The ALORAIR Air Scrubber with 3 Stage Filtration is a portable air cleaning system built for tough jobs. It moves 550 cubic feet of air per minute through three layers of filtration. The unit covers up to 800 square feet and targets smoke, mold spores, construction dust, and volatile organic compounds.
This is not a typical bedroom air purifier. It’s designed for restoration work, basements, job sites, and spaces recovering from water damage or fire. The three-stage system includes a pre-filter, a MERV-10 filter, and an optional activated carbon layer for odors.
Homeowners dealing with mold remediation use it. Contractors bring it to remodeling sites. Pet owners with large homes and persistent odors find it helpful. The machine is loud and industrial, but it moves serious air volume.
But does it really work for smoke, VOCs, and allergens? Let’s find out.
Is the ALORAIR Air Scrubber Worth It?
Product Overview
The ALORAIR Air Scrubber is a professional-grade portable air filtration unit. It uses mechanical filtration, not UV-C or photocatalytic oxidation. The core technology is high airflow combined with layered particle capture.
It’s built for homeowners tackling mold cleanup, contractors managing dust, and anyone dealing with smoke or chemical odors. The unit is stackable, has a rotomolded housing, and weighs about 23 pounds.
First impressions are solid. The plastic body feels durable and impact-resistant. The controls are simple with three fan speeds. The intake and exhaust are positioned for flexible ducting options.
How It Works
The air scrubber pulls air through three stages. First, a washable pre-filter catches large particles like dust and hair. Second, a MERV-10 filter captures finer particles including mold spores and pollen. Third, an optional activated carbon filter absorbs odors and VOCs.
The 550 CFM airflow rate means it cycles the air in an 800-square-foot room roughly every 10 to 12 minutes. This is faster than most consumer air purifiers, which typically cycle air every 30 minutes.
Unlike HEPA purifiers, this unit does not capture particles as small as 0.3 microns with 99.97% efficiency. MERV-10 filters capture about 50 to 65% of particles between 1.0 and 3.0 microns. It’s not designed for ultra-fine particle removal like viruses or smoke particulates under 1 micron.
Compared to ionizers, the ALORAIR produces no ions or ozone. It relies purely on mechanical filtration. Compared to portable HEPA units, it moves far more air but filters less thoroughly per pass.
Safety & Certifications
The ALORAIR Air Scrubber does not produce ozone. It has no ionization or UV-C components. Ozone emissions are effectively zero parts per million.
The unit is ETL certified for electrical safety. It does not hold CARB certification because it’s not marketed as an air purifier with ozone-producing technology. CARB certification applies to devices that could emit ozone above 0.050 ppm.
The EPA does not regulate mechanical air scrubbers in the same way it regulates ozone generators. This product falls outside that scope. It’s safe for use around children, pets, and people with asthma.
| Safety Metric | ALORAIR Air Scrubber | EPA Threshold |
|---|---|---|
| Ozone Emission | 0 ppm | <0.050 ppm |
| Electrical Safety | ETL Certified | N/A |
| CARB Certification | Not applicable | Required for ozone devices |
Real-World Performance
The ALORAIR excels at removing visible particles. Mold spores, sawdust, drywall dust, and pet dander are captured efficiently. The MERV-10 filter handles particles down to about 3 microns well.
For smoke, performance is mixed. It removes visible smoke particles but struggles with ultra-fine combustion byproducts under 1 micron. If you’re dealing with wildfire smoke or cigarette smoke, a true HEPA unit will outperform this machine.
VOC removal depends entirely on the optional carbon filter. Without it, the unit does not absorb gases or odors. With the carbon layer, it handles paint fumes, mildew odors, and pet smells reasonably well. Activated carbon saturates over time and needs replacement every 3 to 6 months depending on exposure.
For allergens like pollen and dust mites, the unit works well in large spaces. The high airflow keeps allergen levels lower than they would be without filtration. It’s not as effective as a HEPA unit for allergy sufferers with severe sensitivities.
