Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)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.
Click Here to see more reviews about: 3M Filtrete FAP02-RS Ultra Clean Air Purifier
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.
Get 40% OFF
Click here for more information about 3M Filtrete FAP02-RS Ultra Clean Air Purifier
