11 Best Air Purifiers for Mold & Mildew [Buyer’s Guide]
Eliminating mold and mildew can be an uphill battle if you don’t know how to approach it. Mold can form on damp surfaces in less than 24 hours. So, how would you even begin to tackle such a persisting nuisance? The number one tool you can equip yourself with is a good air purifier. By […] The post 11 Best Air Purifiers for Mold & Mildew [Buyer’s Guide] appeared first on Homesthetics - Inspiring ideas for your home..
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Eliminating mold and mildew can be an uphill battle if you don’t know how to approach it.
Mold can form on damp surfaces in less than 24 hours. So, how would you even begin to tackle such a persisting nuisance?
The number one tool you can equip yourself with is a good air purifier. By circulating and cleaning the air in a room, you can remove moisture, dust, and germs before it even gets a chance to form.
Not to mention the added benefit of having cleaner – healthier air to breathe in.
Today there are an endless number of air purifiers with all the bells and whistles. To make the selection process simpler for you, we’ve compiled a list of 11 purifiers with different features and, most importantly, effectiveness for any room size you may be on the market for.
Best Air Purifiers For Mildew & Mold
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | |
|---|---|---|---|
Our Top PickOur Top Pick | GermGuardian AC4825 |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | Winix 5300-2 |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | Honeywell HPA300 |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | Airthereal APH26 |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | SilverOnyx Air Purifier |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | Pure Enrichment PureZone Elite |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | InvisiClean Aura II |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | TruSens Z3000AP |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | GermGuardian AC9200W |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | RabbitAir MinusA2 SPA-780A |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
Kicking off our guide is the GermGuardian AC4825, which provides the efficiency of three filters in one. What’s more, the air filter comes with a UV-C light along with its three-filter system. It has a compact and lightweight build as well if you need a filter with a smaller footprint.
- 4 IN 1 AIR PURIFIER FOR HOME True HEPA air filter reduces up...
- KILLS GERMS UV C light helps kill airborne viruses such as...
- TRAPS ALLERGENS Pre filter traps dust, pet hair, and other...
- REDUCES ODORS Activated charcoal filter helps to reduce...
Why Did We Like It?
The GermGuardian purifier is compact for the amount of filtration it offers, with the UV-C light being the key feature here. Removing viruses that other filtration systems would be unable to attack is definitely a bonus for the extra level of cleansing it offers.
Owing to the HEPA, charcoal, and the pre-filters, nothing gets past this air purifier. Moreover, these filters can be used for 6-9 months, making them low maintenance. Even with regular cleaning every week or so, they last for a long time before needing to be replaced.
Furthermore, the model is designed to run 24/7, so all you need to do is replace the filters twice a year and let it take care of the rest. It serves as a “set up and forget about it” option.
Additionally, this air purifier comes at an affordable price which is always a welcoming aspect.
What Could’ve Been Better?
This air filter from GermGuardian is not without its shortcomings, which is something to be noted before buying. First, we noticed that its replacement filters are higher in price than some other available options. There also seems to be a problem with the circuit boards of a few of these models, which might be a possible risk.
- Great value for its price
- Quiet operation – ideal for work or house environments
- Long-lasting filters
- Compact footprint
- Energy star certified
- Expensive replacement filters
- Risk of circuit board malfunction
The following air purifier we found is one from Winix with the latest in-air filtration technology. It has a four-stage filtration system to boot, including its very own PlasmaWave technology. Of course, its included one-year supply of replacement filters is what sets it apart.
- True-HEPA filter captures 99.97% of airborne pollutants;...
- 3 Stage cleaning, removes a range of allergens: dust,...
- PlasmaWave acts as a permanent filter to safely break down...
- Delivered air flow :236 CFM, decibels : 27.8 . Smart Sensor...
Why Did We Like It?
Having two onboard sensors allows the purifier to tell you the air quality in real-time – truly a no-brainer feature for air purifiers. Additionally, a sleep mode will detect when it is dark so that it automatically enters the quiet mode without a remote. Using the two features together, the Winix 5300-2 will adjust its modes based on the air quality, doing all the work for you.
There are four filters that the air passes through – a washable pre-filter, activated carbon filter, HEPA filter, and the PlasmaWave filter. It’s interesting to note that the PlasmaWave is a permanent filter that breaks down odor, allergens, and pollutants with no harmful ozone.
