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Air Purifiers

Air Purifier Buyers Guide: How To Choose The Best Air Filtration Tool?

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In this air purifier buyers guide, I will explain some of the fundamentals in choosing the right air cleaner in your home. After all, it is crucial that you can get an air purifier that perfectly suits your requirements and conditions. 

If you’re an allergy sufferer, you’ve probably noticed that the air in many areas of your home seems dirty. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. Several studies have shown that indoor pollutants may affect our health more than outdoor pollutants.

In the home, the two main types of pollutants are particulate matter (dust, pollen, dander, and mold spores) and volatile organic compounds (chemicals that evaporate into the air). 

Of course, the solution to these problems may come in the form of an air purifier. And right now, you might badly be needing one. 

Air Purifier Buyers Guide

An air purifier is a tool designed to clean the indoor air of your space or property. Every time the air passes through it, all of the foreign particles and unwanted elements are eliminated. 

Well, that’s the short explanation for the mechanism of an air purifier. But it is better to explain this matter in detail. 

How Does An Air Purifier Work?

An air purifier is a device that removes dust, pollen, smoke, and other airborne pollutants from the air. This device also helps to remove foul odors and improve the air quality in your home or office. There are two types of air purifiers: those designed to filter the air in a single room and those designed to do the same for an entire house. 

Most products use a combination of filters and cleaning mechanisms to eliminate pollutants from the air. An air purifier works in two steps: first, it removes large particulate matter, such as dust and pet dander, with an air filter.

Second, it kills bacteria and other microbes with ultraviolet (UV) light. 

The first step is performed by a pre-filter, a fine filter, and a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter. The first two filters (pre-filter and fine filter) large matter from the air. The pre-filter catches larger particles that could clog the HEPA filter. The fine filter catches smaller particles, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. 

Meanwhile, the HEPA filter removes 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns and larger. It is an essential filter that your air purifier should have.  High-Efficiency Particulate Air, or commonly known as HEPA filters, are effective in taking out dangerous elements in the air such as bacteria, viruses, and germs. 

If you are an allergy sufferer, or you are simply worried about acquiring airborne illnesses, these HEPA filters are perfect for you. 

Types Of Air Purifiers

When it comes to air purifiers, there are several different types available. The most common is the air purifier that filters out particles in the air. There are also purifiers that remove odors and purifiers that remove chemicals from the air. 

The following will elaborate you some of the common air purifiers today. Keep in mind that these could serve as your options for your first air purifier in your home, office, or workshop. 

Ultraviolet Air Purifier

UV light can be used to sanitize the air, and many air purifiers now include this feature in their design. Ultraviolet air purifiers work by using UV light to break down particles in the air into smaller sizes, which can then be caught by the filter and removed from the air. This can help reduce the total amount of dust and pollutants in your indoor environment and help alleviate allergies and asthma symptoms. 

There are two main types of UV air purifiers: the first uses a UV light tube, which emits UV rays that stick to particles in the air. The second uses a UV lamp, which uses UV rays to spark a chemical reaction that breaks down particles.

HEPA Air Purifier

I’ve already discussed how these HEPA air purifiers work. You see, they are the most common air cleaners out there. To surmise, HEPA air purifiers have HEPA filters that trap around 99.97% of tiny particles–elements that can’t be subdued by mechanical filters. The essence of these specialty filters is to ensure that illness-causing bacteria and viruses won’t get in your system. 

Activated Carbon Air Purifier

An activated carbon air purifier is an air purifier that uses activated carbon to remove odors, chemical gases, and particulate matter from space. Activated carbon is densely packed with millions of tiny pores that trap pollutants as they pass through. The pores are created by treating the carbon with steam under high pressure or burning the carbon with oxygen. The EPA has found that activated carbon is particularly effective at removing formaldehyde and ammonia from indoor air.

Ionic Air Purifier

An ionic air purifier is an air purifier that uses ions to help clean the air in your home. This is accomplished by producing positive and negative ions. The positive ions attach themselves to particles in the air, such as dust and pet dander. The negative ions attach themselves to toxins in the air, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful chemicals. 

The ions are then neutralized by a filter, leaving your home with clean air and a fresh scent. Although ionizers are often used to cleanse indoor air from pollutants like smoke, pollen, dust, pet dander, and mold, their use in air purifiers is relatively new. 

Electronic Air Purifier

Electronic air purifiers use a combination of filters and electronic air cleaning technology to clean the air in your home. 

First, they use a mechanical pre-filter to trap dust, hair, pet dander, and other large particles. Then, the air is passed through an electromagnetic field, which attracts and captures smaller particles as well as microorganisms like mold, viruses, bacteria, and spores. 

The air is then filtered once more to catch any remaining particles before being released through a diffuser or vent.

How To Choose An Air Purifier Based On Your Room Size?

The first thing you need to do before you get an air purifier is to measure your space’s size. For instance, if you intend to put the air purifier in your bedroom, you have to check the latter’s floor size. 

Small air purifiers are not effective in dealing with large areas and living spaces. On the flip side, it is certain that heavy-duty air cleaners are too much for compact and tiny rooms. 

Most of these air purifiers have labels when it comes to their coverage. You can see it on their manuals, too. If an air purifier can encompass your living spaces, then it could be a perfect choice for you. 

Alternatively, you can also check the “air changes per hour.” It is a gauge that tells you the exhaustive capabilities of an air purifier in terms of cleaning your air. This measure suggests the number of times an air purifier can cleanse your indoor air in an hour. The more cycles it can do, the cleaner your air becomes. 

This metric is affected by the size of your room. A small humidifier that can do eight cycles in an hour in a 200-square-foot room might only perform two to three cycles in a 700-square-foot area. 

The CADR Rating Of Air Purifiers

Typically, air purifiers have a clean air delivery rate (CADR) on their labels. It comes in the form of a number and was created by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM).

