Let me tell you why the IQAir HealthPro Plus is a game-changer. If you’re tired of sneezing through allergy season, choking on wildfire smoke, or just want cleaner air for your family, this air purifier is worth every penny.
Its HyperHEPA filtration tackles particles as tiny as 0.003 microns—think viruses, allergens, and smoke—making it a powerhouse for anyone serious about indoor air quality. I’ve lived with it, and trust me, it’s a breath of fresh air (pun intended).
You’ll want this in your home to protect your health.
My Experience With The IQAir HealthPro Plus
When I first unboxed the IQAir HealthPro Plus, I was struck by its solid, no-nonsense design.
This thing isn’t trying to win beauty contests—it’s built to work.
At 28 inches tall and 35 pounds, it’s hefty, but the wheels make it easy to roll around.
I set it up in my living room, a 600-square-foot space where my dog, Max, sheds like it’s his full-time job.
I also deal with asthma, so I was eager to see if this purifier could live up to its medical-grade hype.
The first thing I noticed was how intuitive the controls are. The touch panel is straightforward, letting me cycle through six fan speeds with ease. I started on speed 2, which delivers 75 cubic feet per minute (CFM) of clean air—perfect for daily use.
The air felt fresher within hours, and Max’s dander wasn’t triggering my asthma as much. During a smoky summer week, I cranked it to speed 6 (300 CFM), and it cleared the haze from my home in under 30 minutes. That’s impressive for a room its size.
Living with the HealthPro Plus feels like having a silent guardian. It’s not just about allergies—it handles cooking odors, too. After burning some toast (oops), the V5-Cell filter zapped the smell before it could linger. I also appreciated the timer function, though I wished it had a smart sensor to adjust automatically.
Still, using it in my bedroom at night on low speed was a game-changer for my sleep quality. The air felt lighter, and my morning congestion was noticeably reduced. This purifier doesn’t just clean air—it transforms your space.
Pros of The IQAir HealthPro Plus
Let’s talk about why this air purifier stands out. I’ve been using it for months, and its strengths are undeniable.
- Unmatched HyperHEPA Filtration: The HyperHEPA filter is the star of the show. It captures 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns—way smaller than standard HEPA filters, which stop at 0.3 microns. This means it tackles viruses, bacteria, and ultrafine pollutants like wildfire smoke or pet dander. I noticed a real difference in my asthma symptoms, especially during pollen season.
- Robust Odor and Gas Removal: The V5-Cell filter, packed with five pounds of activated carbon and alumina, is a beast at neutralizing odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Whether it’s kitchen smells or chemical fumes, this filter handles them. When my neighbor’s bonfire smoke wafted in, the HealthPro Plus cleared it out fast.
- Large Room Coverage: This purifier covers up to 1,125 square feet, making it ideal for open-concept homes or large rooms. In my 600-square-foot living room, it achieved two air changes per hour (ACH), meaning it refreshed the air every 30 minutes. Even in smaller spaces, it’s overkill in the best way.
- Durable Swiss Build: Made in Switzerland, the HealthPro Plus feels like it’s built to last. It comes with a 10-year warranty, which speaks to its quality. I’ve moved it between rooms, and the sturdy construction hasn’t flinched. Each unit is hand-tested before shipping, which gives me confidence in its reliability.
- Flexible Fan Speeds: With six fan speeds, you can dial in exactly what you need. Speed 1 (40 CFM) is whisper-quiet for bedrooms, while speed 6 (300 CFM) is a powerhouse for quick cleanups. I love switching between them depending on the situation—like low for sleep, high for smoky days.
- Easy Maintenance: The filters are designed to last. The PreMax filter goes for 16 months, the V5-Cell for two years, and the HyperHEPA for four years. A display shows filter life, so you’re never guessing. Replacing them is tool-free and takes minutes, which I appreciate as someone who hates complicated upkeep.
Cons of The IQAir HealthPro Plus
No product is perfect, and the HealthPro Plus has its quirks. Here’s what I’ve noticed.
- High Upfront Cost: At around $900, this isn’t a budget buy. It’s a premium product, and the price reflects that. If you’re on a tight budget, you might flinch, but I see it as an investment in health, especially if you deal with allergies or asthma.
- Expensive Filter Replacements: Replacement filters aren’t cheap—$69 for the PreMax, $99 for the V5-Cell, and $199 for the HyperHEPA. While they last longer than most, the costs add up. I budget for them, but it’s something to consider.
- No Smart Features in Standard Model: The standard HealthPro Plus lacks an air quality sensor or app connectivity. You have to manually adjust settings, which feels dated compared to newer models. The XE version offers smart features, but it’s pricier.
- Noise at High Speeds: On speed 6, it’s loud—around 57 decibels, like a desk fan on high. I only use this setting for short bursts. Lower speeds are quiet (29-40 decibels), but if you need max power in a shared space, it might disrupt conversations.