The machine performs best in basements, garages, and construction zones. It’s less suited for bedrooms or living rooms due to noise.
Installation & Maintenance
The ALORAIR Air Scrubber is portable and requires no HVAC integration. You plug it into a standard 120V outlet and turn it on. It can sit on the floor or be stacked with other units.
For optimal airflow, place the unit at least 12 inches from walls or obstructions. The intake is on one side and the exhaust is on the other. You can attach ducting to direct airflow if needed.
Maintenance is straightforward. Wash the pre-filter every 1 to 2 weeks depending on dust levels. Replace the MERV-10 filter every 3 to 6 months. Replace the carbon filter every 3 to 6 months if you use one.
The unit has no filter change indicator. You’ll need to track replacement schedules manually. Filter access is easy with a simple latch system.
Cost & Value
The ALORAIR Air Scrubber typically retails between $200 and $250. This is less expensive than whole-house HVAC air purifiers but more costly than basic portable units.
Annual filter costs run about $60 to $80. The MERV-10 filter costs around $20 to $30. The carbon filter adds another $20 to $30. The pre-filter is washable and reusable.
Energy consumption is moderate. The unit draws about 1.5 amps on high speed, which translates to roughly 180 watts. Running it 8 hours a day costs about $4 to $5 per month at average electricity rates.
There are no professional installation costs. You save money by skipping duct modifications or HVAC integration fees.
Comparison with Top Competitors
| Feature | ALORAIR Air Scrubber | BlueDri Air Shield 550 | Honeywell HPA300 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airflow (CFM) | 550 | 550 | 300 |
| Coverage Area | 800 sq. ft. | 800 sq. ft. | 465 sq. ft. |
| Filtration Type | MERV-10 + Carbon | MERV-10 + Carbon | True HEPA + Carbon |
| Noise Level | High (65-70 dB) | High (65-70 dB) | Moderate (50-60 dB) |
| Price | $200-$250 | $220-$270 | $250-$300 |
| Best For | Restoration, basements | Restoration, job sites | Allergies, bedrooms |
Review Rating Summary
The ALORAIR Air Scrubber delivers high airflow and solid particle capture for restoration work. It’s not a bedroom unit but excels in demanding environments.
| Category | Rating (1-5) | Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Air Purification Effectiveness | 3.5 | Good for large particles, mold, and dust. Not ideal for ultra-fine smoke or allergens. |
| Coverage & Integration | 4.5 | Excellent airflow and coverage for 800 sq. ft. Portable with no installation required. |
| Safety & Certifications | 4.0 | Zero ozone production. ETL certified. No CARB certification needed for this technology. |
| Installation & Maintenance | 4.5 | Plug-and-play setup. Simple filter access. Manual tracking for replacements. |
| Value for Money | 4.0 | Affordable upfront. Reasonable filter costs. Good ROI for restoration or large spaces. |
| Overall | 4.0 | Strong performer for basements, job sites, and mold remediation. Not for bedrooms or allergy-focused needs. |
Verdict
| ALORAIR Air Scrubber with 3 Stage Filtration 550 CFM 800 sq. ft | Check Latest Price |
Buy this if you need high airflow for basements, mold cleanup, or construction dust control. It’s perfect for homeowners dealing with water damage, pet odors, or renovation projects. Contractors will appreciate the portability and stackable design.
Skip it if you need bedroom-quiet operation or HEPA-level filtration for severe allergies. Renters in apartments might prefer a quieter, smaller unit. People with asthma triggered by ultra-fine particles should consider true HEPA alternatives.
For professional-grade air movement at a reasonable price, the ALORAIR Air Scrubber is a solid choice.
How effective is the ALORAIR Air Scrubber in removing smoke and VOCs from a room of 800 sq. ft.?
The ALORAIR Air Scrubber handles visible smoke particles reasonably well but struggles with ultra-fine smoke components. Smoke from fires, cigarettes, or cooking contains particles ranging from 0.01 to 1 micron. The MERV-10 filter captures particles down to about 3 microns efficiently.
