Holmes HAP424-U HEPA-Type Tower Air Purifier

I got this filter because I have cats and birds, and before I started using it, I always had a coating of "bird dust" on everything and was concerned about breathing it. I bought it in mid summer, and in early fall, I opened it up to see if the filters were "catching" anything, and sure enough, they were covered with a fine powdery silt, and then I realized that the bird dust that used to cover desks and other surfaces had almost disappeared since I had started using it. I was grateful to know that the machine had been doing its job. Whenever it was on, I did notice a subtle change in air quality...it seemed fresher. I have kept it running almost constantly for three months, and have not had any problems with it.

While it's working, I don't notice the sound that much, especially on the lower setting which is what I usually keep it on. It simply becomes "white noise". The higher setting is definitely louder, so if that's something that bothers a person, it should be...Read more

Ok this machine IS noisy, but certainly not annoying to any degree. Sounds like a fan, not a motor. I recently changed the filter and noticed that it had picked up a ton of airborne dirt and debri. I also feel less stuffy in the morning. So, I will happily accept the fan noise and highly recommend this unit! It's also rather inexpensive for what it can do. Overall, a sound investment.

I bought this machine due to my son being diagnosed with several allergies...dust, dust mites, mold, pollens etc. It seems a bit noisy, but nothing I cant get used to, and the air seems cleaner and fresher already!! I guess that means less housework when it comes time to dust..woohoo! Also, if you read consumer reports tells you how BAD the Ionic Breeze is for you, as it creates ozone, which is a toxic emission, that may clear odor, but can poison you as well...hmmm I think I will save my $ and stick with my HEPA filter from Holmes!!