Choosing The Right Air Purifier: What To Consider Before You Buy
In today's world, where outdoor and indoor air quality is increasingly compromised, owning an air purifier can be a lifesaver. Studies highlight the impact of pollution on our health, linking exposure to respiratory issues, allergies, and general wellbeing. Brands on platforms like Flipkart offer an array of air purifiers catering to various needs. However, finding the right one involves more than just picking the most popular option. It's about knowing which features will work best for your space, your family, and your budget. Here, we explore essential considerations to make the right choice, ensuring cleaner, healthier air in your home.
Choosing The Right Air Purifier: What To Consider Before You Buy; Photo Credit: Pexels
Types Of Air Purifiers: Finding Your Perfect Fit
Different air purifiers use various technologies to filter the air. The most common types include HEPA filters, activated carbon filters, and UV purifiers. Each has unique benefits and limitations, making them suited to different environments.
HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are a popular choice, especially for families with allergies. They are designed to capture at least 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 micrometres, effectively trapping dust, pollen, and pet dander. Activated carbon filters, meanwhile, excel at absorbing odours and gases, making them ideal for kitchens or areas prone to lingering smells. UV purifiers, on the other hand, use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and viruses, though they might be less effective against particulate matter.
Consider your specific needs. If allergies are a concern, HEPA filters may be essential. If odours or chemicals are the problem, an activated carbon filter might be a better fit.
Room Size And Coverage Area
Selecting an air purifier that matches your room's size is crucial. Most air purifiers specify the square footage they are designed to cover, often noted as CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate). CADR ratings indicate how effectively the purifier can clean air in a specific space. A higher CADR means faster air purification and better performance in larger rooms.
To make an informed choice, measure your room's dimensions. For instance, if your room is around 200 square feet, ensure the purifier's CADR matches or exceeds that coverage. A unit too small for your room won't effectively clean the air, while an oversized unit could consume unnecessary energy. Some air purifiers also offer automatic adjustments to match the air quality levels and room size, which can be useful if your space varies in use.
Filter Replacement And Maintenance Costs
While the initial cost of an air purifier is important, the long-term expense of filter replacement is often overlooked. Most purifiers use filters that require periodic replacement—typically every six months to a year—depending on usage and air quality. Replacement costs can vary significantly based on the type of filter.
For instance, HEPA and activated carbon filters generally need replacing more frequently than other filters, and their cost can add up over time. Some models come with washable or reusable filters, which can be more cost-effective, although they may be less effective than replaceable ones. Always check the maintenance requirements and factor in the cost of replacement filters when budgeting for an air purifier.
Noise Levels: A Consideration For Comfort
Air purifiers can operate at varying noise levels, which may affect your comfort, especially if you plan to place the purifier in a bedroom or living room. Noise levels are typically measured in decibels (dB), with quieter models operating around 30 dB (equivalent to a whisper) and more powerful ones reaching up to 70 dB.
Consider models that offer a “sleep” or “quiet” mode, designed to lower operational noise during nighttime use. This feature can be particularly beneficial if you or family members are sensitive to noise. Some advanced models adjust their noise output according to the air quality, becoming quieter as the air improves. Review noise specifications carefully if you plan to run the purifier continuously, especially in shared spaces where noise might be a concern.
Energy Efficiency: Balancing Performance And Cost
Choosing The Right Air Purifier: What To Consider Before You Buy; Photo Credit: Pixabay
Running an air purifier continuously can impact your energy bill, so energy efficiency is an important consideration. Many air purifiers are now Energy Star-rated, indicating they meet energy efficiency guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency. Energy-efficient models save on electricity costs while providing consistent performance, making them a better choice for continuous use.
To assess energy efficiency, look for wattage information. Purifiers with higher wattage consume more electricity. Some purifiers come with sensors to monitor air quality and adjust energy use accordingly, running on high power only when necessary. Such smart technology may cost more upfront but can save energy in the long run. Comparing energy costs for similar models can help you select a purifier that won't add significantly to your monthly expenses.
Additional Features: Added Convenience Or Unnecessary Extras?
Many air purifiers today come with extra features, from smart connectivity to air quality indicators. While these can enhance convenience, consider whether you truly need them. For instance, app-controlled purifiers allow you to manage settings remotely, which might be helpful for tech-savvy users or if you want to monitor air quality when away from home.
Other common features include timers, which let you set purification cycles, and air quality sensors that provide real-time data on your indoor air quality. Some models even have LED displays with colour-coded indicators for air purity levels. However, if you're looking for a basic purifier to clean the air, these features might be excessive. When weighing these extras, focus on your primary needs and whether the additional features justify the price.
