn't clean much more than big particles. The HEPA filter is 99% which means it is best at 1.0 micron and

above and the ionizer technology is negative ions only which has some effect on smaller particles, but not conclusive.

2) Quality 9/15 pts – You can tell the company has made several revisions over the years as workmanship is relatively high for plastic. The buttons and technology are very basic. Made in

China. Workmanship 4/5 pts, Technologies 3/5 pts, Support/ Setup material 2/3 pts, and intangibles 0/2 pts.

3) What is Removed 3/15 pts – 3 basic technologies used for particle removal. A pre filter and 99% HEPA Filter (sub-standard) work inside and a negative ionizer sends negative ions outside

of the unit to attract and join particles together (see technology section for explanation why this is questionable). Particles >0.3 microns 1/1 pt, Odors and Gases 0/3 pts, VOCs 0/2 pts,

Basic Microorganisms 0/3 pts, Particles <0.3 microns 2/3 pts (note: generous grading), Advanced Microorganisms 0/2 pts, Any other additional 0/1 pt.

4) Yearly Operating Costs 12/15 pts – PERMAtech filters are cleanable and listed as not needing replacement. Electricity ranges from 50 to 150 watts depending on fan speed. I'll assume

100 (midway). 100 watts/1000 X .0886 cents x 24 hours X 365 days = 77.61/year. Total Yearly cost 77.61.

5) Warranty 8/8 pts – 5 years parts and labor.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning 5/7 pts – Manual says to check filters every 2 weeks and clean as needed. Cleaning included wiping outside, rinsing foam pre filter, and vacuuming the two

PERMAtech filters. The procedure is relatively easy, but will need to be done regularly. Allow 30-45 minutes per month plus dry time for foam pre filter.

7) Manufacturer Years in Business 5/5 pts – Originated in Canada in the late 70's with a line of ionizers. They have been around for over 20 years.

8) Look and Feel 3/5 pts – It looks modern with a rounded tower design. It is relatively neutral as far as colors (black with silver trim). The feel is "ok". Most of the plastic

fits well, but the buttons are a little cheap feeling and operate accordingly. Over all ok.

9) Set-Up Time 4/5 pts – Opening the box and paging through the User Guide. Less than 15 minutes closed box to up and running. Learning to use the Galileo will take longer. As with any

purifier, studying the materials further will allow you to get more out of your purchase.

10) Noise Level 3/5 pts – Quiet on low setting (30dB) 2/2 pts. Just in the loudest range on high (55db) 1/3 pts. The Ionizer makes a "zapping" sound which actually is a bit

annoying. It is not as audible on high as low, but annoying none the less.

Total = 52/100 points

Conclusion

Focused on cleaning larger particles, not recommended.

Model: BAP725 QUIETech

Rating Score: 61/100 points

Review note: I have not personally tested this purifier; however, it is of the same manufacture with very basic technology. I did personally review the PERMAtech BAP2000-U above.

Summary

This is a basic HEPA and carbon filter air purifier. They have designed the filter housing effectively on this model by enhancing the seal of the filters allowing less air bypass

around the filters. No pre filter. Recommended only for very light duty.

Basic Specifications

The BAP725 QUIETech is designed for spaces up to 256 sqft. This purifier is "passive technology" as the air must travel through the purifier to be cleaned.

The BAP725 uses a basic 2-step process. Particles travel through a HEPA filter and a carbon filter. The purifier is easy to maintain and filter replacement cost is reasonable. The purifier has

a 4-speed fan. Smells like plastic out of the box – outgassing.

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures (AHAM) Smoke 168/ Dust 150/ Pollen 140

Rating Factors:

1) Value 12/20 pts – The MSRP is 139.99. Converting the "what is removed" to rating factors scale = 1/5 pts. I rate the cleaning ability for up to 256 sqft at 1/2 well. My

equation is 139.99/(1*1) = 140. 140 equates to 12/20 pts for value.

2) Quality 10/15 pts – Similar to 2000 above. It appears the housing has a tighter air vacuum then older models. Made in China. Workmanship 4/5 pts, Technologies 4/5 pts, Support/ Setup

material 2/3 pts, and intangibles 0/2 pts.

3) What is Removed 3/15 pts – Two basic passive technologies, HEPA and carbon filtration. Claims better seal around filters for less bypass and better overall filtering. Particles >0.3

microns 1/1 pt, Odors and Gases 1/3 pts, VOCs 0/2 pts, Basic Microorganisms 0/3 pts, Particles <0.3 microns 1/3 pts, Advanced Microorganisms 0/2 pts, Any other additional 0/1 pt.

4) Yearly Operating Costs 9/15 pts – HEPA filters last 1-2 years 35/year total. Carbon filters last 3-4 months at 17/year total. Electricity ranges from 40 to 150 watts depending on fan

speed. I'll assume 95 watts (midway). 95 watts (watts/1000 X .0886 cents x 24 hours X 365 days = 73.73 Total Yearly cost 125.73.

5) Warranty 4/8 pts – 2 year warranty parts and labor.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning 7/7 pts – Basic wiping down of unit and changing HEPA and carbon filters as needed. Should be less than 30 minutes every 6 months.

7) Manufacturer Years in Business 5/5 pts – Originated in Canada in the late 70's with a line of ionizers. They have been around for over 20 years.

8) Look and Feel 3/5 pts – Basic looking box unit. Assuming controls similar to 2000 model above.

9) Set-Up Time 5/5 pts – Opening the box and paging through the User Guide. Less than 10 minutes closed box to up and running. As with any purifier, studying the materials further will allow

you to get more out of your purchase.

10) Noise Level 3/5 pts – Quiet on Sleep setting (<30dB) 2/2 pts. Louder on high (56dB) 1/3 pts.

Total = 61/100 points

Conclusion

Basic HEPA and carbon filter air purifier. Model: BAP1250-U Last Reviewed: 12-03-07 Rating Score: 57/100 points

Review note: I have not personally tested this purifier; however, it is of the same manufacture with very basic technology. I did personally review the PERMAtech BAP2000-U above.

Summary

This is a very basic HEPA and carbon filter air purifier. The remote monitoring system is more show that actual functionality although a few of the options may be desirable. The

actual cleaning power is likely less than stated as the filters are very basic and not as heavy duty as more quality air purifiers. You get what you pay for. No pre filter. Not recommended

except for very light duty.

Basic Specifications

The BAP1250-U is designed for spaces up to 418 sqft. This purifier is "passive technology" as the air must travel through the purifier to be cleaned. The

BAP1250-U uses a basic 2-step process. Particles travel through a HEPA filter and a carbon filter. The purifier is easy to maintain and filter replacement cost is reasonable. A 4-speed fan and

remote monitoring system run the bells and whistles. Smells like plastic out of the box – outgassing.

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures (AHAM) Smoke 275/ Dust 270/ Pollen 230

Rating Factors:

1) Value 10/20 pts – The MSRP is 149.99. Converting the "what is removed" to rating factors scale = 1/5 pts. I rate the cleaning ability for up to 418 sqft at 1/2 well. My

equation is 149.99/(1*1) = 150. 150 equates to 10/20 pts for value.

2) Quality 9/15 pts – Similar to 2000 above. Made in China. Workmanship 4/5 pts, Technologies 3/5 pts, Support/ Setup material 2/3 pts, and intangibles 0/2 pts.

3) What is Removed 3/15 pts – Two basic passive technologies, HEPA and carbon filtration. Particles >0.3 microns 1/1 pt, Odors and Gases 1/3 pts, VOCs 0/2 pts, Basic Microorganisms 0/3

pts, Particles <0.3 microns 1/3 pts, Advanced Microorganisms 0/2 pts, Any other additional 0/1 pt.

4) Yearly Operating Costs 9/15 pts – HEPA filters last 1-2 years 35/year total. Carbon filters last 3-4 months at 17/year total. Electricity ranges from 40 to 150 watts depending on fan

speed. I'll assume 95 watts (midway). 95 watts/1000 X .0886 cents x 24 hours X 365 days = 73.73/year. Total Yearly cost 125.73.

5) Warranty 4/8 pts – 2 year warranty parts and labor.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning 7/7 pts – Basic wiping down of unit and changing HEPA and carbon filters as needed. Should be less than 30 minutes every 6 months.

7) Manufacturer Years in Business 5/5 pts – Originated in Canada in the late 70's with a line of ionizers. They have been around for over 20 years.

8) Look and Feel 3/5 pts – Basic looking box unit. Assuming controls similar to 2000 model above.

9) Set-Up Time 4/5 pts – Opening the box and paging through the User Guide. Less than 15 minutes closed box to up and running. Learning to use the remote sensor unit will take longer. As

with any purifier, studying the materials further will allow you to get more out of your purchase.

10) Noise Level 3/5 pts – Quiet on Sleep setting (<30dB) 2/2 pts. Louder on high (57dB) 1/3 pts.

Total = 57/100 points

Conclusion

Basic HEPA and carbon filter with questionable ability.

Return to STEP 3 Reviews from Bionaire Air Purifier

Allerair air purifier review: Summaries and Detailed Reviews.

Do you want to review other top brand name purifiers? Click the STEP 3 Reviews tab or return link at the bottom of this page

After you are done reviewing, STEP 5 Buying lists the best places to buy Allerair purifiers.

Allerair Air Purifier Summaries

Model: 4000 Series/ 4000 Exec VersionRated – Very Good Rating

Up to 400 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 439.98

Conclusion: A good quality, all-around filter.

Detailed Review Below

Model: 5000 Series/ 5000 Photocatalytic VersionRated – Very Good Rating

Up to 500 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 799.98

Conclusion: A solid performer with updated active technology.

Detailed Review Below

Model: 6000 Series/ 6000 Vocarb VersionRated – Very Good Rating

Up to 600 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 699.98

Conclusion: Good for VOC removal + particles.

Detailed Review Below

Model: 8000 AH Whole House Exec VersionRated – Good Rating

Up to 667 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 1399.98

Conclusion: An option for whole home cleaning.

Detailed Review Below

Model: 600 Series/ 600 Exec w/ UVRated – Very Good Rating

Up to 500 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 699.98

CConclusion: A good match for the 5000 series.

