Which air washer is better to choose for a house or apartment?

Many people think about the state of the air in their apartment, and this is not without reason. The cleaner what we inhale, the healthier we will ultimately be. Air is life, and many things are connected with it that directly affect human health. The parameters of cleanliness, humidity and cleanliness of the room are the most important. For example, if a room is heated too much, or, on the contrary, cooled with the help of additional means, this can significantly dry out the air. Many people have probably noticed that being in a room with stale air is uncomfortable. Of course, you can ventilate, but the air outside the window is not always clean, especially if it is the first floor and the windows overlook the roadway.

An effective way to clean and humidify the atmosphere in a room is to use special devices. The most common device today is the so-called air washer. Below we will find out what the benefits and harms of using such devices are.

Why is air washing necessary?

There are humidity standards (40-65%) in residential buildings, a kind of “comfort zone”, going beyond which can lead to mild illness, and a long stay can lead to serious consequences (dizziness, high blood pressure, allergic reactions, runny nose, colds and etc). This level is determined by conventional hygrometers. In the dry season (spring, summer, early autumn) this level decreases almost three times (up to 20%). In sunny weather, solving the problem of dry air is very problematic, because outside the window, on the street, there is not much more moisture than in the apartment.

A dry indoor climate can lead to the following consequences.

A decrease in the level of humidity in the skin, due to which a slowdown in metabolic processes in the upper layers of the epidermis may be felt. Manifests itself in dry skin, irritation, psoriatic reactions, itching and redness. It can be especially severe in people with sensitive skin types.
Blood circulation may deteriorate, and this leads to many undesirable consequences, in particular digestive problems.
The skin loses its elasticity and may begin to peel and flake, crack and sag. The protective functions of the epidermis are significantly reduced.
Decreased functionality of the upper respiratory tract, drying of the mucous membrane.
Eye irritation (redness, itching).

If we are talking about long-term stay in such a room, in some cases there is a decrease in immunity, increased irritability of the epidermal layer, and frequent local allergic reactions. The tone and performance also decrease, and complaints of deteriorating health appear.

In a room where humidity has been restored to an acceptable level, the human body can experience a sharp improvement in rheology (blood flow), improvement in the condition of the mucous membrane, as well as the skin in general. In addition to improving the general condition, water vapor has the property of binding particles of debris, which makes them easier to remove.

To increase the humidity in their apartment, people resort to various options. Some people buy an aquarium and keep fish, others dry wet clothes right in the apartment, others, while watering flowers, spray water dust from a spray bottle throughout the house. Of course, all of the above is ineffective and is rather temporary. The best solution to the problem is to purchase a household humidifier - an air washer. This device not only brings the atmosphere in the house to the required level of humidity, but also purifies the air to some extent. Let's talk in more detail about what humidifiers are.

How does it work

The air washer is a fairly simple device. Its main tasks are to purify and humidify indoor air. Today, these devices are usually divided into two categories:

with water filter;

a device based on a disk rod.

How does such a unit work? Rod-based devices pass air through rotating plates that are half immersed in liquid. Such air washers consist of:

paddle cooler located on top;
drum (rod with plates);
a reservoir with liquid, which is located in the center - the disks are partially immersed in it.

Working principle of rod based air washer

The cooler supplies an air stream to the washing compartment. Passing through the moistened plates, contaminated particles become bound. They naturally swell and become heavier. Dirt settles in the liquid reservoir. The air is saturated with humidity to a predetermined limit. The flow, having passed through the tank, is blown out through several holes on both sides of the device.

Devices with a hydraulic filter have a cone instead of a drum, which works as a circulation blower. Its work creates a finely dispersed environment, through which the air is purified and moistened. Under pressure, small drops of water are blown out along with air.

The principle of operation of a washer with a hydrofilter

It should be noted that this type of device is rarely used in everyday life.

Benefit or harm: consequences of using air washing

Unfortunately, the question has to be posed exactly this way. Fortunately, there is only one point: air washers are not airtight, and inside they simply have ideal conditions for the existence of a colony of bacteria. The latter settle both in the reservoir with liquid and on the disks (discs). The main danger lies in the fact that over time, such colonies not only take root inside, but can enter the apartment with humidified air being blown out. If the water from the tank contains mold and fungal spores, then this can pose a direct threat to the health of everyone living in the apartment. The benefits of such hydration immediately become very subjective.

