Top

Overview

On this website you will see my video reviews of major brands, particle tests, comparison charts, and recommendations.

But enough about me. The real goal of this website is to help you determine which air purifier is right for you. What some consider the “best air purifier” might be the worst one for you. A little education on air purification technology will help you find the right air purifier for you.

The Best Air Purifier Consumer Report – Comes From You!

Navigate to the from page of this website and you will find a 4-step process (via video) which will help you determine the best air purifier for your needs. Learn the technology, the things to watch out for, and then (and only then) look at the comparison charts and watch the video reviews on the major brands.

Go inside the videos to see the filters you are buying. Look out for expensive replacement filters, deceptive warranties, and other air purifier loopholes. After you have done your own research you’ll be the best person to write the best air purifier consumer report for your needs. And your needs are different from everyone else.

Save Time

Please, please, follow the steps I have outlined on the homepage. I have had many people waste time online searching and trying to learn about air purifiers amongst the thousands of available models on the market only to buy the wrong one.

It’s easy to get lost or confused. That’s why I consider this website the best air purifier consumer report – because it reports the steps consumers need to make to purchase the “best” air purifier based on their needs.

Save Money

Purchasing an air purifier that is to small, too big, or has overpriced replacement filters before doing your research can waster hundreds of dollars overtime.

Here’s a checklist of what to look out for:

1) Make sure you know which of the 10 technologies fit your needs

2) Make sure any replacement hepa filters or UV bulbs are not over 50

3) Check the size of your room against square footage

4) Review the warranty and guarantee to make sure you’ll be taken care of in the event of problems

Conclusion

I hope you find this website helpful in your searcher the right air purifier. Feel free to ask me a question via the link below…

Best Air Purifier Consumer Report Video

Have A Question?

We’ll try and respond within 24-48 hours.

The only way to determine precise air purifier ratings – ones that shows the true effectiveness – one must incorporate the following:

1. Particle Tests – to determine ability to remove particles like dust and pollen

2. Decibel tests – to determine the quiet levels of the machine

3. Smoke tests – to determine ability to remove cigarette, fireplace and cooking smoke

4. Bacteria, and mold tests as available

5. Independent tests from outside sources

6. Consumer feedback

7. Hands-on dissection (video)

8. Replacement filter costs – to determine the value and economy of an air purifier over time

I’ve tried to include as much of this data as possible on this site, including particle tests that we perform in real world situations.

Complete List Of Air Purifiers Reviewed On This Site

For the air purifier brands listed on the left menu (search our site for others not listed) you’ll find a condensed version of the information above with comments, videos, and Q&A.

Our overall air purifier ratings system is calculated by:

1. Technologies Included

2. Particle Removal (Allergens, Dust)

3. Immune System Threats (Germs, Virus, etc.)

4. Gas Removal (Odor, Chemicals, Smoke)

5. Longevity/Quality

6. Noise Levels

7. Ease of Use

8. Warranty

9. Customer Service/Reputation (reviews)

10. Price Value

At the end you’ll find Questions and Answers from readers and from online reviews as available.

Air Purifier Ratings – Comprehensive Comparison Chart

Why Companies Don’t Include Particle Tests

I don’t know why, except I have a hunch why they don’t. If you can sell someone an air purifier without showing particle tests then why bother. Especially if your air purifier does not perform particularly (pun unintended) well.

For all my reviews I try to include a particle test because it’s the only way to really know a machine removes dust and pollen. It shows that air purifiers really work. The only drawback is that it doesn’t show how it does on germs, viruses and gases. There are other tests for those. But if pollen allergies are your problem it must test a particle test.

Also – Particle tests need to be done two ways: 1) on the outflow of the air purifier to determine if it is removing all molecules and 2) from across the room over a 1-2 hour period to determine if the air purifier is effective at lowering the numbers to near zero.

Conclusion

I hope to offer you the most comprehensive reviews available online. You’ll find Comparison Charts and a List of all air purifiers reviewed on this site via the links below…

Overview

Over the past 30 years my Air Purifier Rating Review Reports have focused on:

1 – Which technologies are best for asthma, allergies, mold, and dust ?

2 – What are the pros and cons of each air purifier ?

3 – How can the consumer avoid buying the wrong air purifier?

