I’m really thankful for the internet and people like you when it comes to making a decision on a product like an air purifier. You’re clearly passionate about this very niche subject and are the most informed and detailed reviewer on the subject I could find. I just ordered my Winix thanks to your review.
@@lizedery3302 I have athsma and I just mine a few days ago. I have not had sleep like this in so long. I 100% recommend this thing. I have a dog and the hair and dust this thing has picked up is incredible. I saw a lot of videos of this thing where people went to clean the filter and it was basically clean. Mine is full of dust and hair after just a few days I had to clean it!
After testing and using the 5500-2 Winnix for 3 years, plus the iQ Air, plus the Blue air 205, plus the Enviroklenz, l prefer the Winnix 5500-2 in my small bedroom as it is so quiet plus in hot nights it moves the air that promotes better sleep. I vacuum the pre-filter and wash the charcoal filter plus, replace the hepa filter as required. With allergies l have found this unit to work nicely in all seasons. My second choice is the Classic Blue Air 205. Going to give my iQ Air to a Charity as it, at my age is difficult to move from 1 floor to the next when needed plus the filters are expensive. Next fall or winter l will give my Enviroklenz to a charity, as it is made of steel and difficult to move on 3 flight of stairs. It needs to be placed in a dental office or school room. Your reports and reviews are the best on TH-cam. Thanks for sharing them with us out here.😊
My wife and I really appreciated the thorough analysis of this air purifier. Your expertise is apparent and you are a true asset to any organization. We just bought 2 Winix 5500-2 Air Purifiers. Thank you for all your hard work!
Excellent review! I bought a second WINIX and have been very happy with its ability to filter and purify the air. It’s virtually silent at night in Sleep mode. Great air purifier and this review is highly accurate. Well done!
I just got mine thanks to this review. It is incredible. I have fans in my house that used to be covered in dust and hair. I cleaned them all and they have remained clean. I have been cleaning the pre filter in the Winix every couple of days because it is COVERED in dust and crap from the air.
This was the video that convinced me to get this filter. Thank you! Btw I’ve been researching for literal weeks looking at dysons and other much more expensive products but to me this is a superior filter compared to anything else on the market- unless you want to spend a literal thousand dollars $ on some industrial / hospital filter that takes up an entire room to provide filtration.. this price for this product is unbeatable.
I've had this unit for over 6 months and I absolutely love it. It's very well built, the motor and fan are extremely well-balanced and the does not vibrate, at all. All I hear is the airflow and I keep mine on 3 (out of 4). As far as the lights. I covered most of the air quality LED with electrical tape. Fixed..
I just bought a couple of these. They actually have a 2 year warranty now. Have found the auto mode to be suprsingly good, turns up it's fan exactly when I'd expect. Great video btw, was really helpful in my air purifier buying decision.
Thank you so much for this review. I have smokers to the left and right of my condo, and was getting a ton of secondhand smoke coming through the outlets. This review made my pull the trigger on this unit, and it essentially fixed the problem. It really is insanely efficient for cigarette smoke and stifling the smell. THANK YOU!
@@atoessandoh_ I got one for 45 percent off on wayfair. I got a supervisor to give me a quote via email with 35 percent off and added promo code to the quote to get it another ten percent off.
@@tisurmaster Yeah, compared to my alen air and my two austin air units it doesn't push much air. I'll see how my germguardian 5000e units do, I got them coming mostly for the uv-c lights.
I would like to thank you for this and other reviews done on air purifiers. As someone doing research on what purifier to purchase, CA has been by far the most clear source of information regarding specific models.
Thank you for the positive feedback! I really do appreciate it. Would love to know what you think of my latest reviews for cordless vacuums as I've changed up my presentation style quite a bit from these air purifier reviews.
Outstanding, information. I've spent hours over 3 days doing my own research and have learned more in your video than the many hours of my own. Thank you.
Just bought one of these from Amazon. Had to wait nearly a month, but the instruction booklet says it now has a two year warranty. An interesting thing is what makes the light color of the air quality sensor to change. Normally it is on blue but two things make it turn to yellow and that is cooking something in the oven and farts. Yes, if you let one go near it the color changes to yellow after a few minutes as the gas enters the machine and depending on the strength goes back to blue in usually about ten minutes unless you let go another one. Not joking, it works every time unless the discharge is very small. Kind of funny when you think about it.
Thank you for the great review. The only suggestion I have to improve it is to run the product at different settings so we can see for ourselves how loud it is.
Thanks for the fair, educational and straightforward review! My family and I have owned 8 of these and they have made a huge improvement in Quality of Life for asthma or other Lung disease sufferers to say nothing of the odor elimination. I ran one unit 24/7 for several years, and it never failed or wavered. Tips: Run at Turbo overnight when Electricity is cheaper then turn down during the day or when you are actually in the room to reduce noise. Never set your unit on the carpeted floor or near the floor. You will quickly clog/use up your filters with debris, that would be better-handled with a high quality vacuum or sweeper. Clean the Pre-Filter often(outdoors🙂) and you'll extend the life of the more expensive, HEPA component by far. Don't vacuum the pre filter with y oi it home vaccum: you'll just transfer the dust from one source to another. I go outside and use an old beater shop vac outside to clean my pre filter and charcoal filters every couple months. Run on Turbo Mode while vacuuming to clean any airborne dust exhausted from vaccum cleaner
Alvan, thanks so much for taking the time to post the very helpful tips....reminded me that I should clean the pre-filter in my units (I've had them for several months now). I'm in my 70's and first-time air purifier user. What is the vac that you use to clean the filter outside?
