Ultimately, our testing at the CNET Labs facility in Kentucky focused on determining which air purifiers offered the best performance in terms of particle removal efficiency, energy consumption, and quietness. The air we breathe is composed of a mixture of anthropogenic and naturally occurring particles, some of which pose health risks when inhaled. Air purifiers are meant to improve indoor air quality by removing these particles, but how well do they actually work? To find out, our team created a testing environment with smoke bombs to produce particles, a test chamber with a particle counter, and a testing procedure to measure the impact of each air purifier on particle count in real-time.
Using the Temtop PMD331 Particle Counter, we were able to create a particle-saturated environment and accurately track how each air purifier reduced the particle count back to breathable levels. This testing procedure was carried out twice for each air purifier, at both low and high fan settings. The results showed the effectiveness of each unit in removing particles from the air. Additionally, a noise level test was conducted to measure how loud each air purifier was at different fan settings, ensuring that they would not disrupt sleep if used in a bedroom.
Energy consumption was also evaluated using a device called Kill-a-Watt to measure how much power each air purifier consumed at different fan settings. This information allowed us to estimate the average monthly cost of running each unit nonstop, taking into account the energy cost per Kilowatt-hour in different states. The results were displayed in a chart, showing the cost of running each air purifier for an entire month at its high fan setting in various states with different energy rates.
Overall, the testing conducted at the CNET Labs facility provided valuable insights into the performance of different air purifier models in terms of particle removal efficiency, energy consumption, and quietness. By evaluating these key factors, consumers can make informed decisions when choosing an air purifier that best meets their needs. The rigorous testing process and detailed analysis conducted by our team helped uncover the science behind air purifier performance and identify the top-performing models in the market.