Plus factors involving replacement filter costs, warranty issues, safety issues and industry problems. I’ve been involved with design, education, marketing, and industry issues with many air purifier companies since college.

Because todays consumer is more educated and wants more information my reviews now include video reviews on all brands, which often include particle tests, decibel tests, comparison charts, mold/mildew tests and more science. I’m sure that it is more information than most people want or need but it’s there if you ned it.

But the real reason for my involvement in air purifier ratings review s has to do with my own health problems. I first became interested in,and began using, air purifiers in the early 1960’s when I was a young boy with asthma and allergies.

Particle Tests

Particle tests, one of the primary methods I use to test the effectiveness of an air purifier, are good for the following:

1) To determine the removal ability for dust, pollen, hair and soot

2) To determine a HEPA filter’s ability

3) To remove allergens for asthmatics and allergy sufferers

4) for dtermining the air purifiers ability to remove some forms of bacteria and mold spores

However a particle test does not indicate an air purifiers ability to remove odor, gases, chemical fumes, and many other forms of pathogen (germs, bacteria, etc.). the video below demonstrates the uses of a particle tester for air quality.

[ Air Purifier Rating Review ]

How Do I Start?

If you look for the ” Best ranking air purifier” or the ” Best rated air purifier ” (while not a bad starting point) it might be a recipe for disaster. That’s because the best seller is not necessarily the best for your needs, or your budget.

To find the right air purifier for your home (or your needs) involves several steps to assure that you purchase properly:

1) Learn the 10 technologies – then you will know which air purifier technology fits your problem

2) Determine the square footage – many people buy an air purifier that is either too small or too large

3) Look at the comparison chart to find models that match both the technology and the square footage. the comparison chart will also help you weigh warranty/guarantee terms, fan volume, and replacement filter costs.

40 Watch videos and read the complete review of each model that matched from the chart.

The Video on the home page takes you through all 4 steps. VIDEO: 4 Steps To the Right Air Purifier

Comparing Air Purifiers

I hope this Air Purifier Rating Review Guide has proven helpful to you.

The link below takes you to the comparison chart page.

Air Purifier Rating Review Comparison Chart

Mike H. (Detroit) phoned one day to say:

“I wouldn’t recommend any air purifier Home Depot sells in their store. They don’t know squat about air purifiers, and they don’t even warranty the products they carry”.

He was frustrated having wasted time buying an air purifier from with poor advice given in the store. The purifier he bought not only didn’t offer him any allergy relief, it didn’t collect any pollen in the filters when he opened it up. However the Customer Service (in the store) was good and he received a full refund.

I told Mike:

“You can’t expect expert advice from Home Depot on air purifiers, since they don’t have an in-house expert in health matters. You first have to know which technology matches your needs, and then which models have that technology, before you should even search for a good price. Do you know about the 10 technologies and what they do?”

“Nope”

He then asked me what I thought of the Ionic Pro, the model Home Depot recommended, and which was on sale there. I told Mike that the ionic pro does not have a HEPA filter – the technology he needed most for dust and pollen effectiveness.

He then asked me for suggestions in buying the right air purifier. This review offers my suggestions to Mike, plus all the reasons to avoid, or buy, an air purifier from a big box store or their online website.

10 Technologies – and what they do

Air Purifier Home Depot Brands

Home Depot Carries the Following models online:

RabbitAir

Honeywell

Winix

Blueair

Ionic Pro

GE

HomeDepot.com Problems

Target, Home Depot, and Lowe’s all sell air purifiers on their sites. Before buying any air purifier home depot (or any of the other “big box stores”) sells check the following:

1) Do they have the best price on the model you want? Remember – they are just a middleman and don’t actually carry, or service, the item. They just have it drop shipped from the manufacturer.

2) Is the warranty the same there as with the manufacturer? In many cases I’ve seen that the original manufacturers offer longer warranties if you buy direct.

3) Are prices on Amazon lower? Amazons return policies are better than Home Depot. You’re better protected, and most often the price there is lower. (However check the warranty on Amazon, and the price on the page of the manufacturer as sometimes Amazon is more).

Conclusion

If you know the ten technologies (see the video), and you have compared several brands that match your needs (see the comparison chart and reviews) then shopping online at Home Depot, Amazon, Ebay, etc. is a good way to get the best price.