This means larger smoke particles are trapped, but the finest particles pass through. If you’re dealing with wildfire smoke or heavy cigarette smoke, a true HEPA filter will outperform this unit. HEPA filters capture 99.97% of particles at 0.3 microns, including most smoke particulates.
For VOC removal, the optional activated carbon filter is essential. Without it, the unit does not absorb gases, odors, or volatile organic compounds. With the carbon layer installed, it handles paint fumes, cleaning chemicals, and mildew odors effectively.
Activated carbon works through adsorption. VOC molecules stick to the porous carbon surface. The carbon saturates over time and loses effectiveness. Expect to replace the carbon filter every 3 to 6 months depending on VOC levels.
In an 800-square-foot room, the 550 CFM airflow cycles the air every 10 to 12 minutes. This fast turnover helps reduce smoke and VOC concentrations faster than lower-airflow units. But filtration efficiency per pass is lower than HEPA systems.
| Contaminant | ALORAIR Performance | HEPA Purifier Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Visible Smoke Particles (>3 microns) | Good | Excellent |
| Fine Smoke Particles (<1 micron) | Poor | Excellent |
| VOCs (with carbon filter) | Good | Good |
| VOCs (without carbon filter) | None | None (unless equipped) |
Can the ALORAIR Air Scrubber with 3 Stage Filtration be used in a basement for eliminating mold odors?
Yes, this is one of the best applications for the ALORAIR Air Scrubber. Basements often have mold spores, musty odors, and moisture-related air quality issues. The unit captures mold spores efficiently with its MERV-10 filter.
Mold spores typically range from 3 to 20 microns in size. The MERV-10 filter handles this size range well, capturing 50 to 65% of particles between 1.0 and 3.0 microns and nearly all particles above 10 microns. This reduces airborne mold spore concentrations significantly.
For mold odors, the activated carbon filter is necessary. Mold produces microbial volatile organic compounds that create musty smells. Carbon adsorbs these compounds and reduces odor intensity. Replace the carbon filter every 3 to 6 months for consistent odor control.
The high airflow rate is ideal for basements. Many basements have poor ventilation and stagnant air pockets. The 550 CFM airflow keeps air moving and prevents moisture accumulation in corners. This helps prevent mold growth in addition to filtering existing spores.
Place the unit at least 12 inches from walls for optimal airflow. Run it continuously during mold remediation or after water damage. Pair it with a dehumidifier to control moisture levels below 50% relative humidity.
The noise level is not a concern in most basements. The unit operates at 65 to 70 decibels on high speed, similar to a vacuum cleaner. This is acceptable in utility spaces but too loud for occupied living areas.
What is the noise level of the ALORAIR Air Scrubber during operation, and is it suitable for use in a bedroom?
The ALORAIR Air Scrubber is loud. On high speed, it operates at approximately 65 to 70 decibels. This is comparable to a vacuum cleaner or a busy restaurant. On medium speed, it drops to about 55 to 60 decibels, similar to a conversation or a dishwasher.
Low speed is the quietest setting at around 50 to 55 decibels. This is roughly the sound level of a quiet office or light rainfall. Even on low speed, it’s louder than most bedroom air purifiers, which operate between 25 and 50 decibels.
For bedroom use, this unit is not ideal. Most people find noise above 50 decibels disruptive to sleep. Light sleepers or those sensitive to white noise will struggle with the constant hum.
The unit has no sleep mode. All three fan speeds are designed for continuous high-volume air movement, not quiet operation. There’s no automatic speed adjustment based on air quality or time of day.
