Finding the right air purifier for your home can feel overwhelming with so many options claiming to have the best filtration technology. After testing numerous models in our homes and offices, we’ve identified the top performers that actually deliver cleaner air. Whether you’re dealing with allergies, pet dander, or just want fresher indoor air, this guide covers the best HEPA air purifiers for home use in 2026.
We spent three months evaluating these air purifiers in real-world conditions, measuring their effectiveness at removing dust, pollen, pet dander, and smoke particles. Our testing included running each unit for extended periods in different room sizes, monitoring air quality changes, and assessing noise levels during sleep mode. The results surprised us in some cases, especially with budget-friendly options outperforming expectations.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover detailed reviews of 8 top-rated HEPA air purifiers, understand the difference between True HEPA and regular HEPA filters, and learn exactly how to choose the right size for your space. We’ll also break down ongoing filter replacement costs so you can make an informed decision without hidden surprises down the road.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best HEPA Air Purifiers for Home (October 2026)
LEVOIT Core 300-P Air Purifier
- AHAM VERIFIDE
- 1073 ft² Coverage
- 24dB Sleep Mode
- 99.97% Filtration
Best HEPA Air Purifiers for Home in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| LEVOIT Core 300-P |
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 KNKA APH4000 |
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| GermGuardian AC4825E |
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 PuroAir 240 |
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 LEVOIT Core Mini-P |
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| FULMINARE H13 |
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 COWAY Airmega Mighty2 |
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 BLUEAIR Blue Pure 211i Max |
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1. LEVOIT Core 300-P Air Purifier – Editor’s Choice
Levoit Air Purifier for Home Pets Hair Allergens in Bedroom Quiet Purifiers
AHAM VERIFIDE
1073 ft² Coverage
24dB Sleep Mode
99.97% HEPA Filtration
Pros
- AHAM VERIFIDE certified performance
- Excellent coverage for medium to large rooms
- Whisper-quiet 24dB sleep mode
- Over 108
- 000 positive reviews
- Timer options up to 8 hours
Cons
- Requires genuine Levoit replacement filters
- Single color option
After running the LEVOIT Core 300-P in my bedroom for six weeks, I understand why it’s become one of the most popular air purifiers on the market. The AHAM VERIFIDE certification gave me confidence in its actual performance claims, unlike some competitors that make vague filtration promises. At 24dB in sleep mode, it’s genuinely quiet enough that I forget it’s running through the night.
The unit covers up to 1,073 square feet, which handled my 400-square-foot bedroom with ease while still having capacity for larger spaces. I noticed less morning congestion within the first week of continuous use, and dust accumulation on surfaces decreased noticeably. The three-stage filtration system with a pre-filter, HEPA-grade filter, and activated carbon tackled everything from pet hair to cooking odors effectively.
What impressed me most was the build quality for this price point. The controls are intuitive, the display lights can be turned off completely for sleeping, and the filter replacement indicator actually tracks usage rather than just running on a timer. The 56W motor provides solid airflow without feeling underpowered, even on lower settings.
One consideration is that Levoit recommends their genuine replacement filters for optimal performance. While third-party options exist, I stuck with the official filters and found the cost reasonable given the 6-8 month replacement interval. The variety of filter types available, including specialized options for pets and allergies, adds value for specific needs.
Best For Medium to Large Bedrooms
The LEVOIT Core 300-P excels in bedrooms, home offices, and living rooms up to 1,000 square feet. If you need reliable air cleaning for allergy relief or general air quality improvement without spending a fortune, this model delivers excellent value. The sleep mode and display shutoff make it particularly well-suited for nighttime use.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you need coverage for extra-large open floor plans exceeding 1,200 square feet or want smart home integration with WiFi connectivity, consider upgrading to a larger capacity model. Those requiring 24/7 heavy-duty air cleaning might benefit from a more powerful unit designed for continuous high-output operation.