1. PHILIPS AC3059/65 Portable Room Air Purifier
Discount: 29% | Price: ₹25,495 | M.R.P.: ₹35,995 | Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
The PHILIPS AC3059/65 model features smart sensing technology, automatically purifying indoor air and removing particles, gases, and allergens. Ideal for medium-sized rooms up to 500 sq. ft., this purifier's HEPA filter captures fine particles as small as 0.003 microns. Its colour-coded air quality indicator and multiple modes (Auto, Sleep, Gentle, Turbo) offer convenience and customization. It also includes a smart filter status indicator for effortless maintenance. A year-long warranty and easy payment options make it a reliable choice for healthier indoor air.
2. EUREKA FORBES AP 150 Portable Room Air Purifier
Discount: 44% | Price: ₹4,999 | M.R.P.: ₹9,000 | Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
Compact yet powerful, the Eureka Forbes AP 150 is well-suited for small rooms (up to 200 sq. ft.) with its 3-stage HEPA and Surround 360° Air Technology. This purifier removes pollutants with activated carbon, HEPA, and pre-filter stages, ensuring a cleaner and more breathable indoor environment. With three adjustable speed settings, this model provides efficient filtration, capturing dust and allergens at a 150 cu.m/hr airflow rate.
3. LEPL Flash LAP1002 Room Air Purifier
Discount: 64% off | Price: ₹4,995 | M.R.P.: ₹13,999 | Rating: 3.7 out of 5 stars
Combining advanced technology with affordability, the LEPL Flash LAP1002 is designed for spaces up to 260 sq. ft. It uses a HEPA H13 filter, activated carbon, and UV sterilisation to target and remove allergens, bacteria, and odours. Its smart features include WiFi connectivity, auto and sleep modes, and an air quality indicator, allowing convenient operation and monitoring. This model is perfect for those seeking thorough purification and remote control capabilities.
4. KENT Alps+ UV Room Air Purifier
Discount: 49% | Price: ₹15,000 | M.R.P.: ₹29,950 | Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
This high-performance purifier is equipped with a 4-stage purification system, including HEPA, carbon filter, and UV light, making it perfect for spaces up to 450 sq. ft. Its CADR of 400 m³/hr quickly cleans air, and the real-time air quality monitor provides visual feedback on indoor air quality. Compact and easy to place in various rooms, the KENT Alps+ also features touch sensor controls and timer settings, ideal for those needing a purifier with powerful performance and intuitive operation.
5. EUREKA FORBES AP 355 Portable Room Air Purifier
Discount: 38% | Price: ₹11,699 | M.R.P.: ₹19,000 | Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Designed for medium-sized rooms up to 480 sq. ft., the AP 355 model from Eureka Forbes offers a 4-stage filtration system and a 355 cu.m/hr CADR. With activated carbon, HEPA, plasma filtration, and pre-filters, this purifier is highly effective against allergens, bacteria, and unwanted odours. Its compact design, high-speed purification, and easy portability make it a good choice for rooms needing enhanced air quality at an efficient pace.
6. BePURE B1 Room Air Purifier
Discount: 72% | Price: ₹4,199 | M.R.P.: ₹14,999 | Rating: 3.8 out of 5 stars
The BePURE B1 is a compact air purifier with 4-stage HEPA filtration, including a pre-filter, HEPA filter, carbon filter, and ioniser, suitable for areas up to 500 sq. ft. Operable via remote control, this purifier efficiently reduces airborne allergens, dust, and odours, improving overall air quality. Its compact, stylish design blends easily into any setting, and it's available with easy payment options, providing a cost-effective solution for fresher indoor air.
7. PHILIPS AC4372/10 Portable Room Air Purifier
Discount: 9% | Price: ₹44,999 | M.R.P.: ₹49,995 | Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Ideal for large rooms (up to 753 sq. ft.), the Philips AC4372/10 offers a comprehensive purification system with HEPA and activated carbon filters. Equipped with a Healthy Air Protect Alert and a 6-speed fan, it filters pollutants, allergens, and gases effectively. With fully automatic controls and real-time air quality indicators, this purifier keeps indoor air safe with minimal effort. It's an excellent choice for those needing top-tier air purification in larger spaces.
8. Midea MAPTT253EBN Portable Room Air Purifier
Discount: 23% | Price: ₹9,990 | M.R.P.: ₹12,990
Known for reliable performance, the Midea MAPTT253EBN is built for small to medium rooms up to 253 sq. ft. Its TriShield technology filters air in three stages, capturing pollutants and allergens for healthier air. With intelligent sensors, a timer, and automatic mode, this model delivers efficient operation and is ideal for those seeking quiet, energy-efficient air purification for smaller spaces.
Choosing the right air purifier can significantly improve your indoor air quality, contributing to a healthier home environment. Each of these models offers unique benefits, so whether you're targeting allergens, odours, or overall air purity, there's a suitable option in this selection. Whether you're purchasing through Flipkart or another retailer, understanding these factors—type, room size, maintenance, noise level, energy efficiency, and additional features—will help ensure you select a purifier that meets your needs without unnecessary expense. Clean air is essential, and with the right purifier, you can breathe easier knowing your home's air quality is protected. Shop now on Flipkart.
Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purpose only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories and brands listed in this article.