Thank you. I watched your air purifier review last night. I had heard for a couple of days the Coway was great. So, I looked for it everywhere but they're sold out. Seeing your reviews last night, I saw the Winnix as another option. I bought it. I'm so looking forward to it and am glad the Coway was sold out. Each year my sinuses get messed up. A couple of days ago, I was noticing all the particulates blowing around while the sun was coming through my window in my small apt. while the fan was blowing. Wow, alot of dust(not to mention the fire smoke/ash in my area). I decided I could benefit from a filter/purifier. One more week until it arrives! Again, thanks.
We have had this unit for a week now, and we are very pleased with it. It works perfectly for our bedroom at the low setting. Thanks for your comments and your recommendations for this unit. - Merci beaucoup. 💐
This guy gave a really good review. We bought two for the house and are happy with the purchase. The bright lights are a nuisance if in your bedroom.. But they are easy to cover up with black tape.
Excellent Review! I heard things on here that I haven't heard in other reviews. The thing you didn't mention is, you can also clean the carbon filter. According to the instructions, you clean it every three months. So you clean the pre-filter every two weeks. The carbon filter every three months and you change the Hepa filter once a year under normal use. I surmise that you get all three filters when you buy a new Hepa after the year is up.
well-done review. Drape some dark cloth ( 2" x 14" piece) over the light panel, ( put a little square of two-sided tape on the ends) to cover up just the light panel when you sleep, then you will not see the lights. Simple....
I like the illumination It's like a night light. I've had mine for many years and it is fantastic! It is incredible how clean the inside of the unit stays with all the filters in place! I clean the filters spring and fall and replace the hempa when it looks dirty. I've tried many units before and this one is the best!
If you’ve never used an air filter these are great. th-cam.com/users/postUgkx_dppjvjF8BYEmPSDTcgCUdRsgWYLXNHN I ended up with three after starting out with one. The noise level depends on the 1-3 settings with how hard you want the machine to work. You can also upgrade the filters and get one better for pet hair and smells which is a must have in my home. I noticed the air seemed lighter and easier to breathe when running the machine for the first time. Works great every time. Highly recommended!
You made me buy it at heart beat when it becomes available on Amazon Thank you Sir! I don't care about any manufacturer warranty, I only care about smart and honest gentlemen words ! God bless you
Love it that you actually addressed Europe version that super confusing from makers that provides no alternative or some different design or some bogus name
I have two units in my house One for the bedroom and the others in the family room/ Living room. For about 3 years and they work great. I have never replaced any of the filters. What I do is use a high pressure air compressor to blow out the dust This works great!
Hi Consumer Analysis. I recently purchased the Winix 5500-2 before watching your video. I do like the air purifier as a whole, but I do agree with you concerning not being able to disable the lights without using the Sleep mode, which I'll never use. But below is my main issue -- was hoping you could offer advice concerning an alternative to the Winix 5500-2. For years my wife & I have slept with an older Hamilton Beach HEPA air purifier (on lowest setting) in our bedroom to not only clean the air but also for the WHITE NOISE (emphasis, not screaming). I like this Winix unit but fan settings 1 - 3 are pretty much useless for white noise due to these settings being way too silent. And in general this is a good thing as you explained in your video, but not so much for needed white noise. Fan speed 3 on the Winix is more silent, quite a bit of difference, when comparing to the lowest fan setting of our older Hamilton Beach air purifier. However, the highest setting of 4 on the Winix is WAY too loud for white noise, especially when trying to use the white noise for facilitating sleep (the whole reason we want white noise). The difference between each fan setting 1, 2 and 3 of the Winix do seem consistent (but very silent). But setting 4 is way over the top - no consistency between settings 3 and 4. My issue is that setting 3 on the Winix is too subtle/silent to provide the level of white noise we need for sleeping. But setting 4 is way too loud. To put this in perspective, here is the power usage in watts at the wall: Setting 1 - 6 watts Setting 2 - 8 watts Setting 3 - 11 watts Setting 4 (blast) - 64 watts!!! So is there a comparable air purifier that you are aware of that would provide a louder sound output than setting 3 on the Winix 5500-2, but definitely not as loud as setting 4? Thanks in advance for your help.
Yes, there are many options that offer what you're looking for but all of them have some other issue or issues that keep me from recommending them. I list the noise output data for all of the units I tested here: www.consumeranalysis.com/guides/air-purifiers/quiet-air-purifier/ You could cross-reference this data with my individual model reviews to find a unit that might work for you despite the fact that I don't recommend it for everyone: www.consumeranalysis.com/guides/air-purifiers/best-air-purifier/#reviews
@@consumer-analysis Thanks for the noise output link concerning brands/models you've tested. Unfortunately, most of the units shown in the links are not ones I'd recommend either based on my own analysis. In my opinion the Winix is a nice silent air purifier, but not a very efficient one compared to other brands/models which are not shown in the lists you've shared. But thanks for responding. Much appreciated.
I posted this above to someone with the same question. This link is to both Winix and others who answer your question. I've had mine for two years. Purchase on for my son and father. www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-1-d&q=is+the+winix+plasmawave+a+ionizer
@Brian Rodriguez I recently bought from Amazon (as seller), and the included instruction manual is identical to that found on Winixamerica.com that states a 2-year warranty.
I have a question that I’ve been desperately searching for. Upon doing research products such as this create ozone. From what I’ve learned is that ozone breaks down slowly which leads to buildup. I live with asthmatics and excessive ozone can be counterproductive on what I intended on buying this machine for. Now from what I’ve seen from your video is that upon disabling the plasma wave light it disables plasma wave(the harmful uv). If I keep this feature off 1.) Do I lose any accessibility besides the light. 2.) Will it still produce even if plasma wave is off. I’ve watched hours of videos on what purifiers are best and I keep coming across this one.
