Frigidaire PureAir Ultra II: Features, Lifespan, and Real-World Performance
Frigidaire's PureAir Ultra II air filter tries to keep your fridge from smelling like last week's leftovers. This little cartridge, usually called PAULTRA2, fits Gallery and Professional series models. It relies on activated carbon to soak up odors from food like fish or onions. From what I've read in reviews and specs, it seems to do a decent job for most people, though heavy smells might wear it out sooner.
In 2026, with everyone more aware of kitchen hygiene, filters like this could help cut down on bacteria that come with bad odors. Hard water or humid kitchens don't hit it directly, but packed shelves do. This article covers the main features, specs, how long it lasts, and what users say in tests. It's not essential for everyone, but in a busy fridge, it might keep things fresher.
What the PureAir Ultra II Brings to the Table
The filter centers on carbon tech. Carbon pores grab odor molecules through adsorption, holding them without harsh chemicals. This feels basic, but it handles volatile stuff from ripening fruit or spills pretty well.
Frigidaire makes it user-friendly. It snaps into place near the air vent.
- Cuts common odors: Handles ethylene from apples, ammonia from cleaning mishaps, sulfur from garlic or broccoli.
- Carbon media: Activated type absorbs gases; some versions mix in baking soda for a boost.
- Simple size: Fits tight without hassle; works in Frigidaire models like FGHB2868TF or GRMG2272CF.
- Odor check strips: Packs sometimes include them to test freshness.
- Eco touch: Helps food last longer by controlling air, though carbon sourcing varies.
Gentle note: It targets smells mainly, not full air cleaning like room purifiers. Bacteria can still hang around if spills go uncleaned.
Specs at a Glance
The PureAir Ultra II runs small - about 3 inches high, 1.5 wide, 5 long. Light weight makes changes easy. Sold single or in 2-packs for $20-30.
Frigidaire says it lasts up to 6 months, but that depends on your fridge habits.
- Size: 3" H x 1.5" W x 5" D; slots in standard.
- Material: Activated carbon fabric; BPA-free housing.
- Fit: Over 100 Frigidaire models; check your fridge label.
- Volume: Suits up to 28 cu ft fridges.
- Safety: Food-grade materials, no formal NSF for air.
Nuance: No antimicrobial claim, so wipe shelves regularly for mold.
How Long It Really Lasts
Frigidaire claims 6 months. Average kitchens hit that mark. Busy ones with strong foods like curry or seafood see 4 months. Quiet fridges might stretch to 8.
People share varied stories. A family cooking fish weekly swapped at 4 months when smells crept back.
- Typical Run: 6 months; change when odors return.
- Shorteners: Humidity speeds saturation; overcrowding limits air circulation; potent items like blue cheese.
- Stretch Tips: Clean spills fast; use crisper drawers; keep space around vents.
Some users call it optional if you clean often, but tests show it lowers ethylene, slowing banana browning.
Performance from Real Users and Tests
Amazon and Best Buy average 4.6/5 from thousands. Folks test with cut onions—the filter seems to contain scent better. One family said cheese lasted longer without mold.
Kitchen experiments rate carbon filters at 70-90% odor cut in controlled setups. Humid area users report 4-month life, with fresh feel fading gradually.
- Good Feedback: "Onion smell gone in hours," from a 5-star Amazon post. Snap-in ease gets praise.
- Mixed Takes: "Didn't reach 6 months in my full fridge," a 3-star comment. A few see little change with regular cleaning.
- Real Nuance: Strong on volatiles, but not bacteria fighter. Add UV options if mold concerns you.
Real Nuance: Strong on volatiles, but not bacteria fighters. Add UV options if mold concerns you. For a detailed explanation of how fridge air filters work and how to choose the right one, check out The Ultimate Guide to Refrigerator Air Filters.
Specs Quick Table
|
Spec |
Details |
|
Size |
3" H x 1.5" W x 5" D |
|
Material |
Activated carbon |
|
Fit |
Frigidaire Gallery/Professional |
|
Lifespan |
Up to 6 months |
|
Price (2-Pack) |
$20-30 |
If you want step-by-step instructions for replacement, see Quick guide to replacing Frigidaire PureAir Ultra II air filter.
A Few Closing Thoughts
The Frigidaire PureAir Ultra II uses carbon to absorb odors decently, running about 6 months in typical use. User tests show it handles food smells like onions or fish, though busy kitchens wear it quicker. Specs keep it simple and model-specific. If your fridge gets funky, it might slow spoilage too.
Gentle critique: Not a deep cleaner, so wipe down regularly. Change when needed, test with strong foods, and enjoy less stink. For value-conscious shoppers, consider Frigidaire water and air filter combo packs: Best value options for both air and water needs in one go.