- Bulky Design: At 28 inches tall and 35 pounds, it’s not discreet. It fits fine in my living room, but in smaller spaces, it can feel imposing. The wheels help, but it’s still a chunky piece of equipment.
Maintenance Tips For The IQAir HealthPro Plus
Keeping your HealthPro Plus in top shape is straightforward, but it’s worth doing right to maximize performance and longevity. Here’s how I keep mine running smoothly.
- Monitor Filter Life Regularly: The purifier’s display shows how much life is left in each filter, based on usage and fan speed. I check it monthly to avoid surprises. The PreMax filter lasts about 16 months, the V5-Cell around two years, and the HyperHEPA up to four years. If you run it on high constantly, expect shorter lifespans.
- Replace Filters on Schedule: When the filter life indicator hits zero, swap them out. No tools are needed—just pop open the modular tower, pull out the old filter, and slide in the new one. I keep a spare set on hand to avoid downtime. Always use genuine IQAir filters to maintain performance.
- Clean the Pre-Filter: The PreMax filter catches large particles like dust and pet hair. I vacuum it gently every few months to extend its life. Don’t wash it—it’s not designed for that. A quick vacuum keeps it efficient and protects the other filters.
- Keep Air Vents Clear: Ensure there’s at least a foot of space around the purifier for proper airflow. I once tucked it too close to a wall, and it wasn’t as effective. Place it centrally in the room for best results, especially in larger spaces.
- Wipe Down the Exterior: Dust can settle on the unit, especially if you’re running it in a dusty environment. I wipe it down with a damp cloth every couple of weeks to keep it looking sharp and prevent dust from clogging the intake.
- Store the Remote Safely: The remote is handy for adjusting settings, but it’s small and easy to lose. I keep mine in a drawer to avoid misplacing it, especially with kids around. You can also use the touch panel, but the remote’s convenient for quick changes.
- Run on Lower Speeds When Possible: Running on speed 1 or 2 saves energy and extends filter life. I only use higher speeds for specific issues, like smoke or heavy odors. This keeps maintenance costs down and reduces noise.
Comparison of IQAir HealthPro Plus Air Purifier With Other Brands
Let’s see how the IQAir HealthPro Plus stacks up against the Shark NeverChange, RainMate, REME HALO, and Scentsy air purifiers. I’ve used or researched these models to understand their strengths and weaknesses, focusing on filtration, coverage, features, and overall value.
Each comparison highlights what you’re getting with the HealthPro Plus versus these competitors.
- IQAir HealthPro Plus Compared To Shark NeverChange
The Shark NeverChange Air Purifier Max boasts a 1,400-square-foot coverage area, outpacing the HealthPro Plus’s 1,125 square feet.
Its NeverChange HEPA filter claims a five-year lifespan, which sounds appealing compared to the HealthPro Plus’s filter replacements every 16 months to four years.
However, I’m skeptical of Shark’s claim, as even my IQAir filters show discoloration after 2.5 years with a pre-filter.
Shark’s HEPA captures 99.98% of particles down to 0.1-0.2 microns, but the HealthPro Plus’s HyperHEPA goes finer, trapping 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, including viruses and ultrafine pollutants.
Shark’s Clean Sense IQ displays air quality as a percentage, which I found handy in testing, adjusting fan speed automatically. The HealthPro Plus lacks this auto mode, requiring manual tweaks. Shark’s odor neutralizer cartridge adds a fresh scent, but I preferred the V5-Cell’s robust five-pound carbon filter for eliminating odors like cooking smells without adding fragrance.
Noise-wise, Shark runs quieter at 50 dB on high versus IQAir’s 57 dB, but its design feels more like a kitchen appliance than a medical-grade device. Shark’s lower upfront cost (around $300) and filter savings are tempting, but for serious health needs like asthma, the HealthPro Plus’s superior filtration wins out.
- IQAir HealthPro Plus Compared To RainMate Air Purifier
The RainMate Air Purifier, made by Rainbow, uses water-based filtration, which is a stark contrast to the HealthPro Plus’s HyperHEPA and carbon system.
It’s marketed as a compact solution for odors and allergens, using water to trap particles and add humidity.
In my experience, water-based systems like the RainMate are less effective at capturing ultrafine particles compared to HEPA filters.
The HealthPro Plus’s HyperHEPA removes 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, while RainMate’s water method struggles with anything below 0.3 microns, making it less suitable for asthma or virus protection.
RainMate’s coverage is vague, often recommended for small rooms (under 300 square feet), far less than the HealthPro Plus’s 1,125 square feet. I found the RainMate’s water tank needs frequent refilling and cleaning to avoid mold, which is a hassle compared to IQAir’s straightforward filter swaps.
