Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Rabbit Air MinusA2 (SPA-700A covers 700 sq. ft.) Ultra-Quiet Air Purifier - Sylish, Efficient and Energy Star® Certified, White


Product Description

Rabbit Air provides solutions for families concerned about their health and quality of life. A Los Angeles based company that plays a revolutionary role in the air purification industry, Rabbit Air manufactures environmentally friendly products with design in mind. Dedicated to designing state-of-the-art products that are highly effective, energy efficient and affordable, Rabbit Air purifiers are all based on HEPA filtration technology and do not produce ozone.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #31870 in Health and Beauty
* Brand: Rabbit Air
* Model: SPA-700A
* Dimensions: 20.00" h x 7.00" w x 21.40" l, 19.40 pounds

Features

* Amazon A-to-Z Purchase Protection & RabbitAir® No-Hassle Return Policy - Super Fast Shipping
* Customized filter option of your choice. Choose the best one for you and your family
* Zero Ozone Emmissions
* 24/7 Technical Support
* 5 Year Warranty (Parts and Labor)


Customer Reviews

Great product. Read for comparison against 582A5
I wanted to post this review mainly because there is no real comparison between Rabbit Air MinusA2 (covers 700 sq. ft.) Ultra-Quiet Air Purifier - 6 Stage Filtration! - built in Mood Light and the Rabbit Air BioGP (model 582A - covers 780 sq. ft.) Ultra-Quiet Air Purifier w/ Germicidal Protection- Low Maintenance - Washable Filters!, Pearl White out there. This is to give you an idea if you're making a choice between the two. [...]

I first purchased the 582A but returned it after a few months of usage due to some minor defect for an exchange with MinusA2 (RabbitAir support was extremely helpful). As a result I have experience with both of these units. The main reason I purchased an Air Purifier was dust elimination and for that particular purpose in mind both these products exceeded my expectations.

In the order of importance for me, these are the differences:
- As I am posting this review MinusA2 is $[...] more expensive than 582A. So why should you even consider MinusA2? Read on...

- Filtering:
(a) MinusA2 has 2 more levels of filtering. The Medium Filter (which filters medium sized particles and increases the efficiency/lifespan of the main HEPA filter) and a Customized Filter of your choice.
(b) On the other hand although RabbitAir boasts about the benefits of BioGP HEPA filters over the regular HEPA filters on their website, it's not clear if the MinusA2 HEPA filter is also BioGP (yet it's made by 3M and looks high quality). The price of the 582A's HEPA filter is more expensive. I am not sure if this is due to the surface area or because 582A's filter is really more effective.

- Noise level: This is where MinusA2 shines due to its more efficient new engine.
(a) I was pleasantly surprised to find out MinusA2 improves quite a bit over already very silent 582A. To compare at different speeds the noise and Clean Air Flow, check the Features tab in RabbitAir's own website for each product.
(b) I am not sure how RabbitAir calculates the sq ft. coverage but I run these units at the highest speed for which noise is acceptable (~ about 30dB in my opinion). Consequently I can run MinusA2 at Medium speed producing 97 Cubic Feet/min of clean air as opposed to 582A's Low speed producing 85 Cubic Feet/min.

- Area of coverage: Although 582A is rated at 780 sq ft. versus 700 sq ft. of MinusA2, if you check the Features tab for each product on RabbitAir's website you'll find out that MinusA2's clean air output is generally higher at the same speed setting as well as its CADR (clean air delivery rate) rating. I imagine RabbitAir's sq ft. calculation is based on the maximum setting in which 582A outputs 208 Cubic Feet/min vs 187 Cubic Feet/min of MinusA2. However I think this is unrealistic and I doubt many of you will choose to use it at the highest setting due to high energy consumption and noise.

- Design and build quality: MinusA2 wins this comparison by far.
(a) I must say though that there's room for improvement for both of these products. For both of them the plastic construction looks a bit cheap although this is more apparent with 582A. I wish their build were metallic.
(b) However MinusA2 is quite handsome overall with its square lines.
(c) It could also be wall mounted.
(d) One more thing I'd like to mention is I really liked the tiny remote of 582A. I think MinusA2's remote is not only less functional but is bulkier for no reason. I also miss 582A's the tiny remote control pocket behind the unit which reduced remote control clutter in the house.
(e) By the way although the mood light of MinusA2 adds to its cool looks, I believe RabbitAir's own claim of the Mood Light "helping normalize blood pressure, pulse, and facilitate deep breathing blah blah" is total nonsense. I think this sounds totally unscientific and if anything has negative influence on my view of RabbitAir as a honest company with high quality products. Also you will find out that you can't change the color of this light as you wish (based on your mood) but the unit sets that itself (based on its own mood).