This particular rating is important, as it lets you gauge the efficiency of an air purifier when it comes to filtering dirt and particles in given floor size. 

Allow me to explain this concept.

A CADR of 500 for pollen indicates that the air purifier can eliminate the presence of pollen in your room by pumping additional 500 cubic feet of clean air per minute. 

Of course, the higher the CADR number, the more you can assure of the performance of the air purifier. It also suggests that the air purifier is designed for bigger rooms. 

For those who are looking for an air purifier to combat COVID-19, it is recommended that you get a unit that has a CADR of 250 or higher. Of course, you have to take into account the size of the room where you are going to place the air purifier. 

You can also check the table below for the recommended CADR per specific floor sizes:

Area 100 square feet 200 square feet300 square feet400 square feet 500 square feet600 square feet
Minimum CADR 60130200270330400

Noise Levels Of Air Purifiers

The majority of the commercial air purifiers today are using fans. These components are the ones that pull the air to the device for cleaning and filtration. 

These fans are not that burly, though. Hence, they can go quiet, especially if you put the air purifier in the lowest possible setting. Meanwhile, others create noticeable sounds (such as humming) every time they are running. 

Air purifiers have to quiet, especially if you want to put them in your bedrooms or noise-sensitive areas. 

The noise rating of air purifiers is measured through decibels. The lower the number, the quieter the air cleaner is. Silent air purifiers have a rating of 30 decibels or lower.  

Keep in mind that noise is relative to distance. The closer you are to the source, the louder the sound gets. Hence, it is also ideal that you place the humidifier away from you. 

Portability

When choosing an air purifier, it is essential that you are mindful of its size. 

Needless to say, some air purifiers are lighter and smaller than their counterparts. These compact units are the best choice for tabletop or travel-related applications. Technically, you can bring them anywhere. 

But at the same time, I have to emphasize that the performance of these small humidifiers are pretty limited. 

If you want heavy-duty air cleaning, you have to go to those heavy-duty units. However, these air purifiers are meant to stay in one place since they are big and heavy. While it is true that some of them have caster wheels, moving them would still be a challenge. 

Other Essential Features

Your air purifier will perform better if the following features are present:

  • Indicator light for filter replacement – It tells you if your air purifier filters are already dirty and require changing. 
  • Programmable timer – Sometimes, you don’t need your air purifier to run 24/7. A programmable timer lets you automatically control the runtime of the device, depending on the needs and conditions of your home.
  • Remote control – Who doesn’t want a remote on their air purifiers? With a remote, you don’t need to tend to the device all the time manually!
  • Digital interface – An air purifier should be easy to use. With a digital readout, you will be able to monitor the current status of the device.

Conclusion

With this air purifier buyers guide, I’m hoping that you will get the right air purifier for you. Not all air purifiers can fit your requirements, regardless of how powerful or efficient they are. 

At this point, you have to identify the type of air purifier that you want to get. Be mindful of the floor size of your living spaces, as well as the filtration capabilities of the air purifier. In this way, your indoor air will be fresh and free from contaminants. 

That’s it for now. For other related inquiries, feel free to ask me in the comment section below!

Best Air Purifier and Humidifier Combos

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The recent California wildfires have turned the West Coast into a dystopian nightmare. The skies are blazing orange, and the environment is pretty bleak. However, most residents complained of having difficulty breathing because of the poor air quality due to smoke and a high concentration of pollutants.

With the worsening air condition these days, it is quite right to invest in the best air purifier and humidifier combo. This 2-in-1 device is capable of alleviating the cleanliness of your indoor air. It can help your home or apartment feel fresher amid the depreciating air quality. 

Here are some of the combos that you should check out. 

Best Air Purifier And Humidifier Combo

1. Sharp Triple Action Plasmacluster Air Purifier with Humidifying Function – Editor’s Pick

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The exclusive plasma cluster ion technology of this item ensures that it can make your indoor air clean and breathable. Specifically, this system enables the quick and thorough elimination of microscopic pollutants that ordinary filters cannot capture. It produces positive and negative ions in the air so that the latter can be cleaned naturally. 

This air purifier-and-humidifier combo is powerful enough to deal with different viruses and bacteria such as MS2, E-coli, and staphylococcus epidermidis. Moreover, it is capable of reducing unwanted odor in the air. Despite its extensive performance, this device only produces less ozone than the ozone standard set by the FDA, NIOSH, and OSHA. Moreover, it has been tested by different independent laboratories in the world, ensuring its quality. 

Pros:

  • The HEPA filter is durable; doesn’t need constant replacement
  • Energy-efficient operation
  • Whisper-quiet runtime 
  • Eliminates bacteria, viruses, and pollutants
  • Deals with odor and unwanted scent

Cons:

  • No known issues

2. VENTA LW45 Airwasher 2-in-1 Humidifier and Purifier – Runner-Up

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You should always consider the VENTA LW45 Airwasher 2-in-1 Humidifier and Purifier. Its primary function is to ensure that the indoor humidity of your house is at the right level. It can cure dry air so that it will become more comfortable with your skin and respiratory system. At the same time, this unit is also an effective tool in removing pet dander, pollen, dust, and other forms of allergens. 

This utility is a perfect choice for large spaces. After all, it is designed to cater to areas that are as big as 860 square feet. Interestingly enough, the VENTA LW45 Airwasher is a filter-free utility. It cleans the air without the need for removing constant replacements. When it is working, it does not produce ozone, ion, and other harmful chemicals. Moreover, it is ultra-silent, which makes it a suitable choice for bedrooms, children’s rooms, and other living spaces. 