Furthermore, this model can cover an area of 360 sq. feet, with its HEPA filter rated to last for an entire year. And the included-year supply of filter replacements you get makes it worth the investment.
What Could’ve Been Better?
The included air filter replacements are a nice touch; however, buying them yourself can be expensive. That said, having them last as long as they do makes them a rare purchase.
What’s more, those who prefer having a remote along with their air purifier might get disappointed. Then again, the included auto mode has seemingly replaced the need for a remote
- Automatic adjustment between modes
- Ability to gauge air quality in real-time
- One year supply of replacement filters
- Extremely quiet
- Perfect for medium-sized rooms
- No remote included
- Expensive air filter replacements
The Honeywell HPA300 is built for extra-large rooms while maintaining the air filtration quality of smaller filters. Backing its ability to filter air effectively, it is a highly recommended choice by allergists and doctors alike and has a 5-year warranty.
- EXTRA LARGE ROOM AIR PURIFIER – The Honeywell HPA300 HEPA...
- HELPS REDUCE ALLERGENS & CERTAIN GERMS - This HEPA air...
- EFFECTIVE AIR CLEANING AND CIRCULATION – The Honeywell...
- No.1 BRAND RECOMMENDED BY ALLERGISTS – Honeywell HEPA Air...
Why Did We Like It?
This air purifier is perfect for those looking to cover a larger area. It is indeed one of the best options for eliminating odors, allergens, and germs across larger areas that smaller filters may struggle with.
Honeywell is backed by allergists and doctors, giving credit to the effectiveness of the filters. It can run 120x a day in a room as large as 465 sq. feet. All while seeing no decrease in performance or air quality.
And with a straightforward control panel, an auto shut-off timer, filter change indicator, and light dimmer for the control panel, there is no learning curve to begin using this powerful air filter.
From the build quality of the materials to the durability of the actual machine, you can’t go wrong if you need a purifier for large areas. A simple setup with a direct approach to operating makes it perfect for buyers in this large coverage bracket.
What Could’ve Been Better?
One downside that could be an inconvenience is that Honeywell insists on buying their brand manufactured filter replacements for effectiveness. What’s more, the pre-filter needs to be changed regularly.
It can also get deafening when set to the higher modes; otherwise, the lower settings are quieter to the point of white noise.
- Effective over larger areas
- Quality build with brand-backing by medical professionals
- Simple, straightforward operation
- Durable with an included 5-year warranty
- Limited to expensive Honeywell filter replacements
- Loud noise level on higher settings
Another all-in-one package when it comes to air purifiers – Airthereal offers a great option in their APH26 model. It has a built-in monitor that changes modes depending on the air quality.
Additionally, the upgraded H13 HEPA filter add-on and UV light definitely help target mold formation.
- HIGH PERFORMANCE: Pre-Filter, True HEPA Filter, Activated...
- CADR RATED 152+CFM (260 m³/h): means that it can purify an...
- SMART CONTROL: Turn on Airthereal's smart control to...
- SLEEP MODE: Enable sleep mode to ensure that the machine...
Why Did We Like It?
Using the Airthereal APH26 is a breeze both literally and figuratively. In a mere ten minutes, there was a considerable improvement in air quality. Having a smart control to switch between modes based on the air quality around the purifier allows it to be switched on and left to work.
Now, its built-in, encased UV light will protect users from the rays while still removing airborne allergens. Working alongside this, Airthereal includes an Anion function that electrically charges dust, odors, and pollen to speed up its collection. What’s more, it does not need any replacements!
Other valuable tricks that this purifier offers include a 0-12-hour timer to tailor to any schedule, saving time and money. Furthermore, having a timer will expand the lifespan of the machine.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Undoubtedly, this purifier is not without its share of drawbacks. After using it for a while, there was a persistent noise coming from the unit even after cleaning.
Apart from this, some may not be comfortable with the Anion setting releasing negative charges into the air to pick up allergens faster.
- Smart mode
- H13 HEPA filter ready
- UV light & Anion mode built-in
- No need for replacement filters
- Release of ozone from Anion setting
- Increasing noise level
Another alternative comes from SilverOnyx’s air purifier. A 3-stage filtration combined with a five-fan speed setting ensures clean air circulating the room in no time. Perfect for large rooms up to 500 sq. feet, it has no problem picking up allergens.
- Air Purifiers for Home Large Room: True Hepa H13 charcoal...
- 5 Stages of Air Cleaning: Advanced purification for the...
- True Hepa Filtration: High quality air purifier with a True...
