Best Air Purifiers for Allergies | HEPA
| | ||
|---|---|---|
| Type | Console, plug-in | |
| Size | 13.6 x 13.6 x 21.2 | |
| Weight | 21.4 lbs | |
| Filter | Pre + Carbon HEPA | |
| Room Coverage | 628 ft2* | |
| ACH | 4 | |
| CADR Ratings | Dust: 260 Pollen: 260 Smoke: 260 | |
| Noise Level | 22~52 dB | |
| | ||
|---|---|---|
| Type | Compact, plug-in | |
| Size | 16.8 x 9.6 x 18.3 | |
| Weight | 12.35 lbs | |
| Filter | Pre + HEPA + Carbon + Ionizer | |
| Room Coverage | 361 ft2 | |
| ACH | 4 | |
| CADR Ratings | Dust: 246 Pollen: 240 Smoke: 233 | |
| Noise Level | 24~54 dB | |
| | ||
|---|---|---|
| Type | Console, plug-in | |
| Size | 15 x 8.2 x 23.6 | |
| Weight | 15.4 lbs | |
| Filter | Carbon Pre + HEPA + Ionizer | |
| Room Coverage | 360 ft2 | |
| ACH | 4 | |
| CADR Ratings | Dust: 243 Pollen: 246 Smoke: 232 | |
| Noise Level | 28~55 dB | |
| | ||
|---|---|---|
| Type | Console, plug-in | |
| Size | 9.2 x 20 x 22.2 | |
| Weight | 21 lbs | |
| Filter | Carbon Pre + HEPA | |
| Room Coverage | 465 ft2 | |
| ACH | 5 | |
| CADR Ratings | Dust: 320 Pollen: 300 Smoke: 300 | |
| Noise Level | N/A | |
Overview
Allergy triggers are all around us, even within our homes, and when they are present they can cause sneezing, a runny nose, red eyes, an itchy rash, and even shortness of breath. The most common causes of allergic reactions are pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander. One great way to prevent your allergies from kicking in is to invest in a great air purifier that’s especially good at removing all those pesky allergens floating around your home!
What to Look For in an Air Filter
When selecting an air filter, you should consider the following key aspects:
- HEPA Filtration: When you have allergies, you will want a very high performing air purifier with a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. HEPA filters can collect up to 99.97% of particulates 0.3 microns or larger, which includes air contaminants such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold. It’s important to note, however, that not all HEPA filters are created the same. Different brands use different types of HEPA filters that differ in composition and utilization. Regardless of whether or not the HEPA filter is enhanced, though, you can rest assured that contaminants are removed on a microscopic level.
- ACH Rate: Aside from the HEPA filter, you’ll need an air purifier that’s capable of making a high number of air changes per hour (ACH), or how many times an air purifier is able to purify all of the air in a given room for one hour. The minimum ACH requirement for those who suffer from allergies should be 4, but the higher that value the better.
- CADR: You should also consider the Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR), a numerical value assigned specifically for air purifiers based on tests conducted by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM). It indicates the volume of filtered air that an air purifier is able to deliver, but, more importantly, it describes how well an air purifier is able to reduce elements such as tobacco smoke, pollen, and dust. CADR ratings provide a uniform and objective standard by which consumers can easy evaluate the efficiency of air purifiers. The higher the CADR ratings, the better.
- Maintenance: Now, aside from these three characteristics, it’s important to remember that your air purifier needs to be maintained and cleaned on a regular basis to keep the air in your living space clean. Dirty air filters will greatly reduce the efficiency of the air purifier and can even cause it to break down. Maintenance will vary for each air purifier so it’s always best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Best Air Purifiers for Allergies
If you suffer from allergies, asthma, or any other respiratory disease that could be worsened by airborne pollutants, then an air purifier may provide you with some relief. Air purifiers have been specifically designed to target these pollutants and remove them as quickly and quietly as possible, making it an excellent investment for any home. Let’s look at some top models for allergy sufferers.
The Coway AirMega 300 is a smart air purifier that effectively and quietly cleans the air in your home. Its dual suction power and 2-stage filtration system quickly removes all kinds of pollutants from the air. Accompanied by an air quality indicator, the Coway AirMega 300 allows you to monitor and manage air quality real-time.
