Whether at work in office or lounging at home, air quality is something vital to the relaxation and focus your mind can achieve. But can the air quality of your home be cleaner? Can you tackle those miniscule pollutants exacerbating allergies and silently pervading the lungs? Sharing a living with other people, not to mention the natural environment, will always mean air pollutants can drift through. Smoke removal can be achieved, while allergen ridden pollen, mold, etc. are all enemies to your zen state. So, finding the best HEPA air purifier is of utmost importance!

So, you might ask, where can you find a comprehensive list of the best air purifiers around? Ones that deal with dust, excel at smoke removal, provide the whole room with contaminant-free air? Look no further. Our team here at thesoothingair.com has rigorously put the very best air purifiers through their paces to give consummate reviews and determine the one that will meet all your needs, returning peace of mind and clear air to your living space!

Contents

Why Should You Trust Us?

Having managed and operated this site for four years, our knowledge of electronic air purifiers is simply excellent. To guide customers through the process of determining the right air purifier for their living space. Below we reveal the 10 best HEPA air purifiers, having deliberated through dozens of hours of thorough research and weeks of personal testing.

We’ve compiled reviews based both on personal experience and more widespread usage, allowing us to give an objective, honest evaluation of the strengths and limitations of each product.

We’re dedicated to helping you find the best HEPA air purifier, so consideration has been taken to the needs of different areas, quality assessment, price, and reliability. We’ve analyzed air quality both before and after purifier and cleaner installation, at the particulate, molecular level, to assess the presence of pollutants. This can be an often painstaking procedure taking days to fully evaluate the influence of the air purifier, but such patience certainly pays off in our extensive knowledge of these products. We are extremely confident this guide will be an invaluable resource for you.

What Is a HEPA Filter?

HEPA filters have revolutionized air quality and approaches to tackling allergies. HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) sifts through various pollutants in the air at the particulate level. These include everything, from pollen to mold to dust, as well as smoke removal and pet dander. Through ultra-fine mesh, pollutants are extracted from the air, filtering out the natural, healthy air which will not irritate the lungs and making air cleaner and safer. This is particularly important when considering families and friends with asthma or allergies- HEPA filters eliminate discomfort and bring peace of mind.

Of course, installing such air purifiers is a lifestyle choice- you are choosing to eliminate those pollutants which affect your respiratory system by installing an electronic device in the home. However, as such a constant presence in your living/work space, things like size, amount of noise, and aesthetic appearance are important factors. HEPA air filters/purifiers are designed to be as inconspicuous as possible- quiet, peaceful machines that do their job so you can get on with your life.

How HEPA Filters Can Help and Why You Should Buy One

So why buy a HEPA air filter? Does it really work? What benefits should I expect? What to consider before buying an air purifier? Can my allergies be defeated with it? In fact, these are all important questions and it’s vital for you to know what you will be getting for your money.

The home is your living space and your nest that provides your personal tranquillity. Yet particles which compromise the quality of the air also compromise the quality of relaxation. Moreover, while allergens are typically associated with the outside world, they can easily drift into your home and cause the same discomfort and ailments you might expect outside.The respiratory system is the main area likely to be affected, and problems stemming from this can go as far as cancer and even death. However, HEPA filter air purifiers remove these tiny particles that cause major discomfort and allergies.

A HEPA air purifier is also a lifestyle choice. Once you experience the cleanliness of the air around you, the thought of going back to compromised air quality can seem incomprehensible. Allergens may lurk in the tiniest of crevasses on rugs and couches, bed spreads and worktops. And the trigger point of allergic reactions can come from a range of sources, many of which you may be unaware of. Subtle mold, dust, gas, pollen, etc. are more prominent in any home than many would believe, and smoke removal is surely a necessity. Certainly when considering appliances like cooking fixtures, cars, fireplaces, etc. there are various sites where pollutants may find a home and enter the living space.