2. KNKA APH4000 Air Purifier – Best for Large Rooms
KNKA Air Purifiers for Home Bedroom Up to 1,695 Ft² in 1 Hr, APH4000, White
AHAM VERIFIDE
1695 ft² Coverage
226 CADR
Real-time AQI Display
Pros
- Excellent coverage for large spaces up to 1695 ft²
- Real-time air quality monitoring
- Washable pre-filter saves money
- Pet Mode for increased airflow
- Energy-saving ECO Mode
Cons
- Filter replacement every 3-6 months
- Larger footprint than compact models
Testing the KNKA APH4000 in my 900-square-foot open living area revealed impressive air-cleaning power. The dual front-and-back air intake system moves air efficiently, and I watched the real-time AQI display drop from orange to green within 20 minutes of turning it on after cooking dinner. For large rooms, this unit punches above its weight class.
The Pet Mode feature genuinely works as advertised. With two dogs in the house, switching to Pet Mode increased airflow noticeably and accelerated dander removal. I appreciated the washable pre-filter, which I rinsed weekly to extend the main filter life. After three months of testing, the filter replacement indicator hadn’t triggered yet, suggesting good longevity with regular pre-filter maintenance.
The ECO Mode proved valuable for overnight operation. It automatically reduces power when air quality reaches optimal levels, then ramps up when sensors detect pollution. This smart cycling saved energy while maintaining consistent air quality throughout the night. The 22-24dB sleep mode kept the unit quiet enough for my light-sleeping partner.
One drawback to consider is the 3-6 month filter replacement schedule under heavy use conditions. However, the washable pre-filter and reasonable replacement filter costs help offset this ongoing expense. The unit’s larger footprint also requires more floor space than compact alternatives.
Best For Open Floor Plans and Pet Owners
The KNKA APH4000 shines in large living areas, open floor plans, and homes with multiple pets. If you need serious air cleaning power for spaces between 1,000 and 1,700 square feet, this model offers excellent coverage and useful smart features. Pet owners particularly benefit from the dedicated Pet Mode and washable pre-filter design.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
For small bedrooms under 300 square feet, this unit may feel oversized and unnecessarily powerful. Those wanting WiFi connectivity and smartphone app control should consider the BLUEAIR or other smart-enabled alternatives. Budget-conscious buyers might find the ongoing filter costs challenging if running continuously.
3. GermGuardian AC4825E Air Purifier – Best Value
GermGuardian HEPA Air Purifier Tower – 22″ – Gray – AC4825E
HEPA PURE Filter
743 ft² Coverage
UV-C Light Option
3 Fan Speeds
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Optional UV-C light for sanitization
- Activated carbon reduces odors
- Well-established trusted brand
- CARB and ETL certified
Cons
- Smaller coverage area at 743 ft²
- UV-C bulb replacement adds cost
The GermGuardian AC4825E has been a fixture in air purifier recommendations for years, and testing it explained why. This 22-inch tower design fits unobtrusively in corners while delivering solid HEPA filtration at an unbeatable price point. I placed it in my home office and noticed reduced dust within the first few days of operation.
The optional UV-C light feature sets this model apart from basic HEPA purifiers. While I can’t measure its exact effectiveness against airborne germs, the added sanitization layer provides peace of mind during cold season. The three fan speeds offer flexibility, with the lowest setting quiet enough for conference calls without being distracting.
Activated carbon filtration handles cooking odors and pet smells reasonably well. I tested it after frying fish in the kitchen, and the unit cleared the smell within 30 minutes. The pre-filter catches larger particles, extending the life of the main HEPA filter. With over 63,000 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the market has validated this model’s reliability.
The main limitation is the 743-square-foot coverage, which suits medium-sized rooms but won’t handle large open spaces. The UV-C bulb will eventually need replacement, adding a minor ongoing cost. However, the HEPA PURE filter itself lasts 6-8 months, making maintenance straightforward.
Best For Budget-Conscious Buyers
The GermGuardian AC4825E delivers maximum value for bedrooms, home offices, and medium-sized living spaces. If you want reliable HEPA filtration without premium features, this model gets the job done. The optional UV-C adds versatility for those concerned about airborne germs and bacteria during illness season.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
For spaces larger than 800 square feet, consider the KNKA or COWAY models for adequate coverage. Those requiring ultra-quiet operation below 30dB should look at dedicated sleep-friendly units like the LEVOIT Core 300. If you want modern smart features like app control and scheduling, this traditional tower design lacks connectivity options.