Pros
- Several smart features/modes
- Adjusts fan speed depending on air quality
- Easy maintenance
- Quiet
- Good for large spaces
Cons
- Expensive (upfront and long-term)
- Large and heavy
Features
- Washable Pre-filter
- Dual Air Suction Inlet
- Air Quality Indicator
- Filter Indicators
- Light Sensor
- 3 Smart Modes
- 4 Fan Speeds
- Built-in Timer
- Handles for easy mobility
- 5-year warranty
The Coway AirMega 300 is a powerful air purifier that can remove allergens from a large area quickly and quietly. It has a 2-stage filtration system, starting with a washable pre-filter and followed by an Integrated Max2 Filter (Green True HEPA and Activated Carbon). The key features of the AIRMEGA 300 are its air quality, which allows you to monitor indoor air quality real-time and its filter indicators that inform you when filters need to be washed or replaced for optimum efficiency. The AIRMEGA 300 also has 3 Smart Modes and 4 Fan Speeds to choose from depending on your needs so your experience is as customizable as possible. On Auto Mode, the AIRMEGA 300 will adjust fan speeds automatically depending on the air quality in the room.
For such a large and heavy air purifier, you will be surprised to know that the AIRMEGA 300 is very quiet so you can sleep soundly at night without distractions. Aside from its smart features, the biggest advantage for the AIRMEGA 300 is its ability to cover more than 600 ft2 of space and completely cycle the air every 15 minutes. If every 30 minutes is enough for you, it can cover up to 1256ft2 . If you need more room coverage and a higher ACH, you can go for the AIRMEGA 400 or more. Unfortunately, all these come with a hefty price tag as the AIRMEGA 300 is the most expensive air purifier in this list. However, for its sheer power and quality, it is definitely worth the price!
The Coway Mighty AP-1512HH is a compact air purifier but comes fully equipped with a 4-stage filtration system and a range of intuitive, cutting-edge features to keep your indoor air clean. Its Vital ION Technology also boosts cleaning power and freshens the air with negative ions.
Pros
- Affordable (upfront and long-term)
- Light and compact
- Quiet
- Adjusts fan speed depending on air quality
- Good for smaller spaces
Cons
- Less Room Coverage
- Ionizer produces ozone
- Not too good with odors and chemicals
Features
- Washable Pre-filter
- Air Quality Indicator
- Filter Indicator
- Auto and ECO Mode
- 3 Fan Speeds
- Built-in Timer
- Vital ION Technology
- 3-year Warranty
The Mighty Air Purifier is big on performance for such a small device. Despite being a compact air purifier, it’s has a comprehensive 4-stage filtration system consisting of a washable pre-filter, a True HEPA filter, a carbon filter, and an ionizer. It is surprisingly feature-packed as well. Like the AIRMEGA 300, the Mighty Air Purifier also has an air quality indicator and is able to adjust its fan speeds depending on the air quality. It also has a filter indicator which tells you when it’s time to clean or change filters for easier care and maintenance. Although not as quiet as the AIRMEGA 300, it is still quiet enough to be used at night without disturbing your sleep.
The Mighty Air Purifier is also capable of making 4 air changes per hour albeit for a smaller room coverage. To effectively cycle every 15 minutes, it has to be placed in a room no larger than 326 square feet. This is the main disadvantage of the Mighty Air Purifier, but this shouldn’t be a problem if you’re only planning to use it in a small area. It also produces ozone when the ionizer is in use. The level of ozone generated is low but can be avoided completely by simply turning off the ionizer. Another problem with the Mighty Air Purifier is that it has trouble effectively removing odors and chemicals in the air.
Although the Mighty Air Purifier may lose out in terms of room coverage, the price is definitely more affordable compared to the AIRMEGA 300, especially when you take into consideration its CADR ratings which are exceptionally high for a compact air purifier. Overall, the Mighty Air Purifier is definitely one of the best air purifiers today, winning in price, performance, and durability.
The 5500-2 is specially designed with a 3-stage filtration system to effectively remove allergens from any type of home environment. For its affordable price, the Winix 5500-2 is completely capable of clearing medium to large spaces, has all types of features, and is surprisingly quiet.