Detailed Review Below

Model: AirMedic Series/ AirMedic D Exec VersionRated – Very Good Rating

Up to 500 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 799.98

Conclusion: A good all around purifier using electrostatic charged filters.

Detailed Review Below

Model: AirTube Series/ AirTube Exec Version RatedRated – Good Rating

Up to 133 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 299.98

Conclusion: A capable portable, but at a price.

Detailed Review Below

Allerair Purifier Detailed Reviews

Model: 4000 Series/ 4000 Exec Version

Rating Score: 70/100 points

Summary

The Allerair 4000 Series has 10 different models/ configurations. This review is for the 4000 Exec Version. This model uses a pre filter, a serious 12 lb carbon filter, and a true

99.97% HEPA filter with added anti-microbial support. This is a good all-around basic room filtration air purifier. Note that rating the other 9 models in the 4000 series would change the

rating score up or down slightly. If you order this Allerair Air Purifier model, do your homework or consult an expert to get the right configuration. A good value.

Allerair Air Purifier Basic Specifications:

• 10 different models in the 4000 series
• Designed for spaces up to 400 sqft (6 air changes per hour)
• Passive purification technology
• Step 1: pre filter for larger particles
• Step 2: 12 lb Mac-B (mass activated carbon bed) carbon filter for odors and gases
• Step 3: two anti-microbial filters to surpress microorganisms
• Step 4: 99.97% True HEPA filter for particle removal
• Metal housing prevents off-gassing
• Yearly Operating Costs 172.05
• 10-year warranty parts/ 5-years on labor

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 16/24 points – The MSRP is 439.98. The estimated square footage cleaned is 400 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((439.98 initial + 172.05/year)/400 sqft)/10

removal points)) = 84.70. 84.70 = 16 points – Good Value.

2) What is Removed: 10/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal

of Odors and Gases – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of VOCs – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor

Removal, 0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 6/15 points – The Pre filter lasts between 2-6 months depending on how you carefully you vacuum it; 39.98 for 4 = 39.98/year. The Carbon filter last 1-3 years at

99.98/2 = 49.99/year. The HEPA filter lasts 3-5 years at 79.98/4 = 19.99/year. Calculating electricity usage: 80 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 62.09/year. Total

cost 172.05/year. Above Average to operate.

4) Quality: 12/12 points – Examples of high quality include metal housing and baked enamel finish. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Excellent Quality, 5-points. Cleaning Technologies –

Excellent Quality, 5-points. Support Material – Excellent Quality, 2-point.

5) Warranty: 8/8 points – 10-years on parts/ 5-years on labor. Excellent Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – Routine maintenance includes replacing the pre filter every 2-6 months or as needed, the carbon filter every 1-3 years or as needed, and the HEPA

filter every 3-5 years or as needed. Although the unit assembles and disassembles easily, there are 4 screws to take off the bottom each time you check or change a filter. The pre filter change

is a little easier once you do it a few times. Average Maintenance, 2-points. Cleaning is limited to vacuuming the pre filter every one or two months and wiping down the exterior/interior as

needed. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – These units look a little like a vacuum or shopvac. They have casters on the bottom for easy moving. Black or Sandstone. Looks Good, 2-points. Controls are

minimal and located on the front of the unit. Weighs 35 lbs and measures 14.5" height X 15" diameter. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Allerair has been in business for over 14 years. They have offices in the United Stated, Italy, and Canada.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – Fan noise ranges from 35 dB on low to 65 dB on Turbo. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Ready to use out of the box. Easy Set-up.

total = 70/100 points

Conclusion

A good quality, all-around filter.

Top Model 5000 Series/ 5000 Photocatalytic Version

Rating Score: 69/100 points

Summary

The Allerair 5000 Series has 19 different models/ configurations. This review is for the 5000 Photocatalytic Version. This model utilizes both passive and active technology. It uses

a pre filter, a serious 18 lb carbon filter, and a true 99.97% Medical grade HEPA filter. The HEPA filter is enhanced by photocatalytic technology using UV light with a special catalyst. This

model is best for heavy airborne toxins and particles. Note that rating the other 18 models in the 5000 series would change the rating score up or down slightly. If you order this Allerair Air

Purifier model, do your homework or consult an expert to get the right configuration. A good value.

Allerair Air Purifier Basic Specifications:

• 19 different models in the 5000 series
• Designed for spaces up to 500 sqft (6 air changes per hour)
• Passive/ active purification technology
• Step 1: pre filter for larger particles
• Step 2: 18 lb Mac-B carbon filter for odors and gases
• Step 3: photocatalytic technology using UV light with a special catalyst
• Step 4: 99.97% Medical grade HEPA filter for particle removal
• Metal housing prevents off-gassing
• Yearly Operating Costs 292.03
• 10-year warranty parts/ 5-years on labor

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 16/24 points – The MSRP is 799.98. The estimated square footage cleaned is 500 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((799.98 initial + 292.03/year)/500 sqft)/12

removal points)) = 81.80. 81.80 = 16 points – Good Value.

2) What is Removed: 12/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal

of Odors and Gases – Very Good Removal, 3-points, Removal of VOCs – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Very Good Removal, 3-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms –

Poor Removal, 0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 3/15 points – The Pre filter lasts between 2-6 months depending on how you carefully you vacuum it; 39.98 X 4 = 39.98/year. The Carbon filter last 1-3 years at

129.98/2 = 64.99/year. The HEPA filter lasts 3-5 years at 99.98/4 = 24.99/year. The UV lamp for Photocatalytic system lasts about 1 year at 99.98/year. Calculating electricity usage: 80

watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 62.09/year. Total cost 292.03/year. Expensive to operate.

4) Quality: 12/12 points – Examples of high quality include metal housing and baked enamel finish. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Excellent Quality, 5-points. Cleaning Technologies –

Excellent Quality, 5-points. Support Material – Excellent Quality, 2-point.

5) Warranty: 8/8 points – 10-years on parts/ 5-years on labor. Excellent Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – Routine maintenance includes replacing the pre filter every 2-6 months or as needed, the carbon filter every 1-3 years or as needed, the UV lamp

every 1 year, and the HEPA filter every 3-5 years or as needed. Although the unit assembles and disassembles easily, there are 4 screws to take off the bottom each time you check or change a

filter. The pre filter change is a little easier once you do it a few times. Average Maintenance, 2-points. Cleaning is limited to vacuuming the pre filter every one or two months and wiping

down the exterior/interior as needed. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – These units look a little like a vacuum or shopvac. They have casters on the bottom for easy moving. Black, White, Pewter, Sandstone. Looks Good, 2-points.

Controls are minimal and located on the front of the unit. Weighs 44 lbs and measures 21" height X 15" diameter. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Allerair has been in business for over 14 years. They have offices in the United Stated, Italy, and Canada.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – Fan noise ranges from 35 dB on low to 65 dB on Turbo. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Ready to use out of the box. Easy Set-up.

total = 69/100 points

Conclusion

A solid performer with updated active technology.

Top Model: 6000 Series/ 6000 Vocarb Version

Rating Score: 69/100 points

Summary

The Allerair 6000 Series has 14 different models/ configurations. This review is for the 6000 Vocarb Version. This model uses a pre filter, a serious 24 lb carbon filter, and a true

99.97% HEPA filter with added anti-microbial support. This is a good all-around air purifier with added VOC and odor/gas removal. Note that rating the other 13 models in the 6000 series would

change the rating score up or down slightly. If you order this Allerair Air Purifier model, do your homework or consult an expert to get the right configuration. A good value.

Allerair Air Purifier Basic Specifications:

• 14 different models in the 6000 series
• Designed for spaces up to 600 sqft (6 air changes per hour)
• Passive purification technology
• Step 1: pre filter for larger particles
• Step 2: 24 lb impregnated carbon filter for odors, gases, and VOCs
• Step 3: two anti-microbial filters to surpress microorganisms
• Step 4: 99.97% True HEPA filter for particle removal
• Metal housing prevents off-gassing
• Yearly Operating Costs 277.05
• 10-year warranty parts/ 5-years on labor

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 16/24 points – The MSRP is 699.98. The estimated square footage cleaned is 600 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((699.98 initial + 277.05/year)/600 sqft)/12

removal points)) = 86.43. 86.43 = 16 points – Good Value.

2) What is Removed: 12/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal

of Odors and Gases – Very Good Removal, 3-points, Removal of VOCs – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor

Removal, 0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 3/15 points – The Pre filter lasts between 2-6 months depending on how you carefully you vacuum it; 49.98 for 4 = 49.98/year. The Carbon filter last 1-3 years at

259.98/2 = 129.99/year. The HEPA filter lasts 3-5 years at 139.98/4 = 34.99/year. Calculating electricity usage: 80 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 62.09/year.

Total cost 277.05/year. Expensive to operate.

4) Quality: 12/12 points – Examples of high quality include metal housing and baked enamel finish. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Excellent Quality, 5-points. Cleaning Technologies –

Excellent Quality, 5-points. Support Material – Excellent Quality, 2-point.

5) Warranty: 8/8 points – 10-years on parts/ 5-years on labor. Excellent Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – Routine maintenance includes replacing the pre filter every 2-6 months or as needed, the carbon filter every 1-3 years or as needed, and the HEPA

filter every 3-5 years or as needed. Although the unit assembles and disassembles easily, there are 4 screws to take off the bottom each time you check or change a filter. The pre filter change

is a little easier once you do it a few times. Average Maintenance, 2-points. Cleaning is limited to vacuuming the pre filter every one or two months and wiping down the exterior/interior as

needed. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – These units look a little like a vacuum or shopvac. They have casters on the bottom for easy moving. Black, White, and Sandstone. Looks Good, 2-points.

Controls are minimal and located on the front of the unit. Weighs 59 lbs and measures 24" height X 15" diameter. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Allerair has been in business for over 14 years. They have offices in the United Stated, Italy, and Canada.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – Fan noise ranges from 35 dB on low to 65 dB on Turbo. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Ready to use out of the box. Easy Set-up.

total = 69/100 points

Conclusion

Good for VOC removal + particles.