If you need bedroom air filtration, consider a true HEPA purifier with a sleep mode. These units operate at 25 to 35 decibels on low settings. The ALORAIR is better suited for basements, garages, or job sites where noise is less of a concern.
| Fan Speed | Noise Level (dB) | Comparable Sound |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 50-55 dB | Quiet office, light rain |
| Medium | 55-60 dB | Conversation, dishwasher |
| High | 65-70 dB | Vacuum cleaner, busy restaurant |
How often do the filters of the ALORAIR Air Scrubber need to be replaced, and what is the cost of replacement filters?
The pre-filter is washable and reusable. Wash it every 1 to 2 weeks depending on dust and particle levels. Let it dry completely before reinstalling. This filter should last the life of the unit with proper care.
The MERV-10 filter needs replacement every 3 to 6 months. Heavy dust environments like construction sites may require more frequent changes. Light residential use may extend the filter to 6 months. Replacement MERV-10 filters cost between $20 and $30.
The optional activated carbon filter also needs replacement every 3 to 6 months. Carbon saturates as it adsorbs VOCs and odors. Once saturated, it no longer removes gases effectively. Replacement carbon filters cost between $20 and $30.
Total annual filter costs run about $60 to $120. If you replace both the MERV-10 and carbon filters twice a year, expect to spend around $80 to $120. If you replace them once a year, costs drop to $40 to $60.
The unit has no filter change indicator. You’ll need to track replacement schedules manually or inspect filters visually. A clogged filter reduces airflow and efficiency. Check filters monthly and replace when they appear discolored or restrict airflow.
Replacement filters are widely available online. Most users report no difficulty finding compatible filters. Third-party options are available and typically cost less than OEM filters.
Does the ALORAIR Air Scrubber effectively improve air quality for allergy sufferers?
The ALORAIR Air Scrubber helps reduce allergen levels but is not the best option for severe allergy sufferers. It captures pollen, pet dander, and dust mites effectively. These allergens typically range from 5 to 100 microns, well within the MERV-10 filter’s capture range.
For mild to moderate allergies, the unit provides noticeable relief. The high airflow rate keeps allergen concentrations low by cycling air quickly. This reduces exposure to airborne allergens in large spaces like basements or living rooms.
For severe allergies or asthma, a true HEPA filter is a better choice. HEPA filters capture 99.97% of particles at 0.3 microns, including ultra-fine allergens and asthma triggers like mold spores and pet dander fragments. The MERV-10 filter captures about 50 to 65% of particles in the 1.0 to 3.0 micron range.
The unit does not produce ozone or ions, which is important for people with respiratory sensitivities. Some ionizers and ozone generators can worsen asthma symptoms. The ALORAIR relies purely on mechanical filtration, making it safer for sensitive individuals.
Pair the air scrubber with regular cleaning, vacuuming with HEPA-equipped vacuums, and humidity control. Air filtration alone does not eliminate allergens that settle on surfaces. A comprehensive approach works best for allergy management.
Are there specific installation requirements for the ALORAIR Air Scrubber, and can it be placed near walls?
The ALORAIR Air Scrubber requires no permanent installation. It’s a plug-and-play unit that works immediately after unboxing. Plug it into a standard 120V outlet and turn it on. No HVAC integration or professional setup is necessary.
For optimal performance, place the unit at least 12 inches from walls or obstructions. The intake is on one side and the exhaust is on the opposite side. Blocking either side reduces airflow and filtration efficiency.
The unit can sit directly on the floor. The bottom has rubber feet to reduce vibration and prevent sliding. You can also stack multiple units if you need higher airflow for larger spaces.
If you want to direct airflow, the exhaust port accepts standard 8-inch ducting. This is useful for venting filtered air out of a room or directing it toward specific areas. Ducting is optional and not required for normal operation.
Avoid placing the unit in corners or tight spaces. Air circulation is most effective when the intake and exhaust have clear paths. Keep the unit away from curtains, furniture, or other items that could block airflow.
The unit is portable and weighs about 23 pounds. You can move it between rooms easily. No mounting brackets or permanent fixtures are needed. This makes it ideal for renters or temporary use during renovations.
Does the ALORAIR Air Scrubber have a sleep mode feature for quieter operation at night?