Pros:

  • Includes large water reservoir
  • Comes with an automatic shutdown feature
  • Great for large spaces
  • Works silently 
  • Effective in removing various pollutants in the air

Cons:

  • Doesn’t have a HEPA filter

3. Venta LW15 Airwasher 2-in-1 Humidifier and Air Purifier  – Budget-Friendly Pick

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Even being placed on the entry-level price range, the Venta LW15 Airwasher 2-in-1 is still a reliable option. The little brother of the Venta LW45 proves to be a worthy choice, especially if you have a small to medium-size home, room, or apartment. This combo can do simultaneous work; it can humidify the air and clean it at the same time. It eradicates pollutants and other elements that cause allergies and respiratory illnesses. 

The Venta LW15 Airwasher 2-in-1 is designed for areas that are as big as 200 square feet. And just like its big brother, it has a filter-free construction. Because of such a setup, you can guarantee that this unit will not increase your power bill. Meanwhile, its compact construction ensures that you can bring it anywhere inside your space. It doesn’t require many muscles to lift it. 

Pros:

  • A cost-efficient choice for small spaces
  • Whisper-quiet operation
  • Eliminates allergens and pollutants in the air
  • Portable and compact design
  • Doesn’t produce ozone or ions

Cons:

  • It takes long before it can increase the humidity of the room

4. BONECO – H680 Hybrid Humidifier & HEPA Air Purifier – Premium Pick

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The BONECO H680 is a superb machine for humidifying and cleaning your air. It features excellent purification technology due to its use of a true HEPA filter and active carbon filter. This one is capable of tackling microscopic contaminants in the air. Its performance is quite extensive, too. It has a cleaning output of 120 cubic feet per minute, which is truly one-of-a-kind. You can use it in large houses and offices because of its large reach. 

Meanwhile, the humidity output of this device can reach up to 6.34 gallons per day. It is an excellent choice for living spaces that have dry air and severe humidity problems. Thanks to its modern setup, the BONECO H680 is very easy to use. It has a remote control that allows you to configure its performance. Furthermore, it has other ergonomic features, too, such as air humidity sensors, water change reminders, and an automatic shutdown feature. 

Pros:

  • Suitable for spaces up to 1600 square feet
  • High-powered filtration function
  • Energy-efficient performance
  • Traps germs, viruses, and microscopic dirt
  • Great for adding moisture in the air

Cons:

  • Slightly expensive

5. Dreval D-950 Air Purifier and Humidifier

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It is also worthwhile if you are going to consider the Dreval D-950 Air Purifier and Humidifier as your combo. Its notable feature is the use of a sophisticated filtration system that ensures that your air will remain clean and breathable. It includes the use of HEPA filters, antibacterial filters, and cellular activated carbon filters. Interestingly, it also has an ultraviolet germicidal light that kills bacteria and germs floating in the air. 

This device is capable of dealing with odor-causing elements. It will automatically change its fan speed so that it can suck these pollutants from your indoor space. It also has excellent humidifying capability. The device can improve the humidity level of large indoor spaces. While it is working, you can guarantee that it will disturb anyone’s sleep. It is whisper-quiet, which, in turn, maintains the peace of your home and apartment. 

Pros:

  • Ultra-powerful air purification technology
  • Kills smelly odor in the air
  • Ideal for large spaces
  • Includes timer function
  • Doesn’t generate excessive noise

Cons:

  • The water tank is somewhat small for its size

Why Choose The Best Air Purifier And Humidifier Combo?

Interestingly, the combination of air purifiers and humidifiers is welcomed. Based on their respective functions, these two devices go hand-in-hand with one another. 

A purifier cleans the air. A humidifier ensures that it won’t be dry. 

If you are living in areas where the “sanctity” of air is an issue, an air purifier and humidifier combo should be the right choice. It helps you make comprehensive treatments to ensure that you can breathe and fresh air. 

One might say that it is better if you get a purifier and humidifier separately. Of course, that’s an acceptable choice, and you are allowed to do so. 

However, many deem that purchasing these two devices individually is expensive. After all, we all know that these appliances do not come cheap. 

If you will be given the opportunity to get the two in the price of one, would you miss it? Moreover, having a combo is quite cost-efficient, too. You don’t need to plug two devices at the same time. You only need one tool that can do all the purifying and humidifying for your home. In short, your electricity bill will not experience a huge increase. 

How To Choose The Best Air Purifier And Humidifier

To get the most out of your money and time, you need to select the right combos. Several features are essential for these devices. Here are some of them:

  • HEPA Filter – Since we are still talking about air purifiers here, it is crucial that the combo you get must have a HEPA filter. A HEPA filter is not your standard filter that only captures large particles and dust. This particular filter addresses the problem of allergens like pollen, pet danders, and microscopic elements. Specifically, it can deal with 99.97% of pollutants that are as small as 0.3 microns. 
  • Tank Capacity – This time, we are going to talk about the “humidifier” side of a combo. Among all the features that a humidifier possesses, one of the most important is its water tank. The water tank defines the runtime of the device. Basically, the extent of its performance is dependent on how big its water tank is. The larger the tank, the longer the humidifier can produce moisture.

Of course, there is one particular drawback here. Larger tanks mean heavier weight. It would be difficult for you to move around the device even in the premises of your home.

  • Reach or coverage – The combo is also rated on the physical dimension that it can cover. This simply means that not all air purifier and humidifier combos have the same scope. Some of them are designed for small areas like bedrooms, basements, and apartments. Others are for bigger areas and multiple rooms. You have to make sure that the combo you pick will be able to take care of your living space.

Don’t worry if the combo you pick is too big for your needs. The rule here is that the bigger, the better. After all, you can always adjust the output of these devices to match your preferences. 

  • Energy efficiency – We have to scrutinize an air purifier and humidifier combo based on its operational cost. You see, it is not recommended that you’ll get a unit that consumes too much electricity. By all means, that’s a bad choice. What you want is a device that will not become a burden in your power bill. 

You have to realize that air purifiers and humidifiers are designed to operate for continuous hours. Other homeowners, for instance, use them non-stop. They only stop their operation if the filters or tanks require cleaning already. But most of the time, they are just on a standby mode. If you are going to do the same, you should expect an increase in electricity costs. However, it still depends on the device on how much money you can save from it frequently. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Are air purifier and humidifier combos a good choice for homes?

