Just like the attic, the basement is usually one of the most neglected spaces in a home. These rooms are usually used for storage, but some people turn them into actual living spaces like entertainment areas or small dens.
Whatever purpose you have for your basement, it would still be important to keep the surrounding air purified. For that purpose, here are ten air purifier brands that can be of good use.
Top 9 air Purifiers for the Basement
| Product | Features | Price |
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1. Alen BreatheSmart FLEX for mold and bacteria
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2. GermGuardian AC5000
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3. Winix 5500-2
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4. Philips 2000i
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5. Coway AP-1512HH Mighty
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6. SilverOnyx Hepa 5 Speed Black
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7. GermGuardian AC4900CA
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8. Honeywell HPA300
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9. AeraMax 300
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Basement Air Purifiers Reviews
1. Alen BreatheSmart FLEX for mold and bacteria
For those looking for aesthetics and functionality in one air purifying machine, the Alen BreatheSmart FLEX is one of the viable choices you could make. With its top-notch system that mainly relies on a HEPA filter, it is capable of ridding the air from all airborne irritants, while adding great value to your room or space.
This product runs on intuitive intelligence through its auto mode and laser sensors that automatically adjusts to target particles as small as 0.3 microns. It is also well-built for night use with its pink noise frequency that promotes better sleep. It is also energy star certified, so you will not have to worry too much about your electric bill.
The one main issue about this product is that it can be relatively pricey. But ultimately, the Alen BreatheSmart FLEX is an above average product, with a lifetime warranty to boot.
Just through these reasons alone, the Alen BreatheSmart FLEX would be a wise investment to make.
Pros
- Can get rid of 99% of all airborne particles
- Large coverage area
- Energy star rated guaranteeing energy efficiency
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Expensive
2. GermGuardian AC5000
When it comes to purifying the surrounding air of your room, basement, or any space, GermGuardian is one of the more reliable and trustworthy brands out there. The AC5000, for one, is a product that is best-suited for air purification in the basement.
Through its built-in HEPA filter, it is able to trap airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns, while its charcoal filter reduces odors. With its AHAM and Energy Star certifications, not only do you have a good CADR-rated machine at your disposal (123 for dust, 128 for pollen and 116 for smoke), but an energy-saver as well.
Unfortunately, there have been several complaints about a burning smell that it emits, which is its one drawback. But the pros still outweigh the cons, as it is also equipped with UV-C technology that destroys the DNA of bacteria, eliminating the root of the problem altogether. It also operates quietly in the night, assuring its users a good night’s sleep.
Overall, the GermGuardian AC5000 would be a practical and affordable appliance to have in your basement.
Pros
- HEPA filter and carbon filter for effective purification
- UV-C technology that eradicates bacteria’s DNA
- Operates quietly
- Energy efficient
- High CADR ratings
- Equipped with filter replacement reminder
- Affordable
- Lengthy warranty
Cons
- Tends to emit a burning smell
- Small room coverage
3. Winix 5500-2
When it comes to air purifiers, Winix is a brand that is known to deliver, and it is proven by the 5500-2. With its True HEPA filter and activated carbon filters, it rids the surrounding air from harmful yet common household pollutants that can be as small as 0.3 microns.
What makes this product stand out is its PlasmaWave technology, which serves as a third filter to break down allergens, odor and even chemical vapors. It operates risk-free in terms of health, as it emits no harmful ozone.
Filter replacements for this unit can be pricey, which can be a factor. But it does add convenience around the home, given its many smart features such as the Sleep Mode that enables the machine to operate quietly at night, as well as the Smart Sensors and Auto Modes that automatically adapts to the surrounding air quality.
The Winix 5500-2 can very well be one of the best machines to have down at your basement to make sure that you are breathing clean and fresh air.
Pros
- Smart Sensors that consistently monitors the air around
- Comes with a filter replacement indicator
- Can cover both medium and large rooms
- Sleep mode that provides convenience as it operates at night
- PlasmaWave technology that safely breaks down airborne irritants
Cons
- Expensive filter replacements
- Short warranty
4. Philips 2000i
Philips is a known brand that delivers top-quality appliances, and the 2000i air purifier is no exception. It runs with a top-notch filtering system consisting of a HEPA filter to fight airborne particles and an active carbon filter to eliminate odors.
The product also runs with an AeraSense technology that automatically detects and adjusts to the surrounding air in the room. It also features three automatic purification settings that include an extra-sensitive allergen and an extra-powerful bacteria and virus mode.
The main drawbacks of this product are its short warranty time and its overall price which can be steep for those on a budget, but you will be paying for the convenience it brings. One of which is that it is Wi-Fi and LTE enabled, giving you access to your 2000i air purifier anywhere you are.