Model: 8000 Series/ 8000 AH Whole House Exec Version

Rating Score: 60/100 points

Summary

The Allerair 8000 Series has 12 different models/ configurations. This review is for the 8000 AH Exec Version. This model uses a pre filter, a serious 32 lb carbon filter, and a

true 99.97% HEPA filter with added anti-microbial support. This is a good all-around air purifier that works in tandem with your HVAC system. This system could do more square footage, but this

would cut down on the cleaning effectiveness. Note that rating the other 11 models in the 8000 series would change the rating score up or down slightly. If you order this Allerair Air Purifier

model, do your homework or consult an expert to get the right configuration. A fair value.

Allerair Air Purifier Basic Specifications:

• 12 different models in the 8000 series
• Designed for spaces up to 667 sqft (6 air changes per hour)
• Passive purification technology
• Step 1: pre filter for larger particles
• Step 2: 32 lb MAC-B carbon filter for odors, gases, and VOCs
• Step 3: two anti-microbial filters to surpress microorganisms
• Step 4: 99.97% Medical Grade HEPA filter for particle removal
• HVAC companion/ metal housing prevents off-gassing
• Yearly Operating Costs 372.04
• 10-year warranty parts/ 5-years on labor

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is 1399.98. The estimated square footage cleaned is 667 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((1399.98 initial + 372.04/year)/667 sqft)/10

removal points)) = 73.43. 73.43 = 12 points – Fair Value.

2) What is Removed: 10/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal

of Odors and Gases – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of VOCs – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor

Removal, 0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 0/15 points – The Pre filter lasts between 2-6 months depending on how you carefully you vacuum it; 59.98 for 4 = 59.98/year. The Carbon filter last 1-3 years at

299.98/2 = 149.99/year. The HEPA filter lasts 3-5 years at 99.98/4 = 24.99/year. Calculating electricity usage: 80 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 62.09/year. Total

cost 372.04/year. Very Expensive to operate.

4) Quality: 12/12 points – Examples of high quality include metal housing and baked enamel finish. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Excellent Quality, 5-points. Cleaning Technologies –

Excellent Quality, 5-points. Support Material – Excellent Quality, 2-point.

5) Warranty: 8/8 points – 10-years on parts/ 5-years on labor. Excellent Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – Routine maintenance includes replacing the pre filter every 2-6 months or as needed, the carbon filter every 1-3 years or as needed, and the HEPA

filter every 3-5 years or as needed. Although the unit assembles and disassembles easily, there are 4 screws to take off the bottom each time you check or change a filter. The pre filter change

is a little easier once you do it a few times. Average Maintenance, 2-points. Cleaning is limited to vacuuming the pre filter every one or two months and wiping down the exterior/interior as

needed. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – These units look a little like an old pot belly stove. Black is the only color. Looks Good, 2-points. Compatible with any HVAC system. Weighs 80 lbs and

measures 29.5" height X 15" diameter. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Allerair has been in business for over 14 years. They have offices in the United Stated, Italy, and Canada.

9) Noise Level: 5/5 points – Adds no additional noise to regular HVAC operation. Very Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 1/3 points – Locating and installing this system should not be too bad if you are handy. If you need to move walls or modify the furnace or locate a power outlet, you may want to

hire a contractor. Involved Set-up.

total = 60/100 points

Conclusion

An option for whole home cleaning.

Model: 600 Series/ 600 Exec w/ UV Version

Rating Score: 65/100 points

Summary

The Allerair 600 Series has 5 different models/ configurations. This review is for the 600 Exec w/ UV Version. This model uses a pre filter, a serious 18 lb carbon filter, and a

true 99.97% medical grade HEPA filter with added anti-microbial support. This is a good all-around air purifier with added UV microbial support. Note that rating the other 4 models in the 600

series would change the rating score up or down slightly. If you order this Allerair Air Purifier model, do your homework or consult an expert to get the right configuration. A good value.

Allerair Air Purifier Basic Specifications:

• 5 different models in the 600 series
• Designed for spaces up to 500 sqft (6 air changes per hour)
• Passive purification technology
• Step 1: pre filter for larger particles
• Step 2: 18 lb MAC-B carbon filter for odors, gases, and VOCs
• Step 3: UV bulb to surpress microorganisms
• Step 4: 99.97% medical grade HEPA filter for particle removal
• Metal housing prevents off-gassing
• Yearly Operating Costs 357.03
• 10-year warranty parts/ 5-years on labor

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 16/24 points – The MSRP is 699.98. The estimated square footage cleaned is 500 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((699.98 initial + 357.03/year)/500 sqft)/11

removal points)) = 80.78. 80.78 = 16 points – Good Value.

2) What is Removed: 11/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal

of Odors and Gases – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of VOCs – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Very Good Removal, 3-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor

Removal, 0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 0/15 points – The Pre filter lasts between 2-6 months depending on how you carefully you vacuum it; 49.98 for 4 = 49.98/year. The Carbon filter last 1-3 years at

199.98/2 = 99.99/year. The HEPA filter lasts 3-5 years at 199.98/4 = 44.99/year. The UV lamp for lasts about 1 year at 99.98/year. Calculating electricity usage: 80 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x

24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 62.09/year. Total cost 357.03/year. Very Expensive to operate.

4) Quality: 12/12 points – Examples of high quality include metal housing and baked enamel finish. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Excellent Quality, 5-points. Cleaning Technologies –

Excellent Quality, 5-points. Support Material – Excellent Quality, 2-point.

5) Warranty: 8/8 points – 10-years on parts/ 5-years on labor. Excellent Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – Routine maintenance includes replacing the pre filter every 2-6 months or as needed, the carbon filter every 1-3 years or as needed, the UV lamp

every 1 year, and the HEPA filter every 3-5 years or as needed. Although the unit assembles and disassembles easily, there are 4 screws to take off the bottom each time you check or change a

filter. The pre filter change is a little easier once you do it a few times. Average Maintenance, 2-points. Cleaning is limited to vacuuming the pre filter every one or two months and wiping

down the exterior/interior as needed. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – These units look a little like a vacuum or shopvac. They have casters on the bottom for easy moving. Black, White, Pewter, and Sandstone. Looks Good, 2-points.

Controls are minimal and located on the front of the unit. Weighs 38 lbs and measures 20.5" height X 15" diameter. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Allerair has been in business for over 14 years. They have offices in the United Stated, Italy, and Canada.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – Fan noise ranges from 35 dB on low to 65 dB on Turbo. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Ready to use out of the box. Easy Set-up.

total = 65/100 points

Conclusion

A good match for the 5000 series.

Model: AirMedic Series/ AirMedic D Exec Version

Rating Score: 69/100 points

Summary

The Allerair AirMedic Series has 8 different models/ configurations. This review is for the AirMedic D Exec Version. This model uses a pre filter, a serious 25 lb carbon filter, and

a Electrostatic Particle filter. This is a good all-around air purifier with added treatment of heavy concentrations of airborne chemicals, gases and odors. Note that rating the other 7 models

in the AirMedic series would change the rating score up or down slightly. If you order this Allerair Air Purifier model, do your homework or consult an expert to get the right configuration. A

good value.

Allerair Air Purifier Basic Specifications:

• 8 different models in the AirMedic series
• Designed for spaces up to 500 sqft (6 air changes per hour)
• Passive purification technology
• Step 1: pre filter for larger particles
• Step 2: 25 lb MAC-B carbon filter for odors, gases, and VOCs
• Step 3: Electrostatic Particle filter for particle removal
• Metal housing prevents off-gassing
• Yearly Operating Costs 270.72
• 10-year warranty parts/ 5-years on labor
• Available in Black, White, and Sandstone

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 16/24 points – The MSRP is 799.98. The estimated square footage cleaned is 500 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((799.98 initial + 270.72/year)/500 sqft)/12

removal points)) = 82.16. 82.16 = 16 points – Good Value.

2) What is Removed: 12/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal

of Odors and Gases – Very Good Removal, 3-points, Removal of VOCs – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor

Removal, 0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 3/15 points – The Pre filter lasts between 2-6 months depending on how you carefully you vacuum it; 39.98 for 4 = 39.98/year. The Carbon filter last 2-5 years at

259.98/3 = 86.67/year. The Electrostatic Particle filter lasts 6 months at 58.99 X 2 = 117.98/year. Calculating electricity usage: 80 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year =

62.09/year. Total cost 270.72/year. Expensive to operate.

4) Quality: 12/12 points – Examples of high quality include metal housing and baked enamel finish. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Excellent Quality, 5-points. Cleaning Technologies –

Excellent Quality, 5-points. Support Material – Excellent Quality, 2-point.

5) Warranty: 8/8 points – 10-years on parts/ 5-years on labor. Excellent Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – Routine maintenance includes replacing the pre filter every 2-6 months or as needed, the carbon filter every 2-5 years or as needed and the

Electrostatic Particle filter every 6 months or as needed. Although the unit assembles and disassembles easily, there are 4 screws to take off the bottom each time you check or change a filter.

The pre filter change is a little easier once you do it a few times. Average Maintenance, 2-points. Cleaning is limited to vacuuming the pre filter every one or two months and wiping down the

exterior/interior as needed. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – These units look a little like a vacuum or shopvac. They have casters on the bottom for easy moving. Black, White, and Sandstone. Looks Good, 2-points.

Controls are minimal and located on the front of the unit. Weighs 55 lbs and measures 17.5" height X 15" diameter. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Allerair has been in business for over 14 years. They have offices in the United Stated, Italy, and Canada.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – Fan noise ranges from 35 dB on low to 65 dB on Turbo. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Ready to use out of the box. Easy Set-up.

total = 69/100 points

Conclusion

A good all around purifier using electrostatic charged filters.

Model: AirTube Series/ AirTube Exec version

Rating Score: 61/100 points

Summary

The Allerair AirTube Series has 5 different models/ configurations. This review is for the AirTube Exec Version. This model uses a pre filter, a 7 lb carbon filter, and a true

99.97% medical grade HEPA filter with added anti-microbial support. This is a good, although expensive all-around portable air purifier. Note that rating the other 4 models in the AirTube

series would change the rating score up or down slightly. If you order this Allerair Air Purifier model, do your homework or consult an expert to get the right configuration. A poor value.