But the best HEPA air purifier can rejuvenate any room. When used as part of a commitment to whole cleaning throughout the living space, any health risks or allergies, no matter how major or minor, can be eliminated. Basic cleaning techniques, such as laundry, cleaning surfaces and vacuuming ensure the work of the HEPA system is not in vain.

Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing the Best HEPA Air Purifier for You

With our comprehensive understanding of HEPA air purifiers and our analysis of reviews, we are confident in recommending the best of the HEPA products available. The layman is unlikely to be able to distinguish between effective facets of different purifiers, and we are here to rectify the situation.

The phrase ‘99% effective’ is often lauded around. But is this a figure worth your hard-earned money? Is this a feature marking the best HEPA air purifier?

The generally accepted figure for a top quality HEPA air filter is 99.97%. And while 99% sounds great, it’s likely to miss crucial particulate contents which should be taken very seriously. Therefore, 99% for us is just not good enough, and you should know the same.

The internal mechanisms of the product are also important to think about- the whole system is important. Automatic modular features, air quality sensors, and other facets of the purifier must be considered in relation to your lifestyle and the environment you intend to place the purifier in. For instance, automatic modes are critical if you think you’re unlikely to change the modes yourself. Having to do it manually is often a time-consuming and easy-to-forget task that limits time for other important things. Automatic air purifiers adapt to larger presences of contaminants in the air. This is not only more efficient, but safer, and a comforting advantage over manual systems.

Key Factors and Features to Look For

Filter Class

HEPA filters come in different classes, and it’s important to understand which class will give you the desired effect you seek. The E class has the lowest retention level, at between 85 and 99.5%. From there, differences are minor- H class and U class filters give gradually higher retention levels up to around 99.99995%, as well as specified local retention ranging from 99.7-99.999%. Be sure to be attentive to class and retention level when considering a HEPA air filtration system.

Airflow Design Characteristics

Airflow design is important when considering the overall operation of the system. Higher or lower airflow can influence energy consumption and noise level. In addition to this, the environment may influence airflow resistance, so it is always important to gain a reading on the airflow characteristics of different HEPA air filters and find the one that best accommodates your environment.

Noise Level

Aside from removing pollutants, such as molds, dusts and pollen, noise is another pollution we wish to avoid in the whole home. Noise levels of HEPA air purifiers depend on the speed and level at which the system is running. After thorough analysis, any purifiers with a highest noise level above 55 decibels (normal conversation volume) are not considered. With that being said, purifiers would only be run on high when a wealth of pollutants pervade the space, such as nearby smoke.

Filter Replacement Indicator

Each filter has a time-frame with which it’s designed to be replaced. This can range from a year to 5 years and beyond. When buying, the annual operating cost must be weighed against the consistency of filter replacement required to evaluate the best option moving forward.

How We Picked and Tested

Our guide to the very best HEPA air purifier has been exhaustively put together, encompassing four years in which new models have been assessed an accounted for. We are always looking for the next great air purifier, and this list will be of enormous help for you in choosing the best HEPA air purifier for your space. These past four years have allowed us to personally test over 40 air purifiers in our search for perfection. We’ve learned a lot along the way!

In our latest guide, we looked at community as well as personal usage over a whole two-month period. Looking to cover every permutation of use, we assessed the quality of the product with the operation guide on and off. Additionally, we tested across a variety of environments to try to adequately cover all scenarios. What remains is a comprehensive analysis covering noise level, airflow, filter replacement indicators, filter class, particulate retention and many other factors. So you can rely on our judgments if you’re in need of an air purifier.

Our Top Ten Product List

So, here it is. Having rigorously tested what we perceive to be the 35 most important features of the best HEPA air purifier, we present to you the top 10 products. Like and share us on social media to gain access to the full in-depth report of each purifiers qualities.

