I have severe year-round nasal allergies. To make matters worse, my prolonged allergy symptoms have triggered the growth of polyps in my nasal passages. Zyrtec and other allergy medications offer only partial relief. Then, I stumbled on this very favorably rated air purifier and decided to get it to see if it would help with my allergies. I have been using it for 6 months now, and the difference it has made is simply remarkable!
Function
--------
- HEPA Filter (High Efficiency Particulate Air filter)
I use the Honeywell HEPA Air Purifier in my bedroom, which measures about 15' x 13' - well within the specification of 17' x 22' for the optimal performance of the air purifier. I keep it turned on 24-7.
Initially, I wasn't entirely sure if this HEPA business wasn't mere hokum. But much to my delight, this air purifier has made a HUGE difference for me. My allergies symptoms have consistently shown a marked improvement whenever I'm in my room with my air purifier running; sometimes my allergies don't even act up - What a relief! I also don't get sinus headaches as often as I used to. Finally! Respite from the barrage of outdoor allergens! To all the allergy sufferers: the Honeywell HEPA Air Purifier does work!
Now, the *CAVEAT*
I have discovered that the air purifier works in alleviating my allergy symptoms only at the highest setting. It really moves the air in the room at the highest setting, but the problem, as many reviewers have noted, is that it can be quite loud at the highest setting. I think this is inevitable since the noise comes NOT from the fan, but from "the high air flow", as someone has astutely noted.
The noise really doesn't bother me too much. As a matter of fact, it serves as white noise for helping to mask my tinnitus. The only time I turn it down is when I need to talk on the phone.
- Carbon Filter
The carbon filter is very effective at controlling bad odors. The recommended carbon filter change interval is every 3-4 months, which sounds about right since my filter started losing its effectiveness after roughly the same time period. If you don't have a problem with bad odors, you can probably change the carbon filter much less frequently.
Aesthetics
----------
Contrary to some opinions about the aesthetics of the Honeywell HEPA Air Purifier, I actually think the unit looks rather attractive. But, of course, it's a subjective matter.
Durability
----------
At the lowest setting, the unit wobbles a little, which makes me worry about its durability. However, I've had my Honeywell HEPA Air Purifier for six months now, and I leave it on 24-7 -- no problems so far. At any rate, the unit has a 5-year warranty (a rarity these days).
Conclusion
----------
I just wanted to share my personal experience with the Honeywell HEPA Air Purifier since it's worked so well for me. Hopefully, it's been helpful for you. Do be aware of the noise issue that many people have trouble with. Good luck.
Buy Honeywell 50250 99.97% Pure HEPA Round Air Purifier!