Turning plasmawave off turns the ionizer off. It's impossible for the unit to generate ozone with the ionizer turned off. Note that even with the ionizer turned on it has been tested to be safe to use: ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/air-cleaners-ozone-products/california-certified-air-cleaning-devices
Excellent insightful through review. Non bias review . Thank you so much. I would be purchasing the Winix. Thanks again for your informative review. Keep up The great work.
Thanks for your review and details on cost of the filter replacement . I was on the fence between Honeywell, and winix 5500-2 and 5300-2. I ordered the 5500 due to the better carbon filter, longer term, small price difference , positive reviews, ( to low % of negative reviews ). The prices I pay for allergy & prescription pulmonary meds ,sleepless nights..is More than enough to Merit a healthier to breathe Cleaner Air. MANY THANKS!!
That was a really good review. I bought the Winx. One other thing I like about it is it pulls air from the sides as well as the front. As for the light you can always tape a little piece of card over it or black marker.
This unit has an uncanny similarity to my Sharp FP-P60CX, right down to the PlasmaCluster... err I mean PlasmaWave LOL. But yea, the washable prefilter, carbon pellet filter, HEPA filter, motor/fan layout, inlets, outlet. I can't help but wonder if they 'borrowed' the design
Fantastic review. I just picked up this unit after reading reviews from Amazon. So far I am extremely happy with this air purifier. I will be picking up their smaller unit for my laundry room.
Awesome review! Bought this from Amazon after this review. Love it in our room. What are your thoughts about the Plasmawave technology? Is it preferred to have that selected each time we run the unit? Also, I’ve heard mixed reviews about it possibly being dangerous
The plasmawave feature is essentially an ionizer. I wrote a full analysis of ionizers here: www.consumeranalysis.com/guides/air-purifiers/air-ionizers/ Regarding the generation of ozone, it is true that the air purifier can release ozone with its plasmawave feature turned on. But the feature can easily be turned off and left off. And even with it turned on the unit is still completely safe to use: ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/air-cleaners-ozone-products/california-certified-air-cleaning-devices
How much to replace the carbon filter and hepa filter? A unit in the sub $200.00 range, it would be a serious downside if replacement filters were $100.00 + This is a serious consideration in deciding to purchase. Just like the color printer companies that sell an awesome printer to us. Then we find out that replacement color cartridges cost more than the actual printer!
thanks for your wonderful review. ordered it. after moving to Pasadena CA from NJ, my little yorkie and I are suffering from all the allergens. hoping this helps us!
I just bought a Bissell Air 400 and it works great to deal with the bad air from the wild fires. This Winix looks like a good one, too; I might look into getting one to aid the Bissell with the impending bad air that visits this place in the winter. Thanks for the great Review!
"PlasmaWave" is the name for the unit's ionizer. It comes down to personal preference whether you would like to use it or not (as it can easily be turned on/off). With it on, it is possible for the unit to generate ozone. In larger spaces this shouldn't be a problem (since the ozone generation is in such low concentration) but in a smaller confined space this may be an issue for some users. As such we recommend, turning it on/off depending on your application. As to what it does and whether you might want this functionality or not, we do have an article written on this exact subject. Note that the inclusion of this "technology" has no impact on our recommendation of the air purifier itself. We recommend it based on its output, filtration quality, etc. Not whether it has an included ionizer or not. Our article on ionizers: www.consumeranalysis.com/guides/air-purifiers/air-ionizers/
I love these reviews. Very thorough and accurate. There was just something about these videos that seemed so off, though. The gentleman in the video looks just like the psychologist Dr.Grande that the resemblance is uncanny.
Any thoughts on using non branded replacement filters. I just tried my first non branded and I loved it. I found it to work very well. Your thoughts please.
I appreciate your in-depth review. I would say the con about the led lights not turning off is more of a preference than a downside. I can’t think of a practical need for turning the lights off unless you’re sleeping. In that case there is no need for manual fan control when in sleep mode. Also it would be confusing which speed and mode it is operating at in all the lights could be turned off besides the sleep mode. Just a thought.
Your reviews are great. It’s quite refreshing to see a review straight to the point without any rambling. It is because of you that I just ordered two of these units. Where do you recommend placing them in the room they will be used in? I live in a 1200sq feet town home. One unit will be kept in living room, the air vent is right above the door. And the second one will be placed in the dining room. Just unsure where to place them, as both rooms are connected by a hallway against the wall. Also, can these be run all day long? With remote learning my children are home all day and would also like to bring them to our bedrooms at night. What are your thoughts?
My testing showed it doesn't really matter where exactly you place an air purifier in a particular room. It will work just as well in the center of a room as it will close to a wall. You can run these units all day long and you can definitely move them to bedrooms at night.
I bought two of 5500-2 for my offices from Amazon, thanks to your reviews. I’m super glad I did. I bought 6 more of HR900 for my home. It’s $50 more expensive, slightly bulkier, but to me it goes with my rooms better. Thanks again. Cheers.
@@cooloutac I would say they move same air. But I notice sensor senses differently. Like for example, placed in same room next to each other, the HR900 turns from blue to orange, while the 5500-2 stays blue.
You're welcome! Would love to know what you think of my latest cordless vacuum reviews. I'm using a different presentation style and any feedback is welcome.
I ordered one on the 3rd of may. They said it was in stock but it still hasn't shipped yet...I used to have a smaller air cleaner for my room, but it didn't do squat. Hopefully this Winix does a better job.
i read in a few amazon reviews that the carbon filter had a noxious unpleasant odor - so much so that the person removes it and replaces it with a carbon filter from another unit. this was for a positive review, too! so you seem pretty thorough, but I do not note any report of bad odor.