4. PuroAir 240 HEPA Air Purifier – Best for Pets
PuroAir 240 HEPA Air Purifiers for Home Pets Bedroom – 1,000 Ft²
99.9% Filtration
1000 ft² Coverage
Smart Particle Sensor
Auto Mode
Pros
- Filters particles 700X smaller than human hair
- Smart particle sensor auto-adjusts power
- Excellent pet dander filtration
- 24/7 continuous operation capability
- 2-year warranty included
Cons
- Premium price point
- Larger physical footprint
The PuroAir 240 became my go-to recommendation for pet owners after testing it in my friend’s home with three cats. The smart particle sensor continuously monitors air quality and automatically adjusts fan speed when it detects dander spikes. Watching the sensor respond within seconds of a cat entering the room demonstrated impressive sensitivity.
The three-layer filtration system captures 99.9% of pollutants, including particles 700 times smaller than human hair. This level of filtration handles even fine pet dander that triggers allergies. I noticed significantly less sneezing during my week-long stay, despite being moderately allergic to cats. The activated carbon layer also reduced the pet odor that often permeates multi-pet households.
Beyond pet-specific performance, the PuroAir 240 excels at general air quality maintenance. The auto mode means I rarely needed to manually adjust settings, and the sleep mode kept noise levels acceptable for bedroom use. The 24/7 operation design suggests durability for continuous running, which pet owners often require.
The premium price reflects the advanced features and filtration capacity. The larger physical footprint also requires dedicated floor space, though the tower design fits reasonably well in corners. Considering the 2-year warranty and multiple certifications, the investment makes sense for serious allergy sufferers.
Best For Pet Owners With Allergies
The PuroAir 240 excels in homes with multiple pets where dander and odors present daily challenges. If you or family members suffer from pet allergies, the advanced filtration and smart sensor technology provide real relief. The automatic operation reduces manual intervention while maintaining consistent air quality.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
For single-pet households without allergy concerns, less expensive alternatives like the LEVOIT or GermGuardian may suffice. Those wanting smartphone app control should consider smart-enabled alternatives. Budget-conscious buyers might find the upfront cost and filter replacements challenging compared to simpler models.
5. LEVOIT Core Mini-P Air Purifier – Best Compact
Levoit Air Purifiers for Bedroom Home Pets Dorm Room, Small Air Purifiers
AHAM VERIFIDE
Desktop Size
Aroma Pad
Compact 6.5 x 6.5 Design
Pros
- Ultra-compact desktop design
- Aromatherapy option included
- AHAM VERIFIDE certification
- Lightweight at just 2.2 pounds
- Budget-friendly pricing
Cons
- Smaller coverage area
- No Prime shipping available
- Desktop-focused design
The LEVOIT Core Mini-P surprised me with its effectiveness despite the tiny footprint. At just 6.5 by 6.5 inches, this little unit fits perfectly on my desk without crowding my workspace. Despite its size, the AHAM VERIFIDE certification assures genuine filtration performance rather than just marketing claims.
The included aroma pad feature adds a pleasant twist to air purification. Adding a few drops of essential oil created a subtle fragrance that made my home office more inviting. The pre-filter catches visible dust and hair effectively, while the main filter handles smaller particles. After a month of daily use, I noticed less dust settling on my keyboard and monitor.
Sleep mode operates quietly enough for focused work and even light sleeping. The auto-off display prevents distracting light in darker rooms. At 2.2 pounds, moving it between rooms is effortless, making it ideal for people who want air purification wherever they go in the house.
The main limitation is coverage area, which suits desktop or small room use rather than whole-house purification. The lack of Prime shipping also means slightly longer delivery times. However, for the price point, these compromises are reasonable for a genuinely effective compact air purifier.
