Air Purifier Reviews

Shaklee 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 Shaklee purifiers.

Shaklee Air Purifier Summaries

Model: AirSource 3000 – Very Good Rating

Over 500 sqft

MSRP 699

Conclusion: An option for larger room or whole home air cleaning.

Detailed Review Below

Model: AirSource Mobile – Very Good Rating

Up to 300 sqft

MSRP 229

Conclusion: A good portable for home, auto, and hotel.

Detailed Review Below

Shaklee Air Purifier Detailed Reviews

Model: AirSource 3000

Rating Score: 69/100 points

Summary

This is not the best form of ionization; read ionization page information here (opens a new window). RGF was involved in the design of this purifier. RGF is a big player in the commercial air and water purification industry. A Good Value.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 16/24 points – The MSRP is 699. The estimated square footage cleaned is 1000 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((699 initial + 84.52/year)/1000 sqft)/7 removal points)) = 88.81. 88.81 = 16 points – Good Value.

2) What is Removed: 7/16 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 – 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 – Replacing the Photohydroionization Module every year will cost 69.00. Calculating electricity usage: 20 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 15.52/year. Total cost 84.52/year. Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 8/12 points – This purifier was designed with RGF Environmental Group. They design decent products. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Good Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 4/8 points – This purifier carries a limited 3-year warranty; Photohydroionization Module has a 1-year warranty. Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – The only maintenance is changing the Photohydroionization Module each year. This is a quick change item and takes less than 10 minutes to change after cool. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Cleaning is also easy as the purifier may need a quick dust or damp rag wipe from time to time to remove and dust or particles on the outside housing. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – The AirSource 3000 is modern looking. Black is the only color option. Looks Good, 2-points. The purifier has an on off switch. Weighs 7 lbs and measures 16″ H X 9″ Diameter. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – Shaklee has been in the health and nutrition business for over 50 years. They are located in Pleasanton, CA.

9) Noise Level: 4/5 points – This unit has a very small fan, so it is quiet. Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 69/100 points

Conclusion: An option for larger room or whole home air cleaning. Return to Top Model: AirSource Mobile Last Reviewed: 03-13-2008 Rating Score: 66/100 points

Summary: The Shaklee AirSource Mobile utilizes one type of active purification technology. The result is a cleaning that actively emits from the purifier into the room or automobile to reduce odors, gases, VOCs, and microorganisms. Some ozone as well as other oxidizers are emitted, but are well within safe standards if used properly. This unit is small enough for travel and portable use and does have adapters available for both a wall outlet and an auto outlet. RGF was involved in the design of this Shaklee air purifier. RGF is a big player in the commercial air and water purification industry. A Good Value.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 16/24 points – The MSRP is 229. The estimated square footage cleaned is 300 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((229 initial + 62.88/year)/300 sqft)/5 removal points)) = 80.54. 80.54 = 16 points – Good Value.

2) What is Removed: 5/16 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 – 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 – Relacing the Photohydroionization Module every year will cost 59.00. Calculating electricity usage: 5 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 3.88/year. Total cost 62.88/year. Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 7/12 points – This purifier was designed with RGF Environmental Group. They design decent products. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality, 3-points. Support Material – Good Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 4/8 points – This purifier carries a limited 3-year warranty; Photohydroionization Module has a 1-year warranty. Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – The only maintenance is changing the Photohydroionization Module each year. This is a quick change item and takes less than 10 minutes to change after cool. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Cleaning is also easy as the purifier may need a quick dust or damp rag wipe from time to time to remove and dust or particles on the outside housing. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – A small cylindrical plastic looking unit. Black with gray middle is the only color option. Looks Good, 2-points. The purifier has an on off switch. Weighs 1 lbs and measures 8″ H X 3.5″ Diameter. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – Shaklee has been in the health and nutrition business for over 50 years. They are located in Pleasanton, CA.

9) Noise Level: 4/5 points – This unit has a very small fan, so it is quiet. Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 66/100 points

Conclusion

: A good portable for home, auto, and hotel.Return to Top

Return to STEP 3 Reviews I-Z from Shaklee Air Purifier

NQ Air Purifiers 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 NQ purifiers.

NQ Air Purifier Summaries

Model: NQ Clarifier with UV Sterilization – Good Rating

Up to 1500 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 699

Conclusion: A good cleaner, but expensive to operate.

Detailed Review Below

Model: NQ Clarifier Medical Air Defense System – Good Rating

Up to 1500 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 999

Conclusion: A very good cleaner, but expensive to operate.

Detailed Review Below

NQ Air Purifier Detailed Reviews

Model: NQ Clarifier with UV Sterilization

Rating Score: 61/100 points

Summary

The NQ Clarifier with UV Sterilization combines Passive filtration with Passive UV disinfection. This is an industrial quality air purifier and is the choice for many businesses

that use air purification. Unlike many companies in the consumer market, NQ's focus appears to be on the commercial and business end with a minor in residential models. The unit is heavy,

but does a decent job on most air contaminants. This cleaning level does come at a higher cost especially with the passive technologies. Its ability to clean larger spaces is a big plus. A Very

Good Value.

Basic Specifications:

• Designed for spaces up to 1500 sqft (6 air changes per hour)
• Passive purification technology
• Step 1: 10 micron pre filter for larger particles
• Step 2: formulated activated carbon filter for odors and gases
• Step 3: 99.97% True HEPA filter ASHRAE – H13 Standards
• Step 4: carbon impregnated post filter
• UV Disinfection: two germicidal UV lamps – 13,000 Wsec/cm
• Available in Black, White, and Sandstone
• Yearly Operating Costs 342.04
• 2-year limited warranty
• non offgassing 22 gauge galvanized steel

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 20/24 points – The MSRP is 699. The estimated square footage cleaned is 1500 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((699 initial + 342.04/year)/1500 sqft)/12

removal points)) = 94.2. 94.2 = 20 points – Very 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 – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of VOCs – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Fair

Removal, 1-point.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 0/15 points – The Pre-filter costs 16 and is replaced every 6 months = 32/year. The post-filter costs 16 and is replaced every 6 months = 32/year. The 15 lb

Activated Carbon and lasts up to 24 months for 149.99 at 75/year. The HEPA filters last up to 24 months for 124.99 at 62.50/year. The 2 UV lights last 1 year at 34.99/year. Calculating

electricity usage: 136 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 105.55/year. Total cost 342.04/year. Very Expensive to operate.

4) Quality: 9/12 points – This is a heavy duty air purifier. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material

– Good Quality, 1-point.

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

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 5/6 points – Routine maintenance includes replacing The pre and post filters every 6 months, replacing the 2 UV bulbs every year, replacing the HEPA filter every

18-24 months, and replacing the activated carbon Filter every 18-24 months. Average Maintenance, 2-points. Cleaning includes washing the pre and post filters every two months between

replacements and general wiping down of cabinet. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This purifier looks sturdy and a bit industrial for home use. Maybe a good description would be heavy duty. Available in Black, White, and Sandstone. Looks

Good, 2-points. The controls are basic and are on the top where they are easy to adjust and view. Weighs 48 lbs and measures 15" W X 28" H X 14" D. It has wheels. Feels Good,

2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – NQ Industries, Inc. was founded in 1993. They are located in Rocky Hill, CT and Bouchemaine, France.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – The three operating speeds are low at 45 dB, Medium at 55 dB, and High at 58 dB. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 2/3 points – Minor assembly required. Average Set-up.

total = 61/100 points

Conclusion

A good cleaner, but expensive to operate.

Model: NQ Clarifier Medical Air Defense System

Rating Score: 62/100 points

Summary

The NQ Clarifier Medical Air Defense System combines Passive filtration with Passive UV disinfection. The main difference between this and the 699 version is the additional 2 UV

lamps. This too is an industrial quality air purifier and is the choice for many businesses that use air purification. Unlike many companies in the consumer market, NQ's focus appears to be

on the commercial and business end with a minor in residential models. The NQ air purifier unit is heavy, but does a decent job on most air contaminants. This cleaning level does come at a

higher cost especially with the passive technologies. Its ability to clean larger spaces is a big plus. A Very Good Value.

Basic Specifications:

• Designed for spaces up to 1500 sqft (6 air changes per hour)
• Passive purification technology
• Step 1: 10 micron pre filter for larger particles
• Step 2: formulated activated carbon filter for odors and gases
• Step 3: 99.97% True HEPA filter ASHRAE – H13 Standards
• Step 4: carbon impregnated post filter
• UV Disinfection: four germicidal UV lamps – 26,000 Wsec/cm
• Available in Black, White, and Sandstone
• Yearly Operating Costs 377.05
• 2-year limited warranty
• non offgassing 22 gauge galvanized steel

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 20/24 points – The MSRP is 999. The estimated square footage cleaned is 1500 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((999 initial + 377.05/year)/1500 sqft)/13

removal points)) = 92.9. 92.9 = 20 points – Very Good Value.

2) What is Removed: 13/16 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 – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Basic Microorganisms – Very Good Removal, 3-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Fair

Removal, 1-point.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 0/15 points – The Pre-filter costs 16 and is replaced every 6 months = 32/year. The post-filter costs 16 and is replaced every 6 months = 32/year. The 15 lb

Activated Carbon and lasts up to 24 months for 149.99 at 75/year. The HEPA filters last up to 24 months for 124.99 at 62.50/year. The 4 UV lights last 1 year at 70/year. Calculating

electricity usage: 136 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 105.55/year. Total cost 377.05/year. Very Expensive to operate.

4) Quality: 9/12 points – This is a heavy duty air purifier. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material

– Good Quality, 1-point.

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

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 5/6 points – Routine maintenance includes replacing The pre and post filters every 6 months, replacing the 4 UV bulbs every year, replacing the HEPA filter every

18-24 months, and replacing the activated carbon Filter every 18-24 months. Average Maintenance, 2-points. Cleaning includes washing the pre and post filters every two months between

replacements and general wiping down of cabinet. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This purifier looks sturdy and a bit industrial for home use. Maybe a good description would be heavy duty. Available in Black, White, and Sandstone. Looks

Good, 2-points. The controls are basic and are on the top where they are easy to adjust and view. Weighs 48 lbs and measures 15" W X 28" H X 14" D. It has wheels. Feels Good,

2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – NQ Industries, Inc. was founded in 1993. They are located in Rocky Hill, CT and Bouchemaine, France.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – The three operating speeds are low at 45 dB, Medium at 55 dB, and High at 58 dB. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 2/3 points – Minor assembly required. Average Set-up.

total = 62/100 points

Conclusion

A very good cleaner, but expensive to operate.

Return to STEP 3 Reviews I-Z from NQ Air Purifiers

As an alternative 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 as an alternative to the replace the Amway Atmosphere.

EdenPure 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 EdenPure purifiers.

EdenPure Air Purifier Summaries

Model: EdenPURE Whole House G-7 – Very Good Rating

Up to 3000 sqft

MSRP 372

Conclusion: This is a knock-off of a great product; decent cleaning power.

Detailed Review Below

Model: EdenPURE Area – Good Rating

Up to 1000 sqft

MSRP 227

Conclusion: A mixture of inexpensive technologies; the G-7 is a better choice.

Detailed Review Below

Model: EdenPURE RoomPURE – Fair Rating

Up to 200 sqft

MSRP 55

Conclusion: A basic plug-in air purifier; nightlight.

Detailed Review Below

EdenPure Air Purifier Detailed Reviews

Model: EdenPURE Whole House G-7

Rating Score: 65/100 points

Summary

The EdenPURE Whole House G-7 combines Passive UV microorganism control with active negative ionization and ozone oxidation. On the surface the marketing for this purifier makes it

sound like a wonderful purifier. It will do some cleaning, but the technology is a knock-off from Ecoquest purifiers. Some of the copied technologies/materials are inferior and some are a bit

dated. Ecoquest is by far the superior purifier and many "copies" abound. This EdenPure Air Purifier is a so-so example of a copy. The web information rates this purifier as whole

house and up to 3000 sqft; my experience and the inferior technologies used tell me this is grossly exaggerated. The rating shows a very good value, but the overall rating is average.

Basic Specifications:

• Designed for spaces up to 1500 sqft
• Passive and Active purification technology
• Step 1: pre filter for larger particles
• Step 2: UV light with catalytic screen for odor/gas control
• Step 3: ozone plate for odor/gas/VOC/microbial control
• Step 4: negative only ionization for limited particle removal
• Control panel allows technology customization
• Remote control and timer options
• Yearly Operating Costs 74.32
• 1-year limited warranty

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 20/24 points – The MSRP is 372. The estimated square footage cleaned is 1500 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((372 initial + 74.32/year)/1500 sqft)/7 removal

points)) = 95.7. 95.7 = 20 points – Very Good value.

