Winix 5500-2 Review

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Size and Dimensions

Weighing at only 14.7 pounds, the Winix 5500-2 is a fairly light air purifier.

For those who find this heavy, you can use the handle to easily carry it around from one room to another.

In terms of its sizing, the purifier is definitely large, measuring in at 8.2 x 15 x 23.6 inches.

This size can pose a problem when trying to find a spot to place it in a room.

Keep in mind that it needs to be 12 to 18 inches away from the radio, TV, and other electronic devices.

Additionally, make sure that it is at least four inches away from the wall and not exposed directly to the sun.

Filter

The company uses the latest technology to make all its electronic products, which means that the Winix 5500 2 Air Purifier is no exception.

The purifier comes with a three-stage air purification system, combining all of the company’s latest technologies to make the air in your home cleaner.

Ensure you are only buying the original Winix filter so that it works in the best conditions.

Below, we will talk about the different filters used in this purifier.

True HEPA Filter

A True HEPA filter is a must for a good air purifier.

This is a powerful filter capable of removing 99.97% of airborne particles present in the air that are larger than 0.3 microns.

This filter needs to be replaced whenever necessary since it is responsible for trapping the pollution particles.

Once the filter is dirty, it becomes completely useless.

Washable AOC Carbon Filter

The Winix 5500-2 features a large carbon filter that effectively and quickly eliminates odors.

That said, to keep this effective for a much longer time, you must wash it once every three months. You can make use of a vacuum cleaner to clean this filter.

Pre-Filter

This is the first level of filtration responsible for removing larger particles.

Because of this, it tends to get dirty quickly, which means you will have to clean it regularly, at least once every two weeks.

The pre-filter is an excellent addition to the air purifier since, in a way, it helps in prolonging the life of the other filters.

PlasmaWave

PlasmaWave is a kind of ionizer that further reduces the number of allergens and pollutants in the air.

It forms hydroxyl radicals to attack airborne pollutants, including bacteria, germs, odors, viruses, and chemical gases.

All of these pollutants that are destroyed will then reform into harmless air molecules or water vapor.

Smart Sensor

The air purifier features a smart sensor, too. This is an advanced technology that detects the quality of the air in a room.

When you use the purifier on Auto mode, this smart sensor determines the air quality and will change the fan setting accordingly.

Noise

There are four speeds on this purifier, as well as a Sleep mode.

The fourth speed or the “turbo speed” is the loudest. At this level, the noise output is at 66.4 dBa.

This can indeed be annoying but is rarely used when you sleep.

The Sleep mode is quietest and measures at only 40.6 dBa.

The first, second, and third speed levels measure at 42.7 dBa, 44.9 dBa, and 50.3 dB, respectively.

Operating Cost

The Winix 5500-2 is a fairly large air purifier with 70W power.

While it does consume more energy than smaller air purifiers, it still is Energy Star-certified.

When used on the first fan speed, it barely uses 6.4W of power. On standby mode, it uses only 1.2W.

That said, the highest operating cost on this air purifier is the replacement of the filters, which can be a tad bit expensive.

You can avoid constantly replacing your filters by following all the device’s safety instructions to prolong the filter’s life.

If you set this device on the third fan speed and have it run for a month, you will be adding about $1.2 to your monthly electricity bill.

However, if you set the purifier on turbo speed, you will be spending about $5 on your monthly bill. While this is still low, this is still a significant increase.

CADR and CFM Rating

CADR scores from smoke are 232, dust is 243, and pollen is 246. The CADR is the Clean Air Delivery Rate

The CFM score is 70.63 at low speed, 91.82 at medium speed, 123.60 at high speed, 240.14 at turbo speed, and 35.31 at sleep mode. CFM is Cubic Feet per Minute.

All these scores show the effectiveness of the device at different speeds.

It’s clear from the scores above that the purifier works seven times more effectivley when used on turbo mode rather than on sleep mode.

Based on this result, we recommend using the air purifier on turbo mode for some time when you first start the machine and then switch to a lower mode.

Pros:

• Simple and elegant design
• Well-built and durable
• Ideal for those with allergies
• Reasonable price
• Comes with a remote control
• Highly effective for small to medium rooms
• Features a smart sensor
• Quiet operation on sleep mode
• Washable filters

Cons:

• Does not work with smart assistants
• Replacing the filters can be expensive

How to Get the Most Out of the Winix 5500-2 Air Purifier

With so much to offer, it is evident that this air purifier is a must-have for your home.

However, for people who have never used one before, things can be a bit overwhelming.

Hence, we recommend that you check out this video. It talks about the Winix 5500-2 in detail and also demonstrates how to use it. Winix 5500-2 Air Purifier Review

Replacing the Filters

The filters on this purifier have to be replaced every 12 months or so.

That said, it does have a filter indicator that will let you know when you need to replace the filters.

The replacement process is relatively simple. You can refer to the product’s user manual to find step-by-step instructions.

Washing the Filters

Both the carbon filter and the pre-filter are completely washable.

Remember that they need to be cleaned now and then, whenever necessary.

While you can clean them, it is still imperative that you replace them every year.

Alternative

Coming from more than a few Winix 5500-2 Air Purifier reviews, we found that its biggest downside is that it does not support a smart assistant.

In this day and age, that can be a deal-breaker for some.

If you are keen on an air purifier that works with your smart assistant, we recommend trying out the Levoit Smart Wi-Fi Air Purifier.

In terms of its features, it is very similar to its counterpart.

For starters, it works best in rooms that measure up to 360 square feet.

Furthermore, it comes with multiple filters to clean the air in your home. It also has a similar design and shape.

Best of all, this air purifier is excellent for people on a budget.

Winix 5500-2 FAQs

1. Does Winix 5500 2 produce ozone?

This air purifier does not produce ozone.

In fact, the company has ARB (Air Resources Board) verification, certifying that it meets all the federal ozone emission limits.

2. What is the difference between Winix 5300 and 5500?

The Winix 5300 and 5500 have almost the same features; the only thing setting them apart is the carbon filter.

The 5300 uses a thin and flexible carbon filter, while its counterpart uses an advanced activated carbon layer.

3. Is Winix a good brand?

Yes, Winix is definitely a good brand.

In fact, its air purifier is considered one of the most effective in promoting better indoor air quality.

The Winix 5500-2, for example, can eliminate particles at a 99.9% efficiency level.

Is the Winix 5500-2 the Ideal Air Purifier for You?

We are sure that this detailed Winix 5500-2 air purifier review has provided you all the information you need to decide whether to buy it or not.

This is a great air purifier with advanced features, all at an affordable price.

All you need to do is make sure that you are cleaning and replacing the filters when needed.

Doing that will ensure the purifier not only works optimally but also lasts a long time.