Allerair Air Purifier Basic Specifications:

• 5 different models in the AirTube series
• Designed for spaces up to 133 sqft (6 air changes per hour)
• Passive purification technology
• Step 1: pre filter for larger particles
• Step 2: 7 lb MAC-B carbon filter for odors, gases, and VOCs
• Step 3: two anti-microbial filters to surpress microorganisms
• Step 4: 99.97% medical grade HEPA filter for particle removal
• Metal housing prevents off-gassing; 18 lbs
• Yearly Operating Costs 192.04
• 10-year warranty parts/ 5-years on labor

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 8/24 points – The MSRP is 299.98. The estimated square footage cleaned is 133 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((299.98 initial + 192.04/year)/133 sqft)/9

removal points)) = 58.90. 58.90 = 8 points – Poor Value.

2) What is Removed: 9/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal of

Odors and Gases – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of VOCs – Fair Removal, 1-points, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal,

0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 6/15 points – The Pre filter lasts between 2-6 months depending on how you carefully you vacuum it; 29.98 for 4 = 29.98/year. The Carbon filter last 1 years at

59.98/year. The HEPA filter lasts 2 years at 79.98/2 = 39.99/year. Calculating electricity usage: 80 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 62.09/year. Total cost

192.04/year. Above Average to operate.

4) Quality: 12/12 points – Examples of high quality include metal housing and baked enamel finish. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Excellent Quality, 5-points. Cleaning Technologies –

Excellent Quality, 5-points. Support Material – Excellent Quality, 2-point.

5) Warranty: 8/8 points – 10-years on parts/ 5-years on labor. Excellent Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – Routine maintenance includes replacing the pre filter every 2-6 months or as needed, the carbon filter every 1-3 years or as needed, the UV lamp

every 1 year, and the HEPA filter every 3-5 years or as needed. Although the unit assembles and disassembles easily, there are 4 screws to take off the bottom each time you check or change a

filter. The pre filter change is a little easier once you do it a few times. Average Maintenance, 2-points. Cleaning is limited to vacuuming the pre filter every one or two months and wiping

down the exterior/interior as needed. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This portable unit looks a like a small shopvac. This is a portable unit and has a handle on top. White is the only available color. Looks Good, 2-points.

Controls are minimal and located on the front of the unit. Weighs 18 lbs and measures 16" height X 11" diameter. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Allerair has been in business for over 14 years. They have offices in the United Stated, Italy, and Canada.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – Fan noise ranges from 35 dB on low to 65 dB on Turbo. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Ready to use out of the box. Easy Set-up.

total = 61/100 points

Conclusion

A capable portable, but at a price.

Return to STEP 3 Reviews A-H from Allerair Air Purifier

Amaircare air purifier review: Summaries and Detailed Reviews.

Reviews are only as good as the underlying rating criteria used.

After you are done reviewing, STEP 5 Buying lists the best places to buy Amaircare purifiers.

Amaircare Air Purifier Summaries

Model: 2500Rated – Good Rating

Up to 217 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP £289/£400 w/ optional VOC

Conclusion: A decent filter reducing most particles.

Detailed Review Below

Model: 3000Rated – Good Rating

Up to 281 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP £449/£600 w/ optional VOC

Conclusion: A decent filter reducing most particles.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Amaircare RoomAidRated – Fair Rating

Up to 100 sqft (3 AC/hr)

MSRP £149

Conclusion: A good portable filter unit for a small space.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Amaircare XR-100 Auto Unit Rated – Very Good Rating

A large SUV(4 AC/hr)

MSRP £139/ £165 w/ auto adapter

Conclusion: A good filter system for auto and travel.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Amaircare 8500 Whole House Rated – Fair Rating

Up to 1067 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP £2250 not incl. installation/VOC filters

Conclusion: A good unit; above many consumers spending budget.

Detailed Review Below

Amaircare Air Purifier Detailed Reviews

Model: Amaircare 2500

Rating Score: 60/100 points

Summary

I like the quality of this purifier. Simple to use, good basic looks. Solid engineering and quality materials used throughout. I like the powder-coated metal housing. Maintenance is

minimal and because of the good filter design, filter life is long. Filter replacement costs are moderate. You do have to pay a little more to run this purifier, but the cleaning ability makes

the cost justified. This is a good purifier for a smaller room.

Basic Specifications

The 2500 is designed for spaces up to 217 sqft (6 air changes per hour). The 2500 is "passive technology" as the air must travel through the purifier to be

cleaned. The 3-stage filter process includes: Stage-1 large particle pre filter (dust, hair, pet dander), stage-2 99.97% HEPA filter – 50 sqft material (dust, mold, spores, pollen, smoke), and

stage-3 VOC filter (gases, odors, chemicals, cleaners, paints). The VOC filter is optional, but recommended. A lesser carbon filter takes the place of the VOC if not utilized. This unit has a

variable speed fan and a 5-year limited warranty. The Pre filter is changed every 3-6 months, HEPA filter every 2-5 years, and VOC filter every 6-12 months. All told plan on spending about

£150-£200/year on filter changes. This purifier has non-outgasing surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is £289/£400 w/ optional VOC. The estimated square footage cleaned is 217 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((£400 initial +

£227.20/year)/217 sqft)/11 removal points)) = 73.72. 73.72 = 12 points – fair value.

2) What is Removed: 11/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal

of Odors and Gases – Very Good Removal, 3-points, Removal of VOCs – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor

Removal, 0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 3/15 points – I will price out with the optional VOC cartridge as it would be my recommendation to use it. Assuming 12 months on the VOC £129/year – pre filters

included. I'm assuming a 3-year life on the HEPA at £99/3 = £33/year. Calculating electricity usage: 84 watts/1000 X £.0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = £65.20/year. Total cost

£227.20/year. Expensive to operate.

4) Quality: 10/12 points – Amaircare manufactures everything in-house except the fan motors which are made in Germany. The high quality level is apparent from the materials they use to the

information available on their website. Made in Canada. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Excellent Quality, 5-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Good

Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 6/8 points – The motor/fan has a 5-year warranty with all other parts except filters carrying a 1-year warranty. Very Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – Maintenance requires periodic changing of three filters. To start changing filters remove five screws on the top cabinet. The pre filter lasts 3-6

months. You can either use an inner blanket carbon filter or the optional VOC cartridge both lasting 6-12 months. The HEPA filter is changed every 2-5 years. Average Maintenance, 2-points.

Expect some general cleaning or filter inspection/removal every 3 months. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This is a six-sided unit. Available in white, black, and sandstone. It is basic looking and semi-attractive. 16" hex 13.5" high. Weighs 15 lbs. Looks

Good, 2-points. A variable fan speed switch is located at base; would be better on top. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Amaircare has been in business more than 14 years. They are located in Ontario, Canada.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – A variable speed fan. Low at <40dB and high at >45dB. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 60/100 points

Conclusion

A decent filter reducing most particles.

Amaircare 3000

Rating Score: 60/100 points

Summary

Very similar in design to the 2500, I also like the quality of this purifier. Simple to use, good basic looks. Solid engineering and quality materials used throughout. I like the

powder-coated metal housing. Maintenance is minimal and because of the good filter design, filter life is long. Filter replacement costs are moderate. You do have to pay a little more to run

this purifier, but the cleaning ability makes the cost justified. This is a good purifier for a small to medium sized room.

Basic Specifications

The 3000 is designed for spaces up to 281 sqft (6 air changes per hour). The 3000 is "passive technology" as the air must travel through the purifier to be

cleaned. The 3-stage filter process includes: Stage-1 large particle pre filter (dust, hair, pet dander), stage-2 99.97% HEPA filter – 100 sqft material (dust, mold, spores, pollen, smoke), and

stage-3 VOC filter (gases, odors, chemicals, cleaners, paints). The VOC filter is optional, but recommended. A lesser carbon filter takes the place of the VOC if not utilized. This unit has a

variable speed fan and a 5-year limited warranty. The pre filter is changed every 3-6 months, HEPA filter every 2-5 years, and VOC filter every 6-12 months. All told plan on spending £200/year

or more on filter changes. This purifier has non-outgasing surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is £449/£600 w/ optional VOC. The estimated square footage cleaned is 217 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((£600 initial +

£274.20/year)/281 sqft)/11 removal points)) = 71.72. 71.72 = 12 points – fair value.

2) What is Removed: 11/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal

of Odors and Gases – Very Good Removal, 3-points, Removal of VOCs – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor

Removal, 0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 3/15 points – I will price out with the optional VOC cartridge as it would be my recommendation to use it. Assuming 12 months on the VOC £169/year – pre filters

included. I'm assuming a 4-year life on the HEPA at £159/4 = £40/year. Calculating electricity usage: 84 watts/1000 X £.0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = £65.20/year. Total cost

£274.20/year. Expensive to operate.

4) Quality: 10/12 points – Amaircare manufactures everything in-house except the fan motors which are made in Germany. The high quality level is apparent from the materials they use to the

information available on their website. Made in Canada. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Excellent Quality, 5-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Good

Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 6/8 points – The motor/fan has a 5-year warranty with all other parts except filters carrying a 1-year warranty. Very Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – Maintenance requires periodic changing of three filters. To start changing filters remove five screws on the top cabinet. The pre filter lasts 3-6

months. You can either use an inner blanket carbon filter or the optional VOC cartridge both lasting 6-12 months. The HEPA filter is changed every 2-5 years. Average Maintenance, 2-points.

Expect some general cleaning or filter inspection/removal every 3 months. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This is a six-sided unit. Available in white, black, and sandstone. It is basic looking and semi-attractive. 16" hex 23" high. Weighs 22 lbs. Looks

Good, 2-points. A variable fan speed switch is located at base; would be better on top. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Amaircare has been in business more than 14 years. They are located in Ontario, Canada.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – A variable speed fan. Low at <40dB and high at >45dB. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 60/100 points

Conclusion

A decent filter reducing most particles.Return to Top Model: Amaircare RoomAid Last Reviewed: 01-31-08 Rating Score: 59/100 points

Summary

This is a good, small, portable filter purifier. Simple to use, good basic looks. Solid engineering and quality materials used throughout. I like the powder-coated metal housing.