If you have the resources, the Philips 2000i would be a good purchase to make. Not only will it be a welcome addition to your home, but you will also enjoy the respiratory health benefits it brings.
Pros
- Wi-Fi and LTE enabled
- Top-notch filtering system
- Wide coverage area
- Aera-Sense technology that automatically adjusts to the surrounding air
Cons
- Short warranty period
- Relatively pricey
5. Coway AP-1512HH Mighty
When it comes to a list of the best air purifiers in the market, the Coway AP-1512HH Mighty is almost always a staple. It is a product that is known for its efficiency, reliability, as well as the aesthetic value it will add to any home or space.
Apart from its effective filtration system, this device is also equipped with a bipolar ionizer that produces an electrochemical reaction to reduce unwanted airborne particles. It also runs with a three-speed fan that enables users to automatically adjust based on air output.
There have been some complaints about noises that the fan makes, and it can cause an unwanted spike in the monthly electricity expenses, but for those willing to brush these imperfections aside, the Coway AP-1512HH Mighty can be of great help in improving the air in your basement. It also comes with air quality and filter replacement indicators to give more convenience to its users.
Overall, the Coway AP-1512HH Mighty can be more of an advantage to have when it comes to purifying a room space such as your home’s basement.
Pros
- Extensive filtration system and ionizer
- Equipped with filter change and air quality indicators
- Wide coverage area
- Comes with a three-speed fan that adjusts automatically
- Aesthetically pleasing
Cons
Tends to make unwanted noises after some time of use
Not very energy efficient
Relatively pricey
6. SilverOnyx Hepa 5 Speed Black
When it comes to powerful air purifiers, SilverOnyx is one of those that stands out. That can be seen through its five-level filtration system consisting of a pre-filter, HEPA filter, carbon filter, UV-C light and ion generator, and UV sanitizer.
This filtration system is able to trap all kinds of airborne irritants like allergens, untoward odors, pet dander, smoke, and dust. The SilverOnyx air purifier also features a PM2.5 particular matter sensor to automatically adjust the air flow and give out clean air quality.
The one main disadvantage of this product, however, is that its loud operation may not be appealing to everyone’s ears. But above all, it is able to get the job done and capture 99% of allergens as small as 0.3 microns.
And in case you’re not satisfied with the product, manufacturers are offering a 100% money-back guarantee, ensuring your contentment as a consumer.
Pros
- Reliable filtration system that ensures clean air delivery
- Automatically adjusts air flow with particular matter sensor
- Comes with a filter change indicator for convenience
- Features UV-C light and ion generator
- Wide coverage area
- Affordable
- 100% money back guarantee
Cons
- Operates loudly
7. GermGuardian AC4900CA
Another GermGuardian product makes an appearance on this review. The AC4900CA gets its spot in this list for its functionalities, reliability, and capability to purify a space such as a room or a basement.
Apart from its HEPA filter and charcoal filters that work together to combat airborne particles and odors, this product is also equipped with UV-C light technology to eradicate viruses, germs and mold spores. It is also both AHAM verified and Energy Star certified, guaranteeing top performance and energy efficiency, respectively.
You will have to deal with its small coverage area and the untoward odors it may tend to emit, but the AC4900CA makes up for it with its ability to rid the air from 99% of unwanted substances in the air. In turn, you get to reap the benefits of breathing clean, purified air at all times.
GermGuardian has been excellent at air purification, whether it’s for your bedroom, or in this case, the basement, and the AC4900CA is a good testament to it.
Pros
- Superb filtration system
- UV-C light technology to ensure surrounding air is free from bacteria
- Energy efficient
- Affordable
- AHAM verified with decent CADR ratings
Cons
- Small coverage area
- Emits an unpleasant plastic odo
8. Honeywell HPA300
The Honeywell HPA300 is another suitable air purifier for the basement. It works with an activated carbon filter and a True HEPA filter to eradicate all major airborne pollutants, especially mold spores and bacteria that are prevalent in this part of the house.
Convenience is another major asset of this product. It is equipped with filter light indicators that sends notifications when it is time for a filter change to ensure that your machine is always in top condition. It also has the ability to circulate and filter the air five times in a span of an hour, so you are guaranteed fresh and purified air at all times.
The only downsides of this product is that it is relatively pricier and that it lacks smart features. But it can definitely get the job done, if you are looking for a purifier for your basement.
Honeywell has always been a brand that can deliver, and the HPA300 is definitely no exception.