Of course, there is a solution to this problem, and a rather prosaic one at that. It is enough just to thoroughly rinse the tank and the discs themselves, drain the dirty water and fill it with clean water (ideally distilled). Of course, the frequency of servicing devices may differ for each manufacturer, but expert reviews say that the fluid should be replaced at least once every 2-4 days. If the humidifier is not used at all, it is best to drain the water and store it empty.

In addition to the hygienic disadvantage of air washers, one can note the need for constant maintenance (this includes all its subtleties and complexities). For example, in expensive devices, many parts often have a complex design, they are difficult to remove during maintenance, and you can damage or injure yourself.

A list of other shortcomings is given below.

For hydration to be of high quality, it must be continuous. As soon as you turn off the device, the efficiency of humidification will immediately decrease, and after some time it will return to its original state.
The design of air washers does not allow the capture of allergens, as well as particles of dust and debris smaller than 10-12 microns. All this garbage is blown out again.
Presence of fine filters. On the one hand, this is a plus, but they need to be changed, and this is an additional expense.
The dimensions of the device are not always optimal. Often the sink is a bulky plastic case that can easily be tripped over.
The cost of such humidifiers often exceeds the threshold of the “golden mean” and can reach up to 14-45 thousand rubles. for a single copy.

But are there any benefits? Of course, air washing is not without its positive sides.

The air washer copes well with debris that exceeds a size of 10 microns. Of course, we are not talking about microbes and microallergens. But devices of this type do an excellent job of removing coarse dust, dirt and sand, as well as wool and furniture lint.
It is unlikely that a person can be harmed due to excessive air humidification. Such cases have not yet been encountered in practice.
Large volume of treated area due to forced air suction by cooler blades.
The water in the tank is not heated and is not brought to a boil. The possibility of getting burned during operation and maintenance of the device is excluded.
Air washing does not contribute to the formation of plaque on household items (furniture, linoleum, etc.).

White residue from humidifiers

In general, the use of this type of device can be considered safe and useful, although not without its drawbacks. As you can see, the benefits in some cases may be offset by existing design flaws (even if there are not many of them). However, each case is individual and largely depends on the environmental situation of the area in which the premises being treated are located. In addition, the type of humidifier itself, its manufacturer, its power and degree of filtration (the presence of additional fine air filters) are of great importance.

If you use the device for its intended purpose, wash it regularly, following the hygiene recommendations of specialists, the result of use will be clean and humidified air, which will have a positive effect on the user’s health.

You can’t talk about any direct harm without mentioning the many benefits that can be obtained by using humidifiers. Receiving harm when using an air washer may be associated with improper operation: the conditions were not met, the instructions were not studied, there were contraindications.

Users who know a lot about cleaning a room have probably tried air washing at home and can tell you a lot about it. Below are reviews from owners who have used humidifiers for a long time.

Prices and popular models

Let's look at the 5 most popular models of air washers. Let's find out what the features are and what their price is.

VENTALW 15 cost – 17500 rub . This device is capable of purifying and humidifying the air in a room of 20 square meters. m. It has small dimensions, 280x310x260 mm, and a low noise level, less than 32 dB. The device is controlled electronically and has a low water level indication. The speed of liquid evaporation intensity is adjustable.
PanasonicF-VXH50 – 25 thousand rubles . A “smart” model that evaluates the air quality in the apartment. “Remembers” temporary peaks when the level of pollution increases and adjusts its work accordingly. Works on an area up to 40 square meters. m, maximum noise level 51 dB. Its dimensions are 360x560x230 mm.
Boneco W2055DR – RUR 30,773 Easy to use device. Has a display showing the current humidity level. It has the functions of bactericidal protection, ionization and aromatization. Covers 50 sq. m, while working very quietly, up to 25 dB. Indicates low water level and the need to replace the filter. Dimensions 360x360x360 mm.
VENTALW 25 – 26220 rub . The older sister of the first wash. Works on an area of 40 sq. m, noise level up to 42 dB. It has the same capabilities as the previous VENTA device, but is more powerful and voluminous, 300x330x300 mm.
AIC XJ-860 – 20 thousand rubles . Working area 60 sq. m, noise level 29 dB. Capable of destroying bacteria and ionizing air. Quite bulky, 252x440x438 mm.

