The Air Purifier Buyer's Guide

The average person spends up to 90 percent of their lives indoors. That’s 90 percent of our lives spent breathing air the Environmental Protection Agency warns can be up to five times more polluted than the air outdoors. It’s no wonder so many people suffer from allergies, sinus headaches, asthma, and difficulty sleeping. Most of these ailments can be attributed to poor indoor air quality.

An air purifier can significantly improve the quality of the indoor air you breathe, often giving relief to allergy and asthma symptoms. You may even feel a difference in as little as 48 hours.

Choosing an Air Purifier

There are various different technologies that are often used to purify the air. Some are more effective and efficient than others. Here is a quick rundown of available air purifier technology.

HEPA Air Purifier - First developed for use on World War II’s Manhattan Project, High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) air purifiers have the most effective air filtration technology on the market. Air purifiers that use HEPA filtration can effectively remove up to 99 percent of allergens, pollutants, and other airborne particles from the air. Highly Recommended.

Electrostatic Air Purifier- There is no filter in an electrostatic air purifier. Instead, there is an internal an electrically charged internal filtration system which uses static electricity to attract charged particles. The internal filtration in these types of air purifiers must be cleaned regularly and can lose effectiveness over time. Not Recommended.

Ionic Ozone Air Purifier- In this type of air purifier, an ionizer charges particles making it easier for filters and cleaners to trap them. It is an effective form of filtration, especially when combined with a HEPA filter. However, it can produce harmful levels of dangerous ozone. Not Recommended.

What to Look for in an Air Purifier

Warranty- Look for a comprehensive warranty. Even though an air purifier pays for itself with its health and comfort benefits, it can be an expensive investment. Generally speaking, the shorter the warranty, the less time your air purifier is likely to last.  Austin air purifiers carry five-year warranties and filters (including replacements) carry a five-year pro-rated warranty.

Customer Service - Good customer service is a rarity these days. Look for an air purifier company with a good customer service history. When possible, read through customer reviews and choose a company that values direct customer relationships.

Value and Price - Expect to make a significant investment in a quality air purifier. Many customers end up going through several cheaper models before they realize that quality isn’t cheap. It is usually true you get what you pay for.

Service and Filter Availability - Make sure you buy an air purifier with a lasting brand. You want the company to still be around when you need replacement filters, repairs, or customer service assistance.  Austin Air has been in business for over 35 years!

Performance - When making the investment of purchasing an air purifier, you want to make sure your investment delivers a valuable return. Choose an air purifier proven to be effective. If the company gives you the opportunity to test drive the purifier in your home without risk, make sure you give it a try!  Austin Air offers 30-day no risk, money back trials on our air purifiers (less shipping costs).