Pros
- Eradicates the most common allergens in the basement
- Equipped with filter change indicator
- Wide coverage area
- Good CADR ratings
- Lengthy warranty
Cons
- Relatively pricey
- Lacking in smart features
9. AeraMax 300
AeraMax has proven itself to be a brand synonymous to reliability and excellent performance, and the AeraMax 300 is a testament to that. With its top-notch system consisting of both a True HEPA filter and carbon filter, it is able to eradicate 99% of airborne pollutants that are as small as 0.3 microns.
This device is also equipped with PlasmaTRUE technology that makes use of ionization to ensure the safe filtration process of the surrounding air in space up to 600 sq. ft. It is also certified asthma and allergy friendly by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.
You may have to deal with a little vibration and buzzing noise, which can be a nuisance if you have sensitive ears. But its ability to clear your atmosphere from particles that can be detrimental to your health makes up for that flaw.
Ultimately, having the AeraMax 300 at your disposal would be of great help when it comes to purifying the air in your basement.
Pros
- Good for people dealing with asthma and allergies
- Extensive filtration system through HEPA filter and carbon filter
- Large coverage area
- AeraSmart sensor that automatically adjusts fan speed
- Uses ionized field via PlasmaTRUE technology to ensure utmost purification
Cons
- Gives off a vibrating, buzzing noise
- Relatively pricey
Buyer’s Guide:
Air Purifiers For the Basement
Why Is Basement Air of Poor Quality?
In most cases, basements are smaller cramped spaces inside the home that is used for storage. In turn, moisture levels are kept elevated, because of poor ventilation and the carpets that impair air quality.
Basement spaces are also given very little care and maintenance efforts. Before you know it, that downstairs room you have at home had already accumulated years’ worth of mold, mildew, and other airborne irritants that are actually very hazardous to your health.
This is where your air purifier comes in. Whether or not you spend a lot of time in the basement, it would be necessary to keep the air fresh and clean and not put your respiratory health at risk.
Guidelines for Purchasing the Right Basement Air Filtration System
Depending on the state of your finances, an air purifier can turn out to be more of a luxury item. With that in consideration, here are some guidelines you can adhere to before making that purchase.
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Make Sure It Can Handle the Size of Your Basement
Basement sizes vary from one house to another, and will depend on the manner of which storage is done. But you will need an air purifier that will be able to work with the space you have available.
There are purifier brands that can cover up to 700 sq. ft. of space, and these are the ones you would want at your disposal. It may not cover the entire room, but make sure that it can at least purify a great majority of the surrounding air.
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Quality Filter that can Remove Mold Effectively
The purifier’s filtration system is another aspect to take a good look at. Most brands on this list are capable to eradicate airborne particles through its multiple stages of purification. A good product will usually have a True HEPA filter and activated carbon filter to work against allergens and odors.
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The ability to Rid the Air of as Many Pollutants as Possible
Similar to the previous item, the HEPA filter is usually the component of an air purifier that can eliminate up to 99% of airborne particles that can go as small as 0.3 microns. A product with a built in ionizer is also adept at eradicating both allergens and odors, solving two problems with one solution.
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Look for an Energy-Efficient Model
As previously mentioned, you would not want to pile on more expenses with a new device such as an air purifier. So if you intend to spend quite a chunk on the machine itself, at the very least, make sure of its energy efficiency.
You will know if a brand falls under this category if it bears an Energy Star rating, which means that it can run for hours while not inflicting that much damage on your monthly electricity expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I use an air purifier in my basement?
What types of pollutants should the air purification system be able to remove?
The usual pollutants that an air purifier should be able to remove are dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores, which are common fixtures in any home. But there are machines that can go as far as eradicating the DNA of the bacteria through their built-in ionizers and UV-C technology. This prevents the spread of any of these pollutants right from the get-go.
If I place an air purifier in the basement, can I turn this area into an extra bedroom or living room?
Having an air purifier in the basement will definitely make it a more livable space in your home. But at the same time, you will have to consider the space you will be working with, given that most basements are compact and cramped.
If you can creatively and efficiently set things up to maximize the space, you can turn your basement, or any room in the house into an instant living area.
Final Thoughts
The basement may not be the most inhabited room in your home, but it does not mean that it is exempt from air purification. When it comes to finding out that would be most suitable, you would want to go for the most effective one that would help you make the most out of your spendings.
That being said, the best choice to make from this list would be the Alen BreatheSmart FLEX. It checks out in all categories such as aesthetics, functionality, coverage area, and efficiency. Best of all, you are supported for life by its manufacturers.
But if you are on a tight budget, the GermGuardian AC4900CA. Despite its very few limitations, it will serve its purpose in cleansing the surrounding air around your basement.
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I bought the Blueair 650E model a while back, and since I have it in the basement, the musty smell that used to linger is gone. I’m very satisfied with it, and I recommend it to others as well!