You replace the Hepa filter once a year. I had mine for a year and just changed that and the carbon filter. I vacuumed the carbon filter (before the yearly change) and pre filter every 3 months. I love this air purifier!
As I finally decided on this air purifier after countless research I visited Winix website and saw they released a newer version the 5510 model. No one has reviewed it yet so it seems like Winix just released this not too long ago. Would be cool for a review on the 5510. I also saw the specs and its just a little bigger and filters at a little faster speed than the 5500-2. Also Winix is actually doing a black Friday sales on the new 5510 for 20% off where as the 5500-2 is going 30% or a little more on Amazon.
Great review. I understand the 5500-2 and 5300-2 are the same unit except for the carbon filters. I really want to get the 5500-2 for the better carbon pellet filters. The filters are really expensive online (Canada). Would I be able to use the carbon filters from the 5300-2 in the 5500-2 unit? I'm thinking use the carbon pellet filter only when I have to and the remainder of the time use the carbon coated filters. It's cheaper to buy a HEPA filter plus 4 carbon coated filters over the HEPA filter plus 1 carbon pellet filter.
@@konchal I still haven't be able to check the physical unit (our 5500-2 is in storage) but from what I remember I think the 5300-2 carbon filter should fit. And even if it doesn't you could cut it to fit. Keep in mind though that even though it will "fit" the HEPA and carbon filter won't fit tightly together as the 5300-2 carbon filter is much thinner than the 5500-2 carbon filter.
On Amazon it indicates: Washable AOC Carbon Filter, made from activated carbon granulars for removal of household odors. Is it true that the carbon filter is is washable as well as the pre-filter? Thanks great review.
@Thor2021 Ishere I went ahead and got one. You can wash the carbon filter, but only 3 or times. When you get a new Hepa filter. It comes with a new carbon filter.
@Thor2021 Ishere In the user manual it indicates. For the AOC hold it under lightly running room temperature water. No soaps or detergents. Let dry for at least 24 hours.
I’m really thankful for the internet and people like you when it comes to making a decision on a product like an air purifier. You’re clearly passionate about this very niche subject and are the most informed and detailed reviewer on the subject I could find. I just ordered my Winix thanks to your review.
@@lizedery3302 I have athsma and I just mine a few days ago. I have not had sleep like this in so long. I 100% recommend this thing. I have a dog and the hair and dust this thing has picked up is incredible. I saw a lot of videos of this thing where people went to clean the filter and it was basically clean.
Mine is full of dust and hair after just a few days I had to clean it!
@@lizedery3302 The Plasmawave function is what controls the ionizer. Just turn that feature off if you don’t want it.
@@diedforurwins l"loll""..".,l9liikklllk buy uku I,,kkyy6¡ lkkko
@@darleneenters5306 what the fuck?
@@isoinsignia7540 what does the ionizer do?
This guy is a reason why internet is better than school.
I've learned so much from people like him on TH-cam. I'm very thankful for people like him sharing their knowledge.
After testing and using the 5500-2 Winnix for 3 years, plus the iQ Air, plus the Blue air 205, plus the Enviroklenz, l prefer the Winnix 5500-2 in my small bedroom as it is so quiet plus in hot nights it moves the air that promotes better sleep. I vacuum the pre-filter and wash the charcoal filter plus, replace the hepa filter as required. With allergies l have found this unit to work nicely in all seasons. My second choice is the Classic Blue Air 205.
Going to give my iQ Air to a Charity as it, at my age is difficult to move from 1 floor to the next when needed plus the filters are expensive. Next fall or winter l will give my Enviroklenz to a charity, as it is made of steel and difficult to move on 3 flight of stairs. It needs to be placed in a dental office or school room. Your reports and reviews are the best on TH-cam. Thanks for sharing them with us out here.😊
My wife and I really appreciated the thorough analysis of this air purifier. Your expertise is apparent and you are a true asset to any organization. We just bought 2 Winix 5500-2 Air Purifiers. Thank you for all your hard work!
Thank you very much for the kind words! I really appreciate it!
I have this one , about 3 years now . Runs all day . No issues
Excellent review! I bought a second WINIX and have been very happy with its ability to filter and purify the air. It’s virtually silent at night in Sleep mode. Great air purifier and this review is highly accurate. Well done!
I just got mine thanks to this review. It is incredible. I have fans in my house that used to be covered in dust and hair. I cleaned them all and they have remained clean. I have been cleaning the pre filter in the Winix every couple of days because it is COVERED in dust and crap from the air.
This was the video that convinced me to get this filter. Thank you! Btw I’ve been researching for literal weeks looking at dysons and other much more expensive products but to me this is a superior filter compared to anything else on the market- unless you want to spend a literal thousand dollars $ on some industrial / hospital filter that takes up an entire room to provide filtration.. this price for this product is unbeatable.
How has it been?
I've had this unit for over 6 months and I absolutely love it. It's very well built, the motor and fan are extremely well-balanced and the does not vibrate, at all. All I hear is the airflow and I keep mine on 3 (out of 4). As far as the lights. I covered most of the air quality LED with electrical tape. Fixed..
lol I do this with my electronics in my room also!
I just bought a couple of these. They actually have a 2 year warranty now. Have found the auto mode to be suprsingly good, turns up it's fan exactly when I'd expect. Great video btw, was really helpful in my air purifier buying decision.
this is an awesome review. I love how you discuss the competitors and and the downfalls. great review. i'll sub.
Thank you and welcome!