A: Yes. They are practically efficient since they can do the job of two machines simultaneously. If you lack space or are hesitant to buy air purifiers and humidifiers separately, this option is a good choice. 

Q: Is a HEPA filter necessary for combos?

A: As I said, this particular feature is crucial, especially if you have problems with allergies and respiratory illnesses. This filter is designed to capture and eliminate the elements that cause those diseases. A combo that has a HEPA filter is always a good choice. But for some who simply want a purifier to deal with dust, you may go with units that don’t have this component. 

Q: Is it difficult to clean an air purifier and humidifier combo? 

A: It is not. They are just the same as your standard air purifier and humidifier. You simply need to follow the instructions on how to clean them. No parts of these devices should be complicated to deal with. 

Conclusion

Never hesitate to get the best air purifier and humidifier combo, especially if your indoor air has serious quality problems. If you want your apartment, office, or home to be livable and comfortable, this device might be able to help you with that. It is an excellent amenity if you think that your discomforts are brought by polluted and dry air. 

I hope that you learned from this guide. If you have questions, feel free to ask me in the comment section below.

Best Air Purifier for the Money and Value

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Air purifiers are essential appliances that ensure the air quality of your home, apartment, or office. But definitely, they should not overwhelm your wallet at all. 

The best air purifier for the money is the appropriate solution for those frugal individuals who are looking for the ideal means of indoor air purification. There are numerous models in the market today that are brimming with both quality and value. 

The following list features some of the suitable choices for budget-friendly, top-performing air purifiers that you can get right now. 

Best Air Purifier For The Money

1. LEVOIT H13 True HEPA Filter Air Purifiers

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The LEVOIT is one of the most trusted manufacturers of air purifiers. It can offer you a plethora of air purifiers to choose from. For budget-conscious folks, the LEVOIT H13 True HEPA Filter Air Purifier is an excellent pick from them. 

This one features a three-stage filtration system: the pre-filter, activated carbon filter, and true HEPA filter. They ensure that your indoor space will be free from large particles, small contaminants, and foul odor that could affect the air quality you breathe. It is capable of capturing 99.97% of airborne contaminants that are as small as 0.3 microns. 

The filters of this air purifier are replaceable. When running, the device is silent. The lowest setting only produces 25dB of noise. You can put it inside your bedroom and will not worry that it will disturb you in your sleep. Moreover, it is energy efficient, which means that it won’t add to your power bill. 

Pros:

  • Can do four filtration cycles in an hour
  • Effective in eliminating odor
  • Removes allergens that cause asthma and other respiratory illnesses
  • Portable; easy to move around
  • Energy-efficient 

Cons:

  • Can only filter a single room

2. Winix 5500-2 Air Purifier

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The Winix 5500-2 Air Purifier is a cost-efficient choice here. It is not as cheap as the other purifiers here, but it can definitely save you a lot in your electricity bill. It has energy-saving capabilities that regulate its power consumption, even if you operate it 24/7.

This air purifier is capable of trapping 99.97% of airborne particles and pollutants. Moreover, the HEPA filter of this device is rated to work against contaminants that are as small as 0.3 microns. Meanwhile, the AOC carbon filter of this device contains carbon granules that effectively treat foul odor. 

There is also a noise-muffling technology integrated on the Winix 5500-2. It works wonderfully in ensuring that nothing will disturb you while this device is running. On the other hand, the smart sensors of this air purifier help automatically detect the quality of your indoor air. 

Pros:

  • Low-noise operation
  • Traps both large and small pollutants and allergens
  • Smart sensors automatically adjust the fan setting based on the air quality
  • Suitable for medium and large-sized room
  • User-friendly interface

Cons:

  • Its blue light can disturb your eyes while sleeping

3. RIGOGLIOSO True HEPA Filter Air Purifier

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For its size and price, the RIGOGLIOSO True HEPA Filter Air Purifier works pretty decently. It features composite catalyst technology that has been integrated into its medical-grade HEPA filter. The latter is effective in decomposing toluene, formaldehyde, and other odor-causing elements. 

The air purifier is also rated to eliminate 98% of contaminants and illness-causing substances. You can use it in both home and office settings because of its portability. It has a tabletop construction that allows you to put it anywhere. 

The three-speed setting of the RIGOGLIOSO Air Purifier works best in dealing with different indoor settings. You can crank it to the highest power if you deem that your indoor air is infested by pollutants already. The noise level of this device is pretty acceptable to the ears. It is not that loud; it allows you to sleep comfortably at night. 

Pros:

  • Great for small, single-room applications
  • Easy to operate and use
  • Filters various contaminants and microbes in the air
  • Surprisingly sturdy
  • Comes with a nightlight function

Cons:

  • It doesn’t have a continuous model; you need to switch it off every 12 hours

4. Medify MA-14W2 Medical Grade Filtration Air Purifier

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The Medify MA-14W2 Air Purifier boasts its one-of-a-kind true HEPA filter. According to its manufacturers, the HEPA filter of this device is capable of removing 99.9% of airborne particles. This means that almost nothing escapes from the filtration capability of this unit. 

With a CADR of 120, this air purifier is rated to work best on 470-square-foot rooms in an hour. If placed in 200 square feet rooms, it can do two cleaning cycles in an hour. For rooms that are smaller than 117 square feet, this air purifier can do four filtration cycles in the same period. 

This air purifier comes with a myriad of features. It comes with three fan settings, sleep mode, and nightlight mode. These capabilities improve the usability of the device in various home and office settings. It also comes with a filter replacement indicator to know whenever you need to change the existing filters. 