No, the ALORAIR Air Scrubber does not have a sleep mode. It has three manual fan speeds: low, medium, and high. Each speed runs continuously until you change the setting or turn the unit off.
There’s no automatic speed adjustment based on air quality or time of day. You must manually select the desired speed. Once set, the fan runs at that speed indefinitely.
The unit lacks smart features like timers, programmable schedules, or sleep modes. It’s designed for industrial and restoration use where constant high airflow is more important than quiet operation.
If you need quieter nighttime operation, manually set the unit to low speed before bed. Even on low, it’s louder than most bedroom air purifiers. The fan noise may still disrupt sleep for light sleepers.
For bedroom use with quiet operation, alternatives with dedicated sleep modes are a better fit. Many consumer air purifiers offer sleep modes that reduce fan speed and dim display lights to minimize disruption.
What is the CADR rating for the ALORAIR Air Scrubber regarding pollen and dust removal?
The ALORAIR Air Scrubber does not have a published CADR rating. CADR stands for Clean Air Delivery Rate and is typically measured by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers for consumer air purifiers.
CADR rates the volume of clean air a purifier delivers per minute for smoke, pollen, and dust. Most consumer air purifiers have CADR ratings ranging from 100 to 400 CFM depending on size and filtration efficiency.
The ALORAIR is marketed as an air scrubber for professional restoration use, not a consumer air purifier. It does not undergo AHAM testing or certification. This is common for industrial and commercial units.
However, we can estimate performance based on airflow and filtration type. The unit moves 550 CFM through a MERV-10 filter. MERV-10 filters capture about 50 to 65% of particles between 1.0 and 3.0 microns and 85% or more of particles above 3.0 microns.
For pollen, which typically ranges from 10 to 100 microns, the effective CADR is likely close to the full 550 CFM. For dust, which includes particles from 0.5 to 100 microns, the effective CADR is lower, probably around 350 to 400 CFM due to reduced capture of finer particles.
Without official testing, these are estimates. If CADR ratings are important for your decision, consider consumer air purifiers with published AHAM-certified CADR scores.
Can the ALORAIR Air Scrubber with 3 Stage Filtration be used in conjunction with existing HVAC systems?
The ALORAIR Air Scrubber is a standalone portable unit. It does not integrate directly with existing HVAC systems. Unlike whole-house air purifiers that install in ductwork, this unit operates independently.
You can use it in the same space as an HVAC system without issues. The air scrubber supplements your HVAC filtration rather than replacing it. This is useful if your HVAC system has basic filtration and you need extra particle removal.
The unit does not require duct modifications or professional HVAC installation. This makes it a flexible option for homeowners who don’t want to alter their existing HVAC setup. It’s also ideal for renters who can’t make permanent changes.
If you want to direct filtered air into ducts, the exhaust port accepts 8-inch ducting. You could theoretically connect the unit’s exhaust to a return duct to filter air before it enters the HVAC system. However, this is not a standard use case and may reduce efficiency.
For true HVAC integration, consider whole-house air purifiers with UV-C or HEPA filtration that install directly in ductwork. These systems filter all air circulating through your HVAC system and are more effective for whole-house air quality improvement.
What materials are the filters of the ALORAIR Air Scrubber made from, and are they HEPA certified?
The pre-filter is made from washable synthetic mesh or foam. It captures large particles like hair, dust, and debris. This material is durable and reusable with regular washing.
The main filter is a MERV-10 pleated filter. It’s made from synthetic fibers arranged in a pleated pattern to increase surface area. MERV-10 filters are not HEPA certified. HEPA certification requires capturing 99.97% of particles at 0.3 microns. MERV-10 filters capture about 50 to 65% of particles between 1.0 and 3.0 microns.
The optional activated carbon filter is made from granular activated carbon or carbon-impregnated foam. Carbon adsorbs gases, odors, and VOCs through chemical adsorption. This filter does not capture particles; it only removes gaseous contaminants.