Pros
- Affordable (upfront)
- Quiet
- Remote control
- Adjusts fan speed depending on air quality
- Auto Dim LED
Cons
- Short warranty
- Slightly expensive long-term
- Slightly less energy efficient
Features
- Air Quality Indicator
- Filter Indicator
- Remote Control
- Auto and Sleep Mode
- 4 Fan Speeds
- PlasmaWave Technology
- 2-year Warranty
The Winix PlasmaWave 5500-2 is another strong contender, especially considering how much cheaper it is compared to all the other air purifiers mentioned in this list. For an air purifier that has a 3-stage filtration system consisting of a carbon filter, true HEPA filter, and the Winix PlasmaWave Technology, the 5500-2 is definitely a steal!
The 5500-2 lets you enjoy a remote control with your air purifier to change to 4 fan speeds, but if you’d rather set it and forget it, it has got you covered too. In auto mode, the 5500-2 adjusts the fan speed depending on the air quality in the room just like the two Coway air purifiers. With its Filter Indicator Light, you can be sure that your filter quality is being monitored for efficiency. The 5500-2 also boasts its PlasmaWave Technology which is capable of attacking pollutants at a molecular level to neutralize viruses, bacteria, chemical vapors, and odors. Unlike the Mighty Air Purifier, the 5500-2 doesn’t produce any harmful ozone which is ideal for any type of air purifier. Considering its slightly larger build, the 5500-2 is also quiet, with its LED lights automatically dimming at night so that you can sleep without distractions.
There are no real downsides to the 5500-2 except that most consumers may be dismayed at the relatively short 2-year warranty. Some reports have also showed that the 5500-2 is slightly less energy efficient compared to its peers and may cost more over time to maintain. Nevertheless, at its price point, you’re really getting more bang for your buck if you purchase the Winix 5500-2.
The HPA300 was made with allergy sufferers in mind, making sure that it is able to filter out up to 99.97% of airborne allergens. It covers large spaces, has very high CADR ratings, and can cycle the air 5 times per hour.
Pros
- High ACH
- Very high CADR ratings
- Large room coverage
- Recommended by allergists
Cons
- Lack of air quality indicator
- Lack of modes, does not adjust fan speed automatically
- Confusing controls
- Very loud at highest setting
- Large and heavy
Features
- 4 Fan Speeds
- Built-in Timer
- Control Panel Light Dimmer
- Filter Replacement Indicator
- 5-year Warranty
According to their website, Honeywell’s HPA300 is highly recommended by doctors and allergists. With its 2-stage filtration system consisting of a carbon pre-filter and True HEPA filter, you can be sure that the amount of odors and allergens present in your home can be significantly reduced. The mid-priced HPA300 doesn’t have as many sophisticated features as the other contenders in this list, but it completely makes up for that with its impressive CADR ratings that beat out even the powerful AIRMEGA 300. And, although it comes in second for room coverage, it still rises to the top with a whopping 5 ACH in a 465 square foot room.
Although the HPA300 has a lot of features similar to the other 3 air purifiers in this list – 4 different fan speeds, timer, control panel light dimmer, and filter replacement indicator – it lacks the important features of both an air quality sensor and indicator. It also does not have any modes to choose from so you will have to manually select the fan speeds on this air purifier. This is a big disadvantage considering the HPA300’s price. The controls are also quite confusing because they are labeled as “germ”, “general clean”, “allergen”, and “turbo”. These controls don’t change the way the air purifier cleans the air; rather, they are merely fan speed settings, with “germ” being the lowest and “turbo” being the highest. At “turbo” setting, the HPA300 works extremely well at cleaning the air but is also very loud. If you plan to use it at night, you’ll have to set it to “germ” setting. Overall, though, the HPA300 is a powerful mid-priced air purifier with excellent specifications.
Air Purifiers for Allergies | HEPA Buyers Guide:
Telltale Signs That You Need an Air Purifier
Having an air purifier at home is definitely a worthwhile investment because of its ability to instantly upgrade your health, mood, and well-being. If you’re looking for a more solid evidence that you need an air purifier, though consider the following telltale signs:
- The air inside your house smells stale and feels stuffy
- You can’t stop sneezing
- Allergy and asthma attacks have gotten more severe or more frequent in your household
- You can see dust mites everywhere
- Your home smells of disinfectants, varnish, or smoke
- You deal with a lot of pet dander
- You snore
All of these can be effectively addressed by buying and running an air purifier inside your home. You just have to choose the ideal model for you based on your specific needs and priorities.