Pros:

  • Silent operation
  • One of the most efficient purifiers for contaminants and allergens
  • Control panel is easy to access and navigate
  • Filters are easy to change
  • Can do multiple cleaning cycles in specific room sizes

Cons:

  • No significant drawbacks

5. SAMSUNG Cube Smart Air Purifier

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One of the most valuable air purifiers that you can get today is the SAMSUNG Cube Smart Air Purifier. It is portable but possesses enough power to clean medium-size rooms with ease. Specifically, this air purifier is the right choice for room spaces that are 310 square feet in size and less. 

The performance of this air purifier is simply ahead of its counterparts. It has air monitors that use laser technology so that it can detect all the particles present in the air. The monitoring is real-time; the sensors immediately display the air quality on its easy-to-read interface. 

Because of its modular design, the SAMSUNG Cube Smart Air Purifier is a unit that you can customize based on your needs and preferences. You can adjust its speed and output. Certainly, this air purifier does not release audible noises or cold drafts. It has a continuous operation but doesn’t consume too much electricity. 

Pros:

  • Easy and hassle-free operation
  • Highly accurate air sensors
  • Effective in trapping allergens and pollutants
  • Surprisingly compact and portable
  • Doesn’t produce ozone and other harmful compounds

Cons:

  • It is somewhat heavy

How To Choose The Best Air Purifier For The Money

When it comes to choosing air purifiers or any home appliances, the price does come into mind. It is pretty understandable that some people would want to regulate their expenses, even on acquiring essential amenities. 

With the worsening air pollution and the terrors that are brought by the coronavirus pandemic, it is not surprising anymore that there’s a demand in air purifiers. Many people in different countries in the world simply want this device to be present in their homes or offices. 

Considering that you want to be as thrifty as possible, the following guidelines can help you choose the right air purifier that doesn’t hurt your pocket. 

Effectiveness

The effectiveness of an air purifier is an indicator of its value. Would you buy a cheap air purifier even though it is not working properly? I think not. 

You see, the cost-efficiency of a product also depends on how satisfying its operation is. That’s the kind of satisfaction that you’ll never regret spending upon. 

So how would you know if an air purifier is effective or not?

The first factor that you need to take a look at is the filtration system. The more sophisticated the filtration system, the better. Don’t go for those air purifiers that only have one or two filters. They won’t do a complete job in improving the quality of your indoor air. 

Here are the essential filters that a good air purifier should possess:

  • Pre-filter – The pre-filter is the one that screens large particles in the air, such as pet fur and hair. Most air purifiers have pre-filters, and their quality doesn’t really vary. 
  • HEPA filter – The HEPA filter is considered as the most important filter of an air purifier. It is the one that traps and eliminates small and microscopic pollutants. It specifically deals with mold spores, dust, pet dander, pollen, and even germs. Most of the true HEPA filters out there are capable of absorbing 99.97% of air contaminants that are as small as 0.3 microns. 
  • Activated carbon filter – The activated carbon filter is designed to extinguish the foul smell in the air. If there’s a cigarette smoker in your house, this filter is absolutely necessary. But aside from the cigarette scent, activated carbon is also useful in neutralizing odors from pets and food that have a strong scent. 

Energy-Efficiency

The next factor that you need to look at in choosing a budget-friendly air purifier is its energy consumption. Ideally, air purifiers should operate for extended periods, especially if you are living in areas where pollution is very prevalent. Of course, if you are going to run an air purifier 24/7, expect that there’s a significant increase in your power bill.

Certainly, you’ll never want the increase to be that drastic. At the very least, you’ll want it to be within your expectations. 

Fortunately, many air purifiers have an energy-efficient operation. These are those units that can perform under heavy load without eating too much power. There are several certifications that can prove that an air purifier is indeed energy-efficient. You just have to look at the labels, and see their overall performance. 

Room Size

Next, you need to mind the size of the room where you are going to place an air purifier. Some households just want an air purifier for their living rooms and bedrooms, while others want a rugged unit that can cover an entire block or building space.

There are air purifiers designed for each of these settings. And for cost-efficiency, you’ll need the one that suits your needs. For instance, if you are going to invest in a powerful unit just for your small bedroom or apartment, that’s overkill. You are just adding numbers to your power bill aimlessly. 

Similarly, investing in a tabletop air purifier for a large space is not practical. You will be forced to invest in multiple air purifiers if that’s the case. You should just pick one large air purifier that can do the job of multiple small purifiers. If you are going to tally their respective costs, the big one will save you a lot of money. 

Other Energy-Saving Features

It would also be great if the air purifier has several energy-saving capabilities. Among these is the automatic shutdown or sleep feature that activates after minimal configurations. 

The night mode feature is also essential for those air purifiers that have illumination. When this mode is activated, the lights of an air purifier should turn off right away. 

Timers are also great, especially if you are minimizing the operational hours of the air purifier. 

Conclusion

These are the things that you need to mind whenever choosing a budget-friendly air purifier. In the market today, there are several air purifiers that can fit into these qualifications. Those that I have featured are an example of them.

Acquiring the best air purifier for the money is indeed an economical route these days. Even amidst financial constraints, you should still prioritize the conducive of your living space, especially its air quality. 

I hope that you learned from this guide. If you have some other questions or clarifications, feel free to drop them in the comment section below.

Best Air Purifier for Asthma and Allergies

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The best air purifier for asthma is designed to prevent attacks and recurring episodes of breathing difficulties and excessive bodily inconveniences.

One should know that asthma and allergies are serious health conditions, especially if you expose yourself to factors that can trigger them. Pollutants and other harmful substances such as mold spores and pet dander can insinuate these respiratory illnesses. 

Keep in mind that these contaminants can be present even inside the comforts of your home. At this point, it is already essential that you have the right purifiers that can capture these elements. 

Here are some of those air purifiers that are rated to work efficiently against asthma and allergy-causing substances.