- Energy consumption: MinusA2 consumes between 8 to 47 Watts whereas 582A consumes between 7 to 67 Watts. I believe the lower consumption of MinusA2 is due to the newer generation Mitsubishi engine employed. Therefore you can expect lower energy usage if you plan to run the unit at anything beyond the Silent setting.

- Sensors:
(a) Note that MinusA2 does not have an odor sensor although 582A has. I think this is quite useful with 582A and I don't understand why RabbitAir chose to drop this from MinusA2.
(b) On the other hand MinusA2 has a light sensor. Certainly it does not help to do a better air purification, but if you're using the Auto mode then the unit goes to the Silent setting automatically a few mins after the lights are dimmed. I think this should've been optional even in the Auto mode but it's a useful feature nevertheless.
(c) The particle sensor of MinusA2 looks more elaborate and I imagine it does a better job.
(d) Furthermore MinusA2 has adjustable sensor sensitivity. This is extremely useful, and the reason I returned 582A was because the sensors of the unit I received was simply too sensitive and was changing from "clean" to "very dirty" for no apparent reason in a split second (during late nights etc when there was no virtual change in room conditions).

Overall I think MinusA2 is a great unit and improves on the already impressive 582A. I thought it's worth the price difference. I already ordered a new one after RabbitAir customer support said they could give me a discount for an additional unit.

Awesome customer support5
I bought this item for my dad as he has severe allergies all throughout the year. I was pondering between this unit and the IQair units, but this one seemed nicer as a gift and also sounded more automated than the IQair. My parent's are not that good with any kind of gadgets, so I wanted to make sure that they'll be able to use it. The unit seems to be working wonders for my dad. Whenever we talk, he thanks me for the gift. He wakes up with clear sinus and does not suffer allergy symptoms when he's in the house.

Also when I bought this unit, it was priced at over $500 and just a few days afterwards, they started their sales. To my surprise, Rabbitair credited back the difference to my credit card without even my asking for it. Awesome customer service and now that I have my own place, I'm thinking of getting one for my self.

amazing air purifier and one of the best5
I had never written a review for any product before.

Tried all types of air purifiers / odor removers, and this has got to be the best system out there. Amazingly quiet while being able to push through and purify high volumes of air, even at the lowest setting, which is absolutely silent. In our apartment, normally we had problems with kitchen air after cooking, especially frying food; with this system, food / grease odor is reduced within 10-20 minutes, and eliminted COMPLETELY in the next hour or so. I could not detect a hint of food odor after 2 hours. Living in the city, we have air problems. Now, interior air is drastically improved along with my persistent sinus issues. I replaced every other air purifiers in my apartment with rabbit air minusA2's. The unit is very easy on the eye and non-obtrusive. And once again, when the unit is on one of the lower settings, it is completely inaudible.

I contacted Rabbit Air support for some billing issues and some technical issues, and was greeted very courteously and professionally. The support staffs were very knowledgeable and helpful. I am absolutely happy with this air purifier and highly recommend to anyone who is seriously looking for ways to improve air quality and odor removal.

pros: silent, very effective at odor removal and air purification, most aesthetically pleasing system out there, one of the thinnest profile out there, and it truely works

cons: a bit pricey, filter replacement cost

Friday, December 25, 2009

Blueair 201 HEPASilent Air Purifier - White


Product Description

Blue Air Hepa Air Cleaner 201 W Hepa Silent Filtration in White - Blue Air 201

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #127007 in Health and Beauty
* Color: White
* Brand: Blueair
* Model: 201
* Dimensions: 25.00 pounds

Features

* Purifies air in rooms up to 200 square feet - The only air purifier in its class with HEPASilent technology!


Customer Reviews

The Blueair is a nice, solid product.5
I purchased this product several months ago as I've suffered most of my adult life w/ allergies. I have my Blueair next to my bed and leave it on almost 24 hrs. a day. The filter is easy to change (approx. every 6 months) & there are multiple speeds so you can control both the flow & the associated noise of the fan. Even on high, the noise is very comfortable; allowing for a good nites sleep. Since I've started using this device, I've noticed a nice decrease in my sinus symptoms (especially during the height of allergy season). The only negative comment that I will make is that there is a blue 'power' light on the front, upper left panel, that is kinda bright and noticeable in a dark room. However, I McGiver'd it by simply putting a bit of electrical tape over it which blocks it out just fine. Even w/ this one point, I would still recommend this product in a heartbeat.

