Consumer Reports just checked out two sizes. One costs $200 and the other costs $400.
The devices claim they "can trap even the very finest particles, as small as 10 microns." But Consumer Reports points out that many of the particles that bother people with respiratory problems, such as dust and smoke, are a lot smaller. Particles that are 10 microns are just too heavy to stay suspended for very long.
Consumer Reports tested the Venta-Airwasher the same way it tests all air purifiers, in a sealed chamber. A measured amount of fine dust is put into the room, followed by cigarette smoke. A particle counter keeps track of the number of particles in the air that are three microns or smaller. The Venta-Airwasher didn't do anything to clean the air of very small particles. The number of dust and smoke particles stayed the same over the course of 90 minutes.
So tests show it's not a good air purifier. How about a humidifier? The tests show the Venta-Airwasher does add moisture, but it doesn't have a control to let you set the level of humidity. Without humidity controls, the air can get very moist and can eventually cause mold and mildew to grow. A regular humidifier costs a lot less. Consumer Reports says get one with a control that lets you set the amount of humidity you want.
As for air purifiers, Consumer Reports tested them recently and did find some effective ones. But Consumer Reports says there's little definite medical evidence that they help people with asthma or allergies. Click here to get advice on the best ways to improve your indoor air quality.
Consumer Reports has no commercial relationship with any advertiser or sponsor appearing on this Web site.