If you get the same price from the manufacturers site as from the reseller (Home Depot, etc.) I suggest you buy from the manufacturer, as you’ll be able to deal directly with them if help is needed.

The Link below takes you to the comparison chart…

Air Purifier Home Depot Comparisons

Overview

The Air Purifiers Ratings Charts, video reviews, and particle tests you will find on this website represent the most extensive compilation from my 30 year experience in the air purifier industry. My hope is that it saves you time and helps you to find the best air purifier for your needs, at a reasonable price.

While most air purifiers ratings charts found on the internet only reflect the top-selling units (not necessarily the best for you) of that website I’m going to suggest you watch the video below first. This video will educate you about the ten types of purifier and what each does.

Which Type Fits Your Needs?

The Best One For You

Did you watch the video? Do you understand the ten types of air purifier technology and which fits your needs? I emphasize this because I have seen many people spend time returning an air purifier that doesn’t fit their needs. A few minutes getting educated will save you money and aggravation.

How We Determine An Air Purifiers Ratings

To rate an air purifier I use the following criteria:

Available Technology- Which of the ten technologies are in the air purifier? Many air purifiers only use 2-3.

Replacement Filter Cost- I have found that most air purifiers on the market have overpriced replacement filters. For this reason the comparison chart includes these prices.

Particle Tests- This determines whether dust and pollen are taken out of the air. It surprises me that more companies do not provide video particle tests, especially for people with allergies.

Customer Reviews- Almost all air purifiers reviewed on this site are ones that I own, as witnessed by the video reviews on most brands. However it is the customer reviews on Amazon and other websites that has helped find flaws and problems with Air Purifiers which I include in my reviews.

Internal Video Review- Talking about an air purifier is one thing, taking it apart is the best way to really see what it can do. When I take apart an air purifier I can see the motor design quality, construction quality, filter size, and technology. You’ll see me do this in many of the video reviews.

Specifications – Included in each review are extensive specification information on each air purifier.

Air Purifiers Ratings

Then, along with the criteria about I give it my own personal score, using the following information:

1. Technologies Included: (out of of 10 technologies)

2. Particle Removal (Allergens, Dust)

3. Immune System Threats (Germs, Virus, etc.)

4. Gas Removal (Odor, Chemicals, Smoke)

5. Longevity/Quality

6. Noise Levels

7. Ease of Use

8. Warranty

9. Customer Service/Reputation (reviews)

10. Price Value

Conclusion

Knowing the technology, and the square footage you need, continue below to the comparison chart. After you have chosen several air purifiers watch and read the reviews on this website.

Overview

An Air Purifiers Ratings will only be of value if you first know:

1) What technology matches your needs (Ionic? HEPA? UV? Carbon?)

2) The value of the models you are reviewing (Consumer reviews, operating cost, filter replacement costs).

3) What square footage you need and

4) All the in’s and out’s of warranties, and guarantees

To determine the best air purifier – and that is the best based on YOUR NEEDS – my suggestion is to first watch the video below. It explains the 10 air purification technologies available and what they do.

Once you determine which technology matches your need then review the comparison chart (link on the left menu) for models that match. Choose several that match your needs. Then watch the video reviews on each model and the complete written reviews which include particle tests, as well as lists of pros and cons.

What Makes This Site Unique

While most sites offer an purifiers ratings based purely on spec sheets or price on this site you’ll find the more important information including:

1) Video reviews where I take the air purifier apart to show you the filters and technology.

2) Comparison charts – this especially important information because many companies use deceptive warranty policies and have overpriced replacement filters.

3) Particle tests which show which units really remove dust, pollen, and other debris in the air. I haven’t found any other site which covers this. (video)

How Most Air Purifiers Ratings Deceive Consumers

If you chose your air purifier before learning the 10 technologies matches you will likely choose poorly. In fact most consumers buy based on infomercials. Here’s a few things you’ll want to consider:

1) Every air purifier covers a different area of square footage, yet many consumers purchase models that are too small or too large.

2) Each of the ten air purification technologies removes something different from the air. For example, many people bought the Oreck Air Purifier for pollen allergies, only to find that it doesn’t have a HEPA filter – hence it won’t do a very good job on pollen.

