Honeywell Air Genius 5 Review: Washable Filter, Worth It?

Full Review

I bought the Honeywell Air Genius 5 a few years ago, but until now, this review never made it to the top of my list.

Frankly, I prioritized other devices, which I perhaps shouldn’t do because this Honeywell model is quite interesting and innovative.

In my opinion, its most notable feature is the permanent/washable filter, which, according to Honeywell, never needs to be replaced.

Additionally, this model has a CADR of 161 CFM (274 m³/h) and some basic features. But how cost-effective is it really, and is it worth the money?

How We Tested the Honeywell Air Genius 5 (HFD320)?

1. For the filter efficiency testing, we used the Temtop LKC-1000S laser particle meter, which measures PM2.5 (µg/m3), PM10 (µg/m3), Particles (per/L), and HCHO (mg/m3) in the air, and also calculates the AQI.

2. We placed the Honeywell Air Genius 5 in a 194 sq. ft. (18 m²) room. Then, we recorded the initial air quality values using the Temtop laser particle meter and let the Honeywell Air Genius 5 run at maximum speed.

3. After 60 minutes, we measured the new values using the Temtop laser particle meter and saved the data.

4. Next, we placed the Honeywell Air Genius 5 in a glass box, which we then filled with smoke. Then, we measured how much time was needed for the air purifier to remove all the smoke from the box.

5. Using a special noise measurement tool, we tested the air purifier’s noise level at all speeds. We measured the noise level on the dBA scale.

6. Finally, we measured the power usage at all speeds using an energy meter, after which we calculated how much it would cost to use the device at a particular fan speed for one month. For reference, we used an energy price of $0.12 per kWh.

Regarding performance, the first thing I want to mention is that the Air Genius 5 uses a slightly less effective filter than some traditional air purifiers and has a CADR of only 161 CFM (274 m³/h).

Based on its CADR, I wouldn’t recommend using the Honeywell Air Genius 5 in rooms larger than 250 sq. ft. (23 m²).

As I mentioned at the beginning of the review, I bought this air purifier a few years ago (though I can’t remember exactly when). This has given me plenty of time to use it in my home and observe its real-world performance.

What I’ve noticed is that the Air Genius 5 is quite effective at capturing pollen, airborne dust particles, and pet hair. However, it struggles with neutralizing bad odors, including cooking smells, cigarette smoke, and VOCs.

Testing in a 194 sq. ft. (18 m²) Room

We placed the Honeywell Air Genius 5 in a 194 sq. ft. (18 m²) room and used a Temtop laser particle meter to measure how much it could improve air quality over 60 minutes while running at maximum speed.

Although it uses an ifD filter, which is slightly less efficient than traditional HEPA filters, it delivered outstanding results, improving air quality by 89%.

For comparison, the IKEA FÖRNUFTIG achieved exactly the same result in this test, as did the Electrolux Flow A3.

However, some smaller air purifiers performed even better. For example, the Winix A231 improved air quality by an impressive 95% in the same test.

It’s difficult to compare the Honeywell Air Genius 5 with air purifiers that use traditional HEPA filters. However, I must say it performed better than I initially expected and delivered solid results in our tests.

The Honeywell Air Genius 5 has five fan speeds, which is a good number.

Honeywell uses unique names for each fan speed, but for easier comparison with other devices, I’ve used more generalized terms:

• Sleep Mode = Sleep
• Speed 1 = Germs
• Speed 2 = General
• Speed 3 = Allergen
• Speed 4 = Max

We tested noise levels at all speeds and compared the results with similar air purifiers in the same category (see the chart).

At the lowest speed (Sleep Mode), the Honeywell Air Genius 5 produces 45.2 dBA, which is relatively loud compared to the competition. As shown in the chart, only the Honeywell HPA100 is louder at its lowest speed, producing 48.2 dBA.

However, at maximum speed, the situation is completely different. The Honeywell Air Genius 5 is one of the quietest air purifiers in its category at max speed, producing just 51.1 dBA. Given its CADR at max speed, this is an impressive result.

All in all, I wouldn’t recommend the Honeywell Air Genius 5 for bedrooms, as it’s not well-optimized for low speeds. However, on the other hand, it’s one of the quietest air purifiers we’ve tested at max speed, making it reasonably well-optimized in terms of noise levels.

The Honeywell Air Genius 5 is undoubtedly one of the most affordable air purifiers when it comes to filter replacement costs.

However, you will still need to replace the pre-filter.

It has a 58W motor but consumes only 36.1W at maximum speed. This means that if you were to run the Honeywell Air Genius 5 at max speed 24 hours a day for a month, it would increase your electricity bill by approximately $3.16.

As shown in the chart, it ranks slightly above the middle in terms of power consumption, making it a larger energy consumer than some similar devices.

For example, the Shark NeverChange uses less power, costing about $2.24 per month under the same conditions, while delivering better performance in our tests.

Overall, the Honeywell Air Genius 5 is one of the most cost-effective air purifiers we’ve tested.

Filtration Technology

The Honeywell Air Genius 5 isn’t the first air purifier with a washable filter that we’ve tested, but it’s the first one to use innovative ifD filtration technology.

Although I was initially skeptical about this technology, I must say I’m quite satisfied with the performance of this device.

It’s not as effective as some traditional HEPA filters, but it still does the job. Plus, an important advantage is that it reduces maintenance costs.

This air purifier features two-stage filtration technology.

Pre-filter

The first filtration stage is a pre-filter, which main purpose is to trap large airborne particles such as dust, hair, pet hair, and similar.

Additionally, in theory, this filter helps neutralize bad odors. However, in practice, I didn’t find it very effective for odor removal. It struggles even with light odors.