Maintenance is minimal and because of the good filter design, filter life is long. Filter replacement costs are reasonable. This model has an additional engineering feature with the Perfect

Seal HEPA. This feature allows for better filtration as all air must pass through the HEPA filter and not around it like many other brands. This is a good purifier for a very small room.

Basic Specifications

The Amaircare RoomAid is designed for spaces up to 100 sqft. The RoomAid is "passive technology" as the air must travel through the purifier to be cleaned.

The 3-stage filter process includes: Stage-1 washable particle pre filter (dust, hair, pet dander), stage-2 99.97% HEPA filter with Perfect Seal (dust, mold, spores, pollen, smoke), and stage-3

VOC filter (gases, odors, chemicals, cleaners, paints). The VOC filter is optional, but recommended. A lesser carbon filter takes the place of the VOC if not utilized. This unit has a two-speed

fan and a 5-year limited warranty. The pre filter is washable. Change the HEPA filter every 2-5 years and VOC filter every 6-12 months. Plan on spending about £70/year on filter changes. This

purifier has non-outgasing surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 8/24 points – The MSRP is £149. The estimated square footage cleaned is 100 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((£149 initial + £72.78/year)/100 sqft)/7 removal

points)) = 68.32. 68.32 = 8 points – poor value.

2) What is Removed: 7/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Fair Removal, 1-point. Removal of

Odors and Gases – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of VOCs – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal,

0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 12/15 points – The cleanable pre filter should be changed as needed and is included in the VOC filter kit at £22.95 x 2 = £45.90/year. At a 3-year life estimate,

expect HEPA filter cost to be £69/3 = £23/year. Electricity usage is 5 watts/1000 X £.0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = £3.88/year. Total cost £72.78/year. Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 7/12 points – Amaircare manufactures everything in-house except the fan motors which are made in Germany. The high quality level is apparent from the materials they use to the

information available on their website. Made in Canada. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality, 3-points. Support Material – Good

Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 6/8 points – The motor/fan has a 5-year warranty with all other parts except filters carrying a 1-year warranty. Very Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – Maintenance requires periodic changing of three filters. Cleaning or replacing the pre filter (regular or carbon) as needed, replacing the VOC

filter at 6-12 months, and replacing the HEPA filter at 2-5 years. The instructions are good and the unit disassembles and reassembles easily. Average Maintenance, 2-points. Expect some general

cleaning or filter inspection/removal every 3 months. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 5/6 points – This is a small round unit. Available in white, black, and sandstone. It is basic looking and attractive. 8.5" round 7.5" high. Weighs 5 lbs. Looks

Great, 3-points. A 2-speed switch located at base; would be better on top. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Amaircare has been in business more than 14 years. They are located in Ontario, Canada.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – A 2-speed speed fan. Low at <40dB and high at >45dB. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 59/100 points

Conclusion

A good portable filter unit for a small space.

Amaircare XR-100 Auto Unit

Rating Score: 66/100 points

Summary

This Amaircare unit is a small, portable filter purifier that can be used in your auto and your hotel room. Simple to use, just turn it on. Solid engineering and quality materials

used throughout. I like the powder-coated metal housing. Filter replacement costs are very reasonable. This is a good purifier for traveling and for very small spaces/rooms.

Basic Specifications: The Amaircare XR-100 is designed for spaces up to 300 cubic ft like a large SUV (4 air changes per hour). The XR-100 is "passive technology" as the air must

travel through the purifier to be cleaned. The 3-stage filter process includes: Stage-1 Activated Carbon VOC Filter, stage-2 Electret Charged Media filter, and stage-3 Zeolite VOC filter. This

unit has a single speed fan and a 5-year limited warranty. Filters come in a 3-pack and all are replaced together at 4-6 month intervals. Plan on spending about £23/year on filter changes. This

purifier has non-outgasing surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is £139/£165 w/ auto adapter. The estimated area cleaned is 300 cubic feet. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((£165 initial + £26.83/year)/300

cubic feet)/5 removal points)) = 75 = 12 points – fair value. – note: this purifier does not fit the equation because of its unique nature; I estimated a value number based on all available

data.

2) What is Removed: 5/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Fair Removal, 1-point. Removal of Odors

and Gases – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of VOCs – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal,

0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 15/15 points – Filters come handily bundled in 3-packs which will last 1-year (£22.95). Electricity usage is 5 watts/1000 X £.0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365

days/year = £3.88/year. Total cost £26.83/year. Very Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 9/12 points – Amaircare manufactures everything in-house except the fan motors which are made in Germany. The high quality level is apparent from the materials they use to the

information available on their website. Made in Canada. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Good

Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 6/8 points – The motor/fan has a 5-year warranty with all other parts except filters carrying a 1-year warranty. Very Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 5/6 points – Maintenance requires changing of three filters every 4-6 months. In order to change the filters you will need to remove a cover (turn and remove)

and remove four screws. Expect 30 minutes by the time you remove and replace all filters, wipe the outside housing clean, and reinstall on the seat of your car. It should be easy after the

first time. Average Maintenance, 2-points. General cleaning can be done with filter change. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This is a round air cleaner that mounts on the back of a car seat or sits on a desktop. The color is Black. Fairly neutral looking. 8" depth and 3.5"

height. 2.1 lbs. Looks Good, 2-points. Has a simple on/off switch. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Amaircare has been in business more than 14 years. They are located in Ontario, Canada.

9) Noise Level: 4/5 points – This unit is fairly quiet. There is only one fan speed and the unit is generally located out of the way behind the driver's seat. Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 2/3 points – If you are using this unit for an automobile, it may take a few minutes to attach to the seat and route the power cord. Average Set-up.

total = 66/100 points

Conclusion

A good filter system for auto and travel.

Amaircare 8500 Whole House

Rating Score: 59/100 points

Summary

This Amaircare unit is a large filter system that attaches to the HVAC system in your home or business. It is a bit pricey to purchase and install and costly to maintain. If you

want to clean every room in your home, this is one way to do it. This model is effective and of high quality. Get someone that is both qualified and knowledgeable to install it to maximize its

cleaning ability and to make changing filters accessible. I would recommend a system like this, but only if you are looking to clean the whole house and if you made up your mind on purchasing

only passive systems. There are active system purifiers that are more cost effective and do a good job of cleaning.

Basic Specifications

The 8500 Whole House is designed for spaces up to 1067 sqft (6 air changes per hour). The 8500 is "passive technology" as the air must travel through the

purifier to be cleaned. The Triple 3-stage filter process includes: Stage-1 3-large particle pre filters (dust, hair, pet dander), stage-2 3-99.97% HEPA filters – total 300 sqft material (dust,

mold, spores, pollen, smoke), and stage-3 3-VOC filters (gases, odors, chemicals, cleaners, paints). The VOC filters are optional, but recommended. Lesser carbon filters take the place of the

VOCs if not utilized. This unit has its own variable speed fan that runs even if the HVAC is off and a 5-year limited warranty. Pre filters should be changed every 6-12 months, HEPA filters

every 2-5 years, and VOC filters every 6-12 months. All told plan on spending £600-£700/year or more on filter changes. This purifier has non-outgasing surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is £2250 not including installation or VOC filters. The estimated square footage cleaned is 1067 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((£2250

initial + £901.72/year)/1067 sqft)/11 removal points)) = 73.15. 73.15 = 12 points – fair value.

2) What is Removed: 11/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-point. Removal of

Odors and Gases – Very Good Removal, 3-points, Removal of VOCs – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor

Removal, 0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 0/15 points – My calculations include the optional VOC cartridge filters. The pre filters and VOC cartridges will cost £479/year. The three HEPA filters need

replacing every 2-5 years (I'll assume 3 years) £429.95/3 = £143.31/year. Electricity usage is 360 watts/1000 X £.0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = £279.41/year. Total cost

£901.72/year. Very Expensive to operate.

4) Quality: 9/12 points – Amaircare manufactures everything in-house except the fan motors which are made in Germany. The high quality level is apparent from the materials they use to the

information available on their website. Made in Canada. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Good

Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 6/8 points – The motor/fan has a 5-year warranty with all other parts except filters carrying a 1-year warranty. Very Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 5/6 points – Maintenance requires changing of three separate filter arrangements. Each arrangement has a pre filter, either a carbon filter or optional VOC

filter, and a HEPA filter. Filter life varies, but expect to check/change filters every three months. 10-30 minutes would be needed depending on what needs changing. Average Maintenance,

2-points. General cleaning can be done with each filter change. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 6/6 points – This unit looks like an addition to your furnace. It is powder-coated metal and looks good. Unit is 17" wide x 28" long x 50" high. The unit

weighs 125 lbs. Looks Great, 3-points. Once installed it runs automatically. Feels Great, 3-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Amaircare has been in business more than 14 years. They are located in Ontario, Canada.

9) Noise Level: 5/5 points – This unit runs with standard HVAC and adds no additional noise. Very Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 1/3 points – Installation could take from 3 to 8 hours and may require a licensed professional. Involved Set-up.

total = 59/100 points

Conclusion

A good unit; above many consumers spending budget.

Return to STEP 3 Reviews A-H from Amaircare Air Purifier

Air Oasis air purifier review: Summaries and Detailed Reviews.

Reviews are only as good as the underlying rating criteria used.

After you are done reviewing, STEP 5 Buying lists the best places to buy Air Oasis purifiers.

Air Oasis Air Purifier Summaries

Model: Air Oasis Mini UV Rated – Very Good Rating

Up to 150 sqft

MSRP £299.99

Conclusion: Good for a small room or packing on a vacation.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Air Oasis 1000 UV Rated – Very Good Rating

Up to 400 sqft

MSRP £399.99

Conclusion: Good for smells, gases, VOCs, and basic microorganisms; lacking particle removal.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Air Oasis 3000 UV Rated – Excellent Rating

Up to 1000+ sqft

MSRP £499.99

Conclusion: Good for smells, gases, VOCs, and basic microorganisms; lacking particle removal.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Air Oasis 3000XTREME UV Rated – Excellent Rating

Up to 1000+ sqft

MSRP £549.99

Conclusion: Good for smells, gases, VOCs, and basic microorganisms; lacking particle removal.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Air Oasis 9″ Induct ACT UVRated – Excellent Rating

Up to 1000+ sqft

MSRP £549.99

Conclusion: Decent product; other comparable brands cost less.

