Our roundup of the best commercial air scrubbers. Each of the commercial air purifiers which made the best air scrubbers list are adept at mold, mold spore, smoke, chemical fumes, VOC, lead, asbestos and other fine airborne particle removal.
Air scrubbers are primarily used by professionals for mold remediation and smoke and water damage restoration. Each machine below cleans contaminants from the air using a fan to move air through a series of filters removing hazardous particulates and improving indoor air quality (IAQ).
View each of the models reviewed below. We’ve also provided a quick air scrubber feature comparison after the reviews as well as frequently asked questions.
If you would like to read more about air scrubbers like how they work, what pollutants they remove, what they are used for and much much more check out our ultimate air scrubber guide.
Table of Contents
Best Overall Air Scrubber : Dri-Eaz HEPA 700
Airflow Rating: up to 700 CFM
Dimensions: 25 x 22 x 14in.(LxWxH)
Weight: 37lbs.
Ductable: Yes
Intake Diameter: 14in.
Outlet Diameter: 14in.(layflat ducting req.)
Daisy-Chainable: 8 on low, 4 on high
Warranty: 1 year, lifetime on housing
Price: $$$$$
Pros:
- High CFM with low weight
- Daisy chain up to 8 on the lowest setting (4 on the highest)
- Monitor and Control via mobile app
Cons:
- Carbon filter not included
If you’re looking for the best all around air scrubber look no further than the Dri-Eaz HEPA 700.
What makes the Dri-Eaz HEPA 700 the best all around air scrubber is its impressive list of specs and added features.
The Dri-Eaz HEPA 700 has an impressive 700 CFM airflow while only weighing 37 lbs making it easily portable. On top of that you can daisy chain up to 4 units on the highest speed (8 units on the lowest) for a whopping total CFM of 2800. That’s enough to provide a little over 4 air changes per hour (ACH) to a 4000 sq ft room with 10 foot ceilings.
Because of the features we mentioned we consider this to be the best air scrubber for remodeling, it can easily control dust and other debris during the job and its light weight and handle make it easy to move from room to room and up flights of stairs. For an added benefit you can duct the inlet and outlet which would allow you to place the unit in an adjacent room to reduce the noise exposure in the work area.
An added special feature is the ability to monitor and control the unit remotely via mobile app.
The Dri-Eaz HEPA 700 comes with a pre-filter and a HEPA filter out of the box, but you can also buy and install a carbon filter if you’re keen on eliminating odor.
All the features mentioned make it an ideal candidate for a variety of jobs including remodeling, construction, mold and water remediation jobs, or just providing a clean working environment for businesses that need it including paint and print shops and gyms. Everything mentioned above make it easy to crown this the best portable air scrubber.
Best Air Scrubber For Value: AlorAirPureAiro HEPA Pro 770
Airflow Rating: up to 550 CFM
Dimensions: 24.2 x 24 x 14in.(LxWxH)
Weight: 37.4lbs.
Ductable: Yes
Intake Diameter: 16in.
Outlet Diameter: 8in.
Daisy-Chainable: up to 3 units
Warranty: 1 year parts and labor, 10 years on housing
Price: $$$$$
Pros:
- Comes with 2in1 HEPA/Carbon filter giving you a carbon filter out of the box
- Can operate vertically
- Great Value
Cons:
The AlorAirPureAiro HEPA Pro 770 comes in as our best value pick. It has a wide variety of uses for mold removal, restoration, renovation, and remodeling and includes a strong list of features. This unit is a great all-around pick combining performance characteristics, a HEPA filtration option and price to offer an incredible value.
The HEPA Pro 770 was made for use in rugged industrial and commercial environments where it would be subject to constant use. To get the job done the HEPA Pro 770 leverages a 3-stage filter system. The first filter is a pre-filter, followed by a 2 in 1 HEPA/Carbon filter.
With both of its filters in place the HEPA Pro 770 removes 99.97% of particles sized .3 micrometers and larger. That makes dust, mold and drywall particles quick work for the AlorAir unit. It’s at home in a wide variety of application use-cases including home repair and construction sites, mold and sewage remediation jobs, and water and fire damage restoration cleanups. All this is packed into a tight package that weighs in at a mere 37.4 pounds.
What makes the HEPA Pro 770 our best value pick is that it comes with a Pre-filter and combined HEPA/Carbon filter out the gate at a low price point. This is unlike a lot of 3 stage filtration air scrubbers that don’t include a carbon filter. It also comes with a slightly higher than average CFM at 550 that makes it an easy pic for the greatest value.
Best Air Scrubber For Mold and Allergies: AlorAir PureAiro HEPA Pro 970
Airflow Rating: 330-750 CFM
Dimensions: 24 x 22 x14.(LxWxH)
Weight: 39.6lbs.
Ductable: Yes
Intake Diameter: 16in.
Outlet Diameter: 8in.