It’s important to note that the key difference between the pre-filter and the ifD filter is that the pre-filter needs to be replaced every three months, while the ifD filter is permanent and washable.

ifD Filter

The term ifD stands for “Intense Field Dielectric,” which describes the mechanism by which an ifD filter removes tiny sub-micron particles without using a high-pressure-drop fiber matrix, as found in HEPA filters.

This filter serves as the main filtration stage in the Honeywell Air Genius 5 air purifier, capturing 99.9% of airborne particles 0.3 microns and larger.

In contrast, a True HEPA filter captures 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns.

The filtration process works by passing air through the purifier, where airborne particles (dust, pollen, smoke, bacteria, etc.) are electrically charged. These charged particles then pass through the ifD filter, made of a non-metallic dielectric material, and stick to the filter’s surface.

It’s also important to note that the Honeywell Air Genius 5 is CARB and Energy Star certified, meaning it is safe to use.

How Do You Clean/Wash the ifD Filter?

The Honeywell Air Genius 5 features a filter status indicator located at the top right corner of the control panel.

This indicator alerts you when it’s time to clean your ifD filter.

The ifD filter typically needs cleaning every three months, but in certain situations, such as when used in a home with pets, it may require more frequent cleaning.

The cleaning process is straightforward and involves just a few simple steps.

Please note that the ifD filter isn’t dishwasher safe and can be damaged if cleaned with harsh chemicals.

Does the ifD Filter Really Last a Lifetime?

To test as accurately as possible whether the ifD filter maintains its efficiency over time, I purchased a used Honeywell Air Genius 5 from a local marketplace. According to the seller, the device had been in use for approximately five years.

As you can see in the pictures, the difference between a new and a used filter is drastic, making it easy to tell which one had been in use. I washed the used filter several times before testing its performance.

What I found was that the Honeywell Air Genius 5, with a five-year-old ifD filter, performed about 32% worse in the airborne particle removal test compared to when using a new filter.

Frankly, compared to other air purifiers we’ve tested, this ranks among the weakest performances. However, when equipped with a new filter, the Honeywell Air Genius 5 delivered excellent results.

That said, I don’t know the exact conditions under which this used device was operated or whether it was heavily exposed to cigarette smoke. Still, even aside from those factors, this test clearly indicates that the performance of the ifD filter declines over time.

This makes it difficult to claim that it truly lasts a lifetime, as some sources suggest.

Setup and Installation

Before using the Honeywell Air Genius 5 for the first time, you’ll need to complete a simple setup, which takes only a few minutes.

The ifD filter comes pre-installed inside the device. However, you will need to manually insert the pre-filter. To do this, open the back cover of the device and place the pre-filter inside, under the cover.

After that, simply place the device in your desired location, ensuring that airflow is not obstructed, then plug it in and turn it on.

Design

When it comes to design, the first thing I want to highlight is that this is a tower-shaped air purifier. I’m amazed by how modern it looks, considering that it was released more than 10 years ago.

The build quality is excellent, and the plastic feels sturdy, with everything fitting well. However, my only complaint is about the filter cover on the back of the device, which is made of somewhat weaker plastic and can break easily.

Another feature I like is the built-in handle on the back, which makes it easy to move the purifier from one room to another.

Overall, even though this is an older model with a less modern design, I think it will blend well into almost any environment.

Controls and Indicators

All the controls and indicators are located on the top of the device, where you’ll find touch buttons along with all the necessary indicators.

The buttons are well-spaced, responsive to touch and clearly labeled, making the device easy to operate.

However, I have to admit that I would love to see smart app connectivity or the option to use a remote control, similar to what the Winix 5500-2 offers.

Overall, I’m satisfied with the design and functionality of the controls on this device.

Airflow

The Honeywell Air Genius 5 draws air in through the openings at the back, filters it, and then releases it through the front outlet.

It’s important to note that you should never block the air inlets or outlets, as this could potentially damage the device.

Personally, I would prefer if it drew air in from the top, as I find that much more practical. I don’t like when an air purifier blows air directly at me, and I prefer devices that release air through the top instead.

Size and Dimensions

Frankly, this air purifier is larger than I initially expected. Its dimensions are 9.97 x 9.92 x 26.81 inches (25.3 x 25.2 x 68 cm), and it weighs 13.05 lb (5.91 kg).

One great feature, which I’ve mentioned before but is worth highlighting again, is the built-in handle at the top back of the device. This makes it much easier to move from room to room.

What’s in the box?

When you buy the Honeywell Air Genius 5 you will get 1x air purifier, 1x ifD filter (pre-installed), pre-filter, and user manual.

Features Overview

As I’ve mentioned multiple times throughout this review, the Honeywell Air Genius 5 (HFD320) lacks advanced features worth highlighting.

It doesn’t have smart features, an air quality sensor, or an auto mode.

However, there are still a few features worth mentioning, which I’ll describe below.

Oscillation

This isn’t the first time I’ve experienced oscillation mode as a feature in an air purifier. I previously discussed it in my review of the Dyson TP02.

Simply put, when activated, oscillation mode gently rotates the top part of the device from side to side, helping to distribute air more efficiently throughout the room.

Timer

Since it doesn’t have smart features, I think the timer could be beneficial for many users.

This feature allows you to set the time in which your air purifier will turn itself off.

You can set the timer to 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12h.

Mode Light

The mode light is another interesting feature that allows you to turn on a blue LED light located at the bottom of the device.

This feature is especially appealing when using the purifier at night, as it adds a soft ambient glow, giving the device a stylish and modern look.

Warranty

The Honeywell Air Genius 5 (HFD320) comes with a 5-year limited warranty.

FAQ on Honeywell Air Genius 5