STACK #256 February 2026

Breath easie a hom continued

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

Filter focus The filter does the heavy lifting. Without it, an air purifier is just a fan moving air around the room. As filters trap particles, they naturally clog over time, reducing airflow and effectiveness. That’s why regular maintenance matters. Most brands clearly outline when filters should be cleaned or replaced, and many modern air purifiers will alert you when it’s time. Some models use washable performance and can also extend the life of the main filter and reduce ongoing costs. Different filters tackle different pollutants, and many air purifiers combine multiple types for broader coverage. HEPA filters The gold standard. A True HEPA filter captures at least 99.97 per cent of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including pollen, fine dust, and smoke. Some newer models may use medical-grade HEPA filtration for even higher efficiency. pre-filters to catch larger particles like hair and dust. This improves

Bells and whistles Beyond filtration, many air purifiers now pull double duty. Some can work as fans in summer or heaters in winter, earning a spot in the room year-round. Oscillation improves coverage, while sleep and quiet modes keep noise levels low overnight. Energy efficiency has also improved, with newer motors delivering stronger airflow while using less power – ideal if you leave the purifier running most of the day.

What’s the deal with CADR?

CADR stands for Clean Air Delivery Rate. It’s an industry standard that measures how efficiently an air purifier cleans the air, tested using dust, smoke, and pollen. The higher the CADR rating, the faster the purifier can clean a room of a given size. If you’re dealing with heavy pollution – like smoke – or want quicker results, CADR is a key spec to check.

Top tips for choosing an air purifier Prioritise quiet operation, energy efficiency and realistic room coverage Factor in filter replacement costs, especially if you’ll be running it daily Make sure the HEPA filter is a True HEPA, and don’t undersize to save a few dollars – clean air is worth it!

Smart cleaning Air purifiers have gotten smarter. Many now include built in air quality sensors that monitor particles in real time and auto adjust fan speed as conditions change. Wi-Fi connectivity allows for remote control, scheduling, and voice assistant support. Some companion apps provide detailed air quality breakdowns, filter life tracking, and usage insights, helping you fine-tune performance.

Carbon filters Designed for gases and odours. Their porous structure absorbs smells from cooking, pets, and smoke, as well as chemical fumes that HEPA filters can’t catch. UV-C technology

What’s the next step? Choosing the right size air purifier is crucial. A unit that’s too small won’t clean the air effectively, while an oversized one can waste energy. Start by measuring the room’s total area in square metres. If the air purifier will service adjoining spaces, include those areas too. Most air purifiers clearly state their recommended room coverage, and it’s always smart to choose a model that’s rated for a bit more space than you need.

Often paired with HEPA filtration. As air passes through the unit, UV light can help neutralise certain bacteria, viruses, and mould spores before clean air is released back into the room.

TOP PICK

Quiet, powerful and seriously smart, the Philips PureProtect 2200 Series is a standout for clean air without the noise.

SilentWings tech keeps sound as low as 13dB, while a three-layer HEPA NanoProtect and Active Carbon system captures 99.97% of ultra-fine particles, allergens, viruses, and odours. With a strong 400m³/h CADR, it can purify rooms up to 104m² fast, while using less energy than a light bulb.

Real-time air sensing, Auto and AI powered modes, plus full app control make it effortless to run every day. Add a long-life filter, allergy certification, and thoughtful sleep features, and this air purifier is a great choice for modern homes.

Philips PureProtect 2200 Series Smart Air Purifier

34 FEBRUARY 2026

jbhifi.com.au