Detailed Review Below

Air Oasis Air Purifier Detailed Reviews

Model: Air Oasis Mini UV

Rating Score: 70/100 points

Summary

I like the rugged, simple design of this purifier. The quality is evident and the materials are good (very little plastic). It has decent cleaning ability for smells, gases, VOCs, and basic microorganisms. Not as effective on particle removal. Low maintenance and low maintenance costs are also pluses. I would consider this purifier for small spaces that are not too dusty or where the focus is on smells, gases, VOCs, and basic microorganisms. The company offers a mold test and has good claims for airborne mold reduction.

Basic Specifications

The Mini UV is designed for smaller spaces up to 150 sqft. This purifier is active/passive with oxidation like cleaning occurring inside and outside the purifier. Basic Microorganisms passing through the unit will be subjected to the UV light. Some ozone is present, but listed as within all recommended guideline levels. The Hydrated Photocatalytic Oxidation process removes most smells and gases over time and also reduces VOCs and basic microorganisms. Minimal particle removal with negligible negative ions produced as a byproduct of the process. The only replacement part is the UV light cell. The AHPCO-4mini UV cell needs replacing every 3 years at a cost of £59.00. The fan is single speed on. The purifier has non-outgasing surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is £299.99. The estimated square footage cleaned is 150 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((£299.99 initial + £49.93/year)/150 sqft)/8 removal points)) = 70.84. 70.84 = 12 points – fair value.

2) What is Removed: 8/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Poor Removal, 0-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Poor Removal, 0-points. Removal of Odors and Gases – Very Good Removal, 3-points, Removal of VOCs – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Very Good Removal, 3-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Fair Removal, 1-point.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 15/15 points – The UV Cell (part# AHPCO-4mini) needs replacing every 3 years at a cost of £59.00/3 = £19.67/year. Calculating electricity usage: 39 watts/1000 X £.0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = £30.26/year. Total cost £49.93/year. Very Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 9/12 points – This purifier is made in USA. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Good Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 6/8 points – The entire purifier including the UV bulb has a 3-year warranty. Very Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – The only routine maintenance is replacing the UV light every 3 years. This task should only take 10-15 minutes. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Only light dusting or wiping with a damp cloth is required as needed. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – The purifier is small and durable. The brushed aluminum look is fairly unique and tougher than plastic. Looks Good, 2-points. This unit has simple controls with only an on/off switch. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 3/5 points – They started by distributing air purifiers in 2002 and then manufacturing their own in 2004. They are located in Amarillo, TX.

9) Noise Level: 4/5 points – The Fan is small, but positioned for decent airflow (it is pointed directly up from bottom to top). There is only one speed; Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 70/100 points

Conclusion

Good for a small room or packing on a vacation.

Model: Air Oasis 1000 UV

Rating Score: 71/100 points

Summary

I like the rugged, simple design of this purifier. The quality is evident and the materials are good (very little plastic). It has decent cleaning ability for smells, gases, VOCs, and basic microorganisms. Not as effective on particle removal. Low maintenance and low maintenance costs are also pluses. I would consider this purifier for spaces that are not too dusty or where the focus is on smells, gases, VOCs, and basic microorganisms. The company offers a mold test and has good claims for airborne mold reduction.

Basic Specifications

The 1000 UV is designed for spaces up to 400 sqft. This purifier is active/passive with oxidation like cleaning occurring inside and outside the purifier. Basic Microorganisms passing through the unit will be subjected to the UV light. Some ozone is present, but listed as within all recommended guideline levels. The Hydrated Photocatalytic Oxidation process removes most smells and gases over time and also reduces VOCs and basic microorganisms. Minimal particle removal with negligible negative ions produced as a byproduct of the process. The only replacement part is the UV light cell. The AHPCO-4 UV cell needs replacing every 3 years at a cost of £59.00. The fan is single speed on. The purifier has non-outgasing surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 16/24 points – The MSRP is £399.99. The estimated square footage cleaned is 400 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((£399.99 initial + £50.72/year)/400 sqft)/8 removal points)) = 85.92. 85.92 = 16 points – good value.

2) What is Removed: 8/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Poor Removal, 0-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Poor Removal, 0-points. Removal of Odors and Gases – Very Good Removal, 3-points, Removal of VOCs – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Very Good Removal, 3-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Fair Removal, 1-point.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 12/15 points – The UV Cell (part# AHPCO-4) needs replacing every 3 years at a cost of £59.00/3 = £19.67/year. Calculating electricity usage: 40 watts/1000 X £.0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = £31.05/year. Total cost £50.72/year. Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 9/12 points – This purifier is made in USA. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Good Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 6/8 points – The entire purifier including the UV bulb has a 3-year warranty. Very Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – The only routine maintenance is replacing the UV light every 3 years. This task should only take 10-15 minutes. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Only light dusting or wiping with a damp cloth is required as needed. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – The purifier is small and durable. The brushed aluminum look is fairly unique and tougher than plastic. Looks Good, 2-points. This unit has simple controls with only an on/off switch. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 3/5 points – They started by distributing air purifiers in 2002 and then manufacturing their own in 2004. They are located in Amarillo, TX.

9) Noise Level: 4/5 points – The Fan is small, but positioned for decent airflow (it is pointed directly up from bottom to top). There is only one speed; Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 71/100 points

Conclusion

Good for smells, gases, VOCs, and basic microorganisms; lacking particle removal.

Model: Air Oasis 3000 UV

Rating Score: 75/100 points

Summary

I like the rugged, simple design of this purifier. The quality is evident and the materials are good (very little plastic). It has good cleaning ability for smells, gases, VOCs, and basic microorganisms. Not as effective on particle removal. Low maintenance and low maintenance costs are also pluses. I would consider this purifier for larger spaces that are not too dusty or where the focus is on smells, gases, VOCs, and basic microorganisms. The company offers a mold test and has good claims for airborne mold reduction.

Basic Specifications

The 3000 UV is designed for spaces up to 1000+ sqft. This purifier is active/passive with oxidation like cleaning occurring inside and outside the purifier. Basic Microorganisms passing through the unit will be subjected to the UV light. Some ozone is present, but listed as within all recommended guideline levels. The Hydrated Photocatalytic Oxidation process removes most smells and gases over time and also reduces VOCs and basic microorganisms. Minimal particle removal with negligible negative ions produced as a byproduct of the process. The only replacement part is the UV light cell. The AHPCO-5 UV cell needs replacing every 3 years at a cost of £69.00. The fan is single speed on. The purifier has non-outgasing surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 20/24 points – The MSRP is £499.99. The estimated square footage cleaned is 1000 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((£499.99 initial + £54.06/year)/1000 sqft)/8 removal points)) = 93.07. 93.07 = 20 points – very good value.

2) What is Removed: 8/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Poor Removal, 0-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Poor Removal, 0-points. Removal of Odors and Gases – Very Good Removal, 3-points, Removal of VOCs – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Very Good Removal, 3-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Fair Removal, 1-point.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 12/15 points – The UV Cell (part# AHPCO-5) needs replacing every 3 years at a cost of £69/3 = £23/year. Calculating electricity usage: 40 watts/1000 X £.0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = £31.05/year. Total cost £54.06/year. Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 9/12 points – This purifier is made in USA. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Good Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 6/8 points – The entire purifier including the UV bulb has a 3-year warranty. Very Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – The only routine maintenance is replacing the UV light every 3 years. This task should only take 10-15 minutes. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Only light dusting or wiping with a damp cloth is required as needed. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – The purifier is reasonably small and durable. The brushed aluminum look is fairly unique and tougher than plastic. Looks Good, 2-points. This unit has simple controls with only an on/off switch. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 3/5 points – They started by distributing air purifiers in 2002 and then manufacturing their own in 2004. They are located in Amarillo, TX.

9) Noise Level: 4/5 points – The Fan is small, but positioned for decent airflow (it is pointed directly up from bottom to top). There is only one speed; Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 75/100 points

Conclusion

Good for smells, gases, VOCs, and basic microorganisms; lacking particle removal.

Model: Air Oasis 3000XTREME UV

Rating Score: 75/100 points

Summary

I like the rugged, simple design of this purifier. The quality is evident and the materials are good (very little plastic). It has decent cleaning ability for smells, gases, VOCs, and basic microorganisms. Not as effective on particle removal. Low maintenance and low maintenance costs are also pluses. I would consider this purifier for larger spaces that are not too dusty or where the focus is on smells, gases, VOCs, and basic microorganisms. The company also offers a mold test and has good claims for airborne mold reduction.

Basic Specifications

The Air Oasis 3000XTREME UV is designed for spaces up to 1000+ sqft. This purifier is active/passive with oxidation like cleaning occurring inside and outside the purifier. Basic Microorganisms passing through the unit will be subjected to the UV light. Some ozone is present, but listed as within all recommended guideline levels. The Hydrated Photocatalytic Oxidation process removes most smells and gases over time and also reduces VOCs and basic microorganisms. Minimal particle removal with negligible negative ions produced as a byproduct of the process. The only replacement part is the UV light cell. The AHPCO-6 UV cell needs replacing every 3 years at a cost of £79.00. The fan is single speed on. The purifier has non-outgasing surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 20/24 points – The MSRP is £549.99. The estimated square footage cleaned is 1000 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((£549.99 initial + £57.38/year)/1000 sqft)/8 removal points)) = 92.41. 92.41 = 20 points – very good value.

2) What is Removed: 8/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Poor Removal, 0-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Poor Removal, 0-points. Removal of Odors and Gases – Very Good Removal, 3-points, Removal of VOCs – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Very Good Removal, 3-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Fair Removal, 1-point.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 12/15 points – The UV Cell (part# AHPCO-6) needs replacing every 3 years at a cost of £79.00/3 = £26.33/year. Calculating electricity usage: 40 watts/1000 X £.0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = £31.05/year. Total cost £57.38/year. Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 9/12 points – This purifier is made in USA. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Good Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 6/8 points – The entire purifier including the UV bulb has a 3-year warranty. Very Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – The only routine maintenance is replacing the UV light every 3 years. This task should only take 10-15 minutes. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Only light dusting or wiping with a damp cloth is required as needed. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – The purifier is reasonably small and durable. The brushed aluminum look is fairly unique and tougher than plastic. Looks Good, 2-points. This unit has simple controls with only an on/off switch. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 3/5 points – They started by distributing air purifiers in 2002 and then manufacturing their own in 2004. They are located in Amarillo, TX.

