Austin Air FR450B Standard Plus Healthmate Plus Filter, White

Product Review:

Overview

The Austin Air FR450B Standard Plus Healthmate Plus Filter is a highly regarded air purifier filter designed to improve air quality by removing a broad range of airborne contaminants. It is especially useful for individuals with respiratory conditions, allergies, or those living in areas with high pollution levels. Here's a breakdown of its features, pros, and cons based on user feedback and expert reviews.

Key Features:

1. Multi-Stage Filtration: The filter uses a combination of several materials for different stages of filtration:

   • Pre-Filter: Captures large particles like dust, hair, and pet dander.
   • Medium Particle Filter: Traps medium-sized particles such as mold spores and pollen.
   • HEPA Filter: Removes smaller particles like dust mites, pet dander, and fine dust.
   • Activated Carbon: Adsorbs odors, gases, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
   • Zeolite: Used to absorb ammonia, formaldehyde, and other toxic chemicals.

2. Healthmate Plus Technology: The "Plus" in the name indicates additional protection against chemicals and gases, making it an excellent choice for individuals who need to combat VOCs and other airborne pollutants.

3. Long-Lasting: Designed to last up to 5 years with regular use, making it a cost-effective solution in the long run. The filters are highly durable and easy to replace.

4. Wide Coverage Area: The filter is compatible with Austin Air’s Healthmate Plus air purifiers (like the HM450), covering large spaces effectively, typically up to 1,500 square feet.

5. White Finish: The filter has a neutral, white color that can blend seamlessly with most home interiors.

Pros:

• Highly Effective at Removing Contaminants: The multi-stage filtration system does an excellent job at purifying the air by capturing particles, gases, and odors. It is particularly beneficial for people suffering from asthma, allergies, or other respiratory issues.
• Helps with Odor and Chemical Removal: The addition of activated carbon and zeolite makes it great at absorbing and neutralizing bad odors (like smoke and cooking smells) and harmful chemicals.
• Durable and Low Maintenance: The filter has a long lifespan (up to 5 years), which reduces the need for frequent replacements.
• Quiet Operation: While it's powerful, the Austin Air Healthmate Plus operates relatively quietly, even on higher settings, making it ideal for bedrooms or living areas.
• Great for Larger Spaces: The filter is designed to purify the air in large rooms or open-plan areas, making it ideal for homes with big living rooms or apartments.

Cons:

• Initial Cost: The upfront cost of both the unit and the filter can be quite high compared to some other air purifiers, which may be a drawback for budget-conscious consumers.
• Bulky Design: The unit is fairly large, so it might not be suitable for smaller spaces or apartments with limited room.
• Replacement Filter Cost: While the filters are durable, the replacement costs (when needed) can be high, though they are generally spaced out over several years.

User Reviews:

Many users appreciate how well the Austin Air FR450B performs, particularly for those with allergies or respiratory issues. The air purifier is praised for dramatically improving indoor air quality, reducing symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and nasal congestion. Some also mention that it helps with pet odors and tobacco smoke.

However, some users have noted the higher price point as a potential downside, but many feel that the performance and longevity of the product justify the cost. Additionally, some have commented that the unit's large size takes up significant space in smaller rooms.

Conclusion:

The Austin Air FR450B Standard Plus Healthmate Plus Filter is a top-tier option for those looking to improve their indoor air quality. Its multi-stage filtration, chemical and odor removal capabilities, and durability make it an excellent choice for households with pets, smokers, or anyone sensitive to air pollutants. While it may be more expensive than other air purifiers, the investment can be worthwhile for those who prioritize clean air and have specific health concerns.

Product Description:

Austin Air FR450B Standard Plus Healthmate Plus Filter, White
Healthmate Plus Replacement filter with White prefilter
60 sq. Ft. True HEPA medical filter medium
Prefilter included on outside of main filter
Nearly 15 lbs of solid activated carbon and zeolite for odor and gas removal
Easy replacement of existing filter
FR450B Standard Plus Healthmate Plus Filter, White
Healthmate Plus is for extreme sensitivities and is our ultimate protection from irritant and contaminated air.

The HealthMate Plus Filter is designed to fit into all our standard size Austin Air Purifiers.