3) When the air purifiers ratings come out in consumer reports they fail to include include important factors like replacement filter costs. EX: Buy their best-rated air purifier and you’ll be paying 75 every 9 months.

Got Allergies: Watch the Particle Tests

The only way to properly test whether an air purifier removes dust, dirt, or pollen is a laser particle tester. And this is perhaps the only site where you’ll find particle tests on most major brands.

Video Reviews For The Best Choice

I like seeing inside things I spend money on. And I’ve bought many good and bad air purifiers. They’re not cheap! Since air purifiers are only as good as the fans, filters, and technology inside I’ve put together a video review for the majority of air purifiers reviewed on this site.

OVERVIEW

On this site we have created the best rating air purifier reviews. The reason we claim that is because there is no other site that includes: specification sheets, particle tests, and complete video reviews which take you inside each air purifier.

Best Rating Air Purifier ?

Many websites claim to have the most definitive rating methods but the problem is that each persons air purifier needs are different. Here are several examples of why there can be no “best rated air purifier”:

Small Room? Most best rated air purifier s are the larger models.

Mold Problem? HEPA air purifiers are ineffective for mold, yet the best rating air purifier on the market is a HEPA air purifier.

Asthma? You would be ill advised to buy an Ozone air purifier as it can irritate sensitive lungs and trigger asthma.

How About Consumer Reports ?

While you might review the Consumer Reports Magazine best rating air purifier list (from a few years ago) for information “best” does not equal “best for you”. In fact one of their top rated suggestions – the Friedrich Air Purifier – is a huge, loud machine which is less than effective at dust and pollen being an “electrostatic ” machine. (See my review on the Friedrich).

Particle Tests

The value in particle tests is they reveal which air purifiers do an effective job at removing dust, pollen, and some bacteria. The particle tests of the major brands on this site (via the left menu) show how well each does for particle removal.

Bacteria Tests

A bacteria test can be a way to determine the effectiveness of an air purifier in getting rid of bacteria, germs, mold, bacteria and in some tests viruses. The primary methods to accomplish this through an air purifier is with Ultraviolet light, Tio2, or with Ozone.

Most air purifier are not tested for this, and while germs, bacteria and viruses may not be your primary concern it can be a consideration. If you have allergies and asthma, for example, dust and pollen would be a first concern. However viruses and germs can trigger asthma and allergies as well, and weaken an already compromised immune system.

Decibel Tests

The primary reason for looking at volume tests (volume is tested in decibel) is to determine:

Will the air purifier be quiet enough that it doesn’t disturb my sleep?

Will I notice this air purifier on while I am watching TV or doing work?

For sleep anything under 20-25 decibels is considered quiet

A Better Rating Method

A better method to determine the best air purifier for you is to create your own rating system based on “your needs”. First determine which technologies you need, then how much square footage you want to cover, and compare features using the comparison chart on this site, and then watch view reviews to narrow your search. Otherwise you are going by someone else’s rating as to which one they feel is best, but not necessarily the one that fits your need.

Overview

The realization that my Air Purifier was a poor financial purchase didn’t happen until 7 months later when I went to buy a replacement filter. This 220.00 machine was now asking me to spend another 120 to replace the filter. The filter was gray and clearly dirty from the auto pollution, pollen and dust in my home air, so I was clearly happy with the results, just not with the financial bath I was about to take.

The HEPA filter itself is a cloth-based filter which captures and permanently holds particles. Most can collect molecules down to 99.97 percent. It is recommended most by Allergists because nothing else does as good a job. Electrostatic and ionic plate air purifiers (like Oreck) are not anywhere close to doing a good job on dust and pollen. They simply do not collect particles as well.

Why so Expensive?

While HEPA filters are very inexpensive to produce manufacturers know they own you: If you own the air purifier then you’re basically stuck buying the replacement filter at the price the company sets for it. Most filters are now made in China.

In Japan consumers are smarter – they look for additional filters included with any air purifier purchase. Because most Americans don’t think about “down the road’ costs the air purifier makers can charge whatever they want. They often make more money on filters over 2 years than they do on the original air purifier sale itself. The same realization holds true for Auto Makers and inkjet Printer manufacturers: The real money happens in the backend.

