Question:
Has anyone used any of those under $200 portable HEPA air filters
made by companies like Honeywell, Sears, Duramark, Sunbeam, and others?
I'd like to buy one for our apartment since my wife suffers from
airborne allergen problems. Accounts of firsthand use would be
appreciated. Since the Honeywells are often used in hospitals, I would
most like to hear about them.
Also, I am confused by the vast differences in the cost of the HEPA
replacement filters. Can anyone account for this?
Answer:
HEPA filters work great, given that they are sized properly, changed
at proper intervals, and the introduction of outside air into the
conditioned space is controlled. Consider as well, that you will need
to bring fresh outside air into the space to control CO2
buildup/oxygen depletion. If your central A/C or furnace doesn't have
a provision for this, you will need to open windows periodically,
which will drive the indoor pollen count up for at least an air change
or two. I use a Honeywell HEPA filter to keep cat dander, fur, dust,
etc. out of my computer. I also use an electrostatic filter in the
air conditioner. I'm considering a negative ion generator, just
because I like clean air so much. All of these devices, in addition
to my A/C, make for a higher power bill during the summer. You may
want to consider just filtering your bedroom, or using an
electrostatic filter in your A/C.
