Cheap Air Purifier Advice--6 Factors That Can Make An Air Cleaner Expensive

Shopping to get the most for your money when purchasing an air purifier goes without saying . But although a low price can seem like a good deal, upon closer examination it can actually be quite a bit more expensive. Don't be fooled. Here are 6 factors to look at too make sure that you don't pay too much for a cheap air purifier.

1. Cost of the Purifier--A price that pales in comparison to other products on the market can be very appealing to a budget that is already stretched tight. But before you take the plunge; be sure to look for like features in the purifiers and compare them carefully before purchasing.

Better to know what you're actually getting before it arrives than be disappointed that it doesn't come with all the features that will make it effective for you.

2. Number of Filters--A cleaner that has the most filters will clean you air best. Multiple filters will also last longer. Having to constantly replace the filter means down time when your cleaner is not actively filtering pollutants, and it adds regular maintenance costs that will go on for as long as you choose to keep your filter operating.

3. Cost of Replacement Filters--Be sure to find out where and how easily replacement filters can be purchased and replaced. This will be a huge factor in how much you will really pay over time if you keep the purifier, and will also give you some idea of how much time it will cost you to keep it running as it should.

4. Availability of Replacement Filters--Before you purchase, be sure to ask about where you can purchase replacement filters. Check to verify that filters can be purchased without a hassle, and that you can receive them in a timely manner.

Having to wait for filters that are frequently back-ordered can defeat the purpose of having an air cleaner--continuous filtration. If you are forced to wait 2 weeks each time you need a replacement, you are not getting the most bang for your buck from your cleaner.

5. Frequency of Filter Changes--Be sure you know how often the filters need to be replaced. If they need to be replaced every 3, or 6 months add the replacement costs onto the total cost of the unit, project how long the warranty says it will last.

For instance, if the initial cost was $150, and the manufacturer recommends changes every 3 months and the filters cost $49. Then the cost for the first year is really $150 plus $147 which is $297. And for each year afterward you will pay $147. For example, lets consider a filter that has a 3 year warranty. Now the total cost of the machine has risen from the initial $150 to $591. Not as cheap as it originally seemed.

6. Warranty--A product with a limited warranty may cost less initially, but if it doesn't work and there is a limited warranty on time and conditions that the manufacturer agrees to repair or replace, you may be forced to buy another air purifier, adding to the cost of your initial purchase.