Seems to help4
I bought this in the height of my allergy symptoms. Sleeping with it on has helped me wake up feeling symptom-free almost every morning, and allergies have been much milder since using it. I was suffering from a cat allergy and pollen allergies. I found this unit because it was recommended by an allergy relief website so I gave it a try and it actually seemed to help. It's also very quiet. Even on the loudest mode it isn't overwhelming.

cleaner air4
This is a good product for a smaller sized room.. It is very quiet on the low and middle settings. I find it soothing when I sleep.

Sunday, December 20, 2009

Honeywell HFD-135 Permanent IFD UV Antibacterial Air Purifier


Product Description

Honeywell Permanent IFD UV + Antibacterial Air Purifier. Features Dual Ultraviolet Lamps, HEPA Performance, Permanent IFD Filter, Advanced Electronic Controls, Low Maintenance & Quiet Performance.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #20722 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Brand: Honeywell
* Model: HFD-135
* Released on: 2006-04-01
* Dimensions: 17.00" h x 11.75" w x 14.00" l, 16.55 pounds

Features

* Antibacterial air purification system with permanent IFD UV filter
* Removes airborne particles such as mold spores, dust, pollen, and cat dander
* Electronic controls offer 3 cleaning levels; 1- to 18-hour auto-off timer
* Low maintenance; quiet, efficient performance; no expensive filters to replace
* Measures approximately 14-1/4 by 15-1/2 by 19-1/3 inches


Customer Reviews

so far so good4
With only 90 days of use, can only say 'so far ,so good'.
Pretty much as advertised(with the exception that it is fairly noisey.)
If you have need for ultra-violet germ fighting light(which you can turn off&on),washable ionic filter then this will fit your needs..
Considering its barreled/odd shape & rather large size, placement is a minor issue.Small complaint but assume necessary to design..
Be aware that is does deposit some dust etc.on adjacent walls.
However:Filter washes nicely..
Ease of maintenance.
Now if it gives long term service would say it deserves 5 stars.

I leave it running all day!5
I own the other Honeywell air pufier that looks similar to this unit but it is in white and LOVE it. So, when this upgrade came out, I decided to give it a go...esp because it had UV as well. I leave it running all day and night and it keeps the air feeling pure and clean. It is quiet and smooth. I am now considering buying a 3rd (an addition HFD135) for my family room. Highly recommended!

Big, Loud, but makes a difference4
The difference in the air quality is noticable. I haven't tried to clean it yet, but it looks like it shouldn't be too difficult. One gripe is the blue led's. Would be nice to turn them off but still use the functionality (especially since they are purely for decoration)

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Blueair ECO10 Energy-Star HEPASilent Air Purifier


Product Description

Breakthrough technology. The Blueair ECO10 combines patented HEPASilent¿ filter technology with a superior EC fan motor to deliver markedly higher energy efficiency than conventional air purifiers. Other new features include two built-in speeds, four effective pre-filters and a main filter unit that can be vacuumed to prolong service life.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #249951 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Color: White
* Brand: Blue Air
* Model: Eco10
* Dimensions: 26.00" h x 20.00" w x 13.00" l, 36.00 pounds

Features

* Environmentally friendly Energy Star air purifier for rooms up to 298 square feet
* Ultra-efficient EC fan motor; 2 speeds--HEPA silent and Max airflow
* Runs on only 10 watts of power; whisper-quiet operation at just 49 db
* Main filter and 4 pre-filters; 3 polypropylene HEPASilent filters included
* Measures 26 by 20 by 13 inches; limited lifetime warranty

Thursday, December 10, 2009

3M FAP02-RS Filtrete Ultra Clean Air Purifier


Product Description

A new Filtrete¿ Air Purifier is one more way to improve the air you breathe, especially compared to bulky and noisy HEPA models. And although they are quite stylish, the real beauty is how well Filtrete air purifiers help clean your indoor air. The product features quiet operation, 25 - 30% more air circulation, 35-41% higher pollen capture rate, a Filter change indicator and 3 speed fan. Room Size 150 Sq Feet.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #4791 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Color: White
* Brand: 3M
* Model: FAP02-RS
* Dimensions: 22.00" h x 8.00" w x 17.00" l, 14.00 pounds

Features

* Electrostatic air purifier for small rooms; charged fibers magnetize floating dust particles
* Reduces pollen, mold and dust mite debris
* Circulates and cleans the air in rooms up to 150 square feet
* Filter change indicator shows when it's time to replace
* Designed to blend with any décor; 99.9% effective at capturing large particles