2) What is Removed: 7/16 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 – 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 – The UV Lamp is a standard size available for less than 19.99/year. Calculating electricity usage: 70 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365

days/year = 54.33/year. Total cost 74.32/year. Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 6/12 points – The quality of this unit is average at best. Materials are generic and quality is not the foremost concern. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points.

Cleaning Technologies – Fair Quality, 2-points. Support Material – Good Quality, 1-point.

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

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 5/6 points – Routine maintenance is limited to replacing the UV lamp every year or as needed. UV lamps will sometimes last longer than recommended, but they do

degrade towards the end of their life span. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Cleaning the ceramic plates should be done every 30-days per instructions; generally 10 minutes plus dry time. Cleaning

the catalytic screen is as simple as vacuuming or rinsing with water if needed – again every 30 days. There is also a pre filter in the back of the unit that can be vacuumed or rinsed. Average

Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 3/6 points – This purifier is a box in shape. It has a different look with a funky looking front grill and a busy looking control/display panel. Something does not appeal

about the look. Questionable Looks, 1-point. The remote is functional and useful. The buttons are average and the overall feel is average. Weighs 16 lbs and measures 12 3/4 H x 8 7/8 W x 8 3/4

D. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – Edenpure is a product line of SCI (Suarez Corporation Industries). SCI was formed in 1968. They are located in Canton, Ohio.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – The G-7 has 5 fan speeds ranging from very quiet to above average. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 2/3 points – The manual has a detailed 11-step setup procedure. Not too bad, but will take a little while to work through. Average Set-up.

total = 65/100 points

Conclusion

This is a knock-off of a great product; decent cleaning power.

EdenPURE Area

Rating Score: 61/100 points

Summary

The EdenPURE Area combines Passive UV microorganism control and HEPA like filtering with active negative ionization and UV/TiO2 oxidation. On the surface the marketing for this

purifier makes it sound like a wonderful purifier. It will do some cleaning, but again the technology is a knock-off from Ecoquest purifiers. Some of the copied technologies/materials are

inferior and some are a bit dated. Ecoquest is by far the superior purifier and many "copies" abound. This EdenPure Air Purifier is a so-so example of a copy. The web information

rates this purifier as room and up to 1000 sqft; my experience and the inferior technologies used tell me this is grossly exaggerated. A good value.

Basic Specifications:

• Designed for spaces up to 500 sqft
• Passive and Active purification technology
• Step 1: pre filter for larger particles
• Step 2: small washable HEPA-like filter to remove particles
• Step 3: UV light with TiO2 screen for odor/gas control
• Step 4: negative only ionization for additional particle removal
• Control panel allows technology customization
• Remote control and timer options
• Yearly Operating Costs 54.92
• 1-year limited warranty

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 16/24 points – The MSRP is 227. The estimated square footage cleaned is 500 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((227 initial + 54.92/year)/500 sqft)/5 removal

points)) = 88.7. 88.7 = 16 points – Good value.

2) What is Removed: 5/16 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 – Good Removal, 2-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: 12/15 points – The UV Lamp is a standard size available for less than 19.99/year. Calculating electricity usage: 45 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365

days/year = 34.93/year. Total cost 54.92/year. Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 6/12 points – The quality of this unit is average at best. Materials are generic and quality is not the foremost concern. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points.

Cleaning Technologies – Fair Quality, 2-points. Support Material – Good Quality, 1-point.

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

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 5/6 points – Routine maintenance is limited to replacing the UV lamp every year or as needed. UV lamps will sometimes last longer than recommended, but they do

degrade towards the end of their life span. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Cleaning the small HEPA like filter should be done every 30-days per instructions; a vacuum or wash; generally 10 minutes

plus dry time. Cleaning the catalytic screen is as simple as vacuuming or rinsing with water if needed – again every 30 days. There is also a pre filter that can be vacuumed or rinsed as

needed. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This purifier has a modern shape and look. It has a different look with a funky looking front grill and a busy looking control/display panel. It has a plastic

look; overall ok. Looks Good, 2-points. The remote is functional and useful. The buttons are average and the overall feel is average. Weighs 11 lbs and measures 11 5/8 H x 12 5/8 W x 6 3/8 D.

Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – Edenpure is a product line of SCI (Suarez Corporation Industries). SCI was formed in 1968. They are located in Canton, Ohio.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – The "Area" has 3 fan speeds ranging from quiet to above average. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – The manual has a detailed 8-step setup procedure. This one is easier than the G-7 model. Easy Set-up.

total = 61/100 points

Conclusion: A mixture of inexpensive technologies; the G-7 is a better choice.

Return to Top Model: EdenPURE RoomPURE Last Reviewed: 4-04-2008 Rating Score: 55/100 points

Summary: The EdenPURE RoomPURE uses active negative ionization and active oxidation. This purifier is best suited for a small room like a bathroom. There are other brands that are better and

a few that are worse in the plug-in category. A little over-priced for what it actually does. A poor value.

Basic Specifications:

• Best for spaces up to 100 sqft
• Active purification technology
• Step 1: negative only ionization for particle removal
• Step 2: ozone oxidation to reduce smells and gases
• Control panel allows technology customization
• Night Light option
• Adjustable Hi/Low cleaning levels
• Yearly Operating Costs 15.17
• 1-year limited warranty

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 8/24 points – The MSRP is 55. The estimated square footage cleaned is 100 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((55 initial + 15.17/year)/100 sqft)/2 removal

points)) = 64.9. 64.9 = 8 points – Poor value.

2) What is Removed: 2/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Poor Removal, 0-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: 15/15 points – Calculating electricity usage: 20 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 15.17/year. Total cost 15.17/year. Very Inexpensive to

operate.

4) Quality: 5/12 points – The quality of this unit is average at best. Materials are generic and quality is not the foremost concern. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Fair Quality, 2-points.

Cleaning Technologies – Fair Quality, 2-points. Support Material – Good Quality, 1-point.

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

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – No routine maintenance. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. No cleaning except an occasional wipe down and making sure the inlet/outlet is free of dust.

Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This purifier is just a small little rectangle. Looks Good, 2-points. The buttons are small and on the side. Set it and let it go; fairly simple. It measures 3

1/2 H x 2 1/2 W x 1 7/8 D. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – Edenpure is a product line from SCI (Suarez Corporation Industries). SCI was formed in 1968. They are located in Canton, Ohio.

9) Noise Level: 5/5 points – Virtually silent. Very Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Plug and play. Easy Set-up.

total = 55/100 points

Conclusion

A basic plug-in air purifier; nightlight.

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

The Pionair Air Purifiers, once popular for its effectiveness in purifying indoor air, are no longer in production.

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 Ecoquest Air Purifier.

Now Discontinued – Pionair Air Purifiers

Pionair air purifiers 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 Pionair purifiers.

Pionair Air Purifier Summaries

Model: Pionair 350/Pionair Smart Pointe 350 – Both Fair Rating

Up to 350 sqft

MSRP 389.95/489.95

Conclusion: The least cost effective of the three sizes.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Pionair 750/Pionair Smart Pointe 750 – Both Fair Rating

Up to 750 sqft

MSRP 449.95/549.95

Conclusion: Better cleaning value than the 350 model.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Pionair 1500/Pionair Smart Pointe 1500 – Both Good Rating

Up to 1500 sqft

MSRP 489.95/589.95

Conclusion: The best Pionair value.

Detailed Review Below

Pionair Purifier Detailed Reviews

Model: Pionair 350/Pionair Smart Pointe 350

Rating Score: 55/100 and 57/100 points

Summary

The Pionair 350 uses an active UV oxidation process to reduce odors, gases, VOCs, and microorganisms. The Pionair Smart Pointe 350 uses the same active process as the Pionair 350

and adds sensor limited negative ions for particle removal. If you are attempting to decide between the two versions, ask yourself how important particle removal is. If it is important, then

choose the Smart Pointe version. I'm not a big fan of negative only ionization, but this unit has a limiter built in that shuts off the ionizer when a balance is achieved between negative

and positive ions. This is mostly good, however if your space has mostly negative ions to start with your particle control will be limited. If you are buying this unit and you are concerned

about a surplus of negative ions, The best way to test that balance would be to run the unit. If the ionizer runs most of the time, your balance is ok, if it hardly runs, the technology may be

under utilized. Although this is better than most negative ionizers, I still prefer the few models that offer balanced positive and negative ionization. One last comment about air flow. This

unit does not have a fan and requires proper placement and some external air flow to work efficiently. It will work "ok" in most situations. This Pionair Air Purifier is a Fair

Value.

Basic Specifications:

• Designed for spaces up to 350 sqft
• Active purification technology
• Version 350: UV PhotoCatalytic Oxidation Process
• Version 350 Smart Pointe: Adds sensor limited negative ionization
• UV Lamp Modules interchange allowing larger space cleaning
• Low Maintenance
• 1 color – black
• Pionair Air Purifiers are made in the USA
• Yearly Operating Costs 193.09
• 3-year basic warranty; 1-year pro-rated on UV Lamp Module

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points and 12/24 points – The MSRP is 389.95. The estimated square footage cleaned is 350 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((389.95 initial +

193.09/year)/350 sqft)/6 removal points)) = 72.24. 72.24 = 12 points – Fair Value. The MSRP is 489.95. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((489.95 initial + 193.09/year)/350

sqft)/8 removal points)) = 75.61. 75.61 = 12 points – Fair Value.

2) What is Removed: 6/16 points and 8/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Poor Removal, 0-points/Fair Removal, 1-point. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns –

Poor Removal, 0-points/Fair Removal, 1-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: 6/15 points – The only consumable is the yearly UV Lamp Module replacement which costs 99.95/year. Calculating electricity usage: 120 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24

hours/day x 365 days/year = 93.14/year. Total cost 193.09/year. Above Average to operate.

4) Quality: 7/12 points – Made in the USA. Basic design. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality, 3-points. Support Material – Good

Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 4/8 points – The base unit has a 3-year warranty. The UV Lamp Module has a 1-year pro-rated warranty. Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – The only routine maintenance is replacing the UV Lamp Module every year. This is an easy change. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. The only cleaning would

be dusting the outside plastic cabinet. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This is a basic looking (a little generic) square tower purifier available in black. Looks Good, 2-points. This unit has and on/off switch. Weighs 3 lbs and

measures 4" W X 11" H X 5" D. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 2/5 points – Pionair has been in business for over 4 years. They are located in McDonough, GA.

9) Noise Level: 5/5 points – This purifier is virtually silent. Very Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Locate the unit per instructions and turn it on. Easy Set-up.

total = 55/100 and 57/100 points

Conclusion

The least cost effective of the three sizes.Return to Top Model: Pionair 750/Pionair Smart Pointe 750 Last Reviewed: 03-20-2008 Rating Score: 56/100 and 58/100 points

Summary

The Pionair 750 uses an active UV oxidation process to reduce odors, gases, VOCs, and microorganisms. The Pionair Smart Pointe 750 uses the same active process as the Pionair 750

and adds sensor limited negative ions for particle removal. If you are attempting to decide between the two versions, ask yourself how important particle removal is. If it is important, then

choose the Smart Pointe version. I'm not a big fan of negative only ionization, but this unit has a limiter built in that shuts off the ionizer when a balance is achieved between negative

and positive ions. This is mostly good, however if your space has mostly negative ions to start with your particle control will be limited. If you are buying this unit and you are concerned

about a surplus of negative ions, The best way to test that balance would be to run the unit. If the ionizer runs most of the time, your balance is ok, if it hardly runs, the technology may be

under utilized. Although this is better than most negative ionizers, I still prefer the few models that offer balanced positive and negative ionization. One last comment about air flow. This

unit does not have a fan and requires proper placement and some external air flow to work efficiently. It will work "ok" in most situations. This Pionair Air Purifier is a Good

Value.

Pionair Air Purifier Basic Specifications:

• Designed for spaces up to 750 sqft
• Active purification technology
• Version 750: UV PhotoCatalytic Oxidation Process
• Version 750 Smart Pointe: Adds sensor limited negative ionization
• UV Lamp Modules interchange allowing smaller/larger space cleaning
• Low Maintenance
• 1 color – black
• Pionair Air Purifiers are made in the USA
• Yearly Operating Costs 253.09
• 3-year basic warranty; 1-year pro-rated on UV Lamp Module

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 16/24 points and 16/24 points – The MSRP is 449.95. The estimated square footage cleaned is 750 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((449.95 initial +

253.09/year)/750 sqft)/6 removal points)) = 84.38. 84.38 = 16 points – Good Value. The MSRP is 549.95. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((549.95 initial + 253.09/year)/750

sqft)/8 removal points)) = 86.62. 86.62 = 16 points – Good Value.

2) What is Removed: 6/16 points and 8/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Poor Removal, 0-points/Fair Removal, 1-point. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns –

Poor Removal, 0-points/Fair Removal, 1-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: 3/15 points – The only consumable is the yearly UV Lamp Module replacement which costs 159.95/year. Calculating electricity usage: 120 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x

24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 93.14/year. Total cost 253.09/year. Expensive to operate.

