Key Takeaways
| Key Considerations | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Cost Range | $400 – $4,000 for a whole-house air cleaning system, $500 – $1,800 for a portable home air purifier |
| Filter Types | Include flat filter, electronic filter, extended media filter, HEPA filtration system, UV light filter, and UV light hybrid system |
| Average Cost To Install | $1,300 nationally, ranging from $100 to $5,000 depending on system and installation complexity |
| Costs By Type | Varies significantly by type, from as low as $10 to as high as $4,000 |
Whole-House Air Cleaning System Cost
Installing a whole-house air purifier can range from $400 to $4,000. This range accounts for various factors including the type of purifier, brand, and installation complexity.
Portable Home Air Purifier Cost
For those not seeking to install a whole-house system, portable home air purifiers are a viable alternative. These typically cost between $500 and $1,800.
Whole-House Air Purifier Cost
| Filter Type | Installed Cost |
|---|---|
| Flat Filter | $10 – $70 |
| Electronic Filter | $500 – $2,000 |
| Extended Media Filter | $400 – $800 |
| HEPA Filtration System | $1,000 – $4,000 |
| UV Light Filter | $400 – $800 |
| UV Light Hybrid System | $1,200 – $3,000 |
| Portable Home Air Purifier | $500 – $1,800 |
Whole-house air purifiers vary widely in cost based on the type of filter used. Basic flat filters are the least expensive, while high-efficiency HEPA filtration systems and UV light hybrid systems are at the high end.
Average Cost To Install A Central Air Purification System
| Cost | |
|---|---|
| National Average Cost | $1,300 |
| Minimum Cost | $100 |
| Maximum Cost | $5,000 |
| Average Cost Range | $400 to $4,000 |
The national average cost to install a central air purification system is approximately $1,300. The actual cost can vary significantly, ranging from as low as $100 to as high as $5,000.
Whole-House Air Filtration System Costs By Type
| Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Flat Filter | $10 – $70 |
| Electronic Filter | $300 – $1,000 |
| Extended Media Filter | $100 – $300 |
| HEPA Filtration System | $600 – $3,000 |
| UV Light Filter | $200 – $400 |
| UV Light Hybrid System | $800 – $1,800 |
| Portable Home Air Purifier | $500 – $1,800 |
Different filtration systems come with varying costs. Here, we break it down further:
Flat Filter Cost
Flat filters are the most budget-friendly option, typically costing between $10 and $70. They are basic filters that can trap large particles like dust and pet hair.
HEPA Filter Cost
HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filtration systems are highly effective at removing small particles but come at a higher cost, generally ranging between $1,000 and $4,000 installed.
Extended Media Filter Prices
Extended media filters offer a middle-ground solution, priced between $400 and $800. These filters provide better filtration than flat filters but are not as effective as HEPA filters.
Electronic / Electrostatic Precipitators Filter Cost
Electronic filters use an electrostatic charge to capture particles and can cost from $500 to $2,000. These are more efficient than flat filters and require periodic cleaning.
Ultraviolet (UV) Light Filter Cost
Ultraviolet light filters range from $400 to $800 and are particularly effective at killing bacteria and viruses.
UV Light Hybrid Filter System
UV light hybrid systems combine the benefits of ultraviolet light and other filtration methods. They cost between $1,200 and $3,000.
Whole-House HVAC Air Purifier Cost By Brand
| Brand | Price Range* |
|---|---|
| Aprilaire | $600 – $1,000 |
| Carrier Infinity Air | $1,000 – $1,100 |
| Field Controls | $300 – $800 |
| Generalaire | $300 – $700 |
| Honeywell | $500 – $800 |
| Lennox PureAir | $600 – $1,000 |
| Patriot PCO | $1,000 – $1,100 |
| Reme Halo | $400 – $500 |
| Respicaire Oxy 4 | $700 – $1,200 |
| Trane Cleaneffects | $800 – $900 |
Factors Influencing Costs
- Type of Filter: Determines the primary cost range.
- Installation Complexity: More complex installations will drive up costs.
- Brand and Model: Premium brands tend to be more expensive.
- Size of Home: Larger homes may require higher capacity units.
Whole-House Air Purifier FAQs
How Do House Air Filters Work?
House air filters work by trapping airborne particles and contaminants as air passes through the filter media. The effectiveness varies based on the filter type and MERV rating.
Is A Whole-Home Air Purifier Worth It?
Whole-home air purifiers can significantly improve indoor air quality, especially for homes with allergy sufferers, pets, or smokers. They provide comprehensive filtration compared to portable units.
What Is The Best Whole-Home Air Purifier?
The best air purifier depends on specific needs such as budget, type of contaminants, and desired efficiency. Popular brands include Aprilaire, Honeywell, and Carrier Infinity Air.
Can You Install A Whole-House Air Cleaner System Without An HVAC System?
Whole-house air purifiers are typically integrated with existing HVAC systems, but there are standalone options available. These options can be more costly and require separate ductwork.
What MERV Rating Should I Use For My Home Air Filter?
| MERV Rating | Description | Filtering Efficiency and Particle Size | Impact on HVAC Airflow |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 – 4 | Basic filter trapping pollen, carpet fibers, and dust mites | < 20% (3 – 10 micron) | Little or no impact |
| 5 – 8 | Best for most homes; blocks common pollutants | 50% – 85% (3 – 10 micron) | Slight restriction |
| 9 – 12 | Removes fine dust, pet dander, smog, mold spores ; good for allergy sufferers | 85% – 90% (3 – 10 micron), 50% – 89% (1 – 3 micron) | Some noticeable restriction |
| 13 – 16 | Filters smallest particles including bacteria, viruses, smoke; used in commercial settings | 90% + (1 – 10 micron), 75% – 95% (0.3 – 1 micron) | Greatest restriction |
Choosing the right MERV rating is crucial for balancing filtration efficiency and system performance. Higher ratings filter better but may restrict airflow more.
Finding And Hiring An Air Purifier Installer
Questions To Ask
- What types of air purifiers do you recommend for my home?
- How experienced are you in installing air purifiers?
- Can you provide itemized estimates?
- Are there any warranties or guarantees?
- What maintenance will be required for the system?
By considering these factors and understanding the costs involved, you can make an informed decision about installing a whole-house air purifier. It’s essential to select a system that fits your needs and budget while improving indoor air quality.
