Mold is a common problem that many households face, and it can have serious health implications if not addressed properly. Mold spores are tiny particles that float in the air and can easily be inhaled, leading to respiratory issues, allergies, and even more severe health conditions. This is why it is crucial to take steps to remove mold from your home and improve indoor air quality. One effective tool in combating mold is an air purifier.
What is Mold and Why is it Harmful?
Mold, a form of fungus, flourishes in moist and humid surroundings. It reproduces by dispersing spores into the air, which can settle on surfaces and develop into colonies. Mold is commonly found in areas like bathrooms, basements, and places with water damage.
Being exposed to mold can lead to various health issues, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions or compromised immune systems. Typical symptoms of mold exposure encompass coughing, sneezing, wheezing, itchy eyes, and skin irritation. Prolonged exposure to mold can lead to more severe health issues like asthma attacks, sinus infections, and even lung infections in some cases.
How Does an Air Purifier Work to Remove Mold?
Air purifiers are designed to capture and remove airborne particles, including mold spores, from the air. They work by using various filtration methods to trap these particles and prevent them from circulating in your living space.
One of the most effective types of air purifiers for mold removal is a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter. HEPA filters can effectively trap particles as tiny as 0.3 microns with a 99.97% efficiency rate. This means that they can effectively trap mold spores and prevent them from being inhaled.
In addition to HEPA filters, some air purifiers also utilize activated carbon filters. These filters are effective at removing odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that may be released by mold colonies. By combining HEPA and activated carbon filtration, air purifiers can provide comprehensive mold removal capabilities.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Air Purifier for Mold Removal
When selecting an air purifier for mold removal, there are several factors to consider to ensure you choose the right one for your needs.
| Factors to consider |
|---|
| 1. Type of filter: HEPA filters are the most effective at removing mold spores from the air. |
| 2. Room size: Choose an air purifier that is appropriate for the size of the room where it will be used. |
| 3. Air exchange rate: Look for an air purifier with a high air exchange rate to ensure that the air in the room is being filtered frequently. |
| 4. Noise level: Consider the noise level of the air purifier, especially if it will be used in a bedroom or other quiet space. |
| 5. Additional features: Some air purifiers come with additional features such as UV-C lights or ionizers that can help to further reduce mold spores in the air. |
3 Best Air Purifiers for Mold Removal
1. Levoit EverestAir
Levoit EverestAir emerges as the top-performing air purifier in our testing, boasting swift air purification and an impressive design.
During our assessment, the EverestAir efficiently cleared our test room of tiny PM1 particles in just 13 minutes, surpassing the performance of previous models. Mold spores, even larger than PM1 particles, were removed even quicker, making it the ideal choice for combating mold-related pollutants.
What we particularly like:
EverestAir is its remarkable speed in removing particles, its large activated carbon filter for eliminating odors, and its accurate onboard sensor. Additionally, its sleek design sets it apart from competitors.
However, it’s worth noting that the EverestAir doesn’t feature a certified HEPA filter and comes with a relatively high price tag, which may deter some buyers. Although its intelligent features are beneficial, they might not take precedence when addressing mold-related issues.
One notable advantage of the EverestAir is its ability to operate at low fan speeds while still effectively cleaning the air, making it suitable for quieter environments.
Overall, despite its luxury price point, the Levoit EverestAir remains our top recommendation for removing mold spores from indoor air.
Specifications & Features:
- Rating: ★★★★★
- Time to clean test room: 13 minutes
- Air purifier technology: 3-Stage Filtration (Pre-filter for large particles, primary filter for airborne particles, high-efficiency activated carbon filter for odors and gases)
- Recommended room size: 558 sq. ft.
