CADR stands for Clean Air Delivery Rate, which is a measure of the amount of clean air that an air purifier can deliver in a given amount of time. CADR is typically measured in cubic meters per hour (m3/h) or cubic feet per minute (CFM).
When choosing an air purifier, it’s important to consider the size of the room where it will be used. The CADR of an air purifier is usually given for a specific room size, which is based on the assumption that the air in the room will be completely cleaned every hour.
For example, if an air purifier has a CADR of 200 m3/h for a room size of 20 square meters, it means that it can effectively clean the air in a room that is 20 square meters in size, by delivering 200 cubic meters of clean air every hour. If you use the air purifier in a larger room, it may not be able to clean the air effectively, and if you use it in a smaller room, it will clean the air more quickly than once per hour.
It’s important to choose an air purifier with a CADR rating that is appropriate for the size of the room where you plan to use it. The manufacturer’s instructions and specifications should provide guidance on the recommended room size for the air purifier.
Follow the 2/3 Rule
As a rule of thumb, the CADR of your air cleaner should be equal to at least two-thirds of the room’s area.
For example, a room with the dimensions of 10 feet by 12 feet has an area of 120 square feet. It would be best to have an air cleaner with a smoke CADR of at least 80. For wild fire smoke, AHAM recommends a Smoke CADR equal to the size of the room in square feet.
Using an air cleaner with a higher CADR in that room will simply clean the air more often and faster. If your ceilings are higher than 8 feet, an air cleaner rated for a larger room will be necessary.
To decide on the CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) for an air purifier, you should consider the size of the room where the air purifier will be used, the level of air pollution in the room, and your personal air quality needs.
Room Size: The CADR rating of an air purifier is typically given for a specific room size. Measure the size of the room where you plan to use the air purifier and choose an air purifier with a CADR rating that is appropriate for that room size. Most air purifiers come with a recommended room size chart, so you can match the CADR rating to your room size.
Level of Pollution: If you live in an area with high levels of outdoor pollution or have pets or smokers in the house, you may need an air purifier with a higher CADR rating to effectively clean the air in your home. Check the Air Quality Index (AQI) in your area to determine the level of outdoor pollution, and choose an air purifier with a CADR rating that can effectively remove pollutants from the air.
Personal Air Quality Needs: If you suffer from allergies or asthma, you may need an air purifier with a higher CADR rating to effectively remove allergens and pollutants from the air. Look for an air purifier with a HEPA filter, which can capture particles as small as 0.3 microns, or choose an air purifier with an activated carbon filter if you need to remove odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
In general, it’s better to choose an air purifier with a higher CADR rating than you think you need, as this will ensure that the air in your home is cleaned more quickly and effectively. However, it’s also important to balance the CADR rating with other features, such as noise level, energy efficiency, and filter replacement cost, to ensure that you choose an air purifier that meets all of your needs.
