The best air cleaners in the UK 2023

Want to improve the quality of life for you and your children? You'll need an air purifier. This type of device can eliminate the viruses and bacteria that nestle in your home. Indoor air is 8 to 10 times more polluted than outdoor air. To treat the humid and gaseous atmosphere, you can turn to the best Aiibot purifier (effective and convenient) or choose from the other models in this guide.

Rowenta PU4080F0 1
9/10

Best value for money

Rowenta PU4080F0

The best air purifier in 2021

The Rowenta PU4080F0 air purifier offers you clean air for a healthy life. It is a very effective air purifier to purify the air in your daily life.

183 £ on Amazon

The PU4080F0 intense Pure Air connect air purifier from Rowenta can capture up to 100% of allergens and fine particles thanks to its new 4-stage filtration system and its allergy+ filter, it also features a patented Nanocaptur technology which allows to permanently destroy formaldehyde. Very quiet, PU4080F0 is twice as discreet without compromising on its speed and power, because it has an intelligent technology that measures the air quality and adjusts the filtration speed.

Moreover, with this air purifier you can automatically switch between day and night modes, which means you can relax according to the time of your choice. But also, it guarantees optimal air circulation in your home thanks to the 3D Pure Air technology. It is also equipped with a modern touch panel with a timer that can be set for up to 8 hours. This air purifier is therefore equipped with several features that contribute to your well-being.

Rowenta PU3040F0 2
8/10

Best value for money

Rowenta PU3040F0

The best entry-level air purifier

The Rowenta PU3040F0 air purifier can provide you with clean air in your home and captures up to 99.99% of filtered allergens and particles.

96 £ on Amazon

The Rowenta PU3040F0 purifier is equipped with a high performance filtration system with the Allergy+ filter, it filters up to 99.99% of allergens, fine particles. It can purify the air in just 6 minutes and this is valid even for a room of 12 m². Also, it is equipped with a built-in pollution sensor and indicator lights that show the air quality in your home. This means that this air purifier can automatically adjust to the air quality in your home.

In addition, it has an automatic shut-off and delayed start function for up to 8 hours, which can guarantee clean air at all times. And with the activated carbon filter system, it gets rid of odors, fumes and volatile organic compounds. Depending on the air quality in your home, its filtration speed is automatically adjusted from level 1 to 5 in automatic day mode and from level 1 to 2 in night mode. With Rowenta PU3040F0 you can therefore have a calm and peaceful sleep with ambient lighting.

Philips AC2887/10 3
7/10

Best value for money

Philips AC2887/10

The best high-end air purifier

The Philips AC2887/10 air purifier is the model that provides the action of purifier that can cover large spaces, very ideal if you have a huge house.

226 £ on Amazon

Philips AC2887/10 has 5 speed levels and 3 automatic modes that work together with a sensor that is supposed to automatically adapt its settings. Also, it has the technology called AeraSense that identifies fine particles and treat them accordingly. It is a relatively compact model, as it has a handle that allows you to carry it from one room to another.

In addition, it also has a light ring on its front panel that lets you know in real time the level of pollution in your room. With blue light, it shows that the air is healthy, if the color turns pink, it means that the air in the room is starting to be a little polluted, in purple the air is unhealthy and in red it shows that the air is really polluted. Philips AC2887/10 is therefore an air purifier with very good features that will help you enjoy a healthier and more pleasant air.

Honeywell AirGenius 5 HFD323E 4
9/10

A great choice

Honeywell AirGenius 5 HFD323E

An air purifier that's great for your health

Honeywell AirGenius 5 HFD323E is a modern and user-friendly purifier also made for a large room.

150 £ on Amazon

The air purifier Honeywell AirGenius 5 HFD323E has a very elegant design, black color, it is very compact and almost invisible in the corner of your room. It is ultra quiet and very efficient. This air purifier has 5 levels of purification with or without oscillation, which allows you a possibility to set a timer that stops after 2 to 12 hours. Also, it has an indicator that tells you when it's time to clean the filter, so you can simply clean it on the tap.

In addition, it has another filter that has a specific purpose of eliminating bad smells. Thanks to a lighting option on its base, you can have this air purifier look great in your living room by delivering a soft blue light. And finally, Honeywell AirGenius 5 HFD323E helps reduce certain compounds that are called, VOCs Volatile Organic Compounds. This purifier is the perfect gadget to provide you with healthier air in your home.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best air cleaner

Any specific needs?