He's missing one important thing,air quality tests etc Did he do any? Why not show air quality tests!.
Thank you so much for this review. I have smokers to the left and right of my condo, and was getting a ton of secondhand smoke coming through the outlets. This review made my pull the trigger on this unit, and it essentially fixed the problem. It really is insanely efficient for cigarette smoke and stifling the smell. THANK YOU!
You're welcome! Glad I could help!
@@EphesianRose hey! Effective in both modes honestly. It may be slightly more effective in plasma mode - not sure. Works either way
just ordered this from amazon. thanks for the review. can't wait to get it. my days of suffering shall be over.
You're welcome! Glad I could help!
Check out wayfair.com. A bit cheaper than amazon
@@atoessandoh_ I got one for 45 percent off on wayfair. I got a supervisor to give me a quote via email with 35 percent off and added promo code to the quote to get it another ten percent off.
check the suction of air from the front, you can remove the front while it's still on... it's not that great.
@@tisurmaster Yeah, compared to my alen air and my two austin air units it doesn't push much air. I'll see how my germguardian 5000e units do, I got them coming mostly for the uv-c lights.
Thanks for the review. Just purchased 2. Purchased through Amazon and also purchased the 4yr warranty for 35.00. Thanks again for your time.
I would like to thank you for this and other reviews done on air purifiers. As someone doing research on what purifier to purchase, CA has been by far the most clear source of information regarding specific models.
Thank you very much for the kind words!
This review is so comprehensive. It helped me decide what to pick wisely. I ended picking winix 5500-2 for the living room thanks!
Thank you for the positive feedback! I really do appreciate it. Would love to know what you think of my latest reviews for cordless vacuums as I've changed up my presentation style quite a bit from these air purifier reviews.
Does it produce ions??
Outstanding, information. I've spent hours over 3 days doing my own research and have learned more in your video than the many hours of my own. Thank you.
You're welcome! And thank you for watching!
Just bought one of these from Amazon. Had to wait nearly a month, but the instruction booklet says it now has a two year warranty. An interesting thing is what makes the light color of the air quality sensor to change. Normally it is on blue but two things make it turn to yellow and that is cooking something in the oven and farts. Yes, if you let one go near it the color changes to yellow after a few minutes as the gas enters the machine and depending on the strength goes back to blue in usually about ten minutes unless you let go another one. Not joking, it works every time unless the discharge is very small. Kind of funny when you think about it.
@vfxardist Too bad you are offended by the facts of life.
Thank you for the great review. The only suggestion I have to improve it is to run the product at different settings so we can see for ourselves how loud it is.
Thanks for the fair, educational and straightforward review!
My family and I have owned 8 of these and they have made a huge improvement in Quality of Life for asthma or other Lung disease sufferers to say nothing of the odor elimination.
I ran one unit 24/7 for several years, and it never failed or wavered.
Tips: Run at Turbo overnight when Electricity is cheaper then turn down during the day or when you are actually in the room to reduce noise.
Never set your unit on the carpeted floor or near the floor. You will quickly clog/use up your filters with debris, that would be better-handled with a high quality vacuum or sweeper.
Clean the Pre-Filter often(outdoors🙂) and you'll extend the life of the more expensive, HEPA component by far.
Don't vacuum the pre filter with y oi it home vaccum: you'll just transfer the dust from one source to another. I go outside and use an old beater shop vac outside to clean my pre filter and charcoal filters every couple months.
Run on Turbo Mode while vacuuming to clean any airborne dust exhausted from vaccum cleaner
Thanks for the comment. These are great tips!
Where do you suggest putting the purifier? I want mine in a hallway upstairs, should I place it on a table? Can it be mounted on a wall?
Alvan, thanks so much for taking the time to post the very helpful tips....reminded me that I should clean the pre-filter in my units (I've had them for several months now). I'm in my 70's and first-time air purifier user. What is the vac that you use to clean the filter outside?
Thank you. I watched your air purifier review last night. I had heard for a couple of days the Coway was great. So, I looked for it everywhere but they're sold out. Seeing your reviews last night, I saw the Winnix as another option. I bought it. I'm so looking forward to it and am glad the Coway was sold out. Each year my sinuses get messed up. A couple of days ago, I was noticing all the particulates blowing around while the sun was coming through my window in my small apt. while the fan was blowing. Wow, alot of dust(not to mention the fire smoke/ash in my area). I decided I could benefit from a filter/purifier. One more week until it arrives! Again, thanks.
I was shopping for an air purifier when your videos popped up in TH-cam. Excellent job. Used your link to buy a Winix.
great review, explanations were professionally done.
what I like about your video clip, there was no clowning around.
We have had this unit for a week now, and we are very pleased with it. It works perfectly for our bedroom at the low setting. Thanks for your comments and your recommendations for this unit. - Merci beaucoup. 💐
You are very welcome!
Whew! I ordered the wrong model. Thanks for the video, I was able to catch it before it shipped. Great review.
Thank you! Glad I could help!
you convinced me to buy 2-3 of these instead of an Airmega 400. Thanks for making these videos!
This one is on sale for $118 at Target. The 5300-2 is $123 at Target.
This guy gave a really good review. We bought two for the house and are happy with the purchase. The bright lights are a nuisance if in your bedroom.. But they are easy to cover up with black tape.
Excellent Review! I heard things on here that I haven't heard in other reviews. The thing you didn't mention is, you can also clean the carbon filter. According to the instructions, you clean it every three months. So you clean the pre-filter every two weeks. The carbon filter every three months and you change the Hepa filter once a year under normal use. I surmise that you get all three filters when you buy a new Hepa after the year is up.
