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Air Purifiers

Shopping and Usage Tips

Antimicrobial Filters

In some systems, filters are treated with antimicrobials. Since these chemicals are often undisclosed by the manufacturer, it's best to replace antimicrobial-treated filters with untreated ones.

Energy Efficiency

Portable air purifiers set on low have been found to clean just as well as they do when set on high. Choosing the low setting helps to save on your energy bill.

Clean reusable filters, or replace disposable ones, as directed by the manufacture to ensure optimal performance.

Air Purifiers to Avoid: Ozone Generators

Virtually all electronic appliances emit very low levels of ozone as a by-product, but some purifiers emit large amounts of ozone intentionally as a way of cleaning the air. Some air purifiers have been found to elevate indoor ozone to levels to 20 times the federal health limit of 50 ppb. California recently banned the use of ozone generators, and the EPA states that "At concentrations that do not exceed public health standards, ozone is generally ineffective in controlling indoor air pollution."

The Best Air Purifier: Proper Home Maintenance

In addition to their steep purchase price ($200-500 on average), air purifiers can raise energy bills as much as $200 for certain models, although the best models average close to $60. Proper cleaning and maintenance are free and often more effective.

-Eliminate smoking indoors.

-Keep your house ventilated by opening windows (when outdoor air quality is acceptable) and using ceiling or box fans.

-Damp-wipe surfaces and vacuum regularly (optimally with a HEPA filter-equipped vacuum).

-For those with asthma or allergies, carpets--which trap dust, pesticides and other pollutants--may need to be removed entirely and replaced with washable area rugs.

-Wash bedding and curtains in hot water to kill dust mites.

-Use a dehumidifier if mold is a problem (most air purifiers don't reduce humidity).

-Switch to eco-friendly cleaners, less-toxic pesticides and other low-VOC paints and sealants to reduce exposure to formaldehyde and other chemical indoor-air contaminants.

-If you live in an apartment, cut down on secondhand smoke or other odors from neighbors by caulking baseboard cracks, using clear silicone sealant on floorboard cracks, and duct-taping holes around radiators.

-Keep up the maintenance on appliances that run off of natural gas, such as water heaters, gas stoves and gas fireplaces, to decrease exposure to carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides.

Even if you purchase an air purifier, continue to practice proper source control and ventilation; air purifiers don't entirely eliminate gases or household chemicals.