The RainMate doubles as a humidifier, which is nice in dry climates, but its odor removal relies on optional fragrances, not robust carbon like the V5-Cell. It’s also quieter, but the constant water sound can be distracting. At around $200, RainMate is cheaper, but its limited filtration and maintenance demands make the HealthPro Plus a better long-term investment for serious air quality needs.
- IQAir HealthPro Plus Compared To REME HALO Air Purifier
The REME HALO is an in-duct air purifier designed for whole-home HVAC systems, unlike the freestanding HealthPro Plus.
It uses ionized hydro-peroxide technology to neutralize pollutants, claiming to tackle VOCs, bacteria, and viruses across 1,000-3,000 square feet, depending on the HVAC system.
This is broader than the HealthPro Plus’s 1,125-square-foot range, but REME HALO’s effectiveness depends on your HVAC’s airflow, which can be inconsistent in leaky ducts.
The HealthPro Plus delivers targeted, medical-grade filtration with its HyperHEPA, capturing 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, proven effective against SARS-CoV-2.
I found REME HALO’s installation complex, requiring professional HVAC integration, unlike the plug-and-play HealthPro Plus. Its ionization tech raises concerns about ozone production, which could irritate lungs, whereas IQAir avoids ionizers for safety. REME HALO’s maintenance involves replacing cells every 1-2 years at $100-$150, comparable to IQAir’s filter costs.
However, its lack of a physical HEPA filter makes it less reliable for particle removal in my view. At $1,000-$1,500 installed, REME HALO is pricier and less versatile for renters or those without central HVAC, making the HealthPro Plus a more practical choice for consistent filtration.
- IQAir HealthPro Plus Compared To Scentsy Air Purifier
Scentsy’s Air Purifier is more about aesthetics and fragrance than heavy-duty filtration.
It uses a HEPA filter to capture 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns, which is solid but falls short of the HealthPro Plus’s 0.003-micron HyperHEPA capability.
Scentsy’s coverage is limited to about 400 square feet, far less than IQAir’s 1,125, making it better for small bedrooms than large spaces.
Its big draw is the ability to diffuse Scentsy fragrances, which I found pleasant but unnecessary compared to the V5-Cell’s odor-eliminating carbon.
In testing, Scentsy’s fan was quieter (around 45 dB on high) but less powerful, with a CADR of about 150 CFM versus IQAir’s 300 CFM. Scentsy’s filters need replacing every 6-12 months, costing $50-$70, which adds up faster than IQAir’s longer-lasting filters.
The Scentsy unit, priced around $150, is budget-friendly and stylish, but its filtration is basic, and the fragrance focus feels gimmicky for health-conscious users like me with asthma. The HealthPro Plus’s robust, medical-grade performance makes it the clear winner for serious air purification.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Blueair uses HEPASilent technology, blending HEPA filtration with ionization to capture particles down to 0.1 microns, while IQAir’s HyperHEPA filter goes finer, trapping 99.5% of particles down to 0.003 microns, including viruses. Blueair’s carbon filters are lighter, less effective against odors than IQAir’s V5-Cell. Blueair offers smart features like app control, absent in the standard HealthPro Plus. IQAir covers larger spaces (1,125 sq ft vs. Blueair’s 1,858 sq ft for some models) and has a 10-year warranty versus Blueair’s five.
Yes, you can run the HealthPro Plus on high (speed 6, 300 CFM) all day, but it’s loud (around 57 decibels) and uses more power—about 3.24 kWh daily. It also shortens filter life, increasing replacement costs. I recommend using high for short bursts, like during heavy smoke or odor events, and sticking to lower speeds (1-3) for daily use to save energy and keep things quiet.
Philips air purifiers, like the Series 2000, are solid for smaller spaces (up to 300 sq ft). Their True HEPA filters capture 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns, and they include air quality sensors and auto modes. They’re quieter and cheaper than IQAir, but their carbon filters are less effective against odors, and they lack the HealthPro Plus’s medical-grade precision and large-room coverage. They’re a good budget option but not as robust.
The HealthPro Plus covers up to 1,125 square feet with a CADR of 300 CFM at its highest speed (6). At lower speeds, coverage scales: speed 5 (200 CFM, 750 sq ft), speed 4 (170 CFM, 638 sq ft), speed 3 (130 CFM, 488 sq ft), speed 2 (75 CFM, 281 sq ft), and speed 1 (40 CFM, 150 sq ft). It achieves two air changes per hour in a 1,125-square-foot space, making it ideal for large rooms or open-plan homes.
Why The IQAir HealthPro Plus Is Worth It?
You need the IQAir HealthPro Plus if you value clean, healthy air. Its HyperHEPA filtration, robust odor control, and large-room coverage make it a top choice for allergy sufferers, asthma patients, or anyone facing poor air quality.
Despite its price and lack of smart features, the performance is unmatched. I’ve seen it transform my home, and I’m confident it’ll do the same for you. Invest in this purifier—you’re investing in your health.