This filter has all the design features as the standard HealthMate Filter with an additional additive of potassium iodide.

This mineral combined with the activated carbon and zeolite, delivering greater capacity for removal of chemical gases.
About Austin Air
Year after year, Austin Air purifiers are chosen to filter the contaminants released into the air during the wildfire season. 2017 was a particularly brutal year for residents of California and surrounding states - the wildfire season started very early and continued through the end of the year. Of course, there are many other important dates and product innovations that we’re very proud of. We have been developing and manufacturing air cleaners for nearly 30 years.

Ace Vacuums Locations:

• Fairfax, VA: 11110 Main Street, Fairfax, VA 22030
• Leesburg, VA: 300 Fort Evans Rd NE, Leesburg, VA 20176

Driving Directions to Ace Vacuums in Fairfax, VA (11110 Main Street, Fairfax, VA 22030)

From Maryland (e.g., Bethesda, Silver Spring, Rockville):

1. Start on I-495 S (Capital Beltway Inner Loop): Head south on I-495 towards Northern Virginia.
2. Take Exit 45 A-B for VA-267 W (Dulles Toll Road): Follow signs for VA-267 West (Dulles Toll Road). Be aware this is a toll road.
3. Continue on VA-267 W: Stay on the Dulles Toll Road for several miles.
4. Take Exit 16 for VA-7 E (Leesburg Pike) / VA-123 S (Chain Bridge Rd): Follow signs for VA-123 South (Chain Bridge Rd).
5. Merge onto VA-123 S (Chain Bridge Rd): Continue south on Chain Bridge Road.
6. Turn Right onto Main Street (VA-236 W): This will be a significant intersection. You'll continue on Main Street for a short distance.
7. Ace Vacuums Fairfax: Ace Vacuums will be on your left side, directly opposite Havertys Furniture Store. Look for their prominent signage.

From Washington D.C. (e.g., Downtown D.C.):

1. Take I-66 W toward Vienna/Centreville/Fairfax: Get onto I-66 West.
2. Take Exit 60 for VA-123 S (Chain Bridge Rd) toward Fairfax: Follow the exit ramp.
3. Turn Right onto VA-123 S (Chain Bridge Rd): Continue south on Chain Bridge Road.
4. Turn Right onto Main Street (VA-236 W): This will be a significant intersection.
5. Ace Vacuums Fairfax: Ace Vacuums will be on your left side, directly opposite Havertys Furniture Store.

From Northern Virginia (e.g., Arlington, Falls Church, Vienna):

• From Arlington/Falls Church:
  1. Take US-50 W (Arlington Blvd) or VA-236 W (Main Street) directly into Fairfax: Depending on your starting point, either of these roads will lead you directly to Fairfax.
  2. Continue on Main Street (VA-236 W):
  3. Ace Vacuums Fairfax: Ace Vacuums will be on your left side, directly opposite Havertys Furniture Store.
• From Vienna:
  1. Take VA-123 S (Chain Bridge Rd) toward Fairfax: Head south on Chain Bridge Road.
  2. Turn Right onto Main Street (VA-236 W):
  3. Ace Vacuums Fairfax: Ace Vacuums will be on your left side, directly opposite Havertys Furniture Store.
• From Areas West/Northwest of Fairfax (e.g., Chantilly, Centreville):
  1. Take US-50 E or I-66 E towards Fairfax.
  2. If on I-66 E, take Exit 60 for VA-123 S (Chain Bridge Rd). Turn left onto Chain Bridge Rd, then right onto Main Street.
  3. If on US-50 E, turn right onto Main Street (VA-236 E) in Fairfax.
  4. Ace Vacuums Fairfax: Ace Vacuums will be on your right side if coming from US-50 E/VA-236 E, shortly after crossing VA-123. Look for Havertys Furniture Store on your left.