HYPE

There are variations in sizes and shapes but none of it makes much difference in effectiveness. The difference is that bigger one will last longer and cover a larger room (if the fan is also bigger). Marketers will use the following terms to try to make theirs “sound” or “appear” different:

“True HEPA” – A term used to imply that some brands are not the real thing. If it says HEPA (and not any variation) then it is. The exception is terms like “hepa-like” or “Washable” filters. These are less-effective than the “real thing”.

“Hyper” – Different companies often try to make their filter sound better or more unique. Some have bacterial agents to kill germs and viruses. However this just kills the viruses and germs on the filter itself, not in the room.

“Sealed” – Marketers also use the term “sealed” to infer that some machines leak air out the sides of the filter making it less effective. Having reviewed, particle – tested, and owned hundreds of air purifiers (over 40 years worth) I have never seen this happen in any High Efficiency Particulate Air Purifier on the market.

Conclusion

Being just one the 10 types of air purification technologies, it is still best for allergies and the first choice I suggest in buying an air purifier.

Particle tests and comparison charts on this website will show you different models and the most popular filters inside each machine. To compare filter prices see the comparison chart via the link below.

THE 5 AIR FILTER HOME PURIFIER MISTAKES MOST PEOPLE MAKE…

In my 30 years in the industry I’ve tried to help people avoid these 5 mistakes:

#1 – Purchasing an air purifier that fails to cover the proper square footage

#2 – Getting a good buy on an air purifier only to find the replacement filters are overpriced 6-9 months later (very common)

#3 – Choosing the wrong type of purifier for the job (EX: purchasing an electrostatic purifier, like the Oreck, for allergies only to find that without HEPA it works poorly on dust and pollen)

#4 – Having an air purifier break down, only to find a very limited or short term warranty

#5 – Purchasing a loud air purifier which keeps you awake at night

HOW TO AVOID THESE AIR FILTER HOME PURIFIER MISTAKES …

Take these 4 steps and you’ll stay on track:

STEP #1: Review the 10 types of purifier to determine which fits your needs (WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW or text below)

STEP #2: Look at the Comparison Chart (link at bottom or via the right menu) to match type, square footage, and problem area.

STEP #3: determine the right square footage square footage, and problem area.

STEP #4: Watch the video reviews, spec sheets, particle tests, etc. from the models that fit your criteria on this site.

You’ll discover a complete review on pretty much every brand name Air Filter Home Purifier on the market. The left menu lists the top brands, and the “more” tab offers a complete list of all 85 air purifiers reviewed.

STEP #1 & 2 – 10 Technologies & SQ Ft.

There are 10 primary Purifier technologies available. The video below covers all 10, what they help, and square footage.

To Review:

#1 HEPA – For Particles including dust and pollen

#2 UV light – To Kill germs, viruses, and bacteria

#3 Active Carbon – For Gases: smoke, chemical fumes, and odors

#4 PreFilters – For large particles: Pet Hair, hair and Dust

#5 Tio2 – Improves UV effect making it much more effective

#6 Ozone – Great for Gases: Smoke, odor, mold (But can hurt lungs)

#7 Negative Ions – Can remove some smoke and pollution but more important has a positive effect on the physical body (better sleep, breathing, and more energy)

#8 Electrostatic Plates – pollution (soot), smoke, odor

#9 Water – Can gather dirt, hair and dust.

#10 Ionizers – Collects pollution and will kill some odor and smoke.

Keep a list of the technologies you want as you look at the comparison chart (Step #3) to find models matching your needs.

STEP 3-4

STEP #3 Now that you know which technologies you want, and have your square footage calculated you can continue to the comparison chart via the left or right menu.

STEP #4 The left menu lists major brands. Each page offers specs, video and written reviews, and in many cases particle tests as well. For additional questions please send me an email via the “ask a question” link at the top of the page.

Overview

Before you choose a home air purifier system make sure you understand the ten technologies, and how they match (or fail to match) your homes needs. That’s where I find most people end up wasting money. One example is a friend who purchased an “electrostatic” air purifier from a TV infomercial because he wanted to reduce his allergies. Unfortunately electrostatic does not work great on dust and pollen, despite the TV claims.