Amazon.com Product Description
With more air circulation plus better dust and pollen capturing capabilities than any HEPA air purifier in its class, the Filtrete from 3M features quiet operation and a stylish design that fits right in with any décor. A user-friendly machine, the Filtrete has filter-life indicator that lights up when it's time to change the filter. An electrostatically charged filter is specially designed for capturing large, airborne allergens like pollen, mold spores and dust mite remains. The fibers within the filter are charged to act like tiny magnets that attract and capture small particles that other fiberglass and washable/reusable filters often miss. The unit works well in conjunction with forced-air heating and cooling systems; filtering the air and capturing micro-particles that would otherwise float throughout the house aggravating allergies and irritating respiratory systems. The unit also captures dust, bacteria, smoke, smog, and particles that can carry viruses for healthy lungs and happier noses.


Customer Reviews

simply the best in filtration5
If economy is your primary weighted variable in the selection of an air filter, then the FAP02 is NOT for you. If however, breathing cleaner air is worth about $40/unit per year then this filter may be a good choice for you.


A few points to know about the filters before buying this unit.
One, this filter looks good. It seems designed to fit "up against a wall" and in this regard it is easy to position ascetically while still maintaining function (air filtering). Hence, it is both technically successful and yet offers a stylish design that does not junk- up a room.

Another nice feature is that it "sucks" from the back of the unit and "blows" out of the top, and therefore one is not simply blowing dust across the floor and behind furniture. And lastly, especially nice for the one in the bedroom, is it is very quite. On highest speed, the faint "hum" that can be heard is actually rather relaxing and in no way annoying. In short, a small audible footprint.


Now about filter price.
They are at first glance over-priced. Then, I considered what I was actually paying for: a relatively small and custom size (15.2x8.9). Indeed, it is this "small custom size" that makes the 3M-FAP02 so appealing in the first place!
Hence, unfortunately, for now, the filter replacements possess the an associated small-volume, high-margin pricing strategy. In economics speak, supply and demand are relatively low but the price-elasticity of the latter is very low -- the old "Schick Model -- give away the shavers and sell the blades."

There is no doubt that these filters trade at a relative premium and the resulting solution will in turn probably increase the annual maintenance costs over units which use "standard-size filters." However, here are two things you can do to essentially eliminate the "replacement filter gap" in this regard.
First, sweep the external (dirty) side of the filter once a week just enough to remove the build-up. The filter itself actually continues to filter well even after it becomes dirty; the problem with dirty filters is suction is usually reduced by the "stuff" that accumulates over time on the outside of the filter. Hence, keep the filter's outside edge free from build-up. On our weekly "sweeping day" we simply vacuum the back of the filter (the back cover pops off/on easily).
Second, If you don't want to sweep the filter, or as often, try using a very simple (and cheap) disposable "pre-filter" material to trap the big stuff -- like cat hair! :)


People vary widely in their preferences of course, but we have found these particular machines (3M FAP02) to be outstanding in both form and function; not merely in spite of, but even because of its current relatively high replacement filter prices. We have one in just about every major room.



Best air filter machine ever!5
I have incredible allergies and have tried many filters machines to help clean the air. I have a whole house filter that connects to my furnace, and I change my regular furnace filters monthly and I still end up with dust and pollen in the house. Screen doors, garage doors, kids running in and out, etc... it all contributes.
I've bought the sharper image filters and other brands that claim to be great, but haven't been that impressed. I ended up buying this unit on because I've been very pleased with my 3M furnace filters.
I put this unit in my bedroom because that room gets more dust than most of my house along with the sleeping problems I'd have from dust.
Within two days I noticed I was sleeping better. Two weeks later I noticed that I hadn't needed to dust the room since I bought the machine.

Overall I'm very satisfied with the machine I have. It's reasonably quiet, ( I leave it set on 1, so I can barely hear it) it fit under a table in the room, so it didn't take up much space. It also has an interesting control dial with funky lights on it. Replacement filters are easy to find and from the looks of it I should only have to change them out every 4-6 months...

Of all the machines out there, this is far less gimmicky and actually works. I'd recommend it to anyone.