4) Quality: 7/12 points – Made in the USA. Basic design. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality, 3-points. Support Material – Good

Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 4/8 points – The base unit has a 3-year warranty. The UV Lamp Module has a 1-year pro-rated warranty. Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – The only routine maintenance is replacing the UV Lamp Module every year. This is an easy change. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. The only cleaning would

be dusting the outside plastic cabinet. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This is a basic looking (a little generic) square tower purifier available in black. Looks Good, 2-points. This unit has and on/off switch. Weighs 3 lbs and

measures 4" W X 11" H X 5" D. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 2/5 points – Pionair has been in business for over 4 years. They are located in McDonough, GA.

9) Noise Level: 5/5 points – This purifier is virtually silent. Very Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Locate the unit per instructions and turn it on. Easy Set-up.

total = 56/100 and 58/100 points

Conclusion

Better cleaning value than the 350 model.

Model: Pionair 1500/Smart Pointe 1500

Rating Score: 60/100 and 62/100 points

Summary

The Pionair 1500 uses an active UV oxidation process to reduce odors, gases, VOCs, and microorganisms. The Pionair Smart Pointe 1500 uses the same active process as the Pionair 1500

and adds sensor limited negative ions for particle removal. If you are attempting to decide between the two versions, ask yourself how important particle removal is. If it is important, then

choose the Smart Pointe version. I'm not a big fan of negative only ionization, but this unit has a limiter built in that shuts off the ionizer when a balance is achieved between negative

and positive ions. This is mostly good, however if your space has mostly negative ions to start with your particle control will be limited. If you are buying this unit and you are concerned

about a surplus of negative ions, The best way to test that balance would be to run the unit. If the ionizer runs most of the time, your balance is ok, if it hardly runs, the technology may be

under utilized. Although this is better than most negative ionizers, I still prefer the few models that offer balanced positive and negative ionization. One last comment about air flow. This

unit does not have a fan and requires proper placement and some external air flow to work efficiently. It will work "ok" in most situations. This Pionair Air Purifier is a Very Good

Value.

Pionair Air Purifier Basic Specifications:

• Designed for spaces up to 1500 sqft
• Active purification technology
• Version 1500: UV PhotoCatalytic Oxidation Process
• Version 1500 Smart Pointe: Adds sensor limited negative ionization
• UV Lamp Modules interchange allowing smaller space cleaning
• Low Maintenance
• 1 color – black
• Pionair Air Purifiers are made in the USA
• Yearly Operating Costs 293.09
• 3-year basic warranty; 1-year pro-rated on UV Lamp Module

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 20/24 points and 20/24 points – The MSRP is 489.95. The estimated square footage cleaned is 750 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((489.95 initial +

293.09/year)/1500 sqft)/6 removal points)) = 91.30. 91.30 = 20 points – Very Good Value. The MSRP is 589.95. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((589.95 initial +

293.09/year)/1500 sqft)/8 removal points)) = 92.64. 92.64 = 20 points – Very Good Value.

2) What is Removed: 6/16 points and 8/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Poor Removal, 0-points/Fair Removal, 1-point. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns –

Poor Removal, 0-points/Fair Removal, 1-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: 3/15 points – The only consumable is the yearly UV Lamp Module replacement which costs 199.95/year. Calculating electricity usage: 120 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x

24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 93.14/year. Total cost 293.09/year. Above Average to operate.

4) Quality: 7/12 points – Made in the USA. Basic design. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality, 3-points. Support Material – Good

Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 4/8 points – The base unit has a 3-year warranty. The UV Lamp Module has a 1-year pro-rated warranty. Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – The only routine maintenance is replacing the UV Lamp Module every year. This is an easy change. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. The only cleaning would

be dusting the outside plastic cabinet. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This is a basic looking (a little generic) square tower purifier available in black. Looks Good, 2-points. This unit has and on/off switch. Weighs 3 lbs and

measures 4" W X 11" H X 5" D. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 2/5 points – Pionair has been in business for over 4 years. They are located in McDonough, GA.

9) Noise Level: 5/5 points – This purifier is virtually silent. Very Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Locate the unit per instructions and turn it on. Easy Set-up.

total = 60/100 and 62/100 points

Conclusion

The best Pionair air purifier value.

Return to STEP 3 Reviews I-Z from Pionair Air Purifiers

Surround air purifiers 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 Surround purifiers.

Surround Air Summaries

Model: Surround Air Multi-Tech S2000 – Very Good Rating

Up to 300 sqft

MSRP 149

Conclusion: A basic permanent 99% HEPA aided by ionization.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Surround Air Purifier Multi-Tech S3000 – Good Rating

Up to 300 sqft

MSRP 199

Conclusion: Similar to the S2000 with odor/gasses control.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Surround Air Purifier Multi-Tech S4000 – Fair Rating

Up to 400 sqft

MSRP 299

Conclusion: Multiple technologies; average cleaning.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Surround Air Purifier Intelli-Pro XJ-3800 – Very Good Rating

Up to 325 sqft

MSRP 299

Conclusion: Multiple technologies; average cleaning.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Surround Air Purifier N-Lite 5000 – Good Rating

Up to 150 sqft

MSRP 99

Conclusion: Made for a small room; average cleaning.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Surround Air Purifier XJ-2100UV – Good Rating

Up to 150 sqft

MSRP 99

Conclusion: Made for a small room; below average cleaning.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Surround Air Purifier XJ-202 Plug-In – Good Rating

Up to 50 sqft

MSRP 19.99

Conclusion: A decent plug-in requiring regular cleaning.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Surround Air Purifier XJ-800 Vehicles – Good Rating

Up to 25 sqft

MSRP 19.99

Detailed Review Below

Surround Air Purifiers Detailed Reviews

Model: Surround Air Purifier Multi-Tech S2000

Rating Score: 65/100 points

Summary

Surround Air's motto is proven + affordable air purifiers. The S2000 is a basic room air purifier that works mainly on particles in the air. For basic cleaning of dust, pet

dander, and pollens this model will help. The ionizer aids smaller particles in sticking to the 99% HEPA filter. Don't expect miracles at this price range, but expect a good basic cleaning.

The price range is towards the low end of what I would recommend, but for the money this model does a good job.

Basic Specifications: The Multi-Tech S2000 Surround Air Purifier is designed for smaller spaces up to 300 sqft. This purifier is mainly passive with some negative ionization occurring inside

and outside the purifier. The Multi-Tech S2000 uses a 3-step process. Step 1 is the pre filter capturing the largest particles. Step 2 is the 99% HEPA filter that traps particles. Step 3 is

negative ionization which mainly helps the efficiency of the 99% HEPA filter. This is not a true HEPA filter, but is washable and amplified by the ionization. I am not a huge fan of negative

only ionization (see ionization section), but in this case most occurs inside the unit. The only replacement part is the HEPA filter at two year recommended intervals and that could be

prolonged by careful cleanings; cost = 29.99. This purifier offers a 3-year warranty. Expect some outgasing from plastic surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 16/24 points – The MSRP is 149. The estimated square footage cleaned is 300 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((149 initial + 53.80/year)/300 sqft)/4 removal

points)) = 83.10. 83.10 = 16 points – Good 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: 12/15 points – The 99% HEPA filter is a washable filter; however, they do recommend replacing every two years at 29.99/2 = 14.99/year. Calculating electricity

usage: 50 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 38.81/year. Total cost 53.80/year. Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 8/12 points – Generally good use of materials; excellent website and documentation. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality,

3-points. Support Material – Excellent Quality, 2-points.

5) Warranty: 6/8 points – This purifier has a 3-year warranty; replaceable parts excluded. They have a 90-day replacement period which provides a new purifier if anything goes wrong. They

also offer a 30-day return period. Very Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 5/6 points – There is little maintenance other then replacing the HEPA filter when too dirty to clean. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. The HEPA filter is washable

and should be cleaned as needed. Clean every 2-3 months or as needed. Wipe rest of machine and rinse pre-filter as well. Total time 15-30 minutes every 2-3 months. Average Cleaning

2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – One step better than a typical "box-like" purifier. Looks Good, 2-points. The controls are located near the top and the LCD panel is easy to read.

Weighs 13 lbs and measures 19" X 16.5" X 10.25". Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Surround Air Purifier is a division of Indoor Purification Systems, Inc. which has been in the air purifier business since 1998. They are located in

Layton, UT.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – This purifier has average fan noise. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 65/100 points

Conclusion

A basic permanent 99% HEPA aided by ionization.Return to Top Model: Surround Air Purifier Multi-Tech S3000 Last Reviewed: 02-23-2008 Rating Score: 63/100 points

Summary: Surround Air's motto is proven + affordable air purifiers. The S3000 is a basic room air purifier that works on particles and odors/gases in the air. For basic cleaning of dust,

pet dander, and pollens this model will help. The ionizer aids smaller particles in sticking to the 99% HEPA filter. In addition to what the S2000 offers, the S3000 has a carbon filter, UV

lamp, and photocatalyst filter aiding in additional cleaning. Although there are several technologies at work here, don't expect miracles at this price range. Expect a good basic cleaning.

The price range is towards the low end of what I would recommend, but for the money this model does a good job.

Basic Specifications

The Multi-Tech S3000 Surround Air Purifier is designed for smaller spaces up to 300 sqft. This purifier is mainly passive with some negative ionization and oxidizing

agents occurring inside and outside the purifier. The Multi-Tech S3000 uses a 6-step process. Step 1 is the pre filter capturing the largest particles. Step 2 is the 99% HEPA filter that traps

particles. Step 3 is a thin carbon filter. Step 4 adds a Photocatalytic Oxidation Filter aiding in odor and bacteria removal. Step 5 is a germicidal UV lamp reducing microorganisms. Step 6 is

negative ionization which mainly helps the efficiency of the 99% HEPA filter. This 99% HEPA is not a true HEPA filter, but is washable and amplified by the ionization. I am not a huge fan of

negative only ionization (see ionization section), but in this case most occurs inside the unit. The replacement parts include the carbon filter 9.99 X 2 = 19.98/year, the Photocatalytic

Filter at 14.99/year, the UV lamp at 14.99/year, and the HEPA filter at two year recommended intervals and that could be prolonged by careful cleanings; cost = 29.99. This purifier offers a

3-year warranty. Expect some outgasing from plastic surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 16/24 points – The MSRP is 199. The estimated square footage cleaned is 300 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((199 initial + 103.76/year)/300 sqft)/6 removal

points)) = 83.18. 83.18 = 16 points – Good Value.

2) What is Removed: 6/16 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 – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal,

0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 9/15 points – The 99% HEPA filter is a washable filter; however, they do recommend replacing every two years at 29.99/2 = 14.99/year. The carbon filter lasts

6-12 months = 9.99 X 2 = 19.98/year. The Photocatalytic Filter lasts 12 months = 14.99/year. The UV lamp lasts 12 months = 14.99/year. Calculating electricity usage: 50 watts/1000 x

.0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 38.81/year. Total cost 103.76/year. Average to operate.

4) Quality: 8/12 points – Generally good use of materials; excellent website and documentation. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality,

3-points. Support Material – Excellent Quality, 2-points.

5) Warranty: 6/8 points – This purifier has a 3-year warranty; replaceable parts excluded. They have a 90-day replacement period which provides a new purifier if anything goes wrong. They

also offer a 30-day return period. Very Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – Routine maintenance includes replacing the carbon filter every 6-12 months, the photocatalytic filter every 12 months, and the UV lamp every 12

months. The HEPA filter is washable, but may need replacing at the 2 year mark. All tasks are easy, but there are a few items to monitor here. Average Maintenance, 2-points. The HEPA filter is

washable and should be cleaned as needed. Clean every 2-3 months or as needed. Wipe rest of machine and check other components as well for replacing. Total time 15-30 minutes every 2-3 months.

Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – One step better than a typical "box-like" purifier. Looks Good, 2-points. The controls are located near the top and the LCD panel is easy to read.

Weighs 13 lbs and measures 19" X 16.5" X 10.25". Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Surround Air Purifier is a division of Indoor Purification Systems, Inc. which has been in the air purifier business since 1998. They are located in

Layton, UT.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – This purifier has average fan noise. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 63/100 points

Conclusion

Similar to the S2000 with odor/gasses control.

Model: Surround Air Purifier Multi-Tech S4000

Rating Score: 55/100 points

Summary

The S4000 actually does a better cleaning job then the S2000 or S4000, but has a higher initial cost and much higher ongoing costs. Overall the value is a little lower because of

these factors. Again, we have multiple technologies at work here, but they are all on the low-end of efficiency. This unit will clean and even do a decent job, but do not expect it to compete

with some of the higher priced, quality brands. This purifier is fair for the price, but others exist that are better values.

