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Air purifier buying guide: size, filters and noise
Air purifiers can reduce some airborne particles, but performance depends on the room, airflow and the pollutants you want to address.
Match the purifier to the room
Look for independently reported clean air delivery rate (CADR) for particles and compare it with room size. A purifier undersized for the space may need to run loudly to be useful.
Know what the filter does
Particle filters capture airborne particles; activated carbon may help with some gases and odors, depending on the amount and type of carbon. No single filter solves every indoor air issue.
Consider noise at useful speeds
A very quiet sleep setting may move much less air. Compare sound levels and CADR at the speeds you expect to use.
Include replacement filter cost
Check the manufacturer’s filter price, recommended replacement interval and availability. Operating costs add up over time.
Avoid exaggerated claims
Air cleaners are not substitutes for fixing moisture, combustion, ventilation or other pollution sources. Be cautious about ozone-generating devices and unsupported health promises.
Editorial note: This is an informational buying guide based on general product-selection criteria, not a hands-on product test. No affiliate products or paid placements are included in this article at publication.