The best air purifier in 2021

The best entry-level air purifier

The best high-end air purifier

An air purifier that's great for your health

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best air cleaners

TOP OF THE TOP CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
Rowenta PU4080F0 5
9/10
Rowenta PU3040F0 6
8/10
Philips AC2887/10 7
7/10
Honeywell AirGenius 5 HFD323E 8
9/10
OUR SELECTION
Rowenta PU4080F0
Rowenta PU3040F0
Philips AC2887/10
Honeywell AirGenius 5 HFD323E
The Rowenta PU4080F0 air purifier offers you clean air for a healthy life. It is a very effective air purifier to purify the air in your daily life.
The Rowenta PU3040F0 air purifier can provide you with clean air in your home and captures up to 99.99% of filtered allergens and particles.
The Philips AC2887/10 air purifier is the model that provides the action of purifier that can cover large spaces, very ideal if you have a huge house.
Honeywell AirGenius 5 HFD323E is a modern and user-friendly purifier also made for a large room.
Functionality
captures up to 100% of allergens and fine particles
Filters up to 99.99% of allergens, fine particles, etc. Very fast, purifies air in just 6 minutes. Features automatic shut-off and delayed start up to 8 hours.
with 5 speed levels and 3 automatic modes
Featuring 5 levels of purification with or without oscillation
Specificity
Very quiet
features technology called AeraSense
ultra quiet
Autonomy
up to 8 hours
Over 8 hours
2 to 12 hours

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Buying guide - air cleaner

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How to choose your air cleaner

1 out of 2 English people are unaware that the indoor air they breathe is polluted! To remedy this, an air purifier is a credible and inexpensive option. Here are the criteria to remember when choosing your device.

#1 - The air flow

The air flow rate of the unit will give an idea of its ability to handle the air in a room. It must be as high as possible to allow a good ventilation. In addition, the ventilation must be able to be done at 360 ° for an efficiency of air filtering. Your choice must also take into account the surface to be treated. The larger the room to be treated, the larger the unit to be chosen and the more people in the room. On the other hand, the selection criteria will not be very sharp for a device intended for a small room, especially an office.

#2 - The noise emitted

The noise level of the air purifier turbine is really to be taken into account. During the night or in a professional space, the noise is likely to be disturbing. Thus, despite the air purification, the device will be a source of noise pollution. Studies have shown that beyond 50 dB, the purifier becomes a nuisance for those around. You should therefore check the maximum noise level of the machine, especially in turbo mode. This will save you a lot of discomfort.

#3 - Filtration

There are several types of filters on the market, and they are all effective. The difference comes from the use the buyer will want to make of it. First, check to see if the air purifier you're interested in has a pre-filter. This is a device used to retain dust balls while protecting different filters. Among the systems that an air purifier can have, it is impossible to ignore the HEPA filter, even if it is by far the most common. There is also the filtration by ionization, the filtration by combustion which consists in heating the air to burn the fine particles, the filtration by plasma and the photocatalysis. This last process uses ultraviolet light.

#4 - Treated particles

On the

market, there are air purifiers that remove CO2, others that get rid of fine particles, and others that remove odors, chemicals, dust and fumes. The intended use of each will guide the selection of the right unit. From the outset, avoid CO2 filterers. In general, airing your room for a few minutes every day is enough to replenish your oxygen supply! The real problem is the removal of very fine particles known as PM2, 5. Make sure your air purifier will be able to remove these types of particles.

#5 - The range

Whether it's for home use or professional use, the range of the air purifier determines its effectiveness. The best models are sold between 300 and 600 euros. Cheap models are accessible at less than 100 euros, but do not expect them to work miracles! You should also be aware that some air purifiers simply remove unwanted elements from the air you breathe. Others provide additional functions such as ventilation, heating or even air conditioning. And regardless of the price, don't take the manufacturers' performance claims literally.

How do I clean the filters in an air purifier?

The pre-cleaner requires regular maintenance, once every 3 months. The process is not difficult. Simply wipe the pre-cleaner with a cloth or brush. In some cases, you may need to wash it with hot soapy water and wait at least 24 hours before reinstalling it.

To clean the HEPA filter, you must check if it is washable or not. If it is not, it must be replaced. Otherwise, keep it under running tap water, rub it gently with your fingers to remove dust particles. Finally, let it dry for 24 hours.

To clean the ionic filter, insist that the metal plates are regularly cleaned under hot water so that they do not accumulate debris. Without directly handling the tool with your hand, wrap it with a paper towel and gently wipe it dry. Let it dry, then take a lint-free cloth and use it to replace it.

Sometimes the ion filter can be cleaned with a wipe. In all cases, it is important to refer to the manufacturer's instructions.

What the manufacturers don't tell you

When it comes to activated carbon filters, only those containing more than 1 kg of carbon granules are effective in removing odors. Most filters of this type do not contain this much carbon. UV lamps are often touted for their ability to eliminate bacteria and spores. But for resistant strains, the UV light must be powerful and hold the air for minutes to hours instead of the typical few seconds on most models. Finally, any air purifier with an ionizer is likely to produce ozone.