Basic Specifications

The Multi-Tech S4000 is designed for spaces up to 400 sqft. This purifier is mainly passive with some negative ionization and oxidizing agents occurring inside and

outside the purifier. The Multi-Tech S4000 uses a 6-step process. Step 1 is the pre filter capturing the largest particles. Step 2 is the true 99.97% HEPA filter that traps particles. Step 3 is

a thin carbon filter. Step 4 adds a Photocatalytic Oxididation Filter aiding in odor and bacteria removal. Step 5 adds two germicidal UV lamps reducing microorganisms. Step 6 is negative

ionization. I am not a huge fan of negative only ionization (see ionization section), but in this case most occurs inside the unit. The replacement parts include the pre filter at 19 X 2 =

38/year, the Photocatalytic Oxididation/Carbon filter at 39/year, the 2 UV lamps at 2 X 19.50 = 39/year, and the HEPA filter at 39 X 2 = 78/year. This purifier offers a 3-year warranty.

Expect some outgasing from plastic surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is 299. The estimated square footage cleaned is 400 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((299 initial + 287.14/year)/400 sqft)/7 removal

points)) = 79.07. 79.07 = 12 points – Fair Value.

2) What is Removed: 7/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal of

Odors and Gases – Fair Removal, 1-point, 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: 3/15 points – 99.97% HEPA filters last 6-12 months = 39 X 2 = 78/year. TIO2/Carbon Filter lasts 12 months = 39/year. Pre-filter lasts 6-12 months = 19 x 2 =

38/year. UV lamps (takes two) last 12 months = 39/year. Calculating electricity usage: 120 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 93.14/year. Total cost 287.14/year.

Expensive to operate.

4) Quality: 8/12 points – Generally good use of materials; excellent website and documentation. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality,

3-points. Support Material – Excellent Quality, 2-points.

5) Warranty: 6/8 points – This purifier has a 3-year warranty; replaceable parts excluded. They have a 90-day replacement period which provides a new purifier if anything goes wrong. They

also offer a 30-day return period. Very Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 5/6 points – Routine maintenance includes replacing the HEPA filter every 6-12 months, the Photocatalytic Oxididation/Carbon filter every 12 months, the Pre

filter every 6-12 months, and the UV lamps (2) every 12 months. All tasks are easy, but there are a few items to monitor here. Average Maintenance, 2-points. Cleaning is limited to wiping down

and inspecting individual components for replacement. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This unit looks more modern then the S2000 or S3000. It looks like a cross between an old radio and some kind of a mini-furnace. Looks Good, 2-points. The

control display is on the front and may be more difficult to read if standing. If you are sitting, it will be easy to read/ change. Weighs 24 lbs and measures 25" X 16.5" X 9.5".

Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Surround Air Purifier is a division of Indoor Purification Systems, Inc. which has been in the air purifier business since 1998. They are located in

Layton, UT.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – This purifier has average fan noise. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 55/100 points

Conclusion

Multiple technologies; average cleaning.

Model: Surround Air Purifier Intelli-Pro XJ-3800

Rating Score: 65/100 points

Summary

The Intelli-Pro XJ-3800 is a "futurized" looking unit designed to monitor air quality, performance, and filter life. It does incorporate multiple cleaning technologies

with each one working to clean a specific set of pollutants in the air. These technologies do work, but are on the inexpensive side as the price suggests. This unit is above average and offers

some value, but again do not expect it to compete with most units twice its cost. If you keep it maintained and clean it will serve you with basic overall cleaning.

Basic Specifications

The Intelli-Pro XJ-3800 is designed for spaces up to 325 sqft. This purifier is mainly passive with some negative ionization and oxidizing agents occurring inside and

outside the purifier. The Intelli-Pro XJ-3800 uses a 6-step process. Step 1 is the pre filter capturing the largest particles. Step 2 is an electrostatic precipitator using plates to trap

particles. Step 3 is a thin carbon filter. Step 4 adds a true 99/97% HEPA filter. Step 5 is a Photocatalytic Oxididation Filter removing bacteria and odors. Step 6 a germicidal UV lamp reducing

microorganisms. Step 7 is negative ionization. I am not a huge fan of negative only ionization (see ionization section), but in this case most occurs inside the unit. The replacement parts

include the Photocatalytic Oxididation Filter at 9.50/year, the UV lamp at 15/year, and the HEPA/Carbon filter at 36/year. This purifier offers a 3-year warranty. Expect some outgasing from

plastic surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 16/24 points – The MSRP is 299. The estimated square footage cleaned is 325 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((299 initial + 122.59/year)/325 sqft)/7 removal

points)) = 81.47. 81.47 = 16 points – Good Value.

2) What is Removed: 7/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points. Removal of

Odors and Gases – Fair Removal, 1-point, 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 points – A new HEPA/carbon filter lasts 12 months = 36/year. The UV lamp lasts 12 months = 15/year. The Photocatalytic Filter lasts 2-3 years = 19/2 =

9.50/year. Calculating electricity usage: 80 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 62.09/year. Total cost 122.59/year. Average to operate.

4) Quality: 8/12 points – Generally good use of materials; excellent website and documentation. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality,

3-points. Support Material – Excellent Quality, 2-points.

5) Warranty: 6/8 points – This purifier has a 3-year warranty; replaceable parts excluded. They have a 90-day replacement period which provides a new purifier if anything goes wrong. They

also offer a 30-day return period. Very Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 5/6 points – Routine maintenance includes replacing the HEPA/carbon filter every 12 months, the Photocatalytic filter every 2-3 years, and the UV lamp every 12

months. All tasks are easy. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Washing the pre filter and the dust collection grid will take you 15-30 minutes. Frequency will depend on how dirty your air is. Average

Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This unit has a modern look. Looks Good, 2-points. Controls and display located on the front face which is easiest to view and adjust when sitting. Weighs 15

lbs and measures 24" X 13.5" X 10". Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Surround Air Purifier is a division of Indoor Purification Systems, Inc. which has been in the air purifier business since 1998. They are located in

Layton, UT.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – 4 speeds including Quiet (20dB), Low (35dB), Medium (45dB), High (52dB). Average noise level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 65/100 points

Conclusion

Multiple technologies; average cleaning.Return to Top Model: Surround Air Purifier N-Lite 5000 Last Reviewed: 02-23-2008 Rating Score: 63/100 points

Summary

The N-Lite 5000 is an attempt to put multiple technologies into a smaller purifier. They did not completely succeed at producing a super purifier; however, they did not fail either.

It is a small, average purifier, providing some particle removal, some odor and gas removal, and some microorganism reduction. Being a small unit reduces the overall effectiveness and should be

considered when selecting this purifier. Use for the smallest of spaces, light contamination areas, or if on a tight budget. A decent light duty model.

Basic Specifications: The N-Lite 5000 is designed for spaces up to 150 sqft. This purifier is mainly passive with some negative ionization and oxidizing agents occurring inside and outside

the purifier. The N-Lite 5000 uses a 5-step process. Step 1 is a thin carbon filter. Step 2 adds a true 99/97% HEPA filter. Step 3 a germicidal UV lamp reducing microorganisms. Step 4 is a

Photocatalytic Oxididation Filter removing bacteria and odors. Step 5 is negative ionization. I am not a huge fan of negative only ionization (see ionization section), but in this case most

occurs inside the unit. The replacement parts include the Photocatalytic Oxididation Filter at 9.50/year, the UV lamp at 15/year, and the HEPA/Carbon filter at 36/year. This purifier offers

a 3-year warranty. Expect some outgasing from plastic surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is 99. The estimated square footage cleaned is 150 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((99 initial + 66.71/year)/150 sqft)/5 removal

points)) = 77.91. 77.91 = 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 – Fair Removal, 1-point. Removal of Odors

and Gases – Fair Removal, 1-point, 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: 12/15 points – The HEPA/Carbon filter lasts 6-12 months = 19 X 2 = 36/year. The UV lamp lasts 12 months = 15/year. The photocatalytic filter lasts 2-3 years =

19/2 = 9.50/year. Calculating electricity usage: 8 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 6.21/year. Total cost 66.71/year. Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 8/12 points – Generally good use of materials; excellent website and documentation. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality,

3-points. Support Material – Excellent Quality, 2-points.

5) Warranty: 6/8 points – This purifier has a 3-year warranty; replaceable parts excluded. They have a 90-day replacement period which provides a new purifier if anything goes wrong. They

also offer a 30-day return period. Very Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – Routine maintenance includes replacing the HEPA/carbon filter every 6-12 months, the Photocatalytic filter every 2-3 years, and the UV lamp every 12

months. All tasks are easy. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Cleaning is minimal with wiping and dusting when changing consumable parts needed. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – The sleek, elliptical design looks a little like plastic football. Looks Good, 2-points. Buttons and controls are easy to find on top. Weighs 4 lbs and

measures 15" X 10" X 4.1". Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Surround Air Purifier is a division of Indoor Purification Systems, Inc. which has been in the air purifier business since 1998. They are located in

Layton, UT.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – This purifier has average fan noise. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 63/100 points

Conclusion

Made for a small room; average cleaning.Return to Top Model: Surround Air Purifier XJ-2100UV Last Reviewed: 02-23-2008 Rating Score: 63/100 points

Summary

If I compare this unit head-to-head with the N-Lite 5000, the N-Lite 5000 wins hands down. Sometimes I question why companies have so many different units or even duplicate units

that seem to serve the same market segment. The XJ-2100UV does have a few distinct differences in the technology it uses, but the end results are lesser than the N-Lite 5000. If I were this

company I would focus my technologies and have a strong line that represents a focus. This unit would probably get cut.

Basic Specifications

The XJ-2100UV is designed for spaces up to 150 sqft. This purifier is mainly passive with some negative ionization occurring inside and outside the purifier. The

XJ-2100UV uses a 3-step process. Step 1 is a germicidal UV lamp reducing microorganisms. Step 2 adds an electrostatic precipitator with collection plates. Step 3 is negative ionization. I am

not a huge fan of negative only ionization (see ionization section), but in this case most occurs inside the unit. The only replacement part is the UV lamp at 15/year. This purifier offers a

3-year warranty. Expect some outgasing from plastic surfaces.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is 99. The estimated square footage cleaned is 150 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((99 initial + 21.21/year)/150 sqft)/3 removal

points)) = 73.29. 73.29 = 12 points – Fair Value.

2) What is Removed: 3/16 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-point, 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 lamp lasts 12 months = 15/year. Calculating electricity usage: 8 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 6.21/year. Total

cost 21.21/year. Very Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 8/12 points – Generally good use of materials; excellent website and documentation. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality,

3-points. Support Material – Excellent Quality, 2-points.

5) Warranty: 6/8 points – This purifier has a 3-year warranty; replaceable parts excluded. They have a 90-day replacement period which provides a new purifier if anything goes wrong. They

also offer a 30-day return period. Very Good Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 5/6 points – The only routine maintenance is changing the UV lamp every 12 months. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Cleaning includes wiping down the unit and wiping

clean the collection plates. Cleaning frequency will depend on how dirty of air you are cleaning. It would be best to clean them every week or two to maintain effective cleaning. Average

Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This is a small unit and looks like a piece from an auto dashboard. It's not ugly, just unique. Looks Good, 2-points. The controls are small and located on

the bottom front panel. Weighs 3.1 lbs and measures 5" H X 13.75" W X 8.66" D. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Surround Air Purifier is a division of Indoor Purification Systems, Inc. which has been in the air purifier business since 1998. They are located in

Layton, UT.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – This purifier has average fan noise. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 63/100 points

Conclusion

Made for a small room; below average cleaning.Return to Top Model: Surround Air Purifier XJ-202 Plug-In Last Reviewed: 02-23-2008 Rating Score: 64/100 points

Summary

This is a small plug-in for a bathroom or other small space. A pretty decent cleaner for the price as long as you keep it clean.

Basic Specifications

Virtually silent plug in with a nightlight. The technology is a mini electrostatic precipitator. It also puts out negative ions into the air to remove additional

particles. Has a better warranty than most units this size; 3-year.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is 19.99. The estimated square footage cleaned is 50 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((19.99 initial + 1.94/year)/50 sqft)/2 removal

points)) = 78.07. 78.07 = 12 points – Fair 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 – There are no consumable parts with this model. Calculating electricity usage: 2.5 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year =

1.94/year. Total cost 1.94/year. Very Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 8/12 points – Generally good use of materials; excellent website and documentation. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality,

3-points. Support Material – Excellent Quality, 2-points.

5) Warranty: 6/8 points – This purifier has a 3-year warranty. They also offer a 30-day return period. Fair Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 5/6 points – This unit has a 3-year warranty, but no consumable parts. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Regular wiping off the stainless steel collector blades

assures proper function. Every week or two would be best. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – Looks like a Sharper Image Plug-in. Looks Good, 2-points. Plug and go; has a nightlight for bathrooms. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Surround Air Purifier is a division of Indoor Purification Systems, Inc. which has been in the air purifier business since 1998. They are located in

Layton, UT.