- Clean Air Ionizer: The SilverOnyx Hepa air purifier with...
Why Did We Like It?
Having a purifier with an H13 HEPA filter right out of the box is a comfortable investment for air improvement. Its unique round shape provides a larger surface area for more air to pass through the filters, increasing its range and effectiveness. Such is the power of the improved H13 HEPA filter.
On top of the unit is an easy-to-see touch panel for switching between the five fan speeds. Alternatively, you may activate the auto mode to leave it to its own devices and adjust fan speeds on its own.
More than just air filters, a UV light, and a “Negative Ion Generator” is located at the purifier base. The generator releases negative ions to draw in airborne particles faster.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Maintenance work on the SilverOnyx AirPurifier is not the most straightforward task to handle. The P2.5 sensor compartment feels as if it could break when trying to get it open. On top of that, cleaning the sensor every month is recommended if using the purifier daily, making it a regular task.
- 360-degree H13 HEPA filter
- Five fan speeds
- Three color variants – white, silver, and black
- Intuitive and user-friendly touch panel
- Monthly cleaning required
- Poor build quality
Weighing in at a little below 10 pounds, the PureZone Elite is a sleek and light yet powerful machine. It can cover up to 190 sq. feet, making it ideal for any large spaces that need ventilation.
Additionally, it is packed to the brim with features and sensors to improve air quality, such as a real-time air quality display and varying energy-efficient settings.
- 4-STAGE AIR PURIFICATION: Clean and sanitize your air from...
- BUILT-IN UV-C LIGHT: Adds a deeper level of air sanitation...
- SMART AIR QUALITY MONITOR: PureZone Elite uses smart air...
- ENERGY-EFFICIENT & EASY TO USE: Using touch-button...
Why Did We Like It?
The PureZone Elite has a modern, sturdy build with a good quality feel. Additionally, it runs smoothly with little to no noise, even at higher fan speeds.
One feature that comes in handy is the timer with three different modes for the fan speeds to save energy and run by itself. Until the timer runs out, the purifier will run at the selected speed then switch off. Of course, the auto mode is always a safe bet to let the sensors adjust the purifier according to the air quality.
Another handy feature is the display which shows the air quality in real-time. Monitoring this level can help you make manual adjustments to fan speed.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Being forced to use the brand’s replacement filters is expensive and always a hassle. Making it more of a process is the long wait if there is no more stock available. PureEnrichment’s Pure PureZone is no exception to this kind of drawback.
- Quiet operation
- Intuitive control panel
- Energy-efficient timer settings
- Lightweight
- Availability of replacement filters
- Only brand filter compatible
Another option available is the Aura II from InvisiClean, a small package with a big punch in terms of power. Equipped with a DC motor, this little machine will cycle more air through it into rooms with a total area up to 319 sq. feet.
- Get Relief From Allergies - Eliminates common allergy...
- Best In Class Performance & Energy Saving - Utilizes low EMF...
- Complete Filtration & Germ Disinfection - Easily replaceable...
- Whisper Quiet & Effective – Quiet at low speed and turbo...
Why Did We Like It?
Easily one of a kind, the DC motor within this purifier cuts down on power consumption based on the setting.
At the same time, the air output that it is capable of increases with the more substantial power supply. By purifying the air faster, it can draw in more air, resulting in a more efficient system all-in-one compact design.
Speaking of compact design, coming in at less than a foot wide and under 18 inches, the Aura II is a mini giant in the world of air purifiers. Combined with the sizable effective range, it is ideal for almost any space you place it in.
A portable powerhouse with four fan speed settings, the Aura II has other useful settings as well. The auto shut-off timer for 2, 4, and 8 hours and sleep mode, come in handy for use in a bedroom.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Of course, with a purifier packing this much power and air output, noise levels were a tad bit louder for higher settings, especially the Turbo mode. What’s more, the Aura II does seem to struggle with removing odors from a room.
- Compact design
- Low power consumption
- Higher air output
- Four-speed fan settings
- Loud at higher speeds
- Can’t handle removing odors
TruSens has developed several different sizes of air purifiers with various features. The large variant is rated for an area of up to 750 sq. feet.
With its bi-directional air flow combined with the SensorPod, the air purifier is truly an intelligent machine with a modern design to match and handle any allergens in the room.
- CAPTURES AND DESTROYS POLLUTANTS: 360-degree DuPont True...
- SMARTER SENSING: Most traditional purifiers don't know the...
