When choosing an air purifier, understanding its cleaning capacity is just as important as understanding its filtration technology.
Air purifiers come with several specifications, from HEPA filtration to smart sensors and multiple fan speeds.
Among these, one specification deserves particular attention: CADR, or Clean Air Delivery Rate.
But what exactly does CADR mean, and why should you consider it before buying an air purifier?
What Is CADR?
CADR stands for Clean Air Delivery Rate.
It measures how much cleaned air an air purifier delivers over a specific period under standardised testing conditions.
CADR is commonly expressed in cubic metres per hour (m³/h).
For example, an air purifier with a CADR of 400 m³/h delivers a greater volume of particle-cleaned air per hour than a purifier rated at 200 m³/h, assuming comparable test conditions.
Simply put, higher CADR generally means faster airborne particle removal.
Why Is CADR Important?
Indoor air can contain airborne particles from several sources, including:
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Fine dust and particulate matter
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Pollen entering from outdoors
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Airborne pet dander
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Particles released during cooking
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Dust stirred up by everyday household activities
An air purifier continuously processes indoor air to help reduce these particles.
Its CADR provides an indication of how quickly it can do so.
A purifier with insufficient cleaning capacity may take longer to reduce particle concentrations, particularly in larger rooms.
CADR and Room Size: Understanding the Connection
CADR becomes especially useful when considered alongside room volume.
For example, imagine a room measuring 5 metres long, 4 metres wide and 3 metres high.
Its volume is:
5 à 4 à 3 = 60 m³
If an air purifier has a CADR of 300 m³/h, its theoretical equivalent air change rate is:
300 Ć· 60 = 5 air changes per hour
This provides a useful starting point for assessing whether the purifier is appropriately sized.
Actual cleaning performance will vary depending on airflow, room layout, pollutant sources and fan settings.
Does a Higher CADR Always Mean a Better Air Purifier?
Not necessarily.
While CADR is an important performance indicator, it should not be the only factor influencing your decision.
Consider these additional features:
Filtration technology: An effective particle filter, such as an appropriate HEPA filter, helps capture fine airborne particles.
Noise levels: A high-capacity purifier should also be comfortable to operate in everyday environments.
Energy consumption: Power efficiency matters when an air purifier operates for extended periods.
Smart features: Air quality sensors and automatic fan adjustment can improve convenience.
Maintenance: Accessible replacement filters and clear maintenance requirements support long-term performance.
The best air purifier balances cleaning capacity with the needs of the room and its occupants.
CADR vs HEPA: What's the Difference?
CADR and HEPA describe two different aspects of air purification.
HEPA filtration refers to the efficiency of a filter at capturing particles under specified test conditions.
CADR describes the rate at which the complete air purifier delivers cleaned air.
A high-efficiency filter alone does not guarantee high CADR. The purifier's airflow design and fan performance also affect the amount of air it can process.
Both specifications are worth considering when comparing air purifiers.
Choose Cleaning Performance That Matches Your Needs
Whether you're looking for an air purifier for a bedroom, living room or larger indoor space, CADR can help you compare different models more meaningfully.
Glen Air Purifiers offer different cleaning capacities across the range, allowing you to choose according to your room requirements.
Before purchasing, review the model's CADR, recommended room coverage and filtration specifications.
Because cleaner indoor air isn't just about filtration. It's also about how effectively your purifier delivers it.
Explore Glen Air Purifiers and choose the cleaning capacity that suits your home.
Made better in Glen.