The different types of air cleaners

Air purifiers can use a variety of filtration systems, including the filter, combustion and plasma mechanisms. Learn more about them.

Air purifiers by filtration

These air cleaners trap and hold a variety of particles, but do not destroy them. They come in two forms: those that use high-capacity filters, the so-called HEPA filters, and those that work by ionization. HEPA filters have long proven their effectiveness, while ionizing filters can produce ozone. This type of product is suitable for home use, where few chemicals are used. If you have pets, HEPA and ionizer filters are ultra-efficient at trapping hair, pollens, allergens and dust.

Combustion air cleaners

These

air purifiers allow for the removal of harmful and polluting particles from the air. Indeed, combustion filtration heats the air to burn the particles with a filament that can reach 200°C. This technique is effective against spores, fungi, pollens, etc. However, this type of air purifier does not propagate heat and is not suitable for large spaces, contrary to what most people think. People who live or work in an environment that is highly loaded with harmful particles should opt for a combustion air purifier.

Plasma air cleaners

Plasma air purification involves injecting hot air in the form of plasma into the purifier. The latter will neutralize the dangerous particles and destroy them. The purification is done inside the machine and the air rid of unwanted particles will be evacuated outside. This type of device is more suitable for industrial use. This type of air purifier is mainly used in this environment because of the costs necessary for its implementation. Examples of exhaust gas purification technology include hospitals and the automotive industry.

Changing Filters

In general, air purifier filters should be changed every 6 to 12 months. Don't wait until they become completely clogged before replacing them. If you use a washable filter, try to clean it every 10 days. Some models warn when a pre-filter, HEPA filter or activated carbon filter needs to be changed. If your unit doesn't have this feature, check the manual or change the filters when you feel a drop in air quality. And consider the cost of replacement filters before you buy an air purifier.

Air Purifier or Fan Cooler

Air purifier

Air purifiers use several technologies, sometimes in combination: filtration (using one or more filters), ionization and photocatalysis, which relatively guarantees their effectiveness. They can absorb moisture while purifying the air. Most recent models have no adverse health effects. Nevertheless, in a study published in January 2017, the French National Health Safety Agency (ANSES) concluded that the effectiveness of small air cleaners has not been demonstrated in domestic environments.

Air cooling fan

An air cooler or freshener uses a fan to blow air to evaporate water. Like the purifier, it releases fresh air with low energy consumption. However, it is not possible to regulate the temperature precisely. And the more humidity in the air, the less efficient the process.

Verdict

Checking the energy label is a must before deciding to buy a cooling or air purification unit. The air cooler, like the air purifier, requires maintenance. The former must be protected against scale formation. The latter must use a well-cleaned filter, which must be replaced at the right time. Nevertheless, if you want to have a device that perfectly absorbs humidity, bacteria and pollutants, turn without hesitation to an air purifier.

Why buy an air purifier?

Between premature deaths, medical care, lost productivity at work, etc., the costs associated with poor indoor air quality amount to 19 billion euros per year in the UK. Apart from the economic argument, here are the reasons why you should buy an air purifier.

To improve the nature of the air you breathe

If there was ever a single reason to buy an air purifier, this is it. Simply put, an air purifier helps to improve the quality of the air you breathe. In fact, that is its primary function. With an air purifier, you will quickly observe the disappearance of dry coughs, very recurrent in a polluted environment.

To help fight against allergies

The air in a house is full of various particles. Products from urban pollution, chemical residues, pollens, animal hair are all sources of allergies and discomfort. By installing a quality air purifier, you can ensure that you breathe healthy air. This is essential if you have small or sensitive children.

To eliminate unwanted odours

Clean air is not free of various odors. These can come from your kitchen, from cigarettes or from sources outside your home. Without forgetting the dangers and discomfort of polluted air, it is up to you to clean yours more effectively. That's the role an air purifier could play.

To block the cycle of disease spread

Many diseases are spread in the same family, due to the contamination of one of them from the outside world. If you work in a hospital, you know without a doubt that volatile diseases are legion. To limit the risk to your family, get an air purifier.

To improve sleep quality

Many people don't know it, but air quality affects the quality of sleep. Air that is too full of particles, especially dust, will tend to obstruct the airways. With an air purifier, these suspended dusts will be destroyed or captured. Children will be the first to benefit.

To destroy fumes

Another function that may motivate your purchase is the role this type of equipment plays in destroying smoke in your home. Whether you are a smoker or not (someone close to you may be), this tool will help to preserve the health of most people. Thus, there will be no more smoke in the air of your home.

For a global comfort in the house

Once the air quality is improved, so is your overall comfort. Don't limit yourself to air conditioning as a source of indoor comfort, especially in summer. By adding a purifier, you could increase the performance of your air conditioning by improving the air quality.