- DUAL AIRFLOW: PureDirect proprietary technology splits clean...
- DETAILED LED DISPLAY: Air conditions in your home can change...
Why Did We Like It?
Using this air purifier from TruSens feels like the future. Placing the SensorPods around a room allows for more accurate air readings to be taken, not just around the actual air purifier. Of course, the auto mode will adjust accordingly.
On top of the filter is the control panel with a straightforward layout. Switching between modes here is simple and easy to use. Among these modes, it sports a night mode to dim the lights and the whisper mode for lowkey operation or a more robust Turbo mode when needed.
The 360-degree design of the HEPA filter inside brings the filtered air to the unique bi-directional airflow vents. One vent faces forward, with the second blowing upwards, which makes a considerable difference in delivering the purified air efficiently around the room.
What Could’ve Been Better?
On the one hand, the TruSens Large Air Purifier is chock full of cool features; however, the build quality does not inspire the most confidence.
Having a filter with a 360-degree design makes replacing it a more common task. On top of that, the price of the replacement filter does not come cheap.
- BI-directional air output
- SensorPod air quality reading
- Five fan speeds with timer
- 360-degree True HEPA filter
- Poor build quality
- Expensive replacement filters
Another option from GermGuardian is the AC9200W, designed for large areas up to 335 sq. feet. Using an H13 HEPA filter along with a carbon and charcoal filter, this 3-in-1 air purifier does its job well in removing allergens from a room. An optional UV-C light is a final piece that completes it.
- 3 IN 1 AIR PURIFIER FOR HOME : True HEPA air filter reduces...
- KILLS GERMS : UV C light helps kill airborne viruses such as...
- TRAPS ALLERGENS Pre filter traps dust, pet hair, and other...
- REDUCES ODORS : Activated charcoal filter helps to reduce...
Why Did We Like It?
Having a simple air purifier is a refreshing break from the technological features of other purifiers. It has three speeds to choose from and a 6-hour timer. While limited in its choice for adjustment, this air purifier works wonders in cleaning the air and eliminating any odors.
A separate UV-C lamp and Ionizer can run independently from each other and the air filtration system. This option opens up more modes if you want to use just one without the other while filtering air, or neither of them at all.
Hands down, the best surprise found while using this air purifier is its quiet operation on multiple levels. Almost to the point of a whisper, it was never distracting while it ran.
What Could’ve Been Better?
A quiet air purifier, such as this one would be perfect for the bedroom. However, the LED screen remains on with no option to dim it – a slight inconvenience but an option we would’ve liked. Additionally, the footprint of this air filter is on the bigger side if space is a consideration for you.
- Straightforward feature and function
- Works efficiently
- Independent UV and Ionizer
- Operates quietly
- Controlled amount of ozone released
- Large build
- The LED screen remains on
One of the more unique designs for air purifiers – the SPA-780A comes with a six-stage filtration process inside. Using a BioGS HEPA filter along with a customizable filter to eliminate specific allergens or odors and an optional ion generator, the MinusA2 effortlessly cleans spaces up to 815 sq. feet.
- Advanced HEPA filtration with six stages of purification and...
- 5 Year Warranty
- Germ Defense customized filter: Effectively traps and...
- The MinusA2 is designed to either stand alone or to be...
Why Did We Like It?
RabbitAir’s MinusA2 is aesthetically pleasing to look at right off the bat. Available in a sleek black or white finish mounted on a wall or its stand, it offers a modern look to any space.
The actual functionality of the air purifier leaves little to be desired, with an option to change a filter to target specific allergens. You can choose between a toxin absorber, odor remover, germ defense, and a pet allergy filter. Each of these focuses on drawing out its respective allergen.
But the germ defense filter is especially effective for bacteria and mold spores. You can also interchange the filters to suit your own needs.
Furthermore, the filters have a life expectancy of up to two years, even with 12-hour daily use.
What Could’ve Been Better?
RabbitAir has many claims regarding its MinusA2 model; how well those claims hold up remains to be seen. However, when it comes to removing odors with fine particulates such as smoke, it does struggle, despite having a dedicated filter for odors.
- Interchangeable filters
- Ion generator (optional on/off)
- Sleep mode
- Little to no noise during use
- Struggles with odors
- Smaller air intake vent
Before wrapping up our list, we’ll introduce you to the PCO575DC air purifier from Vornado, able to cover an area of up to 258 sq. feet. It uses Vornado’s own Silverscreen Enhanced HEPA filter that claims to remove up to 0.001 microns from the air, far more than the 0.3 microns of True HEPA filters.