Best Air Purifier For Asthma And Allergies

1. LEVOIT Air Purifier for Home with H13 True HEPA Filter

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The LEVOIT Air Purifier for Home with H13 True HEPA Filter is a recommended device that efficiently works against various air contaminants. It is the ideal air purifier for homes that are being troubled by asthma and allergy attacks. It cleanses both large and small particles in the air, ensuring that you can breathe without any worries.

This air purifier features a pre-filter that captures hair, pet fur, and lint. It also has an activated carbon filter that absorbs the foul odor coming from cigarettes, food, and pets. Its H13-grade True HEPA filter effectively traps all those 0.3 microns particles lingering in the air. The filter eliminates pollen, dust, germs, and mold spores.

This device is compact enough that it doesn’t become a cumbersome appliance in your property. It is an ergonomic device that features a built-in handle so that you can carry or transfer it anytime. By the way, this air purifier can cover up to 500 square feet of space. 

Pros:

Energy-efficient performance

Doesn’t produce chemicals and hazardous compounds

Capable of rapid air purification

Effectively in removing allergens

Runs silently

Cons:

Efficiency is decreased when used in large spaces

2. LEVOIT Air Purifier for Home And Large Room – Runner-Up

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This LEVOIT Air Purifier is also an excellent filtration system for allergic and asthmatic individuals. It is rated to remove up to 99.97% of the hazardous germs, pollen, pet danders, dust, and mold spores. This means that this device can help anyone to breathe comfortably and freshly. 

On its maximum setting, this air purifier is capable of 900 square feet in an hour. If placed in a 500-square-foot area, it can do two cleaning cycles in an hour. For 360 square foot spaces, this LEVOIT Air Purifier is capable of four filtration cycles in the same period. 

Aside from allergens, this unit is also rated to work against large particles. It also eliminates smoke and odor, thanks to its honeycomb activated carbon filter. Meanwhile, its True HEPA filter is said to be 30% better than other HEPA filters being used by other air purifiers. 

A smart sensor was also placed in this air purifier that automatically adjusts its speed based on the indoor air quality. 

Pros:

  • Suitable for large spaces
  • Highly efficient in filtering allergens 
  • Easy setup
  • Comes with automatic function
  • Includes a timer feature for better energy efficiency

Cons:

  • Produces audible noises when fully cranked

3. KOIOS Air Purifier – Budget-Friendly Pick

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If you are looking for a tabletop air purifier that works against various allergy and asthma-causing substances, I suggest that you take a look at the KOIOS Air Purifier. 

Interestingly, this unit is among the smallest air purifiers in the market. It fits any tables and countertops. But if placed in the suitable room size, this one works fantastically. Just like other air purifiers listed here, the KOIOS Air Purifier is capable of filtering 99.97% of dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and dust in the air. It can also purify particles that are as small as 0.3 microns. 

It features a three-stage filtration system, which includes a true HEPA filter, a pre-filter, and an activated carbon filter. With these filters, you can guarantee that this unit has a holistic performance in improving the quality of indoor air. It doesn’t have ozone emission, which assures its safe operation. 

However, keep in mind that this air purifier is only good for 60 square feet rooms or smaller. 

Pros:

  • Offers a complete filtration system
  • Silent operation
  • Traps different types of allergens
  • Simple interface and easy to operate
  • Excels in energy-efficiency 

Cons:

  • Filter replacement is quite expensive

4. Coway AP-1512HH HEPA Air Purifier – Premium Pick

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This filtration system is engineered to purify room sizes that are as big as 361 square feet. Under such a setting, the Coway AP-1512HH works efficiently, being able to conduct multiple cleaning cycles in an hour. 

It also has a four-stage filtration system, which includes a pre-filter, true HEPA filter, deodorization filter, and an ion filter. They guarantee that all particles and pollutants swimming in the air will be reduced drastically. The purifier is also capable of dealing with volatile organic compounds, allergens, and odor. 

With these filters, you can guarantee that the Coway AP-1512HH HEPA Air Purifier can beat the existence of allergens and asthma-inducing particles. 

There is also a sensor integrated into this device that monitors the quality of your indoor air. From that sensor, the data is being transmitted to the LED interface of the air purifier that lets you know if your air is clean or not. The monitoring is real-time so that you can easily adjust the purifier’s settings based on your needs. Aside from that, this unit also comes with a filter replacement indicator. 

Pros:

  • Features a four-stage filtration system
  • Ideal for mid-size rooms and areas
  • Includes air quality sensors
  • Comes with a timer feature
  • Does not consume too much power

Cons:

  • No known issues

5. Blueair Classic 680i Air Purifier for Home with HEPASilent Technology

PRODUCT LINK

The Blueair Classic 680i Air Purifier is undeniably one of the finest air purifiers today. It is not just effective; it also ensures that it will never disturb your sleep with cranking and humming noises. 

This device is equipped with HEPASilent Technology that effectively muffles the sound it generates. It filters the air in your home minus the audible sounds. Meanwhile, it is rated to work best of rooms that are in between 700 and 800 square feet. 

The sophisticated filtration system of this air purifier eliminates all the possible contaminants that are dwelling in the air. It is a suitable solution for those homes and properties that are being plagued by asthma and respiratory illnesses. It can do thorough filtration so that your indoor air is safe to breathe. 

Amusingly, you can control this air purifier remotely via its Blueair application. It is also compatible with Alexa for easier use.

Pros:

  • Includes air quality sensors
  • Silent and clean operation
  • User-friendly interface
  • Works well with large indoor spaces
  • Long-lasting performance

Cons:

  • Too bulky 

What Causes Asthma And Allergies?

Asthma is a respiratory disease. It is a condition that affects the lungs, specifically through the inflammation of the airways. When the passages swell, breathing becomes difficult.

One should not underestimate asthma. It is a serious disease that can cause people to stop talking or being active. Around 25 million Americans are currently suffering from it, while 2 million of them see the emergency rooms annually. 