9) Noise Level: 5/5 points – Nearly silent. Very Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 64/100 points

Conclusion

A decent plug-in requiring regular cleaning.

Model: Surround Air Purifier XJ-800 for Vehicles

Rating Score: 62/100 points

Summary

This is a very inexpensive purifier that could double as a travel model. I question the durability, but the price is definitely right. If you want to gamble on longevity and want a

light duty auto purifier, this one may be worth a try. There are better auto units available, but not at this price.

Basic Specifications

The XJ-800 Surround Air Purifier is designed for most small autos. It could double as a travel purfier with the extra wall adapter (15). Don't expect complete air

cleaning, but some protection is available with the ionization and ozone output. The fragrance packets are a counterproductive waste of money. I always cringe when any air purifier company

offers these as it makes me wonder if they understand clean air. If you want to buy from this company, just pretend you did not hear about the fragrance packets. A 1-year warranty is

standard.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is 19.99. The wall adapter is an extra 15. The estimated square footage cleaned is 25 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((19.99 initial

+ 2.33/year)/25 sqft)/3 removal points)) = 70.24. 70.24 = 12 points – Fair Value.

2) What is Removed: 3/16 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 – 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: 15/15 points – The fragrance Refill Packets are 2 each, but are not recommended. Calculating electricity usage: 3 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365

days/year = 2.33/year. Total cost 2.33/year. Very Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 8/12 points – Generally good use of materials; excellent website and documentation. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality,

3-points. Support Material – Excellent Quality, 2-points.

5) Warranty: 2/8 points – This purifier has a 1-year warranty. They also offer a 30-day return period. Fair Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – Maintenance free unless you choose to add the fragrance refills. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. You may need to wipe down once in a while, but very

little cleaning needed. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – Looks a little like a radar detector. Looks Good, 2-points. Has a high, low, and off setting. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 4/5 points – Surround Air Purifier is a division of Indoor Purification Systems, Inc. which has been in the air purifier business since 1998. They are located in

Layton, UT.

9) Noise Level: 5/5 points – Nearly silent. Very Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 62/100 points

Conclusion

An inexpensive auto unit that will do some cleaning.

Return to STEP 3 Reviews I-Z from Surround Air Purifiers

Sharper Image 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 Sharper Image purifiers.

Sharper Image Air Purifier Summaries

Model: Hybrid GP Germicidal – Good Rating

Designed for a larger room

MSRP 499.95/ 2nd 249.98

Conclusion: The Best Sharper Image has to offer.

Detailed Review Below

Model: GP Silent – Very Good Rating

Designed for a larger room

MSRP 399.95/ 2nd 199.98

Conclusion: Mostly show and not as much go.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Quadra Silent – Good Rating

Designed for a larger room

MSRP 349.95/ 2nd 174.98

Conclusion: Mostly show and not as much go.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Tabletop – Fair Rating

Designed for a smaller room

MSRP 119.95/ 2nd 59.98

Conclusion: Priced low, but low on actual cleaning ability

Detailed Review Below

Model: Ionic Breeze Air Freshener 2.0 – Fair Rating

Designed for a small space

MSRP 19.95

Conclusion: Better than a chemical plug-in, but actual cleaning power limited

Detailed Review Below

Model: Ionic Breeze Air Freshener for Bathrooms – Fair Rating

Designed for a small space

MSRP 29.95

Conclusion: Better than a chemical plug-in, but actual cleaning power limited

Detailed Review Below

Sharper Image Air Purifier Detailed Reviews

Model: Hybrid GP Germicidal Sharper Image Air Purifier

Rating Score: 64/100 points

Summary

Sharper Image makes neat looking "stuff". The quality keeps getting better and better; however, here we have a purifier with low maintenance costs and low energy usage,

but not enough real cleaning power for the price. Sharper Image does run specials including the second purifier at half price, but has only a 1-year warranty. If I were to buy this purifier, I

would definitely buy two to save money and purchase the 5-year extended warranty from previous SI experience.

Basic Specifications

The Hybrid GP Germicidal is designed for larger rooms. This purifier is mostly passive technology as the air must pass through the purifier to be cleaned. The

technology includes a cleanable pre filter and an electrostatic precipitator. The cleaning process does create some oxidizing plasma and ozone which Sharper Image claims stays inside the unit.

Whether it does or doesn't, it does add extra cleaning power and will reduce odors and gases. The purifier has 4 speeds plus a "boost" setting. No replaceable filters or parts. A

standard 1-year warranty is included. Has some "plastic" smells out of the box – outgassing.

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures (AHAM) Smoke 141 / Dust 175 / Pollen 192 *** Special Note *** Sharper Image 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 499.95. The estimated square footage cleaned is 300 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((499.95 initial + 9.10/year)/300 sqft)/7

removal points)) = 75.76. 75.76 = 12 points – fair value.

2) What is Removed: 7/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of

Odors and Gases – Good Removal, 2-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 – There are no filters or consumable replacement parts. Calculating electricity usage: 12 watts/1000 X .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year =

9.10/year. Total cost 9.10/year. Very Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 9/12 points – The manufacturing quality coming out of China keeps getting better and better. This purifier is plastic, but has a very solid and well designed feel. Fit, Finish,

and Workmanship – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Good Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 2/8 points – Sharper Image offers a standard 1-year warranty included with a 5-year replacement warranty available for 49.95. Fair Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – There is no routine maintenance with this model. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Cleaning is recommended at least every week or as needed. The cleaning

process takes 10 minutes or less for basic weekly cleaning (cleaning collection grid) and 10-20 minutes for a thorough monthly or quarterly cleaning (ozone guard and internal cleaning). The

collection grid is lifted out the top and both the front and rear panels lift off for easy cleaning. Some dry time is needed before using after cleaning. Keeping this unit clean will prolong

life and is necessary for it to work optimally. Intensive Cleaning 1-point.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This unit looks good for a tower purifier. Looks Good, 2-points. Everything is plastic, but well fitting. Controls are easy to find and use. Feels Good,

2-points.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – Sharper Image is a specialty retailer that has been in business since 1977. They have control over the products they sell, but the products are made by

another company or manufacturer. They are located in San Francisco, CA.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – 4 small fans move air through the purifier. On Low 39dB. On High 51dB. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 64/100 points

Conclusion

The Best Sharper Image Air Purifier available.

Model: GP Silent Sharper Image Air Purifier

Rating Score: 66/100 points

Summary

Sharper Image makes neat looking "stuff". The quality keeps getting better and better; however, here we have a purifier with low maintenance costs and low energy usage,

but not enough real cleaning power for the price. The silent feature is nice, but cuts down on actual cleaning power unless you have adequate room airflow. Sharper Image does run specials

including the second Sharper Image air purifier at half price, but has only a 1-year warranty. If I were to buy this purifier, I would definitely buy two to save money and purchase the 3-year

extended warranty from previous SI experience.

Basic Specifications

The GP Silent is designed for larger rooms. This purifier is mostly passive technology as the air must pass through the purifier to be cleaned. The technology includes

a UV lamp and an electrostatic precipitator. The cleaning process does create some oxidizing plasma and ozone which Sharper Image claims stays inside the unit. Whether it does or doesn't,

it does add some extra cleaning power and will reduce odors and gases. The purifier has 3 speeds plus a "boost" setting. No replaceable filters, but the UV bulb will need replacing

yearly (24.95) . A standard 1-year warranty is included. Has some "plastic" smells out of the box – outgassing.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is 399.95. The estimated square footage cleaned is 300 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((399.95 initial + 46.68./year)/300 sqft)/7

removal points)) = 78.73. 78.73 = 12 points – fair value.

2) What is Removed: 7/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of

Odors and Gases – Good Removal, 2-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 only consumable cost is the UV-C light at 24.95/year. Calculating electricity usage: 28 watts/1000 X .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year

= 21.73/year. Total cost 46.68/year. Very Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 9/12 points – The manufacturing quality coming out of China keeps getting better and better. This purifier is plastic, but has a very solid and well designed feel. Fit, Finish,

and Workmanship – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Good Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 2/8 points – Sharper Image offers a standard 1-year warranty included with a 3-year replacement warranty available for 39.95. Fair Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – The only routine maintenance is replacing the UV lamp every year. Should take 10-15 minutes. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Cleaning is recommended at

least every week or as needed. A cleaning overdue light illuminates and/or an audible sound is made if not cleaned every two weeks. The cleaning process takes 10 minutes or less for basic

weekly cleaning (wiping collection grid bars) and 10-20 minutes for a thorough monthly or quarterly cleaning (internal cleaning). Some dry time is needed before using after cleaning. Keeping

this unit clean will prolong life and is necessary for it to work optimally. Intensive Cleaning 1-point.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This unit looks good for a tower purifier. Looks Good, 2-points. Everything is plastic, but well fitting. Controls are easy to find and use. Feels Good,

2-points.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – Sharper Image is a specialty retailer that has been in business since 1977. They have control over the products they sell, but the products are made by

another company or manufacturer. They are located in San Francisco, CA.

9) Noise Level: 5/5 points – The unit is "silent" as long as you keep clean per standard instructions. Noise usually means that particles are present in higher amounts on the

collection grid or ionization wires. A slight "electronic noise" may be present during certain settings, but below rating limits. Very Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 66/100 points

Conclusion

Mostly show and not as much go.

Model: Quadra Silent Sharper Image Air Purifier

Rating Score: 64/100 points

Summary

Sharper Image makes neat looking "stuff". The quality keeps getting better and better; however, here we have a purifier with low maintenance costs and low energy usage,

but not enough real cleaning power for the price. The silent feature is nice, but cuts down on actual cleaning power unless you have adequate room airflow. Sharper Image does run specials

including the second Sharper Image air purifier at half price, but has only a 1-year warranty.

Basic Specifications

The Quadra Silent is designed for larger rooms. This purifier is mostly passive technology as the air must pass through the purifier to be cleaned. The technology

inside is an electrostatic precipitator. The cleaning process does create some oxidizing plasma and ozone which Sharper Image claims stays inside the unit. Whether it does or doesn't, it

does add some extra cleaning power and will reduce odors and gases. The purifier has 3 speeds plus a "boost" setting. No replaceable filters or parts. A standard 1-year warranty is

included. Has some "plastic" smells out of the box – outgassing.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is 349.95. The estimated square footage cleaned is 200 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((349.95 initial + 7.76/year)/200 sqft)/6

removal points)) = 70.19. 70.19 = 12 points – fair value.

2) What is Removed: 6/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Good Removal, 2-points, Removal of

Odors and Gases – Good Removal, 2-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 – There are no filters or consumable replacement parts. Calculating electricity usage: 10 watts/1000 X .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year =

7.76/year. Total cost 7.76/year. Very Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 8/12 points – The manufacturing quality coming out of China keeps getting better and better. This purifier is plastic, but has a very solid and well designed feel. Fit, Finish,

and Workmanship – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality, 3-points. Support Material – Good Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 2/8 points – Sharper Image offers a standard 1-year warranty included with a 3-year replacement warranty available for 39.95. Fair Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – There is no routine maintenance with this model. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Cleaning is recommended at least every week or as needed. The cleaning

process takes 10 minutes or less for basic weekly cleaning (cleaning collection grid) and 10-20 minutes for a thorough monthly or quarterly cleaning (ozone guard and internal cleaning). The

collection grid is lifted out the top and both the front and rear panels lift off for easy cleaning. Some dry time is needed before using after cleaning. Keeping this unit clean will prolong

life and is necessary for it to work optimally. Intensive Cleaning 1-point.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This unit looks good for a tower purifier. Looks Good, 2-points. Everything is plastic, but well fitting. Controls are easy to find and use. Feels Good,

2-points.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – Sharper Image is a specialty retailer that has been in business since 1977. They have control over the products they sell, but the products are made by

another company or manufacturer. They are located in San Francisco, CA.

9) Noise Level: 5/5 points – The unit is "silent" as long as you keep clean per standard instructions. Noise usually means that particles are present in higher amounts on the

collection grid or ionization wires. A slight "electronic noise" may be present during certain settings, but below rating limits.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 64/100 points

Conclusion

Mostly show and not as much go.

Model: Tabletop Sharper Image Air Purifier

Rating Score: 58/100 points

Summary

Sharper Image makes neat looking "stuff". The quality keeps getting better and better; however, here we have a purifier with low maintenance costs and low energy usage,

but not enough real cleaning power to compete for the top spots. The silent feature is nice, but cuts down on actual cleaning power unless you have adequate room airflow. Sharper Image does run

specials including the second purifier at half price, but has only a 1-year warranty.