The best brands of air cleaners

In our opinion, the best brands of air cleaners in 2022 are :

Aiibot
Rowenta
Hysure
Philips
Winix

Renowned for offering robot vacuum cleaners at unbeatable prices, the Aiibot brand is also a reference in the air purifier market. Many customers are satisfied especially with the model we recommended above.

Specialized in building and developing solutions for comfort and beauty, Rowenta is now one of the best brands of air purifiers. The company has not only offered high-performance irons, hair dryers and quality vacuum cleaners, it has also focused on making air purifiers.

For this year again, Hysure is one of the best consumer air purifier brands. Its 2-in-1 dehumidifier is unmatched by the competition, both in terms of quality and price. To breathe perfectly filtered air at home or in the office, opt for a device from this brand.

From 150 to 650 euros, Philips offers models that meet all needs and fit all budgets. The Dutch brand excels in many areas, among which is air treatment. If you're looking for a credible alternative to the Aiibot model, try the AC2887/10 purifier from Philips.

A true specialist in air purifier design, Winix offers all the technologies in order to totally sanitize the air! It uses plasma, filter and other solutions in order to retain all the pollutants that can circulate in the ambient air. You can fully trust the know-how and experience of this brand.

What is the price for an air cleaner

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
60 £ to 150 £
Mid-range
150 £ to 400 £
High-end
more than 400 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Place the air purifier in the right place

First of all, the air purifier should be placed in the room you frequent the most. Ideally, it should be installed in the middle of the room and, if possible, in an elevated position. It should also be placed 50 cm away from any other object to allow for proper air intake. Also, be sure to keep your air purifier away from sources of heat or moisture.

Keep polluted air outside

Once the air is purified, it is important to keep it clean. So be sure to keep doors and windows closed as much as possible. If you do, polluted air will re-enter the room. Also, avoid going back and forth, as you're bringing in new particles of polluted air every time you come in.

Handle the device with care

Even though your air purifier may look pretty sturdy to the eye, be aware that it's still a fragile device. Even the slightest fall could damage it greatly, so be sure to handle it as carefully as possible. Also, never move the unit while it's running, as this could cause malfunctions.

Leave the repairs to a professional

If your air purifier becomes damaged, don't try to disassemble or repair it yourself, even if you have some DIY knowledge. Instead of finding a solution, you may actually cause more damage. The best option would be to immediately take the unit to a professional.

Make a natural air purifier

It's also possible to make your own air purifier. To do this, mix half a cup of water with half a cup of alcohol. Then add a few drops of the essential oil of your choice and pour it into a spray bottle. Your air purifier is finally ready for use! Don't forget to shake well before each spray.

FAQ

Should I buy an air purifier?

Breathing clean and healthy air at home is one of the many reasons to buy a good air purifier. Its filters remove pollen, dust and any other allergens in the air. This is why you should have an air purifier at home, especially if you suffer from respiratory conditions such as bronchitis or asthma.

How to choose your air purifier?

An ingenious and effective solution to air pollution in the home, the air purifier is chosen according to a few criteria. Among the most important, there is the flow rate which defines the volume of air that the device can treat per minute, the filtration system which determines the different elements that it can retain, and the sound level.

How does an air purifier work?

The different types of air purifiers work in the same way. A fan draws in the air inside the room to remove pollutants and allergens through various filters. The cleaned air is then blown out. The volume of air treated per minute and the surface covered by the air purifier varies from one model to another.

How to use an air purifier?

To use your air purifier properly, you must first place it in the living area. In our comparison, we offer models designed for small and large spaces. Next, you should close doors and windows before turning on the device and letting it do its work. Remember to replace the filters regularly to ensure good results.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
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  8. , kent.co.in
  9. , air-et-sante.fr
  10. , usinenouvelle.com
  11. , fellowes.com
  12. , futura-sciences.com
  13. , darty.com
  14. , lesnumeriques.com
  15. , amazon.co.uk
  16. , philips.fr
  17. , samsung.com
  18. , daikin.fr
  19. , airsoft-purificateur-air.fr
  20. , lesnumeriques.com
  21. , quechoisir.org
  22. , boulanger.com
  23. , airex-industries.com
  24. , maisonae.fr
  25. , fnac.com
  26. , but.fr
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  30. , teqoya.fr
  31. , ikea.com
  32. , alpstechnologies.fr
  33. , ikea.com
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Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

See more
Our selection
Rowenta PU4080F0 9
Rowenta PU4080F0
Rowenta PU3040F0 10
Rowenta PU3040F0
Philips AC2887/10 11
Philips AC2887/10
Honeywell AirGenius 5 HFD323E 12
Honeywell AirGenius 5 HFD323E

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