Claim Check: Venta-Airwasher “Humidicleaner”

The claim. The Venta-Airwasher—a “humidifier & purifier—two in one," according to the manufacturer’s Web site—is supposed to trap particles as small as 10 microns while adding moisture to the air. Four models of these German-made products are available for rooms of different sizes: LW 14 (1.2-gallon capacity, $200); LW 24 (2-gallon capacity, $300); LW 44 (3-gallon capacity, $400); and LW 84 (6-gallon capacity, $1,440).

A Venta-Airwasher uses a series of rotating plastic discs to clean the air and add moisture to it. Those discs, mounted on an axle that constantly rotates, dip in and out of a water-filled reservoir. As the wet discs emerge from the reservoir, a built-in fan evaporates the water on them, boosting humidity in a space. Particles in the air are supposed to stick to the discs, then wash off as the discs pass through the reservoir again.

The check. We tested the LW 14 and LW 44 (shown) models as we usually test air purifiers, by measuring their clean-air-delivery rate with the fine dust and cigarette smoke (0.1 to 3 microns) that are of more concern to people with respiratory problems. To test their humidifying chops, we placed each device in a sealed chamber and let it run overnight, recording the humidity level in the room.

The Consumer Reports take. The claim of ridding the air of particles as small as 10 microns is kind of a nonstarter: A 10-micron or larger particle is so big that it's unlikely to remain aloft in the air for long.

Both models we tested proved no better at removing dust and smoke than no air purifier at all. They were, however, efficient at adding moisture to the room. Note that they lack a sensor and controls to let you set a humidity level. Without those features, humidity could rise too high and contribute to mold and mildew growth. What’s more, the Venta-Airwashers are pricey and require you to buy water additive and cleaning solution—a cost of about $90 per year.

Essential information: Watch this video to see how we tested the Venta-Airwasher. Before you buy any air purifier, read the expert advice in our latest report, and find out how well some models eliminate odors and learn how much maintenance your air purifier might require.

Comments

[Stephen]

How is this a claim-check? You state that the model claims to clean air particles as small as 10 microns but your tests check for smaller particles on the basis of the unqualified claim that "a 10-micron or larger particle is so big that it's unlikely to remain aloft in the air for long." At the very least, please include tests to the specifications rated on the product.

[Bruce]

I bought a different model Venta humidifier and it was terrible and wildly expensive. Within 2 months the "maintenance free box" had to be replaced to the tune of $30.00. 2 months later, the box had to be replaced again, then the unit stopped working entirely. This is a $200 humidifier (I bought an expensive one thinking it would last). Don't waste your money on this brand.

[Crispi]

The smallest Venta has become the darling of our sinuses in the bedroom. Here in the western US, there is never a problem of too much humidity. Plus, see what the Venta traps when it is cleaned in three weeks of use. We love this product and are even soothed by it's 'purring', providing an ambient sound source.

[Genio]

I purchased an LW14 Venta and am currently starting on the 2nd year of use. The first year I had quite good results with effective humidification. However, this season I have been experiencing severe issues with mold produced by the Venta. I am extremely sensitive to mold and can detect its presence readily. When symptoms start, I remove the Venta from my bedroom and the symptoms go away. I've cleaned the machine thoroughly several times, but it seems of late that within one week of replacing the water and adding the WTA additive, I experience the mold symptoms. The disk stack began to brown at the end of the first year, and it seems no amount of cleaning can get rid of this. I'm concerned that I can no longer safely use my Venta. I'd like to know if anyone else has experienced the same issues.

[lara]

dont waste your money. i got the biggest model and having a problem with the disk making a clicking sound and now cant get a hold of customer service to help me with thten year warranty promise. I don't think it puts out enough humidity either, but I do live in the desert.