Basic Specifications

The Tabletop is designed for smaller rooms. This purifier is mostly passive technology as the air must pass through the purifier to be cleaned. The technology inside is

an electrostatic precipitator. The cleaning process does create some oxidizing plasma and ozone which Sharper Image claims stays inside the unit. Whether it does or doesn't, it does add

some extra cleaning power and will reduce odors and gases. The purifier has 2 speeds. No replaceable filters or parts. A standard 1-year warranty is included. Has some "plastic"

smells out of the box – outgassing.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 8/24 points – The MSRP is 119.95. The estimated square footage cleaned is 100 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((119.95 initial + 6.21/year)/100 sqft)/4

removal points)) = 68.46. 68.46 = 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: 15/15 points – There are no filters or consumable replacement parts. Calculating electricity usage: 8 watts/1000 X .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year =

6.21/year. Total cost 6.21/year. Very Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 8/12 points – The manufacturing quality coming out of China keeps getting better and better. This purifier is plastic, but has a very solid and well designed feel. Fit, Finish,

and Workmanship – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality, 3-points. Support Material – Good Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 2/8 points – Sharper Image offers a standard 1-year warranty. Fair Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – There is no routine maintenance with this model. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Cleaning is recommended at least every week or as needed. The cleaning

process takes 10 minutes or less for basic weekly cleaning (wiping collection grid bars) and 10-20 minutes for a thorough monthly or quarterly cleaning (internal cleaning). Some dry time is

needed before using after cleaning. Keeping this unit clean will prolong life and is necessary for it to work optimally. Intensive Cleaning 1-point.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This unit looks good for a mini-tower purifier. Looks Good, 2-points. Everything is plastic, but well fitting. Controls are easy to find and use. Feels Good,

2-points.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – Sharper Image is a specialty retailer that has been in business since 1977. They have control over the products they sell, but the products are made by

another company or manufacturer. They are located in San Francisco, CA.

9) Noise Level: 5/5 points – The unit is "silent" as long as you keep clean per standard instructions. Noise usually means that particles are present in higher amounts on the

collection grid or ionization wires. A slight "electronic noise" may be present during certain settings, but below rating limits. Very Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 58/100 points

Conclusion

Priced low, but low on actual cleaning ability.Return to Top Model: Ionic Breeze Air Freshener 2.0 Sharper Image Air Purifier Last Reviewed: 01-09-2008 Rating Score: 53/100

points

Summary

A basic Plug-in unit. More expensive than a chemical plug in or a candle, but better for you. Sharper Image is currently selling these at a very low price. Consider trying Ecoquest

Focus first.

Basic Specifications

Silent plug in with a nightlight. The technology is a mini electrostatic precipitator. Similar to the larger Tabletop or Quadra Silent Sharper Image air purifier.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 4/24 points – The MSRP is 19.95. The estimated square footage cleaned is 20 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((19.95 initial + 10/year)/20 sqft)/2 removal

points)) = 25.13. 25.13 = 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: 15/15 points – Total Yearly cost less than 10.00. Very Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 7/12 points – Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality, 3-points. Support Material – Good Quality, 1-point.

3) What is Removed 2/15 pts – The technology is a mini electrostatic precipitator. Similar to the larger Tabletop or Quadra Silent. 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 0/3 pts, Advanced Microorganisms 0/2 pts, Any other additional 0/1 pt.

5) Warranty: 2/8 points – Sharper Image offers a standard 1-year warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – There is no routine maintenance with this model. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. This purifier is designed to be cleaned weekly. Wiping clean the

collection blades and shaking hidden debris loose should take under 10 minutes/week. Some dry time is needed before using after cleaning. Keeping this unit clean will prolong life and is

necessary for it to work optimally. Intensive Cleaning 1-point.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – Looks "ok" for bathrooms or anywhere you plug it in. Looks Good, 2-points. Has a LED nightlight which can be useful in most locations. Feels Good,

2-points.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – Sharper Image is a specialty retailer that has been in business since 1977. They have control over the products they sell, but the products are made by

another company or manufacturer. They are located in San Francisco, CA.

9) Noise Level: 5/5 points – The unit is "silent" as long as you keep clean per standard instructions. Noise usually means that particles are present in higher amounts on the

collection grid or ionization wires. A slight "electronic noise" may be present, but below rating limits. Very Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 53/100 points

Conclusion: Better than a chemical plug-in, but actual cleaning power limited. Return to Top Model: Ionic Breeze Air Freshener for Bathrooms Sharper Image Air Purifier Last Reviewed:

01-09-2008 Rating Score: 51/100 points

Summary

A basic Plug-in unit. More expensive than a chemical plug in or a candle, but better for you. Sharper Image is currently selling these at a very low price. Consider trying Ecoquest

Focus first.

Basic Specifications

Silent plug in with a nightlight. The technology is a mini electrostatic precipitator. Similar to the larger Tabletop or Quadra Silent Sharper Image air purifier.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 4/24 points – The MSRP is 29.95. The estimated square footage cleaned is 30 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((29.95 initial + 10.00/year)/30 sqft)/2 removal

points)) = 33.42. 33.42 = 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: 15/15 points – Total Yearly cost less than 10.00. Very Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 7/12 points – Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality, 3-points. Support Material – Good Quality, 1-point.

5) Warranty: 2/8 points – Sharper Image offers a standard 1-year warranty. Fair Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – There is no routine maintenance with this model. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. This purifier is designed to be cleaned weekly. Wiping clean the

collection blades and shaking hidden debris loose should take under 10 minutes/week. Some dry time is needed before using after cleaning. Keeping this unit clean will prolong life and is

necessary for it to work optimally. Intensive Cleaning 1-point.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – Looks "ok" for bathrooms or anywhere you plug it in. Looks Good, 2-points. Has a LED nightlight which can be useful in most locations. Feels Good,

2-points.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – Sharper Image is a specialty retailer that has been in business since 1977. They have control over the products they sell, but the products are made by

another company or manufacturer. They are located in San Francisco, CA.

9) Noise Level: 5/5 points – The unit is "silent" as long as you keep clean per standard instructions. Noise usually means that particles are present in higher amounts on the

collection grid or ionization wires. A slight "electronic noise" may be present, but below rating limits. Very Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 51/100 points

Conclusion

Better than a chemical plug-in, but actual cleaning power limited.

Return to STEP 3 Reviews I-Z from Sharper Image Air Purifier

Sharp 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 Sharp purifiers.

Sharp Purifier Summaries

Model: Sharp KC-C150U – Good Rating

Up to 280 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 499.99

Conclusion: A good purifier for particle removal with humidity.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Sharp Air Purifier KC-C100U – Very Good Rating

Up to 205 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 399.99

Conclusion: Another good purifier for particle removal with humidity.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Plasmacluster FP-P60CX – Very Good Rating

Up to 270 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 399.99

Conclusion: Another good purifier for particle removal.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Plasmacluster FP-P40CX – Very Good Rating

Up to 200 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 299.99

Conclusion: Another good purifier for particle removal.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Sharp Air Purifier FP-P35CX – Good Rating

Up to 185 sqft (6 AC/hr)

MSRP 199.99

Conclusion: A basic HEPA filter purifier.

Detailed Review Below

Sharp Air Purifier Detailed Reviews

Model: Sharp Air Purifier KC-C150U

Rating Score: 62/100 points

Summary

The Sharp KC-C150U combines Passive filtration with active positive/negative ionization. This model also controls humidity with the addition of an in-unit humidifier. Sharp uses all

of its electronic expertise on this purifier with sensors and electronic control features. Some features may be useful and others just extra gadgets. The main cleaning focus for this purifier

is particle removal. Expect less cleaning for odors and gases, VOCs, and microorganisms. This unit utilizes long-life filters. This Sharp Air Purifier is a fair value.

Basic Specifications:

• Designed for spaces up to 280 sqft (6 air changes per hour)
• Passive and Active purification technology
• Step 1: pre filter for larger particles
• Step 2: deodorizing carbon filter for odors and gases
• Step 3: 99.97% True HEPA filter w/ microbial control for particles
• Plasmacluster technology – positive/negative ions
• Humidification process to add humidity to air as needed
• Electronic sensors for dust and humidity levels
• Yearly Operating Costs 123.73
• 1-year warranty parts and labor

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures (AHAM) Smoke 224/ Dust 230/ Pollen 245

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is 499.99. The estimated square footage cleaned is 280 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((499.99 initial + 123.73/year)/280 sqft)/8

removal points)) = 72.15. 72.15 = 12 points – Fair Value.

2) What is Removed: 8/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points.

Removal of Odors and Gases – Fair Removal, 1-point, 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: 9/15 points – The HEPA filter lasts up to 5 years at 20/year. The humidification filter lasts up to 2 years at 15/year. The washable carbon filter lasts up to 5

years at 15/year. Calculating electricity usage: 95 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 73.73/year. Total cost 123.73/year. Average to operate.

4) Quality: 11/12 points – Sharp makes a good quality product and has an excellent operation manual. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Excellent Quality, 5-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very

Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Excellent Quality, 2-points.

5) Warranty: 2/8 points – This purifier has a 1-year parts and labor warranty. They do sell extended protection plans for an additional 1-year or 3-year for 39.99 or 101.97. Fair

Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 5/6 points – Routine maintenance includes replacing the washable carbon filter every 5 years or as needed, the HEPA filter every 5 years or as needed, and the

humidification filter every 2 years or as needed. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Cleaning includes washing the pre filter and carbon filter as needed and monitoring the other filters. This should

take you 15-30 minutes every other month plus soak and dry time. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 5/6 points – This is a good basic neutral looking purifier. Looks Good, 2-points. Controls are on the top and top front where they are easy to adjust and view. Weighs 25

lbs and measures 15-3/4" W X 24-3/4" H X 11-3/8" D. Feels Great, 3-points.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – 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. SharpUSA is located in Mahwah, NJ. Sharp global is located in Osaka, Japan.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – This unit has a 3-speed fan with Low 17 dB, Medium 40 dB, and High 55 dB. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 2/3 points – The bad news is filters are inside unit in plastic bags. Remove from bags and re-install. The good news is now you know how to change the filters. They do this to

keep the filters clean. Average Set-up.

total = 62/100 points

Conclusion

A good purifier for particle removal with humidity.Return to Top Model: Sharp Air Purifier KC-C100U Last Reviewed: 02-29-2008 Rating Score: 66/100 points

Summary: The Sharp KC-C100U combines Passive filtration with active positive/negative ionization. This model also controls humidity with the addition of an in-unit humidifier. Sharp uses all

of its electronic expertise on this purifier with sensors and electronic control features. Some features may be useful and others just extra gadgets. The main cleaning focus for this purifier

is particle removal. Expect less cleaning for odors and gases, VOCs, and microorganisms. This unit utilizes long-life filters. This Sharp Air Purifier is a fair value.

Basic Specifications:

• Designed for spaces up to 205 sqft (6 air changes per hour)
• Passive and Active purification technology
• Step 1: pre filter for larger particles
• Step 2: deodorizing carbon filter for odors and gases
• Step 3: 99.97% True HEPA filter w/ microbial control for particles
• Plasmacluster technology – positive/negative ions
• Humidification process to add humidity to air as needed
• Electronic sensors for dust and humidity levels
• Yearly Operating Costs 88.81
• 1-year warranty parts and labor

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures (AHAM) Smoke 164/ Dust 164/ Pollen 174

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is 399.99. The estimated square footage cleaned is 205 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((399.99 initial + 88.81/year)/205 sqft)/8

removal points)) = 70.20. 70.20 = 12 points – Fair Value.

2) What is Removed: 8/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points.

Removal of Odors and Gases – Fair Removal, 1-point, 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: 12/15 points – The HEPA filter lasts up to 5 years at 20/year. The humidification filter lasts up to 2 years at 15/year. The washable carbon filter lasts up to 5

years at 15/year. Calculating electricity usage: 50 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 38.81/year. Total cost 88.81/year. Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 11/12 points – Sharp makes a good quality product and has an excellent operation manual. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Excellent Quality, 5-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very

Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Excellent Quality, 2-points.

5) Warranty: 2/8 points – This purifier has a 1-year parts and labor warranty. They do sell extended protection plans for an additional 1-year or 3-year for 39.99 or 101.97. Fair

Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 5/6 points – Routine maintenance includes replacing the washable carbon filter every 5 years or as needed, the HEPA filter every 5 years or as needed, and the

humidification filter every 2 years or as needed. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Cleaning includes washing the pre filter and carbon filter as needed and monitoring the other filters. This should

take you 15-30 minutes every other month plus soak and dry time. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 5/6 points – This is a good basic neutral looking purifier. Looks Good, 2-points. Controls are on the top and top front where they are easy to adjust and view. Weighs 20.7

lbs and measures 14-7/8" W X 23" H X 10-1/2" D. Feels Great, 3-points.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – 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. SharpUSA is located in Mahwah, NJ. Sharp global is located in Osaka, Japan.