Do-it-yourself ventilation in a private house, diagram, wiring tips and recommendations from craftsmen. Read the benefits and harms of humidifiers in our article.

How to install an air conditioner with your own hands, step-by-step instructions and recommendations here.

Alternative options

There are other devices that can make the air in an apartment better . However, they have their drawbacks.

Humidifiers are not capable of purifying the air . And they can provide it with moisture only in small areas.
Purifiers need to replace the filter element . The cost of which is high, but the service life is the opposite.
Climate control systems are a combination of the first two devices. Accordingly, their shortcomings add up.

Watch the video review comparing the air washer and humidifier:

Read how to make a dehumidifier with your own hands here. Which humidifier is best for a child? Read tips and tricks.

Read how to properly make ventilation in the bathroom and toilet at https://klimatlab.com/ventilyaciya/systema/v-vannoj-komnate-i-tualete.html

Owner reviews

I have been using the air washer for more than two years; my husband bought it. At first I was skeptical, I thought it was some kind of useless thing. I have had allergies since childhood, so as soon as everything starts to bloom, I have to take pills. Besides, it’s very dry in our apartment, and when they start heating, we had to open the windows. With the advent of the humidifier, we no longer open windows in winter. Even allergies have become a little easier, my eyes are no longer so red. Of course, we don’t add aromatic oils, but the humidifier copes with its main task just fine. I am very pleased! Anna, Gornouralsk

It so happened that everyone in our family is susceptible to allergies, some more, some less. Of course, in such conditions we simply need clean air in the apartment. About a year ago, it was decided to solve the problem of air purity with the help of a humidifier-purifier. What can you say almost a year after purchase? This is a necessary thing, and absolutely necessary for our family. Now I can’t even imagine how we lived without it before, like spring and allergies. In the spring, even after airing the house, no one else had a stuffy nose, because dispersed dust binds all small debris, including pollen! Vladimir, Dimitrovgrad

We bought an air washer for a child’s room, he is asthmatic. The air in our apartment is dry, the house is monolithic, a new building, no ventilation. In winter it is cold to ventilate, and in warm weather there are always cars in front of the windows and the smell of cigarettes (we live on the second floor). We thought for a long time about how to solve the problem of arid climate. The wife complained of constant mild malaise and decreased tone. Yes, and I began to notice that I had no strength all the time, I wanted to lie down, then sit down. It turned out that the problem was solved very easily - it was enough to simply humidify and purify the air in our apartment. We are very pleased with the purchase and now recommend the air washer to all our friends and relatives. Of course, it won’t solve all the problems, but it makes life much easier for asthmatics, and I also have more strength. Ivan Alexandrovich, Moscow

I bought the advertising and numerous rave reviews and bought myself an air washer. The result, to be honest, is zero. Yes, the air became more humid, but this did not make it easier to breathe; on the contrary, some kind of heaviness appeared in the chest area, as if you were in the tropics. In the summer I will take the humidifier to the dacha and try it there. On hot days, my small house gets so warm that it becomes uncomfortable to be in it. It is useless to ventilate if there is not even a slight breeze outside. Maybe a humidifier will help a little, because at home I didn’t notice any special effect, it’s even a little worse to breathe. A friend said that this could be due to the fact that the humidity was already within normal limits. I don't know, my device doesn't have a hygrometer. Yana, Naberezhnye Chelny

I became acquainted with air washers quite a long time ago, when they first appeared on the domestic market. Since then, I have always had this device working at home. At different times there were from one to three of them, one in each room. I don’t see anything unusual in this; you should take care of your health and monitor the composition of the air. The environmental situation in Russia leaves much to be desired, as in most post-industrial countries, therefore, I believe that the demand for such devices will only increase over time. Denis, sales specialist in cleaning and climate control equipment