9) Noise Level: 4/5 points – The Fan is small, but positioned for decent airflow (it is pointed directly up from bottom to top). There is only one speed; Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 75/100 points

Conclusion: Good for smells, gases, VOCs, and basic microorganisms; lacking particle removal. Return to Top Model: Air Oasis 9″ Induct ACT UV Last Reviewed: 01-07-2008 Rating Score: 76/100 points

Summary

The Air Oasis 9″ Induct ACT is a good idea with a few challenges. The challenges occur when using the HVAC. Challenge #1 is that no particle removal is done by Induct ACT. Because the HVAC ducts are metal, ionization does not work. Challenge #2 is that most HVAC systems run only part of the time. To combat these challenges, it is recommended that the Induct ACT be used in conjunction with another particle removing purifier and that a slow speed control be added to the HVAC that runs the HVAC fan at a low speed conserving energy, but distributing the cleaning power regularly. Some installation is required.

Basic Specifications

The 9″ Induct ACT is designed for use in a space up to 1000+ sqft. They have larger models. The Induct ACT purifier is “active technology” as the purifier extends the cleaning out into the home or business by using the air flow of the HVAC system. This purifier will not work in homes without HVAC. The 9″ Induct ACT uses a UV Cell with Hydrated Photocatalytic Oxidation technology. There is a 3-year warranty. The AHPCO-9 UV Cell lasts about 3 years and costs £149 to replace.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 20/24 points – The MSRP is £549.99. The estimated square footage cleaned is 1000 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((£549.99 initial + £76.05/year)/1000 sqft)/8 removal points)) = 92.17. 92.17 = 20 points – very good value.

2) What is Removed: 8/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Poor Removal, 0-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Poor Removal, 0-points. Removal of Odors and Gases – Very Good Removal, 3-points, Removal of VOCs – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Very Good Removal, 3-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Fair Removal, 1-point.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 12/15 points – The UV Cell (part# AHPCO-9) needs replacing every 3 years at a cost of £149.00/3 = £49.67/year. Calculating electricity usage: 34 watts/1000 X £.0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = £26.38/year. Total cost £76.05/year. Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 9/12 points – This purifier is made in USA. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Good Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 6/8 points – The entire purifier including the UV bulb has a 3-year warranty. Very Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – The only routine maintenance is replacing the UV light every 3 years. This task should only take 10-15 minutes. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. This unit requires no or little cleaning. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 6/6 points – This purifier is hidden down near your HVAC furnace. Looks Great, 3-points. Once it is installed, you need not touch it except to change UV bulbs. Feels Great, 3-points.

8) Years in Business: 3/5 points – They started by distributing air purifiers in 2002 and then manufacturing their own in 2004. They are located in Amarillo, TX.

9) Noise Level: 5/5 points – This unit runs with standard HVAC and adds no additional noise. Very Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 1/3 points – Installation could take from 1 to 6 hours and may require a licensed electrician. Adding the optional always-on slow fan control could take additional time. Note the fan control is not offered by Air Oasis at this time, but may be located elsewhere. Involved Set-up.

total = 76/100 points

Conclusion

Decent product; other comparable brands cost less.

Return to STEP 3 Reviews A-H from Air Oasis Air Purifier

Austin air purifier review: Summaries and Detailed Reviews.

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Austin Air Purifier Summaries

Model: HealthMate HM-400/ HealthMate Jr. HM-200Rated – Very Good Rating/Excellent Rating

Points: 68/100 and 81/100

Up to 500/250 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP £449.99/£299.99

Conclusion: Good filters for basic air cleaning.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Allergy Machine/ Allergy Machine Jr.Rated – Very Good Rating/Excellent Rating

Points: 68/100 and 81/100

Up to 500/250 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP £449.99/£299.99

Conclusion: Added control for gases and odors (smoke smell).

Detailed Review Below

Model: HealthMate+/ HealthMate+ Jr.(Superblend)Rated – Excellent Rating/Excellant Rating

Points: 73/100 and 82/100

Up to 500/250 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP £549.99/£349.99

Conclusion: Best Austin Air Purifier, both sizes.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Austin Air Purifier Baby’s Breath Points:Rated – Excellent Rating

Points: 81/100 Up to 250 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP £299.99

Conclusion: Good unit for basic air cleaning.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Austin Air Purifier The Pet MachineRated – Very Good Rating

Points: 64/100

Up to 500 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP £499.99

Conclusion: Mildly pet urine specialized; would recommend other models first.

Detailed Review Below

Austin Air Purifier Detailed Reviews

Model: HealthMate HM-400/HealthMate Jr. HM-200

Rating Score: 74/100 and 77/100 points

Summary

I like the quality of this Austin Air purifier. Simple to use, good basic looks. Solid engineering and quality materials used throughout. Maintenance is minimal and because of the good filter design, filter life is long and reasonably priced. Both sizes are good with the value of the smaller pushing its score a bit higher. For a smaller room, the Junior size is best. The “plus” version is their top purifier, but this is also a good value.

Basic Specifications

The HealthMate HM-400 is designed for spaces up to 500 sqft (6 air changes per hour). The HealthMate Jr. HM-200 is designed for spaces up to 250 sqft (6 air changes per hour). This purifier is “passive technology” as the air must travel through the purifier to be cleaned. Both models use a 4-stage filter process: Stage-1 large particle pre filter (dust, hair, pet dander), stage-2 medium particle pre filter (mold, spores, pollen), stage-3 15lb or 6.5lb activated carbon and zeolite blend filter (gases, odors, chemicals), and stage-4 60ft or 30ft medical grade HEPA filter (some bacteria and viruses). Both sizes offer a 3-speed fan and a 5 year mechanical and pro-rated filter warranty. One filter to change every 3-5 years (£180/£135). The purifier has non-outgasing surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 16/24 or 16/24 points – The MSRPs are £449.99/£299.99. The square footages cleaned are 500/250 sqft. The Value equations are as follows: 100 * (1 – (((£449.99 initial + £111.74/year)/500 sqft)/10 removal points)) = 88.77. 88.77 = 16 points – good value. 100 * (1 – (((£299.99 initial + £78.77/year)/250 sqft)/10 removal points)) = 84.85. 84.85 = 16 points – good value.

2) What is Removed: 10/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal of Odors and Gases – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of VOCs – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal, 0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 9/15 or 12/15 points – Replacement filters last 3-5 years at £180/£135. Estimate 4 years and £45/year or £33.75/year. You may want to replace pre filter at the same time as main filter (not included in yearly estimate, but under £20). Electricity ranges from 56 to 115 watts and 50 to 66 watts. I’ll estimate 86 watts and 58 watts. 86 watts/1000 X £.0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = £66.74/year. 58 watts/1000 X £.0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = £45.02/year. Total cost £111.74/year or £78.77/year. Average and Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 11/12 points – Made in USA with top quality. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Excellent Quality, 5-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Very Good Quality, 2-points.

5) Warranty: 8/8 points – A solid 5-year mechanical warranty and 5-year pro-rated filter warranty. Excellent Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – The only routine maintenance is a filter change every 3-5 years. Changing filters is relatively easy, but requires removal of 4 screws on bottom of unit. Should take you 15-30 minutes. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Only light dusting or vacuuming of the outside as needed. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 5/6 points – Basic and functional looking. Available in 4 colors: Sandstone, Black, White, and Silver. Looks Good, 2-points. The fan speed control is simple and easy to locate. Cabinet feels solid. Feels Great, 3-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – They have been in business for 15 years. They are located in Buffalo, NY.

9) Noise Level: 2/5 points – The lowest fan setting is at 49-50dB and the highest is at 65-66dB. Loud Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – The larger version is a fairly heavy unit at 45 lbs, so it may take help to get it out of the box. Ready to go out of the box. Easy Set-up.

total = 74/100 and 77/100 points

Conclusion

Good filters for basic air cleaning.

Allergy Machine/Allergy Machine Jr.

Rating Score: 74/100 and 77/100 points

Summary

I like the quality of this Austin Air purifier. Simple to use, good basic looks. Solid engineering and quality materials used throughout. Maintenance is minimal and because of the good filter design, filter life is long and reasonably priced. Both sizes are good with the value of the smaller pushing its score a bit higher. For a smaller room, the Junior size is best. Better for smokers and those wanting better gas and odor control.

Basic Specifications

: The Allergy Machine is designed for spaces up to 500 sqft (6 air changes per hour). The Allergy Machine Jr. is designed for spaces up to 250 sqft (6 air changes per hour). This purifier is “passive technology” as the air must travel through the purifier to be cleaned. Both sizes use a 4-stage filter process: Stage-1 large particle pre filter (dust, hair, pet dander), stage-2 medium particle pre filter (mold, spores, pollen), stage-3 60ft or 30 ft medical grade HEPA filter (some bacteria and viruses), and stage-4 activated military carbon cloth filter (gases, odors, chemicals like formaldehyde and ammonia). Both sizes offer a 3-speed fan and a 5 year mechanical and pro-rated filter warranty. One filter to change every 3-5 years (£180/£135). The purifier has non-outgasing surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 16/24 or 16/24 points – The MSRPs are £449.99/£299.99. The square footages cleaned are 500/250 sqft. The Value equations are as follows: 100 * (1 – (((£449.99 initial + £111.74/year)/500 sqft)/10 removal points)) = 88.77. 88.77 = 16 points – good value. 100 * (1 – (((£299.99 initial + £78.77/year)/250 sqft)/10 removal points)) = 84.85. 84.85 = 16 points – good value.