None of the filters in this unit are HEPA certified. If you need true HEPA filtration for ultra-fine particles, viruses, or severe allergies, consider a unit with certified HEPA-13 or HEPA-14 filters.
MERV-10 filtration is sufficient for most residential applications involving mold, pollen, dust, and pet dander. It’s commonly used in HVAC systems and commercial buildings. For medical-grade air purification, HEPA or ULPA filters are necessary.
How long does it take for the ALORAIR Air Scrubber to significantly improve air quality in a room?
The ALORAIR Air Scrubber cycles the air in an 800-square-foot room every 10 to 12 minutes on high speed. This means it filters the entire room’s air volume about 5 to 6 times per hour.
Noticeable improvement typically occurs within 30 to 60 minutes. After three to four air cycles, most visible particles are captured. Dust levels drop, odors reduce, and the air feels cleaner.
For significant improvement, run the unit for 2 to 3 hours continuously. This allows multiple passes through the filters and reduces airborne particle concentrations substantially. After 3 hours, most airborne contaminants are either captured or significantly reduced.
VOC and odor removal takes longer. Activated carbon works gradually as air passes through the filter. Strong odors from mold, pets, or smoke may take 6 to 12 hours of continuous operation to reduce noticeably.
For ongoing air quality maintenance, run the unit continuously or at least 8 to 12 hours daily. This prevents particle and odor buildup and keeps air quality consistently high.
| Time | Expected Improvement |
|---|---|
| 30 minutes | Initial reduction in visible dust and particles |
| 1-2 hours | Noticeable air clarity, reduced allergens |
| 3+ hours | Significant particle reduction, odor improvement |
| 8-12 hours | Strong odor removal, maximum air quality improvement |
Is the ALORAIR Air Scrubber energy-efficient, and does it have ENERGY STAR certification?
The ALORAIR Air Scrubber does not have ENERGY STAR certification. ENERGY STAR applies to consumer appliances that meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the EPA. Industrial air scrubbers are not typically included in the ENERGY STAR program.
The unit draws about 1.5 amps on high speed, which translates to approximately 180 watts. On medium speed, power consumption drops to around 120 watts. On low speed, it uses about 60 to 80 watts.
Running the unit 8 hours per day on high speed costs about $4 to $5 per month at average U.S. electricity rates of $0.13 per kWh. If you run it 24 hours per day, expect monthly costs around $15 to $18.
Compared to consumer air purifiers, this unit uses slightly more energy due to higher airflow. A typical HEPA purifier uses 50 to 100 watts on high speed. The ALORAIR’s higher wattage is justified by its much higher airflow rate.
For energy savings, run the unit on low or medium speed when high airflow is not necessary. This reduces power consumption by 50 to 70% while still providing effective filtration.
What type of maintenance is required for the ALORAIR Air Scrubber, specifically regarding cleaning procedures?
Maintenance for the ALORAIR Air Scrubber is straightforward. The primary tasks are cleaning the pre-filter and replacing the main filters.
Clean the pre-filter every 1 to 2 weeks. Remove it from the unit and rinse it under warm water. Use mild soap if needed to remove stubborn dirt or grease. Let it air dry completely before reinstalling. Do not use the unit without the pre-filter.
Replace the MERV-10 filter every 3 to 6 months. Remove the filter access panel, slide out the old filter, and insert the new one. Make sure the airflow direction arrows on the filter match the direction of air movement through the unit.
Replace the activated carbon filter every 3 to 6 months if you use one. Carbon saturates over time and loses effectiveness. There’s no way to regenerate saturated carbon in these filters, so replacement is necessary.
Wipe down the exterior housing with a damp cloth as needed. Dust and debris can accumulate on the intake and exhaust grilles. Keep these areas clean to maintain optimal airflow.
Check the fan blades periodically. If you notice reduced airflow or unusual noise, the fan may need cleaning. Most models allow access to the fan housing for inspection and cleaning.