Daisy-Chainable: up to 3 units
Warranty: 1 year parts and labor, 10 years on housing
Price: $$$$$
Pros:
- Uses UV-C light
- High CFM while still being light
- Includes 2 in 1 HEPA/Carbon filter which gives you carbon filter out of the box
Cons:
One of the newer air scrubber models to make our list is AlorAir’s PureAiro HEPA Max 970. The PureAiro is at the high-end of AlorAir’s line. The PureAiro HEPA Max 970 integrates something no other unit on this list does: UV-C light. UV-C light. On its own UV-C light is effective at breaking down odors like smoke, and moldy, musty smells. It is also highly effective at killing mold and other fungi. While we here at airscrubberhq are dubious about the use of UV-C light in air scrubbers, there is no harm in having one built in to your air scrubber in the off chance that it is as effective as the marketing suggests.
Regardless of the UV-C’s effectiveness, this air scrubber also boasts an impressive 750 CFM which will enable you to increase the ACH of your space and ensure the air stays clean and free from allergens.
This highly versatile air scrubber is designed for use during water/flood restoration, mold remediation, remodeling, sewage clean-up, renovation and construction, and fire damage restoration. The manufacturer also states that it is perfect for a salon or print shop.
The first filter stage is a pre-filter which removes the largest particles. These first line of defense filters lengthen the lifespan of the more expensive filter to follow. That filter is the second stage which is a 2-in-1 HEPA filter that leverages activated carbon. It is effective at removing mold spores, bacteria, asbestos and other airborne pathogens from the air. The final stage is the UV-C light which enhances abatement of airborne germs. Up to three PureAiro HEPA Max units can be used on a single power outlet (daisy chain). If the AlorAir PureAiro HEPA Pro 970 is out of your price range you can opt for the AlorAir PureAiro HEPA 870 model which features the same filtration capabilities including the UV-C light, but has a lower CFM at 550.
Best Air Scrubber For Grow Room and Contractors : Abatement Technologies Pred750
Airflow Rating: up to 750 CFM
Dimensions: 25.5 x 19.5 x 20.5in(LxWxH)
Weight: 34lbs.
Ductable: Yes
Intake Diameter: 10in.
Outlet Diameter: 10in.
Daisy-Chainable: up to 5 units on one 15 amp circuit
Warranty: 1 year
Price: $$$$$
Pros:
- High CFM with low weight
- Daisy Chain up to 5 units
Cons:
- Carbon Filter not included
If you’re looking to maintain the proper air quality for your grow room, look no further than the Pred750.
What makes the Pred750 ideal for a grow room is its impressive 750 CFM airflow on the highest setting and the ability to daisy chain up to 5 units on one 15 amp circuit for a whopping total CFM of 3750. That’s enough to provide over 5 air changes per hour (ACH) to a 4000 sq ft room with 10 foot ceilings. The ability to daisy chain up to 5 units means that your air filtration ability can expand with your grow room.
The unit itself has a design that breaks for the popular thin/tall design in use by most manufacturers. Abatement says their design creates a “zero bypass” cabinet which creates a tighter seal, important for achieving negative air pressure.
The Pred750 provides 3 stage filtration and comes with 2 pre filters and a HEPA filter out of the box. If you’re keen on eliminating odor you’ll have to buy an optional carbon filter which you can use to replace your second pre-filter. With all filters installed you can sleep soundly at night knowing that the Pred750 is hard at work protecting your plants from bacteria, fungus, mold, and VOCS all while reducing odor.
Best Air Scrubber For Construction Dust: XPOWER 2000 CFM Air Scrubber
Airflow Rating: up to 2000 CFM
Dimensions: 38.8 x 26.7 x 29.4in(LxWxH)
Weight: 98.7lbs.
Ductable: Yes (exhaust only)
Intake Diameter: n/a
Outlet Diameter: 12in.
Daisy-Chainable: no
Warranty: Limited 1 year
Price: $$$$$
Pros:
- Very High CFM
- Wheels for portability
- Includes Digital Air Sensor
- Stackable
Cons:
- Not able to daisy chain
- optional carbon filter not included
- no inlet ducting
For large jobs that require cleaning large volumes of air, but still requiring a portable air scrubber, XPOWER has produced a 2000 CFM air scrubber with 3-levels of filtration (including HEPA filtration). Housed in a one-piece roto-molded enclosure, the the ductable AP-2000 is designed for large-scale use.
XPOWER suggests it be used to remediate air in large spaces including arenas, conference rooms, construction sites, gyms, hospitals, hotels, offices and schools.
The brushless DC motor is one of the air scrubber’s biggest selling points. When used at lower CFM rates it can be used in occupied spaces without causing disruption. Sound decibel information is not given but the unit is marketed as being quiet enough to use in conference rooms and classrooms.
Of course, it can also be turned up to efficiently and aggressively remove mold, dust, VOCs and other airborne particles from the air.
The 2,000 CFM air scrubber’s trio of filters include a washable pre-filter, a HEPA filter and a carbon filter. The carbon filter is optional, allowing cost-saving operation when odor removal isn’t required.
Unique to a unit of this size, the AP-2500D also includes a digital PM 2.5 air quality sensor as well as a vacuum pressure gauge. The unit can also optionally operate at negative air pressure by way of its ductable 12-inch exhaust outlet. Ducting is sold separately.
