Air Purifier Energy Star Ratings: Annual Operating Cost Estimation

Volume I  ·  May 2026  ·  167 words

An air purifier running 24/7 at medium speed consumes 150-400 kWh annually — $20-55 at average U.S. electricity rates. Energy Star certification requires a minimum CADR per watt ratio that varies by unit size. The Coway AP-1512HH draws approximately 4W on low (24 dBA), 15W on medium, and 40W on high — at 15W continuous operation, annual electricity cost is approximately $18. The cost difference between the most and least efficient units in the same CADR class is $10-30 annually, making Energy Star a modest economic factor relative to filter replacement costs. For users who run the purifier on auto mode — which cycles fan speed based on air quality — actual consumption is typically 20-40% below the rated continuous power draw.