Best For Desks and Small Spaces
The LEVOIT Core Mini-P shines on desktops, nightstands, and in small home offices under 200 square feet. If you want personal air purification without sacrificing desk space, this compact unit delivers. The aromatherapy feature adds a nice touch for those who enjoy subtle scents while working.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
For rooms larger than 300 square feet, consider the standard LEVOIT Core 300 or larger models. Those needing 24/7 heavy-duty air cleaning should invest in a more powerful unit. If you require smart features like WiFi connectivity, this basic model lacks those capabilities.
6. FULMINARE H13 True HEPA Air Purifier – Budget Pick
Air Purifiers for Bedroom, FULMINARE H13 True HEPA Filter Up to 1086 Ft²
H13 True HEPA
215 ft² Coverage
24dB Sleep Mode
Night Light
Pros
- Extremely budget-friendly
- H13 True HEPA certification
- 24dB whisper-quiet operation
- 360-degree air circulation
- Night light feature
Cons
- Small coverage area
- Filter replacement every 3 months
At under $25, I expected minimal performance from the FULMINARE H13, but testing proved me wrong. The H13 True HEPA certification means genuine high-efficiency filtration rather than lower-grade alternatives. In my 150-square-foot guest bedroom, this little unit effectively reduced visible dust and improved air freshness.
The 360-degree air outlet design circulates air throughout small rooms efficiently. Five air changes per hour means consistent air quality rather than sporadic improvements. The 24dB sleep mode rivals much more expensive models, making it suitable for nighttime use in bedrooms where silence matters.
The independent night light adds functionality beyond air purification. The soft glow works well as a gentle nightlight for children’s rooms or guest spaces. Multiple timer options from 2 to 12 hours allow customized operation without constant manual adjustment.
The trade-off is the smaller 215-square-foot coverage, which limits use to small bedrooms, dorm rooms, or home offices. The 3-month filter replacement schedule also adds ongoing costs, though replacement filters remain affordable. For the initial investment, these limitations feel acceptable.
Best For Small Rooms on a Tight Budget
The FULMINARE H13 delivers legitimate H13 True HEPA filtration for small spaces under 200 square feet. If you need basic air purification for a dorm room, small bedroom, or home office without spending much, this budget-friendly option works well. The night light feature adds value for children’s rooms.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
For medium to large rooms exceeding 300 square feet, invest in higher-capacity models like the LEVOIT Core 300 or KNKA. Those wanting smart features, app control, or premium build quality should increase their budget accordingly. If you prefer longer filter life, consider models with 6-12 month replacement intervals.
7. COWAY Airmega Mighty2 Air Purifier – Premium Pick
COWAY Airmega Mighty2 Air Purifier, Next Gen of AP-1512HH, for Large Room & Home Cleans up to 1,800 ft², IEST certified HEPA and Active Carbon for Allergies, Smoke, Dust, Pets & Mold, AP-1512N(W)
IEST Certified
1800 ft² Coverage
Megascann Laser Sensor
Smart Mode
Pros
- IEST-RP-CC007 certified HEPA
- Excellent coverage up to 1800 ft²
- Megascann laser sensor for real-time monitoring
- Award-winning iF Design
- 3-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Higher price point
- Requires Max2 filter replacement
The COWAY Airmega Mighty2 represents the next generation of a model that’s dominated air purifier recommendations for years. As the successor to Wirecutter’s long-time top pick, it brings enhanced features while maintaining the core performance that made the original famous. Testing it in my 1,200-square-foot open living space revealed why COWAY maintains such strong reputation.
The Megascann laser sensor monitors PM1, PM2.5, and PM10 particles in real-time, displaying results on the LED panel. Watching the sensor respond instantly to cooking smoke and then track the air clearing process demonstrated sophisticated detection capabilities. The Smart Mode automatically adjusts fan speed based on detected air quality, reducing manual intervention.
Coverage up to 1,800 square feet means this unit handles large open floor plans effectively. It purifies 900 square feet in just 30 minutes, making it practical for homes where air quality fluctuates throughout the day. The washable pre-filter extends the life of the combined HEPA and carbon Max2 filter, reducing ongoing costs.
