MAHWAH, NJ, March 13, 2008 -- Sharp’s new line of air purifiers, models KC-C100U and KC-C150U, employ a unique combination of three technologies to quietly and efficiently clean and refresh the air in a home. Using a triple filtration system, Sharp’s proprietary patented Plasmacluster^® technology and a humidification function, these air purifiers can trap dust, pollen, mold spores and pet dander, decrease odors, and freshen and humidify the air. Library Quiet™ operation, energy efficiency and an elegant design make these Sharp air purifiers a smart solution for improving indoor air quality.

“Whether due to odors, pollen or dust, indoor air quality is a major concern for most homeowners,” said Christine Lewis, associate vice president of marketing, appliances, Sharp Electronics Marketing Company of America. “Our air purifiers use a unique three-pronged approach to actively and efficiently clean the air. They operate quietly to blend unobtrusively into the home environment, and they are highly energy-efficient – for a low total cost of ownership for the consumer.”

Sharp’s proprietary Plasmacluster ion technology is the leading air purification technology in Japan. These new air purifier models use a fifth-generation technology that doubles the efficiency of older models’ Plasmacluster ion generation.

The Sharp air purifiers’ triple filtration system includes a permanent washable pre-filter that traps dust and other large airborne particles; a washable active carbon filter that absorbs common household odors; and a True HEPA filter with antimicrobial coating that traps 99.97 percent of particles (as small as 0.3 microns) that pass through the filter, including pollen, smoke, dust, dust mites, dander and mold spores. The active carbon and True HEPA filters need to be replaced only every five years with average use (versus yearly for many other air purifiers), making these purifiers easy and inexpensive to maintain.

The humidification function generates up to 50 percent relative humidity to reduce static and make the air more comfortable in dry environments. Its natural cool vaporization system also enhances the effectiveness of the Plasmacluster function. The humidifier’s anti-bacterial and anti-mold filter provides an additional measure of protection.

Sharp’s new models are some of the quietest air purifiers with a True HEPA filter available today, with a range of fan speeds two to three times wider than most other air purifiers. These ENERGY STAR^®qualified models have a sensor that monitors room air quality and automatically adjusts the fan to the appropriate speed. When the sensor detects that the air is dirty, the maximum fan speed provides the most effective cleaning and when the air is clean, the fan automatically switches to low, providing maximum energy efficiency and quiet operation. The Library Quiet operation allows consumers to place a Sharp air purifier in a bedroom, living room or home office with virtually no disruption, while the elegant design ensures that the unit complements a room’s existing decor. The KC-C100U is suited for a study, bedroom or home office (up to 254 square feet), while the KC-C150U is powerful enough for a living room or family room (up to 347 square feet).

Pricing and availability:

• Model KC-100U is available now for a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $399.99.
  
  
• Model KC-150U is available now for an MSRP of $499.99.

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