…And how often do filters need changing?
Running an air purifier typically costs money that you can put into two buckets: on the one hand, you have electricity, and in terms of maintenance, you also have to shell out for replacement filters – at least, if you want the unit to work correctly. The good news is that electricity is usually the smaller, more predictable expense—filters tend to be the bigger swing factor.
Electricity costs: Most household air purifiers draw somewhere around 10 to 100 watts depending on size and fan speed. On a low or “auto” setting, many units sip power; on high (turbo), they can use several times more. To estimate your cost, take the purifier’s wattage, convert to kilowatts, multiply by hours used, and then multiply by your local electricity rate. For example, a 50-watt purifier running 24/7 uses 0.05 kW × 24 × 30 ≈ 36 kWh per month. At $0.15/kWh, that’s about $5–6/month. If you run it only at night or only during allergy season, the number drops. If you run a large unit on high all day, it rises.
Filter costs: Most purifiers use a primary particle filter and sometimes an activated carbon filter for odors/VOCs. Replacement costs vary widely by brand and model, but it’s common to spend more per year on filters than on electricity. HEPA-style filters are often replaced every 6–12 months, while carbon filters may be replaced every 3–6 months (or sooner if you’re tackling smoke, cooking odors, or pets). Some units combine filters into one cartridge; others let you replace layers separately.
How often to change filters (real-world factors): Manufacturer intervals are usually based on the average levels of pollution of your indoor air. You may need more frequent changes if you have pets, live near traffic or construction, burn candles, cook often, have wildfire smoke exposure, or run the purifier at higher speeds for long hours. Conversely, in a relatively clean home with consistent vacuuming and good pre-filtration, you can often stretch intervals.
Best practice: Follow the unit’s filter indicator if it has one, but also use your senses. A musty smell, reduced airflow, louder fan noise, or dust buildup can signal it’s time. Budget-wise, plan for modest electricity costs and a recurring filter spend—then choose a model with reasonably priced, readily available replacements.
The Lulay Team at USAirPurifiers is a family and veteran owned U.S. business, and we are truly here to help with your best interest in mind. Our team will help you to cleanse your indoor air, and get a better result with modern technology that fights air pollution where it lives – and where you live, too! Make an investment in your health and the health of your family, to breathe easier all day and all night.