The Eco-Mode turns off the fan completely when air quality remains optimal for 30 minutes, then restarts when pollution is detected. This intelligent cycling saves significant energy compared to continuous operation. At 56W maximum power consumption, running costs stay reasonable despite the large coverage capacity.
Best For Large Homes and Premium Seekers
The COWAY Airmega Mighty2 excels in large homes, open floor plans, and spaces requiring premium filtration performance. If you want the most advanced sensor technology and proven track record, this model delivers. The 3-year warranty and award-winning design add confidence to the investment.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
For smaller spaces under 800 square feet, this powerful unit may be overkill both in capacity and cost. Those wanting WiFi connectivity should consider the BLUEAIR or other smart-enabled alternatives. Budget-conscious buyers can achieve similar filtration in smaller spaces with less expensive options.
8. BLUEAIR Blue Pure 211i Max Air Purifier – Best for Extra Large Rooms
BLUEAIR Air Purifiers for Home Large Room up to 3,235 Ft², Blue 211i Max
HEPASilent Technology
3235 ft² Coverage
WiFi Enabled
Auto Mode
Pros
- Exceptional coverage up to 3235 ft²
- WiFi connectivity with app control
- HEPASilent quiet operation
- 360-degree air intake
- Minimalist Scandinavian design
Cons
- Premium price point
- WiFi required for full smart features
The BLUEAIR Blue Pure 211i Max handles spaces that other air purifiers simply can’t touch. With coverage up to 3,235 square feet, it’s designed for large homes, open floor plans, and commercial-style spaces. Testing it in my friend’s 2,000-square-foot basement recreation area proved its capabilities in challenging environments.
The HEPASilent technology combines electrostatic and mechanical filtration for efficient particle capture without excessive noise. Even at higher fan speeds, conversation remained easy at normal volume. The 360-degree air intake draws from all sides, maximizing airflow without requiring precise placement.
WiFi connectivity and the Blueair app enable remote monitoring and control. I could check air quality status and adjust settings from anywhere, which my friend appreciated for managing the basement space from upstairs. The auto mode with built-in sensors maintained consistent air quality without constant manual adjustment.
The minimalist Scandinavian design earned compliments from everyone who saw it. Available in dark gray and light gray, it fits modern interiors without looking like industrial equipment. The washable pre-filter extends main filter life and adds a splash of color if desired.
Best For Extra Large Spaces and Smart Home Enthusiasts
The BLUEAIR Blue Pure 211i Max excels in large homes, open floor plans, and spaces exceeding 2,000 square feet. If you want smartphone control and real-time monitoring, the WiFi connectivity delivers genuine smart home integration. The quiet operation suits living spaces where noise matters.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
For rooms under 1,500 square feet, this powerful unit offers more capacity than needed. Those without WiFi or smartphone preference may find smart features unnecessary. Budget-conscious buyers should consider the COWAY for large spaces or smaller models for average room sizes.
How to Choose the Right HEPA Air Purifier for Your Home?
Selecting the best HEPA air purifier requires understanding several key factors that directly impact performance and satisfaction. The right choice depends on your room size, specific air quality concerns, and budget considerations. Here’s what to evaluate before making your decision.
True HEPA vs HEPA-Type Filters: Understanding the Difference
Not all HEPA filters perform equally. True HEPA filters meet strict U.S. government standards, capturing 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger. HEPA-type or HEPA-grade filters may capture only 85-95% of particles, letting more pollutants pass through. Look for certification marks like AHAM VERIFIDE or IEST-RP-CC007 to ensure genuine performance.
The distinction matters particularly for allergy sufferers. True HEPA filters remove significantly more pollen, pet dander, and dust mite allergens. HEPA-type filters may provide adequate general air cleaning but won’t deliver the same relief for those with respiratory sensitivities. When comparing models, check for explicit True HEPA or H13/H14 HEPA ratings rather than vague HEPA claims.
CADR and Room Size Coverage
Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) measures how quickly an air purifier cleans specific particle types. Higher CADR values indicate faster, more effective filtration. Match CADR to your room size by ensuring the purifier can provide 5 air changes per hour (ACH) at minimum. For a 500-square-foot room, you’d want at least 200 CFM CADR for effective performance.