I am going to suggest watching the video below which educates you to:

1) The 10 air purifier technologies explained

2) Square footage measurements and square footage issues.

After gathering that info then reading our comparison chart (see the left menu for it) and watching the video reviews and specs on each model will help you choose the best air purifier system for your needs.

Already understand the technology? You can find video reviews and specs on almost every home air purifier system via the left menu. We have tested and reviewed over 200 models to date.

Top Air Purifier System Mistakes

When it comes to air purifier systems many consumers make these mistakes:

1 – Wrong technology. EX: The Oreck Air Purifier can handle smoke and odor in a small room (8 x 10) but works poorly on dust and pollen because it lacks a HEPA filter. HEPA, a cloth-like filter, is what Allergists recommend most.

2- They overpay. Air Purifiers are very profitable items, and infomercial models are often seven times cost.

3 – Too small. Without calculating the proper square footage you will likely choose an air purifier that is too small for the area you are trying to cover.

4 – Replacement filter costs. Most air purifier companies charge too much for HEPA filters and UV bulbs. Every 6-9 months on average you will have to replace these filters. Many air purifier systems can actually cost you more in filters over a year or two that the price of the purifier itself. The comparison chart on this site reveals the different replacement filter prices.

Conclusion

I hope I encouraged you to become an informed consumer and you have a better idea of what technologies match your needs. There are so many air purifiers out there it is easy to become confused and overwhelmed.

If you have a question about a particular model or a specific problem please send it to me using the form below…p>

Breathe well

Mark

Have A Question?

We’ll try and respond within 24-48 hours.

I have owned several air purifier ionizers since 1967. Now if you don’t know the difference between an ionizer, an ozone machine, and/or the 8 other types of air purification I suggest you watch the video below for an explanation.

I original bought several ionizers for help with asthma and allergies. Unfortunately they actually brought on an asthma attack. I didn’t know why but years later the Sharper Image “ionic Breeze” model was removed from the airwaves for the reason that caused my attack.

Air Purifier Ionizers Can Be Dangerous

It’s ironic that a machine purchased to clean the air for better health can actually harm you, but it’s true. The danger is not in the ionization itself but in a common by product: The washable “plates” in many of these air purifier ionizers creates ozone. While ozone can clear smoke and odor too much ozone can irritate or damage lungs and airways.

This fact has also created a lot of confusion amongst consumers who don’t know the difference between ions, ionizers, negative ionizers, and ozone air purifiers. in fact the term “ionizer” was made so popular by the ionic breeze model that many people think ionizer is synonymous with “air purifier’.

Safe Ionizers

While the most popular washable plate models do create ozone all ionizers do not produce Ozone. There are exceptions – Ionizers that use very small plates, or better yet grids (which look more like cheese graters than cookie plates) tend to produce little or no ozone.

If, after this review, an ionizer still fits your needs, you’ll have to do some research. If you have a small room to clean a small ionizer might work for you, and might be safe from ozone. Check with the manufacture, or reviews on this website to find out.

How Do Ionizers Work?

An Ionizer cleans the air as it passes through the unit. Using charged plates (electricity that is both + and -) it attracts charged molecules like a magnet. The Oreck (with it’s washable Truman cells) and the Sharper Image Ionic Breeze (with it’s many plates) are the most well known air purifier ionizers.

The flat “plates” have a tendency to create ozone because of the positive electrical charge across these plates. So while being inexpensive to manufacture, purchase, and maintain the ionic or ionizer type of air purifiers have had a big safety problem. But there are other downsides as well.

Ionizers Won’t Help Most Allergies

Despite infomercial claims air purifier ionizers are pretty ineffective for pollen or dust allergies. Because dust and pollen have little to no electric charge the plates are pretty useless. However if the ionizer also includes a pre-filter (which is like a screen door that the air goes through before the plates) it will hold some of the dust pollen and pet hair. But even a prefilter is not a very effective means of removing allergens.

Ionizers will help remove smoke and odor, and if this is your only allergy it might work for you. For allergies to dust or pollen you really need a hepa filter.

Conclusion

If you have a problem with smoke, pollution or odor any ionizers on the market will probably work for you in small rooms. I wouldn’t pay very much for an ionizer, and I’d watch out for ozone.

If you have dust or pollen allergies then I’d look at HEPA first.