Went to the Winix US site and it says that the warranty on the 5500-2 is now 2 years. And of course, thanks for a no-nonsense great review.
I wish every youtube video had this level of thought put into it. Very well done video, thank you.
Thank you for the kind words!
Great Review! I love the fact that you have no music! I can't tell you how many reviews have music that drone out the information!
after watching a few of your reviews, I decided to settle for this one, I hope it'll help keep the dust build up to a minimum if I put it with my PC
Has it helped?
@@pxblocked1240 it works preety well, it's behind my PC & the inside of my PC isn't as dusty as some of the other spots in my room x)
well-done review. Drape some dark cloth ( 2" x 14" piece) over the light panel, ( put a little square of two-sided tape on the ends) to cover up just the light panel when you sleep, then you will not see the lights. Simple....
The pet hair filters are helpful. They catch most of the dust, making it unnecessary or extremely easy to wash the prefilter.
I wish you would review the Winix units for larger spaces.
I got mine on 9/27/21 and it has a 2-year warranty and moves 360 cubic feet per minute.
Thanks for this. After several hours reviewing reviews, I just clicked your link below and bought two of these.
I like the illumination It's like a night light. I've had mine for many years and it is fantastic! It is incredible how clean the inside of the unit stays with all the filters in place! I clean the filters spring and fall and replace the hempa when it looks dirty. I've tried many units before and this one is the best!
Excellent comprehensive review! Thank you for saving me from buying the very expensive and less effective Dyson!
Did you test the plasmawave to see if the levels of ozone it produces are toxic? Does that lower its ability to filter?
Plasma wav technology is safe method of ionizing air. Wish you would have explained it. This unit is the best.!!
So it's safe? Lots of reviews warning about ozone output. Thanks
If you’ve never used an air filter these are great. th-cam.com/users/postUgkx_dppjvjF8BYEmPSDTcgCUdRsgWYLXNHN I ended up with three after starting out with one. The noise level depends on the 1-3 settings with how hard you want the machine to work. You can also upgrade the filters and get one better for pet hair and smells which is a must have in my home. I noticed the air seemed lighter and easier to breathe when running the machine for the first time. Works great every time. Highly recommended!
Your reviews are extremely helpful. Thank you. I ordered using your link!
You made me buy it at heart beat when it becomes available on Amazon
Thank you Sir!
I don't care about any manufacturer warranty, I only care about smart and honest gentlemen words !
God bless you
I got mine from wayfair. Came quickly. Great air purifier
Fantastic review. Really great detail and appreciate that you broke it down into your top 3 air purifiers. Thank you for making this video.
Can’t thank you enough for taking the time to do this!
Love it that you actually addressed Europe version that super confusing from makers that provides no alternative or some different design or some bogus name
I have two units in my house One for the bedroom and the others in the family room/ Living room. For about 3 years and they work great. I have never replaced any of the filters. What I do is use a high pressure air compressor to blow out the dust This works great!
I would like to see ozone/radiation production. Especially compared to something like the austin air
Hi Consumer Analysis. I recently purchased the Winix 5500-2 before watching your video. I do like the air purifier as a whole, but I do agree with you concerning not being able to disable the lights without using the Sleep mode, which I'll never use.
But below is my main issue -- was hoping you could offer advice concerning an alternative to the Winix 5500-2. For years my wife & I have slept with an older Hamilton Beach HEPA air purifier (on lowest setting) in our bedroom to not only clean the air but also for the WHITE NOISE (emphasis, not screaming). I like this Winix unit but fan settings 1 - 3 are pretty much useless for white noise due to these settings being way too silent. And in general this is a good thing as you explained in your video, but not so much for needed white noise.
Fan speed 3 on the Winix is more silent, quite a bit of difference, when comparing to the lowest fan setting of our older Hamilton Beach air purifier. However, the highest setting of 4 on the Winix is WAY too loud for white noise, especially when trying to use the white noise for facilitating sleep (the whole reason we want white noise). The difference between each fan setting 1, 2 and 3 of the Winix do seem consistent (but very silent). But setting 4 is way over the top - no consistency between settings 3 and 4.
My issue is that setting 3 on the Winix is too subtle/silent to provide the level of white noise we need for sleeping. But setting 4 is way too loud. To put this in perspective, here is the power usage in watts at the wall:
Setting 1 - 6 watts
Setting 2 - 8 watts
Setting 3 - 11 watts
Setting 4 (blast) - 64 watts!!!
So is there a comparable air purifier that you are aware of that would provide a louder sound output than setting 3 on the Winix 5500-2, but definitely not as loud as setting 4?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Yes, there are many options that offer what you're looking for but all of them have some other issue or issues that keep me from recommending them.
I list the noise output data for all of the units I tested here:
www.consumeranalysis.com/guides/air-purifiers/quiet-air-purifier/
You could cross-reference this data with my individual model reviews to find a unit that might work for you despite the fact that I don't recommend it for everyone:
www.consumeranalysis.com/guides/air-purifiers/best-air-purifier/#reviews
@@consumer-analysis Thanks for the noise output link concerning brands/models you've tested. Unfortunately, most of the units shown in the links are not ones I'd recommend either based on my own analysis. In my opinion the Winix is a nice silent air purifier, but not a very efficient one compared to other brands/models which are not shown in the lists you've shared. But thanks for responding. Much appreciated.
I wish you talked a bit more about the "plasma wave" feature. How does it work, is it effective, and is it safe (no ozone)?
I posted this above to someone with the same question. This link is to both Winix and others who answer your question. I've had mine for two years. Purchase on for my son and father.
www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-1-d&q=is+the+winix+plasmawave+a+ionizer
thank you for the review, it's not very easy to search for an analysis on products such as this
You're welcome. I'm glad I could help.
