An air purifier on a shelf beside a wrapped replacement filter

The cost of owning an air purifier

Filters, electricity, and upkeep, without prices.

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What the price tag leaves out

An air purifier keeps costing after you buy it. It uses electricity when it runs, and its filters need replacing.

Filters

EPA says all filters need regular replacement, and that a dirty, overloaded filter will not work well. The maker's manual says which filter fits and how often to change it.

Two filters, two schedules

EPA says many air cleaners contain one filter for particles and another for gases. Its technical summary says thin filters impregnated with sorbents can have a short service life and must be replaced frequently.

Electricity

ENERGY STAR says a standard room air cleaner, operating continuously, uses approximately 394 kWh per year in electricity, more than some new refrigerators use. Our energy use guide covers the ENERGY STAR label.

How long does an air purifier last?

We have no source for a lifespan in years, so we do not give one. Follow the maker's manual for care, and keep it with the unit.

During smoke events

EPA says that during periods of heavy smoke, you should keep extra filters on hand and plan to replace the filter in your air cleaner more often than the manufacturer recommends.

Sources: EPA, Guide to Air Cleaners in the Home; EPA, What is a MERV rating?; EPA, Residential Air Cleaners: A Technical Summary, 3rd edition (PDF); ENERGY STAR, Air Cleaners; EPA, Wildfires and Indoor Air Quality (IAQ).

FAQ

Does an air purifier that costs less to buy cost less to own?

We have no source that says so either way. Count filters and electricity, and read the manual.

Where do I find the filter schedule?

In the maker's manual. EPA says all filters require periodic replacement, and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations on maintenance and replacement.

General information only. An air purifier is not a substitute for ventilation, for removing the source of a pollutant, or for medical care. Read and follow the maker's manual. The California Air Resources Board strongly advises against the use of ozone generators in spaces occupied by people or animals. If you have asthma, allergies, or heart or lung disease, talk to your doctor. During wildfire smoke, follow local officials and be ready to evacuate. In an emergency, call 911.

A used filter and a fresh filter side by side on a worktable

Air purifier filter replacement

When to change a filter.

A plain air purifier plugged in beside a wall outlet

Air purifier energy use

Electricity and the label.

Two plain air purifiers of different sizes

What drives air purifier cost

Size, filters, energy, features.

Next: filter Replacement