Sharp Air Purifier: FPR65CX

Sharp Plasmacluster FP-R65CX $456.95 to $484.00 US

Sharp Plasmacluster FPR65CX, available only in Canada, is an upgrade of the FPN60CX, a favorite here, see link below for review. Advertised as the "next generation" Sharp, R65cx is merely an N60cx upgrade. This page will focus on the differences, for base detail refer to FP-N60CX review.

fpr65cx

Sharp designs a variety of air cleaners around their plasmacluster technology, marketing distinct versions in each market around the world.

A new front panel with a streamlined look and additional display capabilities gets immediate notice. FPR65CX uses the same base, fan, and filters as its predecessor. Air purifier size and weight are unchanged. CADRs have not changed; 209 dust, 213 smoke, 205 pollen. AHAM room size recommendation is 330 sq. ft. Air-Purifier-Power recommends a maximum room size of 255 sq. ft. Please don't fall for the inflated claims of aircleaner vendors, and don't forget to remove pollutant sources before installation.

Ion Mist Humidifier

The big difference in the new FPR65 is the increased ion generation power and Ion Mist humidifier. With double the ionizing wires, the added humidifier is said to greatly increase the plasmacluster generation of the FP-N65CXs. FPN65CX is the only purifier with this feature. A fine water mist extends the half-life of the ions, which require airborne water molecules to form clusters and oxidize pollutants There is additional hardware for the mister; a water bottle, a sponge-like rayon/polyester water evaporator "filter", a tray to hold water, and a styrofoam float and valve. This apparatus fits behind the HEPA filter, ahead of the fan..

I have no direct experience, but it seems like this arrangement might boost the already powerful plasmacluster feature. However, I see a maintenance traffic jam with the mister feature.

Tank water must be changed, using tap water, daily!

Whoa, Fpr65cxdude, did you just say, like, every day? Not possible, dude.

Yeah, man, and the manual says never to drink the water, bummer.

A low water light reminds users to clean the tray and emitter sponge with citric acid descaling solution at least every 2 weeks. I can foresee many of these FPR65s with trays and emitters completely fouled with hard water salts.

Before studying this product, I was mystified (pun) as to why Sharp marketed an "upgrade" only in Canada. I have a feeling I know why: this looks like a marketing test.

Sharp has produced a great line of automated, low maintenance, low operating cost, good looking air purifiers. I am a raving fan. But daily and bi-weekly washing chores? Not what my readers are looking for.

I know my Canadian friends are still buying the FPN60CX because I get a traffic bulge through the '60 review whenever there is a sale announced up there.

FPR65CX: Even More Automated

The “Sentinel” automatic mode evaluates the environment using 4 sensors; dust, chemicals, temperature and humidity. Now that is an upgrade. Additional buttons and displays adorn the top of the unit, above the small front exhaust vent. As with the 60, FP-R65CX confines plasma ion control to the remote.

Energy star rated at 2.98 CADR/Watt, FP-N65CX uses a bit more electrical energy than the mist less model.

FP-R65CX Conclusions

It looks like Sharp tested the waters with this one. A calculated risk. Will buyers who are willing to pay for automation and low maintenance line up to wash sponges and trays frequently? First fumble from a globally competitive company?

I would love the more powerful ionizer, but won't pay extra for the FPR65CX mister.

Air-Purifier-Power Rating Criteria

Each of ten factors gets up to 10 points, 100 is perfect and very unlikely.

1. First do no harm; minimal out gassing, no ozone.

Score: 7 of 10, still unsure if plasmacluster oxidants are safe.

2. Serious gas and odor removal is a requirement if health benefits are expected: Units with real carbon VOC capability rank higher.

Score: 10 of 10 3. Quality construction; case, gaskets, seals, and precision fitting eliminate bypassing and assure high efficiency at filtering sub-micron particles.

Score: 9 of 10

4. The design maximizes the lifespan of each filter stage by allowing independent filter replacement. Ideally this is combined with electronic filter monitoring.

Score: 10 of 10

5. Unit has long filter life, low maintenance requirements, and reasonable operating costs.

Score: 7 of 10, constant washing is an operating cost.

6. Purifier produces low noise levels and meaningful air flow rates relative to noise.

Score: 10 of 10, FP-Rs are super quiet.

7. Manufacturer has a track record, with many units in the field and a reputation for supporting what they sell. Warranty period and average service life are long.

Score: 9 of 10, FPR65CX warranty should be longer.

8. Purifier is a value in terms of price/performance ratio. Every price range should be included, “models above $1,200 are best”, while true, is not useful to most consumers.

Score: 8 of 10, mist feature adds to FP65CX price.

9. No dirt; unit and manufacturer should be devoid of class-action suits, high returns, recalls, consumer complaints, and legitimate negative consumer reviews.

Score: 8 of 10, a 60cx buyer reports immediate response to a defective unit return.

10. Unit is stylish, portable, comfortable, and convenient for consumer use.

Score: 10 of 10, handy remote, state of the art automation.