Contractors and professionals will appreciate the ease of moving the unit as well as it is also stackable.
For large-scale remediation and construction jobs this unit is our recommended pick.
Air Scrubber Comparison Table
|
Air Scrubber
|
Airflow Rating
|
Filter Stages
|
Weight
|
Ductable
|
Price
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
up to 700 CFM
|
3
|
37lbs
|
Yes
|
$$$
|
|
|
up to 550 CFM
|
3*
|
37.4lbs
|
Yes
|
$
|
|
|
330-750 CFM
|
3*
|
39.6 lbs
|
Yes
|
$$
|
|
|
up to 750 CFM
|
3
|
34 lbs
|
Yes
|
$$$$
|
|
|
up to 2000 CFM
|
3
|
98.7 lbs
|
Exhaust Only
|
$$$$$
|
* The AlorAir models have a Pre Filter and a 2-1 HEPA/Carbon filter. 2 separate filters, but 3 stages of filtration.
What To Look For In An Air Scrubber
When selecting an air scrubber there are a few factors that should always be considered, including:
- ACH / ACPH – Both ACH and ACPH stand for air changes per hour. Simply stated, air changes per hour is a metric that defines how many times an air scrubber can fill up or remove the entire volume of air in a room.
- Airflow Rating – CFM, or cubic feet per minute, is used to express how much air an air scrubber can move. Be sure the unit you pick has a CFM rating that is suitable for the jobs it will be used for. Not sure how many air scrubbers you need for a job? Check out our air scrubber calculations.
- Air Speeds – A great feature that makes a unit more versatile is a blower with variable speed settings. Not only does fan speed effect how much air is being purified, it also determines the level of ambient noise where the unit is placed.
- Filtration – At the end of the day, filtration is what an air scrubber does. Pick a unit that can filter out the particulates you need to remove while reliably dealing with the strain the amount of airflow moving through it demands. Most units have HEPA rated filters. Some also have pre-filters and optional carbon filters. Pre-filters remove larger particulates, saving the HEPA filter for the smallest ones. Carbon filters remove VOCs and odor smells.
- Negative Air Pressure – For remediation work, an air scrubber needs to achieve negative air pressure. This requires an air scrubber with a well-sealed cabinet and a strong enough motor and fan to sustain negative air pressure.
- Portability – Today, most air scrubbers are considered to be of the PAS variety, which stands for portable air scrubber. Take note of the form factor, stackability, weight, number and placement of wheels, and if the scrubber has one or more handles to make moving it around easier.
- Price – Quality usually comes at a price. While you cannot compromise on quality, you can right-size the air scrubbers you purchase for the type of work they’ll be used for. Buying units with inferior specs will introduce increased running time or the inability to perform the required work. Purchasing those with specs that far outpace the requirements of the work they’ll be used for is simply wasting money.
- Quality – Always go with a tried-and-true brand which has a track record of manufacturing high-quality products. Knowing the type of work that you’ll require from a unit, make sure it’s up to the task.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does An Air Scrubber Do?
An air scrubber takes in air and filters out mold, mold spores, smoke, chemical fumes, VOCs, lead, asbestos and other fine airborne particles. The purified air is then exhausted from the air scrubber and back into the room. For more information check out our Ultimate Air Scrubber Guide.
What is a HEPA air scrubber?
Are Air Scrubbers Effective?
What Is The Difference Between An Air Scrubber And An Air Purifier?
How Long Should An Air Scrubber Be Run?
The length of time an air scrubber should be run depends upon the type of work it is being used for and the efficiency of the air scrubber. While some sites provide general guidance, due to this high amount of variability we recommend consulting the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A simple example of the differences would be an air scrubber being used to reduce dust in a construction area vs. one being used to remove mold from a room. The construction use-case would be a continually run air scrubber to capture dust and sawdust created while work is being performed. In the mold remediation scenario the exact amount of time would depend on the volume of the room and the extent of the mold infestation.
Are Air Scrubbers Dangerous?
An air scrubber is no more dangerous than any other electric tool one would use on a construction or work site. Air scrubbers have zero-off-gassing, and the result of using an air scrubber is a cleaner, safer environment to be in.
In some use cases, the environment itself can be dangerous, such as when high levels of VOCs or asbestos are present, but using an air scrubber to remove those pathogens decreases that level of danger.
What Is The Difference Between An Air Scrubber And A Negative Air Machine?
These terms are often used interchangeable. An air scrubber and a negative air machine are the same thing. When doing mold remediation, flood damage cleanup and a number of other tasks, negative air pressure needs to be achieved.
This is done by removing more air from the area than is being replaced. In practice, that means first using temporary walls to cordon off an area. Next, the air scrubber is set-up using flexible ducting so that treated air is removed from the area where the air is being purified.
If you want to know more like how to use your air scrubber to create a negative or positive air pressure environment, check out our article Air Scrubber vs. Negative Air Machine – What’s the Difference?
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