2) What is Removed: 10/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal of Odors and Gases – Very Good Removal, 3-points, Removal of VOCs – Poor Removal, 0-points, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal, 0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 9/15 or 12/15 points – Replacement filters last 3-5 years at £180/£135. Estimate 4 years and £45/year or £33.75/year. You may want to replace pre filter at the same time as main filter (not included in yearly estimate, but under £20). Electricity ranges from 56 to 115 watts and 50 to 66 watts. I’ll estimate 86 watts and 58 watts. 86 watts/1000 X £.0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = £66.74/year. 58 watts/1000 X £.0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = £45.02/year. Total cost £111.74/year or £78.77/year. Average and Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 11/12 points – Made in USA with top quality. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Excellent Quality, 5-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Very Good Quality, 2-points.

5) Warranty: 8/8 points – A solid 5-year mechanical warranty and 5-year pro-rated filter warranty. Excellent Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – The only routine maintenance is a filter change every 3-5 years. Changing filters is relatively easy, but requires removal of 4 screws on bottom of unit. Should take you 15-30 minutes. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Only light dusting or vacuuming of the outside as needed. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 5/6 points – Basic and functional looking. Available in 4 colors: Sandstone, Black, White, and Silver. Looks Good, 2-points. The fan speed control is simple and easy to locate. Cabinet feels solid. Feels Great, 3-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – They have been in business for 15 years. They are located in Buffalo, NY.

9) Noise Level: 2/5 points – The lowest fan setting is at 49-50dB and the highest is at 65-66dB. Loud Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – The larger version is a fairly heavy unit at 45 lbs, so it may take help to get it out of the box. Ready to go out of the box. Easy Set-up.

total = 74/100 and 77/100 points

Conclusion

Added control for gases and odors (smoke smell).

HealthMate+/HealthMate+ Jr.(Superblend)

Rating Score: 75/100 and 78/100 points

Summary

I like the quality of this Austin Air purifier. Simple to use, good basic looks. Solid engineering and quality materials used throughout. Maintenance is minimal and because of the good filter design, filter life is long and reasonably priced. Both sizes are good with the value of the smaller pushing its score a bit higher. For a smaller room, the Junior size is best. This version is their top purifier and a good value.

Basic Specifications

The HealthMate+ is designed for spaces up to 500 sqft (6 air changes per hour). The HealthMate+ Jr. is designed for spaces up to 250 sqft (6 air changes per hour). This purifier is “passive technology” as the air must travel through the purifier to be cleaned. Both models use a 4-stage filter process: Stage-1 large particle pre filter (dust, hair, pet dander), stage-2 medium particle pre filter (mold, spores, pollen), stage-3 15lb or 6.5lb activated carbon and zeolite blend filter with potassium iodide (gases, odors, chemicals), and stage-4 60ft or 30 ft medical grade HEPA filter (some bacteria and viruses). Both models offer a 3-speed fan and a 5 year mechanical and pro-rated filter warranty. One filter to change every 3-5 years (£280/£185). The Austin Air Purifier has non-outgasing surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 16/24 or 16/24 points – The MSRPs are £549.99/£349.99. The square footages cleaned are 500/250 sqft. The Value equations are as follows: 100 * (1 – (((£549.99 initial + £136.74/year)/500 sqft)/11 removal points)) = 87.51. 87.51 = 16 points – good value. 100 * (1 – (((£349.99 initial + £91.27/year)/250 sqft)/11 removal points)) = 83.95. 83.95 = 16 points – good value.

2) What is Removed: 11/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal of Odors and Gases – Very Good Removal, 3-points, Removal of VOCs – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal, 0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 9/15 or 12/15 points – Replacement filters last 3-5 years at £280/£185. Estimate 4 years and £70/year or £46.25/year. You may want to replace pre filter at the same time as main filter (not included in yearly estimate, but under £20). Electricity ranges from 56 to 115 watts and 50 to 66 watts. I’ll estimate 86 watts and 58 watts. 86 watts/1000 X £.0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = £66.74/year. 58 watts/1000 X £.0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = £45.02/year. Total cost £136.74/year or £91.27/year. Average and Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 11/12 points – Made in USA with top quality. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Excellent Quality, 5-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Very Good Quality, 2-points.

5) Warranty: 8/8 points – A solid 5-year mechanical warranty and 5-year pro-rated filter warranty. Excellent Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – The only routine maintenance is a filter change every 3-5 years. Changing filters is relatively easy, but requires removal of 4 screws on bottom of unit. Should take you 15-30 minutes. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Only light dusting or vacuuming of the outside as needed. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – They have been in business for 15 years. They are located in Buffalo, NY.

7) Look and Feel: 5/6 points – Basic and functional looking. Available in 4 colors: Sandstone, Black, White, and Silver. Looks Good, 2-points. The fan speed control is simple and easy to locate. Cabinet feels solid. Feels Great, 3-points.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – The larger version is a fairly heavy unit at 45 lbs, so it may take help to get it out of the box. Ready to go out of the box. Easy Set-up.

9) Noise Level: 2/5 points – The lowest fan setting is at 49-50dB and the highest is at 65-66dB. Loud Noise Level.

total = 75/100 and 78/100 points

Conclusion: Best Austin Air Purifier, both sizes.

Austin Air Purifier Baby’s Breath

Rating Score: 77/100 points

Summary

I like the quality of this Austin Air purifier plus this one is “cute”. Simple to use, good basic looks. Solid engineering and quality materials used throughout. Maintenance is minimal and because of the good filter design, filter life is long and reasonably priced. This version is very similar to the Allergy Machine Jr.

Basic Specifications

The Baby’s Breath is designed for spaces up to 250 sqft (6 air changes per hour). This purifier is “passive technology” as the air must travel through the purifier to be cleaned. The Baby’s Breath uses a 4-stage filter process: Stage-1 large particle pre filter (dust, hair, pet dander), stage-2 medium particle pre filter (mold, spores, pollen), stage-3 30ft medical grade HEPA filter (some bacteria and viruses), and stage 4-activated military carbon cloth filter (gases, odors, chemicals like formaldehyde and ammonia). This model also has a 3-speed fan and a 5 year mechanical and pro-rated filter warranty. One filter to change every 3-5 years (£135). The Austin Air Purifier has non-outgasing surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 16/24 points – The MSRP is £299.99. The square footage cleaned is 250 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((£299.99 initial + £78.77/year)/250 sqft)/10 removal points)) = 84.85. 84.85 = 16 points – good value.

2) What is Removed: 10/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal of Odors and Gases – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of VOCs – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal, 0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 12/15 points – Replacement filters last 3-5 years at £135. Estimate 4 years and £33.75/year. You may want to replace pre filter at the same time as main filter (not included in yearly estimate, but under £20). Electricity ranges from 50 to 65 watts. I’ll estimate 58 watts. 58 watts/1000 X £.0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = £45.02/year. Total cost £78.77/year. Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 11/12 points – Made in USA with top quality. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Excellent Quality, 5-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Very Good Quality, 2-points.

5) Warranty: 8/8 points – A solid 5-year mechanical warranty and 5-year pro-rated filter warranty. Excellent Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – The only routine maintenance is a filter change every 3-5 years. Changing filters is relatively easy, but requires removal of 4 screws on bottom of unit. Should take you 15-30 minutes. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Only light dusting or vacuuming of the outside as needed. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 5/6 points – Basic and functional looking. The colors make it cute. Available in 2 colors: Pink and Blue. Looks Good, 2-points. The fan speed control is simple and easy to locate. Cabinet feels solid. Feels Great, 3-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – They have been in business for 15 years. They are located in Buffalo, NY.

9) Noise Level: 2/5 points – The lowest fan setting is at 49-50dB and the highest is at 65-66dB. Loud Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 77/100 points

Conclusion

Good unit for basic air cleaning.

Austin Air Purifier The Pet Machine

Rating Score: 74/100 points

Summary

I like the quality of this Austin Air purifier. Simple to use, good basic looks. Solid engineering and quality materials used throughout. Maintenance is minimal and because of the good filter design, filter life is long and reasonably priced. This purifier is positioned for pet owners. I would recommend another one of the other models unless you have a pet urine problem.

Basic Specifications: The Pet Machine is designed for spaces up to 500 sqft (6 air changes per hour). This purifier is “passive technology” as the air must travel through the purifier to be cleaned. The Pet Machine uses a 4-stage filter process: Stage-1 large particle pre filter (dust, hair, pet dander), stage-2 medium particle pre filter (mold, spores, pollen), stage-3 15lb activated carbon and zeolite blend filter (gases, odors, chemicals), and stage-4 60ft medical grade HEPA filter (some bacteria and viruses). Both offer a 3-speed fan and a 5 year mechanical and pro-rated filter warranty. One filter to change every 3-5 years (£229). The Austin Air Purifier has non-outgasing surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 16/24 points – The MSRP is £499.99. The square footage cleaned is 500 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((£499.99 initial + £124/year)/500 sqft)/10 removal points)) = 87.52. 87.52 = 16 points – good value.

2) What is Removed: 10/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal of Odors and Gases – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of VOCs – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal, 0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 9/15 points – Replacement filters last 3-5 years at £229. Estimate 4 years and £57.25/year. You may want to replace pre filter at the same time as main filter (not included in yearly estimate, but under £20). Electricity ranges from 56 to 115 watts. I’ll estimate 86 watts. 86 watts/1000 X £.0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = £66.75/year. Total cost £124/year. Average to operate.

4) Quality: 11/12 points – Made in USA with top quality. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Excellent Quality, 5-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Very Good Quality, 2-points.

5) Warranty: 8/8 points – A solid 5-year mechanical warranty and 5-year pro-rated filter warranty. Excellent Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – The only routine maintenance is a filter change every 3-5 years. Changing filters is relatively easy, but requires removal of 4 screws on bottom of unit. Should take you 15-30 minutes. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Only light dusting or vacuuming of the outside as needed. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 5/6 points – Basic and functional looking. Available in 4 colors: Sandstone, Black, White, and Silver. Looks Good, 2-points. The fan speed control is simple and easy to locate. Cabinet feels solid. Feels Great, 3-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – They have been in business for 15 years. They are located in Buffalo, NY.

9) Noise Level: 2/5 points – The lowest fan setting is at 49-50dB and the highest is at 65-66dB. Loud Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – This is a fairly heavy unit at 45 lbs, so it may take help to get it out of the box. Ready to go out of the box. Easy Set-up.

total = 74/100 points

Conclusion

Mildly pet urine specialized; would recommend other models first.

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