An air purifier, not to be confused with air conditioning, is a machine that filters out pollutants, dust and other particles in the air.
What is a HEPA Air Purifier?
Short for high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA), this filter, which is inserted into the air purifier, is designed to trap very small particulate contaminants from an air stream. Because the particles are so small, these air filters must satisfy the standards developed by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to qualify as a HEPA product.
A HEPA filter needs to be capable of removing 99.97 percent of contaminant particles 0.3 μm in diameter. The standards also specify that HEPA filters must feature minimal pressure drop and maximum airflow when in operation.
Other types of air filters include activated carbon, which is mostly used to remove water from the air but can sometimes be effective for removing gases, and ozone generators. However, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warns that breathing in ozone can damage the lungs.
To help readers get a clearer picture of what products are on the market, Newsweek has rounded up the best HEPA-grade air purifiers that are available today.
To make sure that Americans are getting the most value and reliability for their dollar, we have only included purifiers that meet the HEPA standard—as defined by the Department of Energy (DOE) this standard is adopted by the majority of American industries.
Dyson: Pure Humidify+Cool Air Purifier
Humidify+Cool is a “multi-functional machine” which uses both activated carbon and HEPA filters. This means it captures 99.97 percent of allergens and pollutants as small as 0.3 microns. Its air multiplier technology projects purified, humidified air throughout the room and has a deep clean cycle to eliminate mineral build-up and bacteria.
The machine also has a night mode, which uses quiet settings and a dimmed display. Users can also program their machine to turn off after pre-set intervals between 30 minutes and eight hours.
Other need to know facts:
Recognized by the National Psoriasis Foundation to be non-irritating and safe for people with psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and/or individuals living with severe sensitive skin or joint mobility limitations. Certified Asthma and Allergy friendly by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Awarded the Parent Tested Parent Approved seal of approval.
The Dyson Pure Humidify+Cool Air Purifier retails at $799 at Best Buy
True HEPA Tower Air Purifier/Allergen Remover
Designed for extra-large rooms, this is the largest console air purifier made by Honeywell. It provides cleaner, fresher air while not sacrificing interior style. As another HEPA standard filter, it captures up to 99.97 percent allergens as well as reduces orders.
Users can select from four different cleaning levels including, germ, allergen and turbo power. It has an automatic shut-off timer after two, four or eight hours and circulates room air five times every hour.
The Honeywell True HEPA Tower Air Purifier/Allergen Remover retails at $169.99 at Home Depot
Winix: HR900 Ultimate Pet True HEPA Air Purifier with PlasmaWave Technology
This air purifier is designer to provide a better cleaning experience for pet owners and those with pet allergies. Combining smart sensors and “enhanced technologies” the product is made to purify pet hair, pet dander and odors. As a HEPA standard, it captures 99.97 percent of particles.
The 5-Stage air purification system includes the Ultimate Pet Filter, Washable Pre-Filter, Advanced Odor Control (AOC) Carbon Filter, True HEPA Filter and Winix PlasmaWave Technology to provide advanced control of Pet and other Household Odors and Allergens.
The Winix HR900 Ultimate Pet True HEPA Air Purifier with PlasmaWave Technology retails at $224.99 at Home Depot
GermGuardian: 28 in. Smart Elite 4-in-1 Air Purifier with True HEPA Filter UV Sanitizer and Wi-Fi
This machine not only uses HEPA air filtration to reduce exposure to indoor asthma triggers, but it also uses UV-C light to kill germs and a charcoal filter captures odors. It’s lightweight and ideal to use in medium to large-sized rooms.
The Guardian Technologies App will tell you when you need to replace your filter or bulb and will also keep you updated on the allergy conditions in your area. Users can also choose from five speeds, including a low speed that runs ultra-quiet and is energy efficient.
The GermGuardian 28 in. Smart Elite 4-in-1 Air Purifier with True HEPA Filter UV Sanitizer and Wi-Fi retails at $188.51 at Target
Vornado: CYLO50 Whole Room Air Purifier in White
It might look smaller compared to the other choices, but this machine provides 360 degrees of powerful air purification in rooms up to 100 square feet.
A good choice for those who want something modern and minimalistic, this HEPA filtrated machine removes up to 99.97 percent of airborne allergens and has three airflow settings allowing users to tailor the amount of airflow that is suitable for their needs. It traps dust, pollen, pet dander and more.
This Vornado comes with a filter replacement indicator, so people can make sure the air is always clean, which only needs to be replaced every six months—depending on usage.
The Vornado CYLO50 Whole Room Air Purifier in White retails at $99.99 at Walmart
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