Meanwhile, allergies typically happen when your body reacts adversely to foreign substances. Some of these elements could be pet dander and pollen. Notably, some individuals don’t suffer from allergies when their immune system detects the presence of these substances. 

Allergies happen when your immune system creates a trigger response in the form of antibodies. These antibodies think that there are components that are harmful to your body–even if they are not. 

Both of these conditions are preventable. One of the solutions to curb down their attacks is by ensuring that the air you breathe is free from various pollutants and elements. You need to ensure that the indoor air of your home, office, or apartment is clean and properly filtered. 

Allergens like pollens, mold, dust mites, pet dander, tobacco smoke, and spores can cause both asthma and allergies. Even strong odors can trigger them, too. 

Hence, you need air purifiers if you think that your property is being invaded by these pollutants. Otherwise, you and the other dwellers will remain prone to developing unwanted respiratory disease.

How To Choose The Best Air Purifier For Asthma And Allergy?

Here is a quick guide on how to choose the right purifier that can deal with allergies and asthma. 

Specific Filters

If you want an air purifier that can do an extensive filtration process, it is essential that it is equipped with the appropriate types of filters. 

  • Pre-Filter – This is the one that does the mechanical filtration. Specifically, it screens large particles such as pet hair. Fortunately, most air purifiers have pre-filters. Moreover, they don’t really vary much when it comes to quality and performance. 
  • HEPA Filter – A HEPA filter is probably the most important filter that air purifiers should possess. Most of the allergy and asthma-causing substances are not visible to the naked eye anymore. They are too small to be screened by pre-filters. A HEPA filter is able to capture contaminants that are as small as 0.3 microns. Hence, it is capable of trapping mold spores, pollen, and pet dander. Some models even boast HEPA filters that are capable of dealing with bacteria and germs. 
  • Activated Carbon Or Charcoal Filter – Some people are allergic to specific types of odor. A common scent that many people despise is the scent released by the fumes of cigarettes and tobacco. The filters I mentioned above are not designed to eliminate foul odor. Meanwhile, an activated carbon filter is engineered to ensure that your indoor air remains to have a neutral scent. 

Clean Air Delivery Rate

The capacity of an air purifier is distinguished through its clean air delivery rate (CADR). This rating system was developed by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) to measure the capacity of air purifiers in improving indoor air quality at particular room size. 

For instance, if an air purifier has 500 CADR for pollen and mold spores, this means that the device is capable of eliminating the presence of the said substances by adding 500 cubic feet of fresh air per minute. 

It is evident that larger CADR signifies optimal filtration results for areas that are considerably big. Keep in mind as well that an air purifier could possess multiple CADR numbers. Don’t be confused, though. It just means that the purifier has different capacities for varying pollutants. 

Room Size

When choosing an air purifier, it is essential that you consider the room where you intend to put it. If you are aiming to cleanse the air of various living spaces in your home, you would need air purifiers that have extensive cleaning capacities. Picking small, desktop models might not be suitable for this application. 

However, if you are just aiming to cleanse a particular part of your property (i.e., bedroom or basement), you don’t really need large air purifiers. That’s overkill. There are tabletop units out there that can deal with the job.

Either way, what you really need to ensure here is that the air purifier is capable of improving the indoor air quality of your living spaces. You have to make sure that it can do multiple filtration cycles in an hour at a given room size. 

Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Air Purifiers For Asthma

Q: Do air purifiers help in relieving allergies and asthma?

A: Certainly, especially if the air purifier is equipped with authentic true HEPA filters and prefilters. The HEPA filter, specifically, is a crucial component that captures common types of allergens that exist in any indoor space. 

Q: Can air purifiers cause breathing problems?

A: I have not yet encountered an issue where an air purifier is blamed for breathing issues and respiratory problems. However, to ensure that the air purifier is functioning properly, you have to replace its filters regularly. 

Q: Is dry air good for asthma?

A: There are several medical studies that confirm that dry and humid air further aggravates asthma. First, dry air is difficult to breathe. Second, when there’s dry air, this means that the external temperature is hot. Third, dry air is the breeding ground of asthma-causing elements like mold spores and dust mites. 

Conclusion

I cannot emphasize the importance of having the best air purifier for asthma and allergies in your home or office. This particular device is a blessing for those who are suffering from these diseases. You are giving them the chance to breathe properly and freely. 

These days, air pollution is truly out of hand. But this doesn’t mean that you can’t do anything to alleviate the situation. Investing in air purifiers is one of the efficient solutions to tackle this problem.

I hope that you learned from this guide. If you have questions, feel free to drop them in the comment section below.  

What’s The Difference Between An Air Purifier And Dehumidifier?

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What’s the difference between an air purifier and dehumidifier? How each of them works, and should you get them at the same time?

As early as now, let me debunk the idea that air purifiers and dehumidifiers are the same. Their design and structure might look the same. But their functions are not. 

However, each of them aims to clean the air quality of indoor spaces. They fit perfectly in homes, apartments, and offices. If you are residing in areas and cities are heavily beaten by air pollution, these devices are quite needed. 

This time, it is essential that you know the difference between air purifiers and dehumidifiers. In this way, you will be able to invest in the right unit based on your needs. 

What’s The Difference Between An Air Purifier And Dehumidifier

The difference between these two is pretty stark when it comes to their functions. One should not be confused between their intended applications, as they were engineered to perform specific tasks. 

Air purifiers are meant to clean the air by absorbing the air of a particular space and let it pass through a number of filters. It excels in dealing with allergens and other forms of pollutants such as pet dander, mold spores, and even smoke and foul odor.

Meanwhile, dehumidifiers work by pulling the moisture suspended in the air. By doing this, the device is able to lower the humidity of the room. Keep in mind that microbes and mold dwell in highly humid and damp environments. If your indoor spaces have a lot of moisture, it is possible that these organisms will perpetuate. 