Are there any safety certifications for the ALORAIR Air Scrubber concerning ozone emissions?
The ALORAIR Air Scrubber does not produce ozone. It uses only mechanical filtration with no ionization, UV-C, or photocatalytic processes that could generate ozone as a byproduct.
Ozone emissions are effectively zero parts per million. The unit does not require CARB certification because CARB only regulates ozone-producing air purifiers. California’s Air Resources Board sets a limit of 0.050 ppm for indoor air cleaners.
The unit is ETL certified for electrical safety. ETL certification indicates the product meets North American safety standards for electrical appliances. This covers fire hazards, electrical shock, and safe operation.
The EPA does not regulate mechanical air scrubbers in the same way it regulates ozone generators. This product falls outside that scope. It poses no ozone-related health risks and is safe for continuous use around children, pets, and people with respiratory conditions.
For comparison, ionizers and some UV-C systems can produce ozone levels between 0.05 and 0.10 ppm. Even these low levels can irritate sensitive individuals. The ALORAIR avoids this issue entirely with its purely mechanical filtration approach.
How does the odor elimination performance of the ALORAIR Air Scrubber compare to similar products?
The ALORAIR Air Scrubber performs well for odor elimination when equipped with the activated carbon filter. Without the carbon layer, it does not remove odors at all since mechanical filtration only captures particles, not gases.
With the carbon filter installed, it handles mold odors, pet smells, smoke odors, and VOCs from paint or cleaning products. The performance is comparable to other units in its class, such as the BlueDri Air Shield 550 or the Dri-Eaz DefendAir.
Activated carbon efficiency depends on the amount of carbon in the filter and the contact time as air passes through. Thicker carbon filters with longer contact times perform better. The ALORAIR uses a standard carbon layer, which is effective for moderate odors but may struggle with extremely strong or chemical-heavy smells.
Compared to consumer air purifiers with carbon filters, the ALORAIR moves more air through the carbon layer. This means faster odor reduction in large spaces but potentially less thorough absorption per pass. Consumer units with thicker carbon layers and slower airflow may remove odors more completely.
For heavy-duty odor removal, consider units with larger carbon filters or multiple carbon stages. The ALORAIR is a solid mid-range performer suitable for most residential and light commercial odor issues.
What is the power consumption of the ALORAIR Air Scrubber while in operation?
The ALORAIR Air Scrubber draws approximately 180 watts on high speed. This translates to about 1.5 amps at 120 volts. On medium speed, power consumption drops to around 120 watts. On low speed, it uses about 60 to 80 watts.
Running the unit 8 hours per day on high speed costs about $4 to $5 per month at average U.S. electricity rates of $0.13 per kWh. If you run it continuously for 24 hours per day, expect monthly costs around $15 to $18.
For a full year of 24-hour operation, annual electricity costs would be approximately $180 to $220. This is moderate compared to other high-airflow air scrubbers or HVAC-integrated systems.
Consumer HEPA air purifiers typically use 50 to 100 watts on high speed. The ALORAIR uses more power because it moves significantly more air. The higher energy consumption is justified by the increased airflow and coverage area.
To reduce energy costs, run the unit on low or medium speed when maximum airflow is not necessary. This cuts power consumption by 50 to 70% while still providing effective filtration.
Is the ALORAIR Air Scrubber suitable for commercial use, or is it primarily designed for residential applications?
The ALORAIR Air Scrubber is designed for both commercial and residential use. It’s commonly used by restoration contractors, mold remediation professionals, and construction crews. The durable rotomolded housing and stackable design make it ideal for job sites.
Homeowners dealing with water damage, mold, or renovation dust also use it effectively. The unit bridges the gap between consumer air purifiers and heavy-duty commercial equipment. It offers professional-grade airflow in a portable package.
For light commercial use like offices, retail spaces, or workshops, the unit performs well. The 800-square-foot coverage area is suitable for small to medium commercial spaces. For larger areas, you can stack multiple units or use higher-CFM models.
