How Much Does a Whole-Home Air Purifier Cost in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

Installing a whole-house air filtration system costs between $419 and $4,962, with most homeowners spending an average of $2,610. The exact price depends on several factors, especially the type of air filter you choose, its efficiency, and local labor rates. The most effective models attach directly to your HVAC system, while others are standalone units that connect to existing ductwork from your basement, attic, or closet.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know to budget for a whole-house air filtration system. 

Home Size

The size of your home can affect the cost of installing an air purification system. Large homes require a more extensive system with additional equipment, such as in-duct purifiers, which adds to the total cost. Homes with multiple levels or open floor plans also require more powerful units to purify the air in a larger space.

Filter Type

The type of filter you use is one of the most significant cost factors for your whole-home air filtration system installation.

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) rates air cleaners using Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values (MERVs). This rating system measures a filter's ability to capture particles between 0.3 and 10 microns on a scale from 1 to 16. The higher the MERV rating, the better the filter is at trapping smaller particles—which often means a higher cost.

Flat Filter

Flat filter air purifiers cost between $100 and $250. Made of fibers—usually fiberglass—stretched over a framework, these filters efficiently capture large particles like dust, pollen, and lint, stopping them from entering your heating and cooling system and spreading throughout your home.

However, they aren't effective at catching smaller air pollutants like viruses, bacteria, and mold spores. You'll need to replace flat filters every one to three months. Some homeowners use them as prefilters to boost overall efficiency.

Extended Media Filter

Extended media filters cost between $500 and $1,000, and you can purchase replacement filters for less than $100. They’re often more effective than flat filters at removing smaller airborne pollutants, such as mold spores.

Extended filters are made of high-efficient filter paper pleated in an accordion-style frame. The pleating increases the total surface area for filtration and allows the filter to capture more debris. Extended filters need replacing about once a year.

Electronic Filter

Electronic air purifiers cost between $600 and $2,400 to install. They use an electrical field to trap charged particles, with the most common type being the electrostatic precipitator that captures particles on a set of charged flat plates.

Keep in mind that these filters generate ozone as a by-product, which can cause respiratory problems. While they're highly effective against smaller particles, they don't trap larger ones like dust and mold spores.

On the plus side, electronic filters have low operating costs since they don't need replacement filters. Just remember to clean them regularly to keep them working properly. You can save money by combining your electronic filter cleaning with other services, including:

• AC coil cleaning cost: $100–$400

• AC service cost: $75–$200

• Whole-home humidifier installation cost: $400–$2,500

UV Light Filter

UV light filter whole-house air purifiers cost between $750 and $3,500. If germs are your main worry, this filter uses shortwave UV light to capture pathogens like bacteria and viruses. However, these filters can’t remove dust, pollen, or gaseous contaminants.

HEPA Filter

HEPA filters cost between $2,000 and $5,000 or more. True HEPA filters claim to capture more than 99.97% of all particles 0.3 microns in diameter and larger.

Due to their size and energy requirements, these filters are often not found in traditional home HVAC systems. Most HVAC systems require costly modifications to install a true HEPA filter. HEPA air filters are dense, which slows the airflow through a residential HVAC system. To install a HEPA filter, you might have to budget for the costs of adjusting ductwork and vents.

Portable Air Filter

Portable air purifiers cost between $100 and $1,000. They’re most commonly used in homes without HVAC or duct systems and are ideal if you don’t want to incur new HVAC installation costs.

The greatest advantage of portable air filters is that they can be moved from room to room. You can use them whenever you need localized air cleaning, like in a bedroom at night or in an office during the day. 

Labor Cost for Pros

The cost to hire a local HVAC pro to install a whole-house air filtration system ranges from $100 to $250 per hour. Depending on the unit type and ease of access to the ductwork, the installation time varies from one to six hours. Due to the complexity of the installation, labor costs will likely increase for a large home or a unique layout.

Additional Cost Factors

In addition to home size, the type of filter, and labor, there are other factors to consider when budgeting for your whole-home air purifier. 

Existing HVAC System

Whole-home air purifiers are installed at the air intake point or within the duct path of your HVAC system. If your existing HVAC system is in poor condition or requires modification, you’ll need to include the cost of additional HVAC work in your budget.

You can schedule an HVAC inspection, which costs between $100 and $500, to assess your system's condition and performance. If a complete replacement is necessary, installing a new HVAC system costs anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000.

Brand

Whole-house air filtration systems are available from various manufacturers. The most popular brands include AprilAire, Lennox, Carrier, Trane, and Honeywell. The cost and reliability of units vary by brand. Respicaire is the most costly, while Field Controls is the most wallet-friendly. 

Make sure to do your research and read customer reviews before making a purchase. 

DIY Whole-Home Air Purifier Installation vs. Hiring a Pro

Installing a whole-home air purifier is a complex task that involves working with your HVAC system and electrical components. Tackling the installation yourself can save you on labor costs, but DIY installation is risky if you're not familiar with HVAC systems. Improper installation may lead to inefficient performance, damage to your HVAC system, or serious safety hazards, like electrical shocks or fires. Plus, DIY work might void your manufacturer's warranty.

A licensed HVAC professional has the expertise to install your air purifier correctly and safely. Your tech can ensure the system integrates seamlessly with your existing HVAC setup and is installed for the best performance and efficiency.

Given the complexity and potential risks, hiring a professional to install a whole-home air purifier is well worth the investment.

Do Whole-House Air Purifiers Increase Home Value?

Whole-house air purifiers can increase home value, depending on your location and the type of system you install. Buyers concerned about indoor air quality and airborne contaminants may be attracted to an air purification system's health benefits. These systems can also reduce wear and tear on your HVAC, which may appeal to potential buyers concerned about maintenance and HVAC repair costs.

Installing a completely new HVAC system with your air purifier can increase home value by up to 7%. Most homeowners see a return of around 60% on their investment.

Budgeting for a Whole-Home Air Purifier

Installing a whole-home air purifier is an investment in your health and home comfort, but the costs can add up. To keep your project within your budget, consider these money-saving tips:

• Compare brands and models: Find the most efficient and cost-effective option for your household.

• Bundle services: Some contractors offer discounts if you combine air purifier installation with other HVAC services. If you have other projects, get them done at the same time to maximize savings.

• Choose energy efficiency: Opting for an energy-efficient model can reduce utility bills and save you money in the long run.

• Stay on top of maintenance: Regular upkeep keeps your system running smoothly and helps you avoid costly repairs down the line.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.