How Much Electricity Does An Air Purifier Use (Complete Guide)

Air purifiers have become a must-have appliance in our homes, especially with increased air pollution levels. They remove pollutants and impurities from the air, making it safer and healthier for us to breathe. However, as with any electrical appliance, it’s essential to consider the power consumption of an air purifier so that we can reduce our carbon footprint.

On average, most air purifiers consume between 20 and 100 watts of electricity, which is equivalent to the power usage of a standard light bulb. However, it’s crucial to know that the electricity consumption of an air purifier generally depends on its size, filtration technology, and fan speed settings. 

In this article, we’ll explore how much electricity air purifiers use and how to reduce energy consumption while using them. So, without wasting any time, let’s get into it.

Things That Affect Air Purifier’s Energy Consumption

Several factors can affect the electricity consumption of an air purifier. One of the most significant factors is fan speed. Air purifiers typically use more electricity when the fan is set to a higher speed. This is because the fan needs more power to quickly move air through the filter.

Another factor that can affect electricity consumption is the size of the air purifier. Larger units require more power to operate and consume more electricity than smaller ones.

The type of filter used in the air purifier can also impact its electricity consumption. Some filters require more power to operate than others. For example, a HEPA filter, designed to remove tiny particles from the air, may require more power than a simpler one.

How Much Electricity Does An Air Purifier Use?

A small air purifier consumes around 40 watts per hour at high fan speed and 10-20 watts per hour at low or medium speed. Larger air purifiers use up to 100 watts per hour on high fan speed and 50-80 watts per hour on low or medium. 

Let’s say you have an average air purifier that consumes 50 watts of electricity per hour and runs continuously for 24 hours. It will cost you about $0.18 per day and $5.40 monthly. This amount is considered relatively low and affordable for most households.

Here are some general estimates of energy consumption for different air purifiers:

Note: These calculations are based on the US average electricity cost of $0.15 per kilowatt-hour, so your actual costs may vary depending on where you live and the rates charged by your utility provider. Additionally, these energy consumption estimates were obtained at the highest fan speed setting and constant use.

Calculate the Cost of Your Air Purifier

To calculate the energy cost of an air purifier, you will need to know the device’s power consumption in watts and the cost of electricity in your area. To determine the wattage of your air purifier, you can look for the wattage rating on the product label or user manual that came with the unit.  

Once you have this information, use our energy cost calculator below.

Do Air Purifiers Use A Lot of Electricity?

Air purifiers are relatively low-energy consumption household appliances, using no more than 100 watts of electricity. Compared to other home appliances, these devices use less electricity. For instance, a refrigerator can use anywhere from 200 to 250 watts per hour, while an air conditioning unit uses more than 1000 watts per hour.

Additionally, many air purifiers come with energy-saving features, such as automatic shut-off or sleep mode, which can help reduce power consumption. The electricity cost of running an air purifier is also quite affordable, with the average cost of running one continuously for 24 hours being around $0.18 per day and $5.40 per month. 

Finally, while air purifiers use some electricity, their benefits in improving indoor air quality and reducing health risks far outweigh their modest energy costs.

How to Reduce the Energy Consumption of An Air Purifier

If you are concerned about air purifier power consumption, there are several ways to reduce it. Here is a list of instructions that you can follow to minimize your electricity bill while using these room air cleaners.

Choose An Energy-Efficient Air Purifier: 

When looking for an air purifier, check for the Energy Star certification. This certification ensures that the unit has been tested and verified to meet specific energy efficiency standards, resulting in lower energy consumption and electricity bills. An energy-efficient air purifier may have a higher initial cost, but it will pay off in the long run by reducing your energy expenses.

Use a Timer or Scheduling Function: 

Many average air purifiers come with a timer or scheduling function allowing the user to turn the unit on and off at certain times. This feature can be beneficial if you only need the purifier running during certain parts of the day. This way, you can avoid running the unit unnecessarily, which would increase your energy bill.

Clean and Maintain the Filter Regularly: 

A dirty filter can block airflow and force the air purifier to work harder than it needs to, resulting in higher electricity usage. So, always make sure to clean and replace the filter regularly to keep the unit running efficiently. Regular air purifier maintenance increases its energy efficiency, reducing electricity usage and saving you money on your energy bill.

Adjust Fan Speed:

Many air purifiers come with multiple fan speed settings. While setting the fan to the highest speed to get maximum airflow is tempting, this can significantly increase energy usage. Try using a lower fan speed setting to reduce electricity consumption while enjoying clean air.

Keep Doors and Windows Closed: 

When running an air purifier, it’s essential to keep the doors and windows closed to prevent outdoor air from coming in. Poor air quality outside can force the purifier to work harder, resulting in higher energy consumption. By keeping doors and windows closed, you’ll reduce your air purifier’s workload and power consumption.

Avoid Additional Features: 

Many air purifiers have additional features, such as air ionizers or UV lights, which can use more electricity. If you don’t need these features, consider purchasing a simpler model that only includes the essential functions of an air purifier.

Choose the Right Size: 

Choosing the right size air purifier for your room is essential for maximizing energy efficiency. An oversized unit will consume more energy than necessary. So, when buying an air purifier, it’s essential to consider your room size to ensure that you’re getting the right size unit for space.

Conclusion

With the growing concern about air quality, investing in an air purifier is wise for those looking to improve their indoor air quality and breathe cleaner, healthier air. However, many people are concerned about the energy consumption of these devices. Although some air purifiers may use more energy than others, their energy consumption is relatively low compared to other home appliances.

Additionally, choosing an energy-efficient air purifier that suits your needs and preferences can save you money in the long run. We hope this article has provided valuable insights and practical advice for making informed decisions about using air purifiers in your home.

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