This is because smoke particles tend to be between 0.1 and 1.0 microns in size, but a True HEPA filter can remove 99.97% of particles up to 0.3 microns in size. One thing to consider, though, is that cigarette smoke can contain volatile organic compounds that a HEPA filter won’t work well for, which is where an activated carbon filter comes in. The more carbon in the filter, the more effective it will be against VOCs. Below, we dive into Levoit’s reputation and introduce the brand’s most popular models of air purifiers. We then showcase how Levoit stacks up to the competition in price, features, and overall value.
That means it can clean the combined living areas of many open-floor-plan homes. It’s also an attractive, quiet-running machine, so it’s easy to live with. Its five-year cost of ownership—about $1,150 including the up-front cost and the annual cost of electricity and replacement filters—is comparable to that of most large-space purifiers. All that said, unless you need to clean an especially large space, the even quieter, smaller, and much more affordable Coway Airmega AP-1512HH Mighty is a better choice. The GermGuardian AC5900WCA was a stellar performer in our 2019 test, reducing particulates by 99.3% on high and 98% on medium. Those results actually beat the performance of the similarly priced Coway Airmega AP-1512HH Mighty, our top pick, despite the AC5900WCA’s slightly lower CADR numbers.
The theory is that ozone, which is highly reactive, neutralizes or breaks down pollutants. Setting aside the dubiousness of that claim, even low levels of ozone can be harmful . It’s crazy to introduce a new pollutant when the goal is to reduce pollution overall.
The controls on the LV-PUR131 are at the top edge of the purifier with the vent directly below it. For a more advanced center control with Auto mode, there is also the LV-H133 levoit air filter and LV-H134. All of these purifiers have a compact circular body with rounded edges. They are small enough that they can sit on the floor, tabletop, or other flat surface.
ZDNET’s recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing. Although I have answered almost all the problems users encounter with Levoit air purifiers, you can always discover some less specific faults.