Where Does Dust Come From?
The particles of dust that you see inside your home are actually a complex mixture of different things, such as:
- Dirt
- Dead skin cells
- Soil
- Particulate matter from outside your house
- Fibers from carpets and other fabrics
- Organic material (such as food debris, pollen, insect body parts, etc.)
While you may be inclined to think that dust mostly comes from your own dead skin cells and house dirt, most of it actually comes from outside your house. External air can bring in all sorts of pollutants into your home.
Do Air Purifiers Remove Dust from Air?
Air purifiers contain filters that are able to trap even microscopic particles in the air, including dust. What basically transpires is this: the air purifier will suck in polluted air from your room (usually by using a fan). As the contaminated air passes through your air purifier, the machine’s collection of filters — or in the case of an ionic air purifier, its electrostatic ionized plates — will trap whatever particle pollutants, including dust, are present in the air. The cleaner, fresher stream of air will then be released back into the room for you and your family to enjoy. An especially-effective weapon is the True HEPA filter, which can capture particles that are as small as 0.3 microns at 99.97% efficiency. Instead of floating around the room, these allergy-causing dust particles are trapped inside the air purifier.
Why is HEPA Beneficial?
You’ve heard it time and again: HEPA filters are among the most efficient physical filters. HEPA filtration relies on momentum to trap various sizes of particle pollutants using a dense and felt-like net. These filters are made up of so many ultra-thin layers of mesh that completely passing through all of them is impossible for almost all micro-particles. So, you can say that HEPA literally filters out almost all impurities — specifically, 99.97% of them — and that it only lets clean air pass through.
It is important to note, however, that different markets qualify HEPA air purifiers differently. In the US, the HEPA standard is quantified as a 99.97% efficiency in removing microscopic, 0.3-micron particles. Meanwhile, European standards are commonly at the 85% mark. So if you really want the most heavy-duty of air purifiers in terms of filtration, buy American. If you’re in the EU and American brands aren’t as accessible, you can instead go for air purifiers that are rated “H13,” which translates to the removal of 99.95% of 0.3-micron pollutants.
Are There Other Reasons an Air Purifier is Beneficial?
Since dust particles had been effectively trapped inside the air purifier, you’ll notice that less dust will eventually settle onto the surfaces of your home. Having a significantly smaller number of dust particles accumulating on floors, shelves, and other furniture means that you’ll be less exposed to allergy triggers. Respiratory irritations, snoring, and odor problems should also be minimized. The fact that you’ll have to clean surfaces less frequently is another major plus as well.
Final Thoughts
All the air purifiers mentioned in this list are excellent for those who suffer from allergies. Yes, they have their merits and flaws. Ultimately, it will be up to you to determine which of the merits are most important to you and which of the flaws you are willing to overlook.
We believe the Winix PlasmaWave 5500-2 True HEPA Air Purifier wins out over all the other models mainly because it provides the same (if not better) performance as its more expensive counterparts. It has a lot of desirable features for such an affordable price, and the PlasmaWave Technology is an added bonus. The fact that it doesn’t produce ozone is also an attractive feature. Its CADR ratings are not the best in this list, but they are definitely above average.
The Coway AIRMEGA 300 is undoubtedly one of the best air purifiers available for allergy sufferers looking to cover a large part of their home. It’s powerful, stylish, feature-packed, and can cover up to 628 square feet of space for maximum allergen removal. It’s expensive but it’s definitely worth it at its price. Meanwhile, the Coway AP-1512HH Mighty Air Purifier is a no-brainer if you’re looking to clear areas such as your room or office. Its beautiful compact design makes it fit in with any type of room setting. Aside from its aesthetics, the Mighty Air Purifier packs a powerful punch and can remove all allergens from the room at 326 square feet every 15 minutes. Although not the cheapest air purifier upfront, it makes up for the cost difference in the long-run because it is energy efficient, and its filters are more affordable to replace.
Despite its lack of some desirable features, there’s no denying that the HPA300 is one of the most powerful air purifiers available today. Aside from being able to cover large areas, it is more effective at removing dust, pollen, and smoke as evidenced by its high CADR ratings. In addition, it can do 5 complete air changes per hour at the suggested room coverage of 465 square feet. If you’re specifically looking to remove airborne particles at home, then the HPA300 may be your best bet.