The warranty is now listed on their website as 2 years.
@Brian Rodriguez I recently bought from Amazon (as seller), and the included instruction manual is identical to that found on Winixamerica.com that states a 2-year warranty.
I have a question that I’ve been desperately searching for. Upon doing research products such as this create ozone. From what I’ve learned is that ozone breaks down slowly which leads to buildup. I live with asthmatics and excessive ozone can be counterproductive on what I intended on buying this machine for. Now from what I’ve seen from your video is that upon disabling the plasma wave light it disables plasma wave(the harmful uv). If I keep this feature off 1.) Do I lose any accessibility besides the light. 2.) Will it still produce even if plasma wave is off. I’ve watched hours of videos on what purifiers are best and I keep coming across this one.
Turning plasmawave off turns the ionizer off. It's impossible for the unit to generate ozone with the ionizer turned off. Note that even with the ionizer turned on it has been tested to be safe to use: ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/air-cleaners-ozone-products/california-certified-air-cleaning-devices
Excellent insightful through review. Non bias review . Thank you so much. I would be
purchasing the Winix. Thanks again for your informative review. Keep up
The great work.
Really appreciate the kind words! Thank you!
Consumer Analysis no...... thank you my friend.... you are doing a great service. Especially in these trying times.
I have one and i have no complaints. Great product.
Thanks for your review and details on cost of the filter replacement . I was on the fence between Honeywell, and winix 5500-2 and 5300-2. I ordered the 5500 due to the better carbon filter, longer term, small price difference , positive reviews, ( to low % of negative reviews ). The prices I pay for allergy & prescription pulmonary meds ,sleepless nights..is More than enough to Merit a healthier to breathe Cleaner Air. MANY THANKS!!
You're very welcome!
That was a really good review. I bought the Winx. One other thing I like about it is it pulls air from the sides as well as the front. As for the light you can always tape a little piece of card over it or black marker.
This unit has an uncanny similarity to my Sharp FP-P60CX, right down to the PlasmaCluster... err I mean PlasmaWave LOL. But yea, the washable prefilter, carbon pellet filter, HEPA filter, motor/fan layout, inlets, outlet. I can't help but wonder if they 'borrowed' the design
Fantastic review. I just picked up this unit after reading reviews from Amazon. So far I am extremely happy with this air purifier. I will be picking up their smaller unit for my laundry room.
After watching ur review on this particular model I immediately ordered 2 of these
Awesome review! Bought this from Amazon after this review. Love it in our room. What are your thoughts about the Plasmawave technology? Is it preferred to have that selected each time we run the unit? Also, I’ve heard mixed reviews about it possibly being dangerous
The plasmawave feature is essentially an ionizer. I wrote a full analysis of ionizers here: www.consumeranalysis.com/guides/air-purifiers/air-ionizers/
Regarding the generation of ozone, it is true that the air purifier can release ozone with its plasmawave feature turned on. But the feature can easily be turned off and left off. And even with it turned on the unit is still completely safe to use: ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/air-cleaners-ozone-products/california-certified-air-cleaning-devices
How much to replace the carbon filter and hepa filter?
A unit in the sub $200.00 range, it would be a serious downside if replacement filters were $100.00 +
This is a serious consideration in deciding to purchase.
Just like the color printer companies that sell an awesome printer to us. Then we find out that replacement color cartridges cost more than the actual printer!
😅should you vacuum the charcoal filter. If you did is it no longer good
thanks for your wonderful review. ordered it. after moving to Pasadena CA from NJ, my little yorkie and I are suffering from all the allergens. hoping this helps us!
Nice review. Would you say that the Costco C545 is a good unit as well?
I just bought a Bissell Air 400 and it works great to deal with the bad air from the wild fires. This Winix looks like a good one, too; I might look into getting one to aid the Bissell with the impending bad air that visits this place in the winter. Thanks for the great Review!
Thank you for your comprehensive review!
What a great and actually informative channel, keep up the great work!
great review, but did I miss it? there was nothing said about the PlasmaWave technology?
"PlasmaWave" is the name for the unit's ionizer. It comes down to personal preference whether you would like to use it or not (as it can easily be turned on/off). With it on, it is possible for the unit to generate ozone. In larger spaces this shouldn't be a problem (since the ozone generation is in such low concentration) but in a smaller confined space this may be an issue for some users. As such we recommend, turning it on/off depending on your application.
As to what it does and whether you might want this functionality or not, we do have an article written on this exact subject. Note that the inclusion of this "technology" has no impact on our recommendation of the air purifier itself. We recommend it based on its output, filtration quality, etc. Not whether it has an included ionizer or not.
Our article on ionizers: www.consumeranalysis.com/guides/air-purifiers/air-ionizers/
@@consumer-analysis oh, ok cool, thanks for the info, great stuff on your site
@@xxCablexx No problem at all. Thank you for the positive feedback.
I love these reviews. Very thorough and accurate. There was just something about these videos that seemed so off, though. The gentleman in the video looks just like the psychologist Dr.Grande that the resemblance is uncanny.
Purchased this based off of your videos. I really like it!! Thank you for your reviews!!
I’m excited to see how these preform just ordered two one for my bedroom and one for my living room.
Thank you for this, you sold me on this one and I'm buying one right now.
Any thoughts on using non branded replacement filters. I just tried my first non branded and I loved it. I found it to work very well. Your thoughts please.
Why didn't you talk about plasma wave?