Today we are celebrating a real boom in taking care of our health. In society, it has suddenly become fashionable and relevant to take care of yourself, follow a diet, eat right, and engage in physical activity. The demand for gadgets that measure certain physiological indicators, as well as optimizing the environment, has increased by an order of magnitude. Our company offers the optimal solution to the problem of arid climate in your home. Air humidification is the simplest and most effective way to make the home environment easier in cases where regular ventilation will not be effective. Nowadays, the effect of using air washing has been proven experimentally and certified by many researchers from different parts of the world. Artem, public relations specialist for a humidifier manufacturer

Rating of the best air purifiers (washers) and tips for choosing a suitable device

Without clean air in an apartment or office, a person begins to suffer from health problems. The air must meet the requirements of cleanliness, humidity, and be free of bacteria, foreign odors and allergens. However, in modern environmental conditions it is almost impossible to achieve such purity. Especially if you have pets in your home. The constant release of exhaust gases into the atmosphere, foreign odors, smoke from factories and factories, dust and other derivatives of human activity settle in our apartments. Only one device, which is called an air washer, can help cope with this problem. In this article we will tell you how to choose the right useful household appliance for your apartment.

What should you pay attention to when choosing a device?

Congratulations if you are looking to purchase a specialized unit in the near future. If this is your first time hearing about such a device as an air washer, then you will need the following information.

This is a device that is a multifunctional device. Its main task is to purify the air and simultaneously humidify it. Thanks to the operation of this device, the indoor microclimate significantly improves, which has a positive effect on people's health. Scientists have recognized that air washes are highly effective in cleaning the environment, as well as in the fight against pollen, dust mites and allergens.

This device should not be confused with a humidifier. Air washing is much more functional, has a wider range of additional features, and also has many advantages. Among them are:

high-quality air purification,
saturation with moisture, while taking into account the risk of waterlogging,
the operation of the device is not audible to prying ears,
The design of the device itself is very simple, which means that its owners can disassemble the device themselves to wash the filters.

The first thing you should pay attention to when choosing a device is the size of the room. Each device is designed for a certain footage, which means that if the size of the room is larger than the device can process, then the efficiency will decrease.

To begin with, you need to measure the square footage of the room over which the unit will operate. For example, you want to use it for a large room measuring 30 square meters. Or, you have a small apartment, and the washing action is enough for its entire area. However, in this case you should not close the doors.

The second thing you need to pay attention to is the operating volume.

Not all air washers operate silently.

Many of them create unpleasant vibrations or noise. If such a device is installed in the bedroom or nursery, it will significantly interfere with your restful sleep. Therefore, check the noise level in advance.

The third selection criterion is the volume of the tank. The efficiency of room humidification will depend on the volume of the tank. Some devices have an extended tank, which allows you to fill the air with freshness and humidity in a matter of minutes. A device with a small reservoir, unfortunately, is not able to cope with such a task in a short time.

Availability of additional functionality. Many air washers come with additional features. They make the life of the owner of the device much easier. For example, additional functions will allow you to install:

timer for a specific operating mode,
auto-on mode when you need to ventilate the room in your absence,
sensors responsible for operation and so on.
Some devices are equipped with special reservoirs where you can pour flavoring, which means that the air will not only be humidified, but also smell pleasant.

You must pay for additional functionality.

Energy consumption. Unfortunately, some devices are mercilessly powered by electricity, but do not cope with their function perfectly. This applies to inexpensive or fairly old models. Therefore, check in advance the information about how economical this device is. And do not believe the assurances of consultants that all washes are economical. Unfortunately, if you are not careful, you risk receiving a hefty electricity bill a month later.

The last thing to pay attention to is the design. Today's household goods market offers a lot of variations in sink design. You can choose the one that matches the style of your apartment.

At the same time, let me give you some tips that will help you decide where to buy.

It is better to purchase the device in person, that is, by going to the store in person. But it’s better to refuse to buy online. Be sure to check with the consultant all the technical specifications, and if possible, check the operation of the device on the spot. Even if you are promised a good discount on an exhibition sample, refuse this offer. Unfortunately, such models quickly become unusable. Make sure that you have been given a warranty card. Try to check the operation of the device immediately upon arriving home. Within 14 days, you can easily return the device and replace it with a new one if a defect or breakdown is found. For this purpose, also do not tear the packaging and accompanying documentation.