9) Noise Level: 4/5 points – This unit has a 3-speed fan with Low 17 dB, Medium 34 dB, and High 51 dB. Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 2/3 points – The bad news is filters are inside unit in plastic bags. Remove from bags and re-install. The good news is now you know how to change the filters. They do this to

keep the filters clean. Average Set-up.

total = 66/100 points

Conclusion

Another good purifier for particle removal with humidity.Return to Top Model: Plasmacluster FP-P60CX Last Reviewed: 02-29-2008 Rating Score: 65/100 points

Summary

The Sharp Plasmacluster FP-P60CX combines Passive filtration with active positive/negative ionization. Sharp uses all of its electronic expertise on this purifier with sensors and

electronic control features. Some features like the remote control may be useful and others just extra gadgets. The main cleaning focus for this purifier is particle removal. Expect less

cleaning for odors and gases, VOCs, and microorganisms. This unit utilizes long-life filters. This Sharp Air Purifier is a fair value.

Basic Specifications:

• Designed for spaces up to 270 sqft (6 air changes per hour)
• Passive and Active purification technology
• Step 1: pre filter for larger particles
• Step 2: deodorizing carbon filter for odors and gases
• Step 3: 99.97% True HEPA filter w/ microbial control for particles
• Plasmacluster technology – positive/negative ions
• Washable pre filter and carbon filter
• Remote control and electronic sensors for dust levels
• Yearly Operating Costs 76.91
• 1-year warranty parts and labor

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures (AHAM) Smoke 213/ Dust 209/ Pollen 205

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is 399. The estimated square footage cleaned is 270 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((399 initial + 76.91/year)/270 sqft)/8 removal

points)) = 77.97. 77.97 = 12 points – Fair Value.

2) What is Removed: 8/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points.

Removal of Odors and Gases – Fair Removal, 1-point, 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: 12/15 points – The pre filter is 13.00, but should only be replaced as needed. The HEPA filter lasts up to 5 years at 112/5 = 22.40/year. The washable carbon

filter lasts up to 5 years at 63/5 = 12.60/year. Calculating electricity usage: 54 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 41.91/year. Total cost 76.91/year. Inexpensive to

operate.

4) Quality: 11/12 points – Sharp makes a good quality product and has an excellent operation manual. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Excellent Quality, 5-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very

Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Excellent Quality, 2-points.

5) Warranty: 2/8 points – This purifier has a 1-year parts and labor warranty. They do sell extended protection plans for an additional 1-year or 3-year for 39.99 or 101.97. Fair

Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 5/6 points – Routine maintenance includes replacing the washable carbon filter every 5 years or as needed, and the HEPA filter every 5 years or as needed. Easy

Maintenance, 3-points. Cleaning includes washing the pre filter and carbon filter as needed and monitoring the other filters. This should take you 15-30 minutes every other month plus soak and

dry time. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 5/6 points – This is a good basic neutral looking purifier. Looks Good, 2-points. Controls are on the top front. A remote control makes adjusting easy. Weighs 18.8 lbs and

measures 16-3/8" W X 22-1/2" H X 9-1/2" D. Feels Great, 3-points.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – 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. SharpUSA is located in Mahwah, NJ. Sharp global is located in Osaka, Japan.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – This unit has a 4-speed fan with Silent, Medium 14 dB, High 35 dB, and Max 52 dB and Auto. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 2/3 points – The bad news is filters are inside unit in plastic bags. Remove from bags and re-install. The good news is now you know how to change the filters. They do this to

keep the filters clean. Average Set-up.

total = 65/100 points

Conclusion

Another good purifier for particle removal.Return to Top Model: Plasmacluster FP-P40CX Last Reviewed: 02-29-2008 Rating Score: 65/100 points

Summary: The Sharp Plasmacluster FP-P40CX combines Passive filtration with active positive/negative ionization. Sharp uses all of its electronic expertise on this purifier with sensors and

electronic control features. Some features like the remote control may be useful and others just extra gadgets. The main cleaning focus for this purifier is particle removal. Expect less

cleaning for odors and gases, VOCs, and microorganisms. This unit utilizes long-life filters. A fair value.

Basic Specifications:

• Designed for spaces up to 200 sqft (6 air changes per hour)
• Passive and Active purification technology
• Step 1: pre filter for larger particles
• Step 2: deodorizing carbon filter for odors and gases
• Step 3: 99.97% True HEPA filter w/ microbial control for particles
• Plasmacluster technology – positive/negative ions
• Washable pre filter and carbon filter
• Remote control and electronic sensors for dust levels
• Yearly Operating Costs 61.20
• 1-year warranty parts and labor

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures (AHAM) Smoke 163/ Dust 157/ Pollen 156

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is 299. The estimated square footage cleaned is 200 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((299 initial + 61.20/year)/200 sqft)/8 removal

points)) = 77.49. 77.49 = 12 points – Fair Value.

2) What is Removed: 8/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points. Removal of Smaller Particles <0.3 microns – Very Good Removal, 3-points.

Removal of Odors and Gases – Fair Removal, 1-point, 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: 12/15 points – The pre filter is 14.50, but should only be replaced as needed. The HEPA filter lasts up to 5 years at 126/5 = 25.20/year. The washable carbon

filter lasts up to 5 years at 83/5 = 16.60/year. Calculating electricity usage: 25 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 19.40/year. Total cost 61.20/year. Inexpensive to

operate.

4) Quality: 11/12 points – Sharp makes a good quality product and has an excellent operation manual. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Excellent Quality, 5-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very

Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Excellent Quality, 2-points.

5) Warranty: 2/8 points – This purifier has a 1-year parts and labor warranty. They do sell extended protection plans for an additional 1-year or 3-year for 39.99 or 101.97. Fair

Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 5/6 points – Routine maintenance includes replacing the washable carbon filter every 5 years or as needed, and the HEPA filter every 5 years or as needed. Easy

Maintenance, 3-points. Cleaning includes washing the pre filter and carbon filter as needed and monitoring the other filters. This should take you 15-30 minutes every other month plus soak and

dry time. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 5/6 points – This is a good basic neutral looking purifier. Looks Good, 2-points. Controls are on the top front. A remote control makes adjusting easy. Weighs 14.8 lbs and

measures 16-3/8" W X 22-1/2" H X 7-7/8" D. Feels Great, 3-points.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – 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. SharpUSA is located in Mahwah, NJ. Sharp global is located in Osaka, Japan.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – This unit has a 4-speed fan with Silent, Medium 14 dB, High 35 dB, and Max 52 dB and Auto. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 2/3 points – The bad news is filters are inside unit in plastic bags. Remove from bags and re-install. The good news is now you know how to change the filters. They do this to

keep the filters clean. Average Set-up.

total = 65/100 points

Conclusion

Another good purifier for particle removal.Return to Top Model: Sharp Air Purifier FP-P35CX Last Reviewed: 02-29-2008 Rating Score: 60/100 points

Summary: The Sharp FP-P35CX uses Passive filtration for air cleaning. Sharp uses its electronic expertise on this purifier with sensors and electronic control features. Some features may be

useful and others just extra gadgets. The main cleaning focus for this purifier is particle removal. Expect much less cleaning for odors and gases, VOCs, and microorganisms. This unit utilizes

long-life filters. A poor value.

Basic Specifications:

• Designed for spaces up to 185 sqft (6 air changes per hour)
• Passive purification technology
• Step 1: pre filter for larger particles
• Step 3: 99.97% True HEPA filter w/ microbial control for particles
• 3 fan speeds plus auto-speed sensor
• Electronic sensors for dust levels
• washable pre filter
• no remote
• Yearly Operating Costs 44.60
• 1-year warranty parts and labor

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures (AHAM) Smoke 147/ Dust 150/ Pollen 155

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 8/24 points – The MSRP is 199. The estimated square footage cleaned is 185 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((199 initial + 44.60/year)/185 sqft)/4 removal

points)) = 67.08. 67.08 = 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 – Good Removal, 2-points. 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 – The pre filter is 14.50, but should only be replaced as needed. The HEPA filter lasts up to 5 years at 126/5 = 25.20/year. Calculating

electricity usage: 25 watts/1000 x .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 19.40/year. Total cost 44.60/year. Very Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 10/12 points – Sharp makes a good quality product and has an excellent operation manual. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Cleaning Technologies – Very

Good Quality, 4-points. Support Material – Excellent Quality, 2-points.

5) Warranty: 2/8 points – This purifier has a 1-year parts and labor warranty. Fair Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – Routine maintenance includes replacing the HEPA filter every 5 years or as needed. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. Cleaning includes washing the pre

filter as needed and monitoring the HEPA filter. This should take you 15-30 minutes every other month plus soak and dry time. Easy Cleaning 3-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This is a good basic neutral looking purifier. Looks Good, 2-points. Controls are on the top front and reasonable in usability. Weighs 13.4 lbs and measures

16-3/8" W X 23" H X 7-7/8" D. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – 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. SharpUSA is located in Mahwah, NJ. Sharp global is located in Osaka, Japan.

9) Noise Level: 4/5 points – This unit has a 4-speed fan with Silent, Medium 14 dB , High 30 dB, and Max 48 dB and Auto. Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 2/3 points – The bad news is filters are inside unit in plastic bags. Remove from bags and re-install. The good news is now you know how to change the filters. They do this to

keep the filters clean. Average Set-up.

total = 60/100 points

Conclusion

A basic HEPA filter purifier.Return to Top

Return to STEP 3 Reviews I-Z from Sharp Air Purifier

Secure air purifier review: Summaries and Detailed Reviews. * note: marketed as Safe Air as well

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 Secure purifiers.

Secure Air Purifier Summaries

Model: Secure Air 1200 – Fair Rating

Up to 144 sqft

MSRP 79.99

Conclusion: Some microorganism protection; limited overall cleaning scope.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Secure Air 3500 – Fair Rating

Up to 400 sqft

MSRP 249.95

Conclusion: Focused on cleaning microorganisms; below average cleaning on other pollutants.

Detailed Review Below

Secure Air Purifier Detailed Reviews

Model: Secure Air 1200 Secure Air Purifier

Rating Score: 53/100 points

Summary

At first glance this purifier seems innovative. I like the compact footprint and the look is futuristic. The technology is limited to removing microorganisms. This is ok if you want

to remove only microorganisms, but is hardly comprehensive. I wanted to look at the inside of this purifier, but it was sealed. It is the first throw away room purifier I have encountered. The

thought process is that it last 3-5 years, so why not throw it out when the UV bulb burns out? I'm not thrilled about that and what happens if the bulb burns out right after the 1-year

warranty.

Basic Specifications

The Secure Air 1200 is designed for spaces up to 144 sqft. This purifier is "passive technology" as the air must travel through the purifier to be cleaned.

There is a version of a media charged filter, but it is so small and the fan draws so little air, that it is fairly ineffective. They claim the small fan still cleans the air as it allows the

microorganisms time to be killed by the UV-C lamp as they pass by the lamp inside the purifier slowly. No replaceable parts, just throw it out when the UV lamp blows. The fan is one speed. A

1-year warranty is standard.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is 79.99. The estimated square footage cleaned is 144 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((79.99 initial + 19.40/year)/144 sqft)/1

removal points)) = 70.84. 70.84 = 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 – The 1200 has no replaceable parts, in fact you cannot get into the purifier without "breaking it". It is a "throw-away" model.

Calculating electricity usage: 25 watts/1000 X .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365 days/year = 19.40/year. Total cost 19.40/year. Very Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 5/12 points – The quality is typical for China manufacturing. The materials are a step up from general plastic, but the technology is fairly wimpy. The UV life claim of 5 years

is suspect as most UV-C bulbs blow at 1-3 years and/or start degrading during that time frame. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Good Quality, 3-points. Cleaning Technologies – Fair Quality,

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

5) Warranty: 2/8 points – A 1-year warranty is standard. Fair Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 5/6 points – There is no routine maintenance for this unit. Easy Maintenance, 3-points. This purifier has a very thin, small pre filter listed in the manual as a

superior form of electrostatic filter. There is little air flow here, so they recommend a cleaning every 6 months or as needed. Rinse and dry and slide it back in the purifier. Expect 15

minutes cleaning every 6 months. The filter is small and a little difficult to remove. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 4/6 points – This purifier has a small footprint and has a fairly unique look. I would describe it as a futuristic look. Looks Good, 2-points. One switch located in the

back. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 2/5 points – In business for over 3 years at time of review. They are located in Willoughby, OH. Newcomer.

9) Noise Level: 4/5 points – The fan is one speed and fairly quiet (Estimate less than 40dB). Quiet Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 53/100 points

Conclusion

Conclusion: Some microorganism protection; limited overall cleaning scope.

Secure Air 3500 Secure Air Purifier

Rating Score: 51/100 points

Summary

This purifier is a little too futuristic looking in my opinion. Looking past skin deep and it appears to have a host of technologies working to clean the air. Listed as a whole

house air purifier, the main cleaning focus is microorganisms with the small particle cleaning and odor control filters offering token cleaning ability at best. This is not your best choice for

a whole home purifier.