Our number one choice for HEPA air purifiers has been thoroughly considered, tested, and lauded. Here’s why it gets our stamp of approval:

Our pick: GermGuardian AC4825 3-in-1 Air Cleaning System with True HEPA Filter

Number 1 Pick

GermGuardian AC4825 3-in-1 Air Cleaning System with True HEPA Filter

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Certified Energy Efficient

GermGuardian AC4825 3-in-1 Air Cleaning System with True HEPA Filter

The GermGuardian effectively kills molds, bacteria and viruses. It also performs well in term of efficiency, safety, effectiveness and cost. No wonder it earned the ENERGY STAR accolade.

Why is it our top pick?

Each product has been analyzed based on 35 features we consider to be important in choosing an air purifier. This is not just the best HEPA air purifier for dust, or air purifier smoke removal system, or electronic air cleaner. This is the best of the best, encompassing a whole host of different factors, from reviews to personal experience. Here are 7 reasons why we love this product:

With UV-C light technology, collaborating with Titanium Dioxide, it strikes the perfect balance to kill viruses, mold, germs, airborne bacteria, etc.
It’s 22 inch three speed electronic tower provides the optimum size in relation to it’s excellent capabilities in cleaning the whole room.
It’s 100+ CADR rating makes it perfect for the common medium sized room.
From a more technical standpoint, it’s ENERGY STAR accolade speaks to it’s energy efficiency, a hugely desirable characteristic.
Another thing to think about is of course price, and the GermGuardian AC4825 3-in-1 Air Cleaning System with True HEPA Filter can be bought for less than $100, a very competitive price in today’s market.
Rating frequency was also excellent in this product. Looking at 30 of the most recent ratings, it’s clear to see the delight people find in this product, such is the speed of posted reviews. These 30 reviews accumulated over the first 2 days of release.
Finally, for us to be sure of recommending a product, we must be certain of it’s safety. Intertek (a nationally recognized testing laboratory) has certified the products safety, the only one on our list that has this asset.

Detailed Review

Filtration System:

This unit is capable of filtering 99.97% of airborne pollutants from the air thanks to its three-step filtration system. First it cleans the air by filtering dust, dirt, pet hair and Not only does it clean the air with its carbon filter, it also kills bacteria and viruses with its UV-C light. It’s uses true HEPA filter that you only need to replace once a year.

Indicators:

You’ll know when it’s time to replace the UV-C bulb and filter on this unit with an indicator light. While the manual suggests that the filter life is one year, depending on usage, the indicator light will tell you when it’s time to change them for a more efficient output. No need to mark your calendars or set your alarm on your phone just to let you know it’s time to change filters.

Odor:

Aside from effectively removing particles from the air, it also deodorizes the air from pet odors, smoke, and even the smell of cooking food. To test the GermGuardian, I turned it on while frying fish, and it did a great job. Nobody could tell I was frying fish in the kitchen, or even that I was cooking at all.

Coverage:

This unit works best with small to medium-sized rooms, around 155 square feet in size. You may want to get an additional unit for rooms larger than that.

Price:

More than anything, it’s the price that we check first when it comes to buying anything. This unit is very affordable at less than $100. It’s a very competitive price considering all the features and efficiency of its performance.

Particulate Performance:

The GermGuardian AC4825 offers the recommended 99.97% particulate retention for effective air filtration.

Pros:

Energy efficient
Efficient and effective at purifying and deodorizing air
Great value for money with all its features
Easy to operate and runs quietly

Cons:

Not suitable for rooms larger than 155 square meters

Budget Pick: Hamilton Beach TrueAir Air Purifier

Odor Buster

Hamilton Beach TrueAir Allergen-Reducing Ultra Quiet Air Cleaner Purifier

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Best for Homes with Pets

Hamilton Beach TrueAir Allergen-Reducing Ultra Quiet Air Cleaner Purifier

This air purifier is best designed for homes with pets, and works superbly in terms of odor reduction with its 2 carbon zeolite filters, while vacuum clean filters reduce maintenance costs.