Rating of the best inexpensive but effective air washers

Xiaomi Mi Air Purifier 2

Cleaner, speed control, mains operation, control from a smartphone.

Price: 8,350 RUR

The air purifier has three operating speeds. There is a control function from your phone. Cleaning capacity 310 cubic meters per hour. Installed on the floor. The filters are removable, which makes cleaning easier. It has a rather specific look that will complement the high-tech interior.

Installation of Boneco W1355A

Cleansing and moisturizing, capacity: 7 l, power 20 W, covers about 50 sq.m., has a lot of useful additional functions
Price: 12,990 RUR

This device has a capacity of 7 liters and the power it requires is 20 W. Can serve a room of 150 square meters. There is manual adjustment of speed. The device operates from the network. Has two operating modes. It is possible to disable the humidification function.

Climate complex Boneco W2055A

The device contains a humidifier option, capacity: 7 l, power 20 W, covers about 60 sq.m.,

Price: 15,490 RUR

Another representative of boneco. Capacity of 7 liters, serves an area of 180 square meters. There is a speed control mode. Control is possible both on the device itself and using the remote control or your smartphone. The device can be installed on the floor or placed on the wall. The filters are removable, which allows them to be thoroughly cleaned. It has a laconic, modern design.

Device from the famous company Boneco U700

Ultrasonic humidifier, capacity: 9 l, power 180 W, covers about 80 sq.m., has a very interesting aromatization option, works from the mains
Price: 14,990 RUR

Serves a room up to 60 square meters. Power 180 kW. The capacity of the container is about 9 liters. It is an ultrasonic humidifier. Controlled by remote control. It has transparent walls of the container, making it possible to monitor the water consumption.

Royal Clima Alba Luxe (RAW-A300/6.0-WT)

It has a humidifying function and also does an excellent job of purifying air masses indoors.

Price: 7,690 RUR

Inexpensive climate control unit. Combines the functions of a cleanser and a humidifier. Serves a room up to 35 square meters. Has a power of 30 W. Capacity volume 6 liters. It has an air ionization function. The design is quite uncomplicated and simple.

AIC S135 device

Aimed at humidifying and simultaneously cleansing the space 3.5 liters, power 22 W, covers about 30 sq.m., unfortunately, can only function from the network
Price: 7,900 RUR

A small-sized climate control system that fits on any work surface. The volume of the water tank is 3 and a half liters. Power 35 W. Serves a room up to 30 square meters. Has a speed regulator. Equipped with a touch control system. Incredibly stylish and compact at the same time. This is precisely what explains the popularity of this particular model.

The best mid-range systems

Air washing is a fairly expensive household item. This was the case until 2021. Then many new, budget models went on sale that people with low incomes could afford. Let's consider budget, but at the same time effective models.

Climate complex Royal Clima Alba Luxe (RAW-A300/6.0-WT)

Purifier and humidifier, natural humidification, capacity: 6 l, covers about 35 sq.m, air ionization, speed control, mains operation

Price: 6,439 RUR

This climate control complex has earned a lot of positive reviews from its customers. Mainly because it has a nice design and also does not take up much space in the room. The controls are simple and intuitive.

Humidifier AIC S135

Purifier and humidifier, capacity: 3.5 l, power 22 W, covers about 30 sq.m., adjustable operating speed, mains operation
Price: 6,300 RUR

This air conditioning unit is very compact and has a capacity of only three and a half liters. Such a climate complex can be placed on a desk in a nursery or in an office. It will not take up much space, but at the same time it will organically fit into the interior. Equipped with a touch control panel. However, some note that this panel becomes unusable after just a couple of months of operation and buyers switch to the remote control.

Atmos Aqua-1270

Purifier and humidifier, capacity: 0.7 l, power 14 W, air ionization, speed control, aromatization function, mains operation

Price: 4,840 RUR

A complex with an interesting design. Its capacity is only one liter, but at the same time, many note its high efficiency. The complex has two operating speeds, as well as a timer function, which is very convenient. The device has sensors that will remind you that the tank has run out of water.