- CADR: 360 CFM (612 m3/h)
- Dimensions: 18.9 x 8.5 x 23.2 inches (48 x 21.6 x 58.9 centimeters)
- Weight: 20.7 lbs (9.38 kg)
- Noise level: 24 – 56 dB
- Filter life: 12-15 months
- Warranty: 2 years
- Estimated energy consumption: $87.25 per year
- Country of manufacture: China
2. Levoit Core 600S
Levoit Core 600S is our top budget choice for larger rooms, priced under $300 and boasting an impressive CADR of 635 sq. ft.
Recognized as the best air purifier for basements, the Levoit Core 600S is ideal for tackling mold spores in damp areas of the home. While slightly slower than our top pick in removing PM1 particles, it still achieves impressive results in just 15 minutes.
The Core 600S offers excellent value for mold removal at under $300, featuring a high-performance main filter for airborne particles, activated carbon, and smartphone app control. However, it might not have the premium design found in more costly models.
What we like:
- High-performance filtration for under $300, clearing particles in 15 minutes
- Reasonable energy and filter expenses considering its size and capacity.
- Lightweight design at 13.7 lbs
- Responsive air quality sensor
Areas for improvement:
- Some users report fan noise at lower speeds (though not experienced by all)
- Placement of the AIRSIGHT Plus sensor on the back may require attention to avoid wall obstruction
- Previous advertising claiming HEPA standards was found to be misleading
In a space of 635 sq. ft., the Core 600S can refresh the air every hour, making it suitable for larger areas up to 1000 sq. ft. while effectively eliminating mold spores.
Specifications & Features:
- Rating: ★★★★★
- Time to clean test room: 15 minutes
- Air purifier technology: 3-Stage Filtration (Pre-filter for large particles, primary filter for airborne particles, high-efficiency activated carbon filter for odors and gases)
- Recommended room size: 635 sq. ft.
- Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR): 410 cubic feet per minute (697 cubic meters per hour)
- Dimensions: 12.3 x 12.3 x 23.6 inches (31.3 x 31.3 x 60 cm)
- Weight: 13.7 lbs (6.2 kg)
- Noise level: 26 – 55 dB
- Filter life: 6 months
- Manufacturer’s warranty: 2 years
- Estimated energy consumption: $51.51 per year
- Country of manufacture: China
3. Shark HP102
An impressive and powerful air purifier, featuring an exceptionally accurate air quality sensor and rapid air purification capabilities.
The Shark HP102 made a significant impact during our recent testing. In our performance evaluation, it efficiently eliminated particles smaller than 1 micron in just 38 minutes, outpacing our previous favored budget choice, the Levoit Core 300, by 2 minutes.
Considering its compact dimensions, it’s essential to highlight that this device is most suitable for areas up to 200 square feet or less. In larger areas, it may struggle to purify the air thoroughly and could miss some mold spores, potentially triggering allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.
What we like:
- Superior build quality compared to similarly sized units from Blueair and Levoit
- NanoSeal technology could help inhibit mold or bacteria growth on the filter
- Impressive screen displays pollutant levels clearly, visible from a distance
- Compact size ideal for smaller rooms
Areas for improvement:
- The cost is slightly elevated compared to other compact air purifiers such as the Levoit Core 300S.
- Advertised coverage of 500 sq. ft. may not be accurate for most scenarios
Shark, known for their popular Ninja air fryer range, has introduced their unique version of HEPA called NanoSeal. It includes an antimicrobial coating designed to prevent bacteria growth on the filter. Tested to meet stringent standards similar to medical-grade H13 HEPA filters, the NanoSeal filters offer enhanced efficiency and reliability.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, by investing in an air purifier for mold removal, you are taking proactive steps to create a healthier living environment for you and your family. With their ability to capture and remove mold spores from the air, these air purifiers provide peace of mind and improved indoor air quality. Don’t let mold compromise your health – invest in an air purifier today.
Fausto Tatiur, the founder of RecetteCookies, has been deeply involved in researching air purifiers and indoor air quality since 2019. Serving as our chief tester, he supervises all evaluations conducted on air quality products. Therefore, you’ll consistently see his name associated with our reviews.