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Alen Air Purifier - A350


Product Description

The Alen A350 is rated as the best value air purifier since it combines performance with affordability. This is the perfect unit for a bedroom or office and has the prestigous Energy Star rating. Quiet and efficient, the Alen 350 air purifier cleans rooms up to 800 square feet, though allergy sufferers will want one unit for every 400 sq feet to achieve at least 4 air changes per hour. In addition, the Alen air purifiers are supported by the industry best life time warranty program*. With the Alen 350, you get HEPA filtration at a cost much lower than comparable models. Wall mountable, easy to maintain, with replacement filters that wont drain your wallet are just a few of the features that make this our most popular air purifier.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #58471 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Brand: Alen
* Model: A350
* Dimensions: 19.00 pounds

Features

* All-in-one Pre-filter and HEPA Filter makes filter changing easy
* Rated Best Value Air Purifier on Market. HEPA Filter Efficiency: 99.97%
* 4-speed settings & 12 hour timer, ozone safe
* Digital display with simple and intuitive touch button controls
* Room Coverage: Up to 800 square feet; 400 square feet for optimal performance

Customer Reviews

Must buy for allergy sufferers.5
I suffer from seasonal allergies. We put this unit in our bedroom and switch it on low speed (you hardly know it is running) for about three hours when retiring. I am experiencing an amazing improvement in sleep quality because my breathing is improved and I don't wake up sneezing every few hours. I highly recommend this model for people with allergies.


Alen Air Purifier5
This produce was received very timely, in good shape and did all it was said it would do. I'm very pleased

Monday, November 30, 2009

Honeywell 50100 Enviracaire Air Purifier

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #58619 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Color: White
* Brand: Honeywell
* Model: 50100KAZ
* Dimensions: 13.25" h x 15.75" w x 17.25" l, 11.70 pounds

Features

* 100 CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) for small to medium rooms (11 ft x 14 ft).
* True HEPA Filter is 99.97% effective at reducing airborne particles from the air passing through it, such as pollen, cat dander, household dust, mold spores and tobacco smoke.
* Activated Carbon Pre-filter helps reduce odors and extends HEPA filter life.
* Multiple Air Cleaning power levels
* Patented 360 degree Air Intake adn Discharge for effective air cleaning power.


Customer Reviews

Honeywell 50100 Enviracaire Air Purifier4
I own two of these air filters and I love them. These air filters do an excellent job of cleaning the air in relatively short order and I keep these air filters in the bedrooms for clean air sleeping. I recently moved into a older house that has dirty HVAC ducting and while I am slowly cleaning those ducts out I needed a temporary fix. Additionally, I own a dog that sheds a lot and I have a child with severe allergies. Additionally, I am also an allergy sufferer (mold and cats). After doing extensive research on air filters, I decided to go with this Honeywell 50100 HEPA filter. There are a couple of reasons for decision. 1) The overall cost of this filter is the lowest (unit + replacement filters) I found at the time. I bought the unit for around $80. The average HEPA filter replacement is around $20. 2) The second reason I bought this unit is that I like noise. This is not one of those whisper quiet HEPA filters and that is OK by me. I am a big fan of white noise (after all I have two kids that like to get up early and make noise). This unit on its lowest setting is fairly quiet. However, the medium setting is loud and the high setting sounds like a jet passing overhead. Most of the time I have the unit set on medium. This is loud enough to drown out the garbage man picking up trash at 4 am. I have been happy with Honeywell products in the past and this is no exception. I also own a larger Honeywell HEPA filter that uses the same filter type as these units so I buy them in bulk. These filters also use a prefilter that goes around the outside of the HEPA filter. Using this filter extends the life of the HEPA filter tremendously. I vacuum the prefilter every couple of months or so. I recommend this filter to anyone who appreciates a well made decently priced HEPA filtration unit and doesn't mind a bit of noise.

Good Air Purifier for the Price4
It doesn't explicitly state it in the product description, but the Air Purifier comes with a permanent HEPA filter and one pre-filter. The pre-filter is supposed to be changed every three months and the HEPA filter is supposed to be vacuum cleaned every six months. The pre-filters cost between $10 and $15. I've only had it running for several says and the pre-filter is already covered with dust, so it's really doing what it's supposed to be doing. What's more is that the air is so clean and crisp. The instructions say that you should run the air purifier 24 hours a day, but I think that's a huge waste of energy and only run it when I'm in the room, which seems to work just fine. It does make a lot of noise, but it's white noise, like a window air conditioner or a box fan. I almost didn't buy it because of I was afraid the noise would keep me up at night, but was pleasantly surprised that the white noise helps me sleep more soundly through the night.

Great air filter5
Great air filter that produces a noticeable difference in air quality. I lived in an older apartment and developed allergic reactions to dust/mold in the building. After trying allergy medications with no results, I opted for this air filter. Within the first day of running it, my sneezing stopped completely.