I appreciate your in-depth review. I would say the con about the led lights not turning off is more of a preference than a downside. I can’t think of a practical need for turning the lights off unless you’re sleeping. In that case there is no need for manual fan control when in sleep mode. Also it would be confusing which speed and mode it is operating at in all the lights could be turned off besides the sleep mode. Just a thought.
Fair points all the way around.
I see on the Winix website that this unit comes with a 2-year warranty. I wonder if they boosted it recently??
Your reviews are great. It’s quite refreshing to see a review straight to the point without any rambling.
It is because of you that I just ordered two of these units.
Where do you recommend placing them in the room they will be used in? I live in a 1200sq feet town home. One unit will be kept in living room, the air vent is right above the door. And the second one will be placed in the dining room. Just unsure where to place them, as both rooms are connected by a hallway against the wall.
Also, can these be run all day long? With remote learning my children are home all day and would also like to bring them to our bedrooms at night.
What are your thoughts?
My testing showed it doesn't really matter where exactly you place an air purifier in a particular room. It will work just as well in the center of a room as it will close to a wall.
You can run these units all day long and you can definitely move them to bedrooms at night.
Incredibly well done, straightforward, and overall very helpful review!
Thank you for the kind words, and thank you for watching!
The best I've seen that really explain what is air purifier
Bought one thanks to this review and I’m pretty happy with it.
I bought two of 5500-2 for my offices from Amazon, thanks to your reviews. I’m super glad I did. I bought 6 more of HR900 for my home. It’s $50 more expensive, slightly bulkier, but to me it goes with my rooms better. Thanks again. Cheers.
how do they compare with each other? move the same amount of air, is the dust sensor the same?
@@cooloutac I would say they move same air. But I notice sensor senses differently. Like for example, placed in same room next to each other, the HR900 turns from blue to orange, while the 5500-2 stays blue.
@@yourotherleft ah interesting thanks.
The way you review products is perfect simple to the point and I got the information I needed to hear from it. Thank you
You're welcome! Would love to know what you think of my latest cordless vacuum reviews. I'm using a different presentation style and any feedback is welcome.
Can you do water filtration systems next?
I ordered one on the 3rd of may. They said it was in stock but it still hasn't shipped yet...I used to have a smaller air cleaner for my room, but it didn't do squat. Hopefully this Winix does a better job.
i read in a few amazon reviews that the carbon filter had a noxious unpleasant odor - so much so that the person removes it and replaces it with a carbon filter from another unit. this was for a positive review, too! so you seem pretty thorough, but I do not note any report of bad odor.
Great review. Winix website shows 2 - year warranty for the above model.
I'm wondering about the cost of operation over a year. How often is a replacement Hepa filter needed?
You replace the Hepa filter once a year. I had mine for a year and just changed that and the carbon filter. I vacuumed the carbon filter (before the yearly change) and pre filter every 3 months. I love this air purifier!
This was a great review! Well done, and thank you!
Thank you. Excellent review. Helped with my purchase decision.
As I finally decided on this air purifier after countless research I visited Winix website and saw they released a newer version the 5510 model. No one has reviewed it yet so it seems like Winix just released this not too long ago. Would be cool for a review on the 5510. I also saw the specs and its just a little bigger and filters at a little faster speed than the 5500-2.
Also Winix is actually doing a black Friday sales on the new 5510 for 20% off where as the 5500-2 is going 30% or a little more on Amazon.
I am glad to know that I purchased the better option. Thank you for this information.
You're welcome. Thank you for watching!
I heard that this machine plasmawave gives off ozone?
You heard correctly and for some reason he doesn’t address that very important fact.
you can turn if off apparently
Still love this review but what about the plasma wave feature?
Thank you, perfect review! Just bought 1 because of your review.
Great review. I understand the 5500-2 and 5300-2 are the same unit except for the carbon filters. I really want to get the 5500-2 for the better carbon pellet filters. The filters are really expensive online (Canada). Would I be able to use the carbon filters from the 5300-2 in the 5500-2 unit? I'm thinking use the carbon pellet filter only when I have to and the remainder of the time use the carbon coated filters. It's cheaper to buy a HEPA filter plus 4 carbon coated filters over the HEPA filter plus 1 carbon pellet filter.
@@consumer-analysis yes but what about the other way around? The 5300-2 carbon filter would fit in the 5500-2 unit.
@@konchal Sorry, I misread your question. I will check to see if it's possible.
@@consumer-analysis Any update?
@@konchal I still haven't be able to check the physical unit (our 5500-2 is in storage) but from what I remember I think the 5300-2 carbon filter should fit. And even if it doesn't you could cut it to fit. Keep in mind though that even though it will "fit" the HEPA and carbon filter won't fit tightly together as the 5300-2 carbon filter is much thinner than the 5500-2 carbon filter.
@@consumer-analysis thank you for the info!!
On Amazon it indicates: Washable AOC Carbon Filter, made from activated carbon granulars for removal of household odors. Is it true that the carbon filter is is washable as well as the pre-filter? Thanks great review.
@Thor2021 Ishere I went ahead and got one. You can wash the carbon filter, but only 3 or times. When you get a new Hepa filter. It comes with a new carbon filter.
@Thor2021 Ishere In the user manual it indicates. For the AOC hold it under lightly running room temperature water. No soaps or detergents. Let dry for at least 24 hours.
Please explain the plasma technology that this has! What does it do? Does it help at all in reducing VOC gases?
It's an ionizer. I wrote a guide on the topic here: www.consumeranalysis.com/guides/air-purifiers/air-ionizers/
There are some reviews on Amazon that says the plasma wave releases some ozone
Is that true
Waiting for this answer too
This dude sold me on this unit. Thank you for making this video. So helpful.