When it comes to allergies, air quality is a major factor. To help you find the best air filter for your needs, Wirecutter has done the research and compiled a comprehensive guide. In this article, we'll discuss the different types of air filters available, their features, and how to choose the right one for your home. HEPA filters are the most common type of air filter and are designed to remove particles from the air.
They are effective at removing particles as small as 0.3 microns, including dust, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens. HEPA filters are also effective at removing smoke, fumes, and other gaseous contaminants. The Molekule Air is a popular HEPA filter that is designed to reduce particles by up to 99.7%. It features a patented PECO purification system that is activated when the fan is set to Auto or Dark Plus Auto mode.
In Auto mode, it reduces particles by 0.3 microns at 18.0% (ambient) and 26.4% (clean). In Silent mode, it reduces particles by 6.5% (ambient) and 7.2% (clean). In Dark Plus Auto mode, with its primary PECO purification system turned off and its fan at the equivalent of a medium setting, it reduces particles by 21.3% (ambient) and 18.0% (clean).The Coway HEPA air purifier is another popular option that offers 361 square feet of coverage and ion filtration technology that removes pet dander, dust, and other allergen particles. It also has a striking retro design that makes it stand out from other devices in its price range.
The Levoit variant is completely free of ozone and features an advanced 3-stage filtration system with a pre-filter, HEPA filter, and activated carbon filter that can remove particles as small as 0.3 microns. It is designed for rooms up to 160 square feet in size. The Airmega 400 Smart from Coway is another great option for extended coverage. It features an Airmega Max2 filter that reduces volatile organic compounds and significantly reduces fumes such as NH3 and CH3CHO. It also offers particle reduction of up to 99.7% to 99.9%.When choosing an air purifier, it's important to consider factors such as whether it has an air quality monitor or clean air supply rate, how often you should replace the filter, and whether it relies on ozone to “purify the air”.
You should also look for a device that is powerful enough to clean the air in a large living room or playroom, quiet and dark enough to sleep close to it in a bedroom, and economical enough to make it reasonable to have several spread throughout the house. Finally, keep in mind that while air purifiers can help reduce airborne allergens and pollutants in your home, they cannot guarantee 100% protection against viruses.