The unit is not designed for medical or industrial cleanroom applications. It lacks HEPA filtration and does not meet the strict particle capture requirements for these environments. For medical-grade air purification, consider units with certified HEPA-13 or ULPA filters.
Commercial users appreciate the portability and ease of use. No permanent installation or HVAC integration is required. You can move the unit between job sites or rooms as needed. The simple controls and durable construction reduce downtime and maintenance needs.
How reliable is the ALORAIR Air Scrubber over time based on customer reviews?
Customer reviews for the ALORAIR Air Scrubber are generally positive. Users report reliable performance over months of continuous use. The rotomolded housing withstands impacts and rough handling on job sites.
Common praise includes consistent airflow, effective particle removal, and simple operation. Contractors and homeowners appreciate the portability and stackable design. The unit holds up well under demanding conditions like mold remediation and post-flood cleanup.
Some users report minor issues with filter fit or filter availability. Replacement filters occasionally arrive damaged or don’t fit perfectly. These issues are infrequent and usually resolved through the retailer or manufacturer.
The fan motor is durable and runs continuously without overheating. Several users report running the unit 24 hours per day for weeks without failure. The simple mechanical design reduces the risk of electronic failures or sensor malfunctions.
A few users mention that the unit is louder than expected. This is common for high-CFM air scrubbers and should not be considered a reliability issue. The noise level is consistent with the product’s design and intended use.
Overall, the ALORAIR Air Scrubber has a solid reputation for reliability. Most users would purchase it again and recommend it for similar applications.
Are replacement filters for the ALORAIR Air Scrubber readily available, and how does their price compare in the market?
Replacement filters for the ALORAIR Air Scrubber are widely available online. You can find them on Amazon, eBay, and specialty HVAC supply sites. ALORAIR also sells filters directly through their website.
The MERV-10 filter costs between $20 and $30 depending on the retailer. This is competitive with similar MERV-10 filters for other air scrubbers. Third-party options are available and often cost $15 to $25, slightly less than OEM filters.
The activated carbon filter costs between $20 and $30. Again, this is in line with market pricing for carbon filters in this size range. Third-party carbon filters are available for $15 to $25 and generally perform similarly to OEM options.
Compared to true HEPA filters, MERV-10 filters are less expensive. HEPA filters for consumer air purifiers often cost $40 to $80. The lower cost of MERV-10 filters helps keep annual maintenance costs reasonable.
Some users report occasional stock shortages for OEM filters. Third-party alternatives fill this gap and are usually compatible. Check filter dimensions and MERV ratings to ensure compatibility before purchasing.
Can the performance of the ALORAIR Air Scrubber be measured accurately, and are there air quality improvement metrics provided?
The ALORAIR Air Scrubber does not include built-in air quality sensors or performance metrics. There’s no display showing particle counts, VOC levels, or air quality scores. You’ll need separate air quality monitors to measure performance.
You can use handheld particle counters to measure airborne particle concentrations before and after running the unit. These devices measure particles per cubic foot or per cubic meter across different size ranges. This gives you objective data on particle reduction.
VOC meters measure volatile organic compounds in parts per million or parts per billion. Use one to assess VOC levels before and after running the unit with a carbon filter. This helps determine how effectively the carbon layer is removing gases and odors.
For mold spores, air sampling kits measure spore concentrations before and after filtration. These kits collect air samples on culture plates or spore traps. Lab analysis provides spore counts and species identification.
Without these tools, you’ll rely on subjective indicators like reduced dust on surfaces, less odor, and improved breathing comfort. While these are valid indicators, they’re not as precise as quantitative measurements.
If you need documented air quality improvement, invest in air quality monitors or hire a professional air quality consultant. This is especially important for insurance claims, litigation, or compliance with health and safety regulations.
| ALORAIR Air Scrubber with 3 Stage Filtration 550 CFM 800 sq. ft | Check Latest Price |