Basic Specifications

The Secure Air 3500 is designed for spaces up to 400 sqft. This purifier is "passive technology" as the air must travel through the purifier to be cleaned.

There is a version of a media charged pre filter, but it is small and fairly ineffective. The UV-C lamp kills and disables certain microorganisms as they pass by the lamp inside the purifier.

The carbon filter is also very small and fairly ineffective. The scent cartridges are counterproductive and really a sign of trouble and confusion with this brand. How can you clean the air and

then cover it up with chemicals? There are several replaceable parts including the carbon filter, UV-C lamp and scent cartridges if desired. Count on a yearly cost of just over 50 for

consumables. The fan is three speeds. There is a programable timer with several setting options. A 1-year warranty is standard.

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is 249.95. The estimated square footage cleaned is 400 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((249.95 initial + 99.90/year)/400 sqft)/3

removal points)) = 70.85. 70.85 = 12 points – fair value.

2) What is Removed: 3/16 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 – Fair Removal, 1-point, Removal of Advanced Microorganisms – Poor Removal,

0-points.

3) Yearly Operating Costs: 12/15 points – The charged media filter is reusable. The carbon filters may last 2-3 months at a cost of 6 X 7.50 = 45/year. I don't recommend the scent

cartridges, but they cost 24.95 for 6. The yearly cost of a 22-watt UV-C Emitter bulb is (24.95/3) = 8.33. Calculating electricity usage: 60 watts/1000 X .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day X 365

days/year = 46.57/year. Total cost 99.90/year. Inexpesive to operate.

4) Quality: 7/12 points – The quality is typical for China manufacturing. The materials are a step up from general plastic with some stainless steel, but the most of the technology is still

fairly wimpy. The UV life claim of 5 years is suspect as most UV-C bulbs blow at 1-3 years and/or start degrading during that time frame. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Very Good Quality,

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

5) Warranty: 2/8 points – A 1-year warranty is standard. Fair Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 4/6 points – The second chamber holds either a replaceable carbon filter or one of three scent filter cartridges. These can be checked monthly and replaced as

needed. A 10 minute or less job. Read the manual when removing the UV lamp as it requires some care. Replace every 1-5 years. Lamp replacement may take 15 minutes or more. 20 minutes a month

maintenance including digging out the manual as needed. Average Maintenance, 2-points. The media charged pre filter needs checking every month or as needed. 10 minutes to rinse and then let air

dry. Average Cleaning 2-points.

7) Look and Feel: 3/6 points – Where the 1200 looks futuristic, the 3500 crosses the line a little and looks a bit too futuristic. I'm trying to see how it would fit into any given room.

Questionable Looks, 1-point. The "feel" is ok with decent controls and materials. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 2/5 points – In business for over 3 years at time of review. They are located in Willoughby, OH. Newcomer.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – TThere are three fan speeds. Low, medium, and turbo. Noise level is average. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 51/100 points

Conclusion

Focused on cleaning microorganisms; below average cleaning on other pollutants.

Return to STEP 3 Reviews I-Z from Secure Air Purifier

Panasonic air purifiers 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 Panasonic purifiers.

Panasonic Purifier Summaries

Model: Panasonic Purifiers F-P10HU1 – Fair Rating

Up to 120 sqft

MSRP 79.95

Conclusion: A basic HEPA with charcoal air purifier w/ electronic controls.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Panasonic Air Purifiers F-P15HU2 – Fair Rating

Up to 216 sqft

MSRP 99.95

Conclusion: A basic HEPA with charcoal air purifier w/ electronic air quality monitor.

Detailed Review Below

Model: Panasonic Air Purifiers F-P20HU1 – Fair Rating

Up to 320 sqft

MSRP 169.95

Conclusion: A basic HEPA with charcoal air purifier w/electronic air quality monitor.

Detailed Review Below

Panasonic Air Purifiers Detailed Reviews

Model: Panasonic Air Purifiers F-P10HU1 HEPA

Rating Score: 54/100 points

Summary

Panasonic makes many quality electronic and consumer products. They appear to have left the air purifier market with these three models. They may be available for awhile, but most

references to them are disappearing from the internet. This is the smallest of three similar units using HEPA and carbon filtering technology. The purifier is slim in shape and has some

electronic control gadgetry. The actual cleaning ability is average to below average.

Basic Specifications

The F-P10HU1 HEPA is designed for spaces up to 120 sqft. This purifier is passive technology as the air must travel through the purifier to be cleaned. The F-P10HU1

uses a 2-step process. Initially the air passes through a 99.97% HEPA filter for particles and then through a thin charcoal "deodorize" filter to remove smells. The purifier has a

3-speed fan, a digital readout with timer, LED Filter Check Function, and a 1-year warranty. The charcoal filter will need to be replaced every year at 39.95/year. The HEPA filter is scheduled

for replacement every 3 years at 59.95/3 = 19.98/year. Expect some plastic outgassing smell.

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

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 8/24 points – The MSRP is 79.95. The estimated square footage cleaned is 120 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((79.95 initial + 97.96/year)/120 sqft)/3

removal points)) = 50.58. 50.58 = 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 – 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: 12/15 points – The HEPA filter (Part F-Y110XT) is scheduled for a change every 3 years – 59.95/3 = 19.98/year. The charcoal "deodorize" filter (Part

F-Y510XT) every year – 39.95/year. Electricity ranges between 29 to 68 watts. I will use the average value of 49 watts. Calculating electricity usage: 49 watts/1000 X .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day

X 365 days/year = 38.03/year. Total cost 97.96/year. Inexpensive to operate.

4) Quality: 8/12 points – Average Quality. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality, 3-points. Support Material – Good Quality,

1-point.

5) Warranty: 2/8 points – Panasonic Air Purifiers have a 1-year warranty. Fair Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – Routine maintenance includes replacing the HEPA filter every 3 years and the charcoal "deodorize" filter every year. Hand wash the filter

frame and install takes about 20 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 – This unit looks a little like a skinny air conditioner. 18.5" Width X 6" Depth X 15.25" height and 10lbs. The slim line look is ok. Looks Good,

2-points. This unit has simple controls with an LED display including filter change time data and programmable timer. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – Founded in 1959, Panasonic is a Global Japanese Company with Panasonic North America located in Secaucus, NJ.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – Low 30 dB, Medium 43 dB, and High 50 dB. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 54/100 points

Conclusion

A basic HEPA with charcoal air purifier w/ electronic controls.

Model: Panasonic Air Purifiers F-P15HU2 HEPA

Rating Score: 51/100 points

Summary

Panasonic makes many quality electronic and consumer products. They appear to have left the air purifier market with these three models. They may be available for awhile, but most

references to them are disappearing from the internet. This is the middle size of three similar units using HEPA and carbon filtering technology. The purifier is slim in shape and has some

electronic control gadgetry. The 24-hour Air Quality Monitor is interesting as the purifier will gauge the need of cleaning or not. I would recommend that most homes have 24-hour cleaning

anyway, so the monitor is a neat feature, but not really a huge plus. The actual cleaning ability is average to below average.

Basic Specifications: The F-P15HU2 HEPA is designed for spaces up to 216 sqft. This purifier is passive technology as the air must travel through the purifier to be cleaned. The F-P15HU2

uses a 2-step process. Initially the air passes through a 99.97% HEPA filter for particles and then through a thin charcoal "deodorize" filter to remove smells. The purifier has a

4-speed fan, a digital readout with timer, LED Filter Check Function, 24-hour Air Quality Monitor and a 1-year warranty. The charcoal filter will need to be replaced every year at 39.95/year.

The HEPA filter is scheduled for replacement every 3 years at 59.95/3 = 19.98/year. Expect some plastic outgassing smell.

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

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 8/24 points – The MSRP is 99.95. The estimated square footage cleaned is 216 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((99.95 initial + 115.81/year)/216 sqft)/3

removal points)) = 66.70. 66.70 = 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 – 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 – The HEPA filter (Part F-Y15XS) is scheduled for a change every 3 years – 59.95/3 = 19.98/year. The charcoal "deodorize" filter (Part

F-Y55XS) every year – 39.95/year. Electricity ranges between 43 to 101 watts. I will use the average value of 72 watts. Calculating electricity usage: 72 watts/1000 X .0886/kwh x 24 hours/day

X 365 days/year = 55.88/year. Total cost 115.81/year. Average to operate.

4) Quality: 8/12 points – Average Quality. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality, 3-points. Support Material – Good Quality,

1-point.

5) Warranty: 2/8 points – Panasonic Air Purifiers have a 1-year warranty. Fair Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – Routine maintenance includes replacing the HEPA filter every 3 years and the charcoal "deodorize" filter every year. Hand wash the filter

frame and install takes about 20 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 – This unit looks a little like a skinny air conditioner. 21.25" Width X 6" Depth X 15.625" height and 13.9lbs. The slim line look is ok. Looks

Good, 2-points. This unit has simple controls with an LED display including filter change time data, programmable timer, and air quality monitor. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – Founded in 1959, Panasonic is a Global Japanese Company with Panasonic North America located in Secaucus, NJ.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – Low 30 dB, Medium 40 dB, High 48 dB, and super 56 dB. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 51/100 points

Conclusion

A basic HEPA with charcoal air purifier w/ electronic air quality monitor.

Return to Top Model: Panasonic Air Purifiers F-P20HU1 HEPA Last Reviewed: 02-15-2008 Rating Score: 53/100 points

Summary

Panasonic makes many quality electronic and consumer products. They appear to have left the air purifier market with these three models. They may be available for awhile, but most

references to them are disappearing from the internet. This is the middle size of three similar units using HEPA and carbon filtering technology. The purifier is slim in shape and has some

electronic control gadgetry. The 24-hour Air Quality Monitor is interesting as the purifier will gauge the need of cleaning or not. I would recommend that most homes have 24-hour cleaning

anyway, so the monitor is a neat feature, but not really a huge plus. The actual cleaning ability is average to below average.

Basic Specifications

The F-P20HU1 HEPA is designed for spaces up to 320 sqft. This purifier is passive technology as the air must travel through the purifier to be cleaned. The F-P20HU1

uses a 2-step process. Initially the air passes through a 99.97% HEPA filter for particles and then through a thin charcoal "deodorize" filter to remove smells. The purifier has a

4-speed fan, a digital readout with timer, LED Filter Check Function, 24-hour Air Quality Monitor and a 1-year warranty. The charcoal filter will need to be replaced every year at 49.95/year.

The HEPA filter is scheduled for replacement every 3 years at 79.95/3 = 26.65/year. Expect some plastic outgassing smell.

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating from The Association of Home Appliance Manufactures (AHAM) Smoke 215/ Dust 215/ Pollen 200

Rating Factors:

1) Value: 12/24 points – The MSRP is 169.95. The estimated square footage cleaned is 320 sqft. The Value equation is as follows: 100 * (1 – (((169.95 initial + 156.54/year)/320 sqft)/4

removal points)) = 74.49. 74.49 = 12 points – Fair Value.

2) What is Removed: 4/16 points – Removal of Larger Particles >0.3 microns – very good Removal, 3-points. 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: 6/15 points – The HEPA filter (Part F-Y120XT) is scheduled for a change every 3 years – 79.95/3 = 26.65/year. The charcoal "deodorize" filter (Part

F-Y520XT) every year – 49.95/year. Electricity ranges between 55 to 150 watts. I will use the average value of 103 watts. Calculating electricity usage: 103 watts/1000 X .0886/kwh x 24

hours/day X 365 days/year = 79.94/year. Total cost 156.54/year. Above Average to operate.

4) Quality: 8/12 points – Average Quality. Fit, Finish, and Workmanship – Very Good Quality, 4-points. Cleaning Technologies – Good Quality, 3-points. Support Material – Good Quality,

1-point.

5) Warranty: 2/8 points – Panasonic Air Purifiers have a 1-year warranty. Fair Warranty.

6) Maintenance and Cleaning: 6/6 points – Routine maintenance includes replacing the HEPA filter every 3 years and the charcoal "deodorize" filter every year. Hand wash the filter

frame and install takes about 20 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 – This unit looks a little like a skinny air conditioner. 22" Width X 6.625" Depth X 18.75" height and 16.3lbs. The slim line look is ok. Looks

Good, 2-points. This unit has simple controls with an LED display including filter change time data, programmable timer, and air quality monitor. Feels Good, 2-points.

8) Years in Business: 5/5 points – Founded in 1959, Panasonic is a Global Japanese Company with Panasonic North America located in Secaucus, NJ.

9) Noise Level: 3/5 points – Low 30 dB, Medium 40 dB, High 48 dB, and super 56 dB. Average Noise Level.

10) Set-Up: 3/3 points – Easy Set-up.

total = 53/100 points

Conclusion

A basic HEPA with charcoal air purifier w/ electronic air quality monitor.Return to Top

Return to STEP 3 Reviews I-Z from Panasonic Air Purifiers

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