Climate complex Fanline VE200

Natural humidification, capacity: 8 l, power 10 W, covers about 20 sq.m, air ionization, aromatization function, mains operation

Price: 5,990 RUR

A good floor-standing complex, the capacity of which holds as much as 8 liters. This means that such a device effectively humidifies the room, and does not require frequent water changes. The only disadvantage of such a device is the need for frequent washing of the filters.

Rating of the most effective and smart air purifiers

Humidifier Boneco U700

Ultrasonic humidifier, capacity: 9 l, power 180 W, covers about 80 sq.m., adjustable speed, aromatization function, mains operation
Price: 14,990 RUR

This humidifier is the most popular and highly rated device. Its cost is low, and its design is incomparable. Many are attracted by the opportunity to see an open container and understand how the device operates. Reviews note that such a container effectively copes with its function, while serving all 80 square meters of the room. This means that such a device can be used even by residents of three-room apartments without compromising functionality.

Panasonic F-VXK70 complex

Purifier and humidifier, capacity: 4 l, power 66 W, covers about 52 sq.m., adjustable operating speed, mains operation

Price: 49,990 RUR

A device that has a laconic design. Available in black, brown, and red. Will fit effectively into any interior. The cost of such a device is high, but it is fully justified by its functionality. Equipped with functions of a timer, automatic switching on, automatic change of operating mode and so on. A very compact device that does not take up much space. A distinctive feature of this device is full automation. Namely, the device itself understands when it becomes difficult to breathe in a room and starts working automatically. The main condition for such a function is that the mode is turned on. However, do not be afraid that a constantly running unit will absorb a lot of energy. The device will remain in sleep mode until it realizes that it needs to start the air purification function.

Climate complex Winia AWI-40

Purifier and humidifier, capacity: 7 l, power 15 W, speed adjustment, mains operation

Price: 16,800 RUR

Device with a capacity of 7 liters. It has earned the respect of customers due to its functionality and simple design. The disadvantages of such a device include the noticeable volume of operation. Unfortunately, the device makes not the most pleasant sounds that make it difficult to fall asleep or concentrate on work. Otherwise, this is an ideal device.

Humidifier StarWind SHC2211

Ultrasonic humidifier, capacity: 1.7 l, power 17 W, speed adjustment, aromatization function, mains operation

Price: 940 RUR

Another popular air washer combined with a humidifier. For a relatively low price, the buyer receives a capacity of 2 liters and an operating power of 17 watts. There is an aromatization function, as well as adjustment of the operating speed. Uncomplicated design. But some buyers complain that after 2 months of operation, the filters become very dirty and it is quite difficult to wash them.

The benefits and possible harm of air purification systems

Like any other device, an air washer combines pros and cons.

The main advantage is the transformation of the air in your apartment into clean, fresh and humidified.
The second is the possibility of flavoring.
The third advantage is simple care.

The advantages include interesting designs and a large selection.

Electricity consumption is minimal; at least if used wisely, you will not experience an increase in the amount of your monthly utility bill.

However, buyers will have to get acquainted with the disadvantages in advance so as not to be disappointed later.

Some devices are really loud.
Unfortunately, powerful sinks that are designed for large spaces are very expensive.
The third disadvantage is that such a device is short-lived, and after a year or a year and a half of work you will have to buy replacement filters.
The need to constantly monitor the water level.
And, finally, to hide it, unfortunately, air washers do not differ in their design approach. These are bulky devices that will not fit into every interior. Keep this in mind.

The good news is that today there are a great variety of sinks available and the buyer can choose a device based on his personal needs and capabilities. Just think, just a couple of years ago there was no such diversity.

Finding the ideal device for yourself will not be difficult if you decide on your requirements in advance. We hope that you will draw the right conclusions from what you have read and purchase a device that will truly satisfy all your requirements, while at the same time becoming an addition to your interior without deteriorating it. Good luck with your search, and remember that the most important thing in choosing is the power of the work.

Mar 19, 2018ventsyst