Manufacturers state coverage based on one air change per hour, but most users benefit from 4-5 changes for noticeable improvement. If a purifier claims 1,000-square-foot coverage, expect optimal results in 400-600 square feet with 4-5 ACH. Always size up rather than down when choosing between models.
Filter Replacement Costs and Frequency
Ongoing filter costs vary significantly between brands and models. Some units require replacement every 3 months, while others last 6-12 months. Calculate annual filter costs before purchasing by multiplying replacement frequency by per-filter price. A $30 filter replaced quarterly costs $120 yearly, while a $50 filter replaced twice yearly costs $100.
Consider washable pre-filters for extending main filter life. Models with permanent pre-filters trap larger particles before they reach the HEPA layer, reducing replacement frequency. Carbon filters for odor removal typically need more frequent changing than HEPA filters, adding to maintenance costs.
Noise Levels for Different Settings
Budget air purifiers often produce 50-60dB at high speeds, equivalent to normal conversation volume. For bedroom use, look for models with sleep modes under 30dB, roughly the sound of whispering. The LEVOIT Core 300 and COWAY Mighty2 both offer 24dB and 19dB sleep modes respectively, ideal for light sleepers.
Test noise levels at different fan speeds if possible. Some units remain quiet at low settings but become disruptive at higher speeds. For living spaces, 40-50dB at medium settings typically doesn’t interfere with conversation or television watching.
Smart Features and Connectivity
WiFi-enabled models like the BLUEAIR Blue Pure 211i Max offer smartphone control, scheduling, and remote monitoring. These features add convenience for managing air quality when away from home. However, smart features require stable WiFi and add cost without improving actual filtration performance.
For most users, automatic modes with built-in sensors provide adequate convenience without WiFi complexity. Air quality indicators that change color based on pollution levels offer visual feedback without app dependency. Consider your tech comfort level and whether remote access adds genuine value.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best HEPA air purifier for home use?
The LEVOIT Core 300-P offers the best overall value for home use with AHAM VERIFIDE certification, 1,073-square-foot coverage, and quiet 24dB sleep mode. For large spaces, the COWAY Airmega Mighty2 provides excellent coverage up to 1,800 square feet with advanced sensor technology.
How do I choose the right size air purifier for my room?
Match your air purifier to your room size by ensuring it can deliver 4-5 air changes per hour. For effective filtration, choose a model rated for at least 50% more coverage than your actual room size. A 400-square-foot bedroom needs a purifier rated for 600+ square feet for optimal performance.
What is the difference between HEPA and True HEPA filters?
True HEPA filters meet strict U.S. standards, capturing 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger. Regular HEPA or HEPA-type filters may only capture 85-95% of particles. True HEPA certification matters most for allergy sufferers who need maximum particle removal for symptom relief.
How often should I replace HEPA filters?
Most HEPA filters need replacement every 6-12 months depending on usage and air quality conditions. High-traffic homes with pets may require 3-6 month intervals. Check your model’s indicator light and follow manufacturer recommendations for optimal performance and energy efficiency.
Are expensive air purifiers worth the money?
Premium air purifiers offer larger coverage, advanced sensors, smart features, and longer warranties. For large spaces or serious allergy relief, higher-end models like COWAY and BLUEAIR deliver measurable benefits. Budget models work well for small rooms and general air quality improvement without premium costs.
Final Thoughts on the Best HEPA Air Purifiers for Home
Choosing the right HEPA air purifier for your home doesn’t need to be complicated when you understand the key factors. The LEVOIT Core 300-P stands out as our Editor’s Choice for most homes, offering certified performance and excellent value. For large spaces, the KNKA APH4000 and COWAY Airmega Mighty2 deliver impressive coverage. Budget-conscious buyers get real HEPA filtration with the FULMINARE H13 under $25.
Remember to size your air purifier appropriately for your room, factor in ongoing filter replacement costs, and prioritize True HEPA certification for maximum allergy relief. With any of these top-rated models, you’ll notice cleaner air and improved indoor air quality within days of operation. Here’s to breathing easier in your home this year.