Air Purifier vs Dehumidifier: A Comparison

 Air PurifiersDehumidifiers 
ApplicationScreens and filters the air from various forms of pollutants and odors Reduces the moisture and humidity in the air
BenefitsEnsures that the indoor air is free from contaminants that can cause allergies and respiratory illnesses Keeps the indoor moisture at an optimal level and ensure that allergy-causing molds will not exist 
Recommended Humidity Can varyOver 50%
Types Mechanical filters, ionizers, ozone generators, UV lights, and absorbents Mechanical, air conditioners, electronic, makeshift, and ionic membrane

Let’s further explore the functions and benefits of these devices:

Air Purifiers

An air purifier is tailored to eliminate any harmful contaminants that are lingering in the air. They excel in removing airborne pollutants, such as smoke, dust, and pollen. These elements are something that any dehumidifiers cannot do. 

It is also possible that air purifiers can remove mold build-up, especially if they possess HEPA filters. These filters can vanquish the spores in the air, which is the number one cause of mold growth. 

But always remember that air purifiers are not designed to control or regulate the humidity level of a particular space. Hence, if your house is extremely moist, then air purifiers are not the right device that you should get. 

As I mentioned, air purifiers have multiple filters on them. Depending on the filters included in the air purifier, it is capable of screening dust, bacteria, mold spores, allergens, and pet dander. Some purifiers are rated to cleanse the unwanted scent in the air. 

For me, it is crucial that the air purifier you get has a HEPA filter. This is the very filter that captures extremely small airborne pollutants. Specifically, HEPA filters are capable of trapping 0.3 microns of contaminants. It can work against germs and bacteria. 

If you want to somehow deal with excess dampness in your indoor air, it would be best if the air purifier must possess an activated carbon filter. It eliminates the musty scent in the air that is caused by mildew and mold. It can also purify cigarette smoke and pet smell, making your indoor air fresh. 

Again, do not invest in an air purifier if the problem in your house is humidity and moisture. It simply works by removing the pollutants by circulating the air through it. The one that can regulate indoor humidity is still a dehumidifier.

Dehumidifier

The job of a dehumidifier is not that as stringent as that of an air purifier. However, this doesn’t mean that it is not essential or that you should not invest in it. 

There are some areas or parts in the globe where moisture is pretty high. It is in these places where allergy-causing molds thrive and proliferate. If they get inside the air of your home, expect that someone will get sick sooner or later. 

A dehumidifier’s function is pretty straightforward: it simply absorbs or sucks the excess moisture present in the air. Specifically, there’s a collection system attached to these dehumidifiers. A specialized bucket is used as a storage for the moisture that the dehumidifier has collected. 

Keep in mind that these dehumidifiers will never clean the air of your home. They are not built to work like that. Their only role is to ensure that the moisture level inside your home and office will be regulated so that it is conducive for breathing. 

Whenever there’s minimal humidity, you will certainly notice that the damp feeling went down as well. You’ll also observe that the musty scent within your living space is already gone. 

Interestingly, low humidity prevents the existence of dust mites. After all, these tiny pests require moisture for their survival. Moreover, the reduced humidity in the air improves the coolness in your space. Moisture might be derivatives of water. However, they make things hot, which is pretty undesirable, especially if you are dwelling in temperate climates. 

Air Purifier vs. Dehumidifier: Which One Do You Need?

At this point, it should already be clear to you which of these two items you need in your home. However, there’s nothing really wrong if you are going to get these two altogether, especially if your indoor air has a lot of issues. 

In specific cases, you will need an air purifier if the following conditions are present:

  • You don’t want to suffer from respiratory illnesses and allergies.
  • You need clean air to deteriorate the chances of asthma and allergy attacks. 
  • You want to remove all the pet dander, pollen, and other contaminants in the air.
  • You need to lessen the accumulation of dust. 
  • You hate specific scents from cigarettes and food that have a strong odor.

Meanwhile, a dehumidifier is great if:

  • There’s a musty odor that is lingering in your house or office.
  • You don’t want dust mites to breed and grow in your area.
  • You have specific health conditions that are triggered when there are excess humidity and moisture.
  • You are residing in a hot area, and you don’t want the humidity to increase the temperatures further.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Purifiers and Dehumidifiers

Q: What should I use for asthma? An air purifier or dehumidifier?

A: Based on their given functions, it is pretty clear that an air purifier is a suitable choice here. It can eliminate pollutants and airborne elements that trigger asthmatic episodes.

Q: What should I use for allergies?

A: These two are capable of dealing with allergies, especially if your not system is not good in dealing with dust mites. But for a wider range of protection against allergies, an air purifier should be the right choice here. It will reduce the existence of the elements that make you sick. 

Q: Is an air purifier better than the dehumidifier for basement use?

A: This matter is pretty subjective. The real question here is the kind of element or contaminant that you are trying to prevent. If your basement is exceptionally pestered by pollutants and dust, you need to get an air purifier. If the main issue is humidity and moisture, dehumidifiers are your best bet. 

Q: Can you use both air purifier and dehumidifier at the same time?

A: Yes. In fact, it is highly recommended that you can get these two to ensure the optimal improvement of your indoor quality. With these two devices, you can guarantee that your indoor space will have a fresh, safe, and highly breathable air. You will no longer have to leave your property if you can get this level of convenience and benefit. 

Q: Can a dehumidifier eliminate bad odor? 

A: This device is not designed to filter the indoor scent of your house or apartment. As I mentioned, it is only suitable for taking care of excess moisture and humidity. It is not a filter, so it is already a given that it doesn’t have any means of filtering or cleaning anything. 

Conclusion

I am quite confident that you already know the difference between an air purifier and dehumidifier. Just remember that both of them have specific roles to play. Hence, there’s nothing really wrong if you are going to get them at the same time. They are useful appliances that can ensure that your living or working rooms are free from airborne contaminants and other forms of inconvenience-causing elements. 

That’s it for now. If you have other questions, feel free to drop them in the comment section below.