Hunter Universal Replacement Activated Carbon Pre-Filter Review

We have two Hunter air purifiers, which have helped our allergies and asthma quite a bit by filtering the air in our house. These filters require regular replacement of the black activated carbon pre-filter. Hunter makes these black pre-filters pre-cut, but I save money by purchasing Hunter's cut-to-fit Universal Replacement Activated Carbon Pre-Filter. The box contains a large strip 16.5" X 48" carbon pre-filter and some extra velcro pieces to make sure it stays in place in the air purifier. One box costs about $10 at this time.

My air purifier has two different types of filters in it. This is the cheaper, black carbon filter that needs to be replaced about every two to three months. The actual hepa filter is much more expensive and lasts for about a year. In order to clean the air effectively, both filters should be changed regularly for the best results in air quality.

The packaging claims that these pre-filters can be used in various portable air cleaners, such as:

• Hunter
• Honeywell
• Duracraft
• Holmes
• Whirlpool
• DeLonghi
• Enviracaire
• and many more

Directions are on the side of the box. You will need a trash can and a pair of scissors to change the carbon filter by doing the following:

• Turn off the air purifier and unplug it. (Actually I usually forget to unplug it but have not been electrocuted yet.)
• Check the owners manual of your air purifier for specific directions, but it usually involves opening a panel, removing the old pre-filter and placing the new one in its place.
• Cut the pre-filter to the desired size. I have found that it is easier to cut the new pre-filter by opening the door of my air purifier and placing the new pre-filter right on top of the old one while it is still in the air purifier. I have found that it can save a little time later to cut several of these at once. I believe this box contains enough material for three pre-filters for my Hunter air purifiers.
• Remove the old pre-filter. It is very handy to have a trash can handy when removing the old pre-filter because it is usually covered with dust on the bottom side.
• Place the new carbon pre-filter in the air purifier and close the outer cover.
• Plug in air purifier (if you remembered to unplug it) and turn it on. My air purifier has an electronic reminder on the display that I re-set back to 100% when putting a new one in the unit.
• The packaging recommends placing the remaining pre-filters in a plastic bag. I usually just cram the rest back in the box before the baby tries to eat it.

The box contains contact information such as an address and website. This product is made in Mexico, which does not help the economy in the United States.

My Viewpoint:

The pre-cut carbon filters do make changing the pre-filters in air purifiers a little bit easier, but the pre-cut ones are significantly more expensive and you must choose one that is specifically cut for the size of your air purifier. Cutting the carbon pre-filters is simple and more economical, so I am recommending Hunter's Activated Carbon Pre-filter.