Why is this pick our budget pick?

1. With the 2^nd lowest price amongst our listed products, this cleaner offers value for money. With three-speed settings accommodating a variety of external conditions, an optional ionizer for particle removal, and a CADR rating of 70, this really cannot be beaten within the price range. Ratings reached around 30 within the first 35 days of release.

2. The design of the Hamilton Beach TrueAir Air Purifier is one of it’s most noticeable advantages. With a slim dual positioning design, it allows for an inconspicuous presence within the home, fitting a variety of living spaces across different dimensions.

3. It’s important to always monitor the quality of filters. However, the versatility of compatible filters make this product a winner as well. All Hamilton Beach TrueAir will prove effective for this purifier.

Detailed Review

Price

Often one of the cagiest points regarding air purifiers, this product comes at a welcoming $40-50. Depending on the urgency of air purifying, this can be an ideal option as a low cost, rewarding experience for smoke removal and other major pollutants and allergens, such as mold and pollen.

Odor

One of the best things about this product is it’s odor reduction. Designed specifically with pet owners in mind, the focus on pet odor reduction is a big plus, especially given the tendency of loyal pet owners to become ‘nose blind’ to odors that others may find irritable. This is achieved by the 2 carbon zeolite filters, which do require replacement.

Coverage

This product covers 140 square foot rooms. While not a huge area, the focus on pet odors means it is generally designed for targeting more localized regions of air quality, and should be treated as such.

Filter

As opposed to the prevailing tendency of these products to require constant filter replacement, this product offers a satisfying vacuum-clean filter, allowing for self-maintenance at a low-cost.

Particulate performance

With it’s emphasis on pet owners, it is relatively efficient at reducing the presence of pet hair and dander, some of the biggest allergens in such an environment.

Pros:

Odor reduction pet specific qualities offer unique advantages to a fairly niche market
Vacuum clean filter reduces maintenance costs
Low price

Cons:

99% particulate retention relatively compared to others on the market
Doesn’t cover larger rooms

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Best for the beginners: PureZone 3-in-1 True HEPA Air Purifier – 3 Speeds Plus UV-C Air Sanitizer

Starter Pick

PureZone 3-in-1 True HEPA Air Purifier – 3 Speeds Plus UV-C Air Sanitizer

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Simple and Efficient Air Purifier

PureZone 3-in-1 True HEPA Air Purifier – 3 Speeds Plus UV-C Air Sanitizer

The Pure Zone HEPA Air Purifier is perfect for first time users. With features like a 3-in-1 filtration system, UV-C light for eliminating viruses and germs, and automatic timer, it’s the practical choice for beginners.

Why is this pick best for the beginners?

1. This product is perfect for first time users who desire a simple, efficient machine. Combining pre-filter, excellent carbon filter features as well as the standard HEPA filter capabilities into one, this certainly is a comprehensive option, while the optional automatic timer is great to limit use to two, four, or eight hours. UV-C light also helps further eliminate things like viruses, bacteria, and germs
2. At a hugely competitive price, (approximately $100), this is also a great option to dip one’s feet in before fully committing to the air purifying process. Having received 30 ratings within 10 days of release, this is clearly a popular option and it’s positive reviews provide plenty of encouragement that this is a reliable option for beginners. This is perfect for those looking for a product they can immediately remove from the box and see a positive change in the work or home space.
3. At a particulate retention level of 99.97%, this product is certainly in the upper echelons in terms of quality. As mentioned earlier, the popularly mentioned figure of ‘99%’ isn’t what we’d regard as true quality, so 99.97% is extremely encouraging.
4. Another hugely positive factor is it’s low noise level. Taken in relation to normal conversation level (which is around 55 decibels), this product offers a noise level of just 30 decibels, giving it a desirably inconspicuous demeanour.
Additionally, the 5-year warranty on the product gives huge peace of mind, particularly for the novice who may still be unsure about the benefits of a HEPA air purifier.