Driving Directions to Ace Vacuums in Leesburg, VA (300 Fort Evans Rd NE, Leesburg, VA 20176)

From Maryland (e.g., Bethesda, Silver Spring, Rockville):

1. Start on I-495 S (Capital Beltway Inner Loop): Head south on I-495 towards Northern Virginia.
2. Take Exit 45 A-B for VA-267 W (Dulles Toll Road): Follow signs for VA-267 West (Dulles Toll Road). Be aware this is a toll road.
3. Continue on VA-267 W (Dulles Toll Road/Dulles Greenway): Stay on VA-267 West. This road transitions from the Dulles Toll Road to the Dulles Greenway as you head further west into Loudoun County. Tolls apply for both sections.
4. Take Exit 1A for VA-7 W (Harry Byrd Hwy) toward Leesburg: This is a major exit.
5. Continue on VA-7 W: You'll drive for several miles, passing through Sterling and Ashburn.
6. Take the Exit for Battlefield Parkway / Fort Evans Road: As you approach Leesburg, look for this exit.
7. Turn Right onto Fort Evans Rd NE: After exiting, turn right onto Fort Evans Road NE.
8. Ace Vacuums Leesburg: Ace Vacuums will be on your right side, located next to the Home Depot, and directly across from the Leesburg Premium Outlets.

From Washington D.C. (e.g., Downtown D.C.):

1. Take I-66 W toward Vienna/Centreville: Get onto I-66 West.
2. Merge onto VA-267 W (Dulles Toll Road): Follow signs for VA-267 West (Dulles Toll Road). Tolls apply.
3. Continue onto VA-267 W (Dulles Greenway): Stay on the Dulles Greenway. Tolls apply.
4. Take Exit 1A for VA-7 W (Harry Byrd Hwy) toward Leesburg:
5. Continue on VA-7 W:
6. Take the Exit for Battlefield Parkway / Fort Evans Road:
7. Turn Right onto Fort Evans Rd NE:
8. Ace Vacuums Leesburg: Ace Vacuums will be on your right side, located next to the Home Depot, and directly across from the Leesburg Premium Outlets.

From Northern Virginia (e.g., Fairfax, Arlington, Ashburn, Sterling):

• From Fairfax:
  1. Take VA-123 N (Chain Bridge Rd) to access VA-267 W (Dulles Toll Road) or take I-66 W to VA-267 W: Your best bet is to get onto VA-267 West (Dulles Toll Road).
  2. Continue on VA-267 W (Dulles Toll Road/Dulles Greenway): Tolls apply.
  3. Take Exit 1A for VA-7 W (Harry Byrd Hwy) toward Leesburg:
  4. Continue on VA-7 W:
  5. Take the Exit for Battlefield Parkway / Fort Evans Road:
  6. Turn Right onto Fort Evans Rd NE:
  7. Ace Vacuums Leesburg: Ace Vacuums will be on your right side, located next to the Home Depot, and directly across from the Leesburg Premium Outlets.
• From Ashburn / Sterling / Eastern Loudoun County:
  1. Take VA-7 W (Harry Byrd Hwy) directly toward Leesburg: This is the most direct route.
  2. Take the Exit for Battlefield Parkway / Fort Evans Road:
  3. Turn Right onto Fort Evans Rd NE:
  4. Ace Vacuums Leesburg: Ace Vacuums will be on your right side, located next to the Home Depot, and directly across from the Leesburg Premium Outlets.
• From Western Virginia (e.g., Winchester):
  1. Take US-7 E (Harry Byrd Hwy) toward Leesburg:
  2. In Leesburg, after passing the Leesburg Premium Outlets on your left, prepare for the Fort Evans Road / Battlefield Parkway exit.
  3. Take the Exit for Fort Evans Road / Battlefield Parkway.
  4. Turn Left onto Fort Evans Rd NE: You'll go over VA-7.
  5. Ace Vacuums Leesburg: Ace Vacuums will be on your right side, located next to the Home Depot.

Shipping Policy

Return Policy

Ace Vacuums is not responsible for any defective items or shortages in shipments not reported to us within seven days from the time of delivery. All returned items will be inspected for usage, damage, or missing parts from the original package to determine the restocking fee. When you buy a product and find that it is not what you need, you can exchange it within 30 days with the original packaging unused or return your purchase within seven days for a full refund unused from the day the item was delivered. A restocking fee may be applied of up to 50% for used goods. All goods purchased at a discounted price, including trade-ins, holiday sales, or price-match, are considered FINAL SALE goods and therefore are NOT eligible for return. ​No Returns on Air Purifiers. No Cash Refunds.