- PATENTED TECHNOLOGY — Patented Silver screen technology...
- TRUE HEPA + CARBON FILTRATION — Captures 99. 97% of...
- ENERGY EFFICIENT — Equipped with an energy-saving DC motor...
- EASY TO USE — Adjust the 8 speed settings with Quick Clean...
Why Did We Like It?
A True HEPA filter is a standard for air purifiers. To see the combination of a HEPA and Vornado’s Silverscreen filter in cleaning beyond what the HEPA filter can’t is exciting to see. The actual performance of whether it cleans down to the minor micron level is unclear from what we can tell. Regardless, it functions well in removing allergens and mold from the air.
The touch control panel is clear and easy to use on top of the purifier, allowing you to fine-tune the fan speed you want with the eight options. And while cycling air through the filtration system, the noise level is kept to a minimum unless you reach a higher fan speed.
What’s more, the auto mode is accurate enough to detect when materials are in the air and it adjusts speeds to pick them up and filter them out. Plus, the aerodynamic vents ensure efficient coverage across the room it is placed in.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Having such a powerful air purifier powered by a DC motor, it is no surprise that the size of this purifier is on the larger side. Additionally, the UV bulb might get burned out in a matter of a few weeks despite light use.
- Accurate auto mode sensor
- Quiet operation
- Ten-year warranty
- Intuitive touch control panel
- Efficient and even coverage
- Larger footprint
- Fluctuating UV bulb life
Mold & Mildew Air Purifier Buyers’ Guide
Now that you know what options are available on the market, it is easy to be unsure of the best air purifier for your needs. With all the unique features that every purifier offers, the latest and most feature-rich model may seem like the obvious choice.
Let’s go over what exactly you would need to tackle the mold and mildew situation.
-
True HEPA Filter
One of the most common features in this list; having a True HEPA filter in an air purifier, which is a must. It can collect up to 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns and serves an essential tool in preventing mold from forming.
When deciding which air purifier is right for you, having an air purifier designed to cover the room size or area you are trying to clean is another aspect to keep in mind. The True HEPA filter will work best only in combination with an air purifier built to handle the room’s surface area.
Do keep an eye out for descriptions stating HEPA filters and True HEPA filters in product descriptions! True HEPA Filters have been verified to meet US Department of Energy standards and pick up particles much better.
-
Ultraviolet-C (UV-C) Light
If you want to take an extra step in ensuring the mold spores are 100% eliminated, then look for a model with a UV-C light built-in.
This particular light breaks down the DNA of the spore. After all, mold is a living organism and can not grow when exposed to this wavelength of light.
On the other hand, UV-C light does emit ozone, which can be a respiratory irritant. Having a UV-C light is not a requirement, but it does help eliminate mold and mildew. Especially when combined with the True HEPA filter, this is one dynamic duo that won’t let a single spore escape.
-
Room Size
Room size is a factor you should consider to get the absolute best performance in terms of efficiency from your air purifier. Having an air purifier that is not rated to handle the air volume in the room will impact its performance. When browsing through your options of purifiers, keep in mind the different room size terminology most commonly noted in the description.
Smaller rooms are usually referring to an area of around 155 sq. feet. Similarly, medium rooms denote an area of up to 300 sq. feet. The largest room size measurement measures up to 500 sq. feet. Knowing these terms and measurements will help determine which purifier would be most efficient for the size of your room.
Verdict
When considering all the required features in an air purifier to fight and prevent future mold and mildew, the GermGuardian AC9200W is the ideal all-around package. With an H13 HEPA filter inside and a UV-C light, it removes mold spores quietly and efficiently.
The RabbitAir MinusA2 is a versatile alternative if you choose to avoid UV-C light. Customizable filters allow you to tailor the purifier to any other allergen you may want to remove from the air.
Another purifier you should consider is the Winix 5300-2 for its value. With the auto mode and range, it is ideal for families. Long-lasting filters and an included-year supply of replacements make it a good investment.
With that, you are more prepared to eliminate mold and mildew. Focusing on specific rooms and eliminating the source of the mold and mildew, the air purifier you pick will soon have you breathing a sigh of relief.
The post 11 Best Air Purifiers for Mold & Mildew [Buyer’s Guide] appeared first on Homesthetics - Inspiring ideas for your home..
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