Levoit LV-H128: An Essential Oil-Friendly Air Purifier

Full Review

Levoit is a well-known manufacturer that offers a wide range of air purifiers, from compact models for small rooms to powerful units designed for large spaces.

The Levoit LV-H128 is one of their newer models, which comes with a few unique features.

Designed for rooms up to 64 sq. ft. (6 m²), the LV-H128 stands out from standard Levoit models thanks to its use of dual 3-in-1 filters, positioned on both sides of the unit.

To further enhance the air in your home, it also includes an aroma pad for adding essential oils, allowing you to infuse your space with a pleasant fragrance. This compact air purifier pairs its functionality with a modern, elegant, and refined design.

In this Levoit LV-H128 review, I’ll cover all the details about this device and share the results of the tests we’ve performed.

How We Tested the Levoit LV-H128?

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 Levoit LV-H128 in two separate performance tests, one in a 120 sq. ft. (11 m²) room and the other 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 Levoit LV-H128 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 Levoit LV-H128 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.

Levoit is undoubtedly one of the most popular and highest-quality brands in this category on the market.

As for my performance expectations, even with its dual filters, I didn’t expect significantly better results compared to other similar Levoit models.

The LV-H128 is certainly an interesting device, but with a relatively low CADR of just 41 CFM (70 m³/h), it’s designed to clean the air in a 64 sq. ft. (6 m²) room approximately 4.8 times per hour.

For testing, we pushed its limits by evaluating its performance in two rooms slightly larger than the recommended size.

Testing in a 120 sq. ft. (11 m²) Room

In the first test, performed in a 120 sq. ft. (11 m²) room, which is larger than the recommended coverage, the LV-H128 delivered surprisingly good results.

In just 60 minutes, running continuously at maximum speed, it improved air quality by an impressive 88%. It successfully reduced PM2.5 levels from 147.3 µg/m³ to 18.2 µg/m³.

When compared to similar air purifiers in its class, the LV-H128 performs respectably, ranking somewhere in the middle. For example, its closest competitor, the Levoit Core Mini, achieved a slightly better result by improving air quality by 91% in the same test.

Testing in a 194 sq. ft. (18 m²) Room

In the second test, we placed the LV-H128 in an even larger room than before.

Interestingly, it performed better than expected and even outperformed some similar air purifiers with higher CADR ratings.

In just 60 minutes, running continuously at maximum speed, it improved air quality by 82%. Specifically, the Levoit LV-H128 reduced PM2.5 levels from 89.2 µg/m³ to 15.9 µg/m³.

While its results weren’t exceptional, considering the price point, I would say it performed quite well.

Performance – Smoke Removal Test

The Levoit LV-H128 is a very compact air purifier, but it lacks a high CADR and a premium-quality carbon filter.

As a result, it took 83 seconds to remove all the smoke from the glass box, which is much slower than some competing air purifiers.

For comparison, the Levoit Core 200S cleared the smoke in just 32 seconds, while the Aroeve MK01 took 139 seconds.

Overall, I wouldn’t consider the LV-H128’s performance in this test particularly impressive. You can refer to the chart above for a detailed comparison with other air purifiers in this class.

The Levoit LV-H128 has three fan speeds. Although the device is slightly louder on high mode, it’s generally very quiet. In fact, it’s likely you won’t even notice it running.

The motor is well optimized, and the sound it produces is smooth and pleasant, without any distracting rattles. During testing, I often used sleep mode and found myself forgetting the device was even on—it was that quiet.

In sleep mode, the Levoit LV-H128 produces just 42.4 dBA, while at the highest speed, it reaches 49.3 dBA.

If you refer to the chart, you’ll see that the LV-H128 ranks among the quietest air purifiers in its class.

For comparison, the MOOKA B-D02L produces 61.1 dBA at maximum speed, making it significantly louder than the Levoit.

Overall, I’d say the Levoit LV-H128 is impressively optimized for low noise levels.

The Levoit LV-H128 is an energy-efficient air purifier, powered by a motor that consumes just 6W.

It’s rare to see an air purifier with such a small motor, but this also impacts its performance, specifically its CADR, which is quite low.

Realistically, a motor this small simply can’t generate high airflow. For comparison, the Blueair Mini Max also features a compact motor yet achieves a much higher CADR than the LV-H128.

If you were to run the Levoit LV-H128 at maximum speed 24 hours a day for an entire month, your electricity bill would increase by only about $0.46.

In contrast, the Levoit Core 200S would cost around $2.16 under the same conditions, even though it isn’t dramatically more powerful than the LV-H128.

All things considered, while the LV-H128 is one of the most energy-efficient and affordable air purifiers to maintain annually, I do wish it offered a significantly higher CADR.

Design

This is one of the smallest devices from Levoit. The Levoit LV-H128 is covered with ivory white color, except for the upper part, which is covered with a mouse gray color.

The design of the Levoit LV-H128 is a bit specific and different from other air purifiers from Levoit’s offer. What’s innovative in this mode is that the device uses two filters and that it uses essential oils. So far, I haven’t noticed these features in other air purifiers.

Dimensionally, this is a tiny, portable device, which is intended for a small room, a small bedroom, or even a small office.

For control, the Levoit LV-H128 uses only one button, through which the complete control of the air purifier is performed. In addition to the control button, there are indicators that glow white, indicating the fan speed and mode: sleep, low, high. Also, an indicator extends around the button, which will light up when the device is turned on. However, this indicator will also serve as a filter reset indicator, and in that case, it will light up in red. The red color indicates that it is time to replace the filter.

The filters are located on the sides, while the air outlet is on the upper side.

Levoit LV-H128 is a beautiful and modern device that will fit on any shelf, random table, or similar location.

Control Button

As I already mentioned, the Levoit LV-H128 uses only one button for complete control.

In addition to the fact that you can turn the device on or off by pressing the button, you can also change the operating mode and reset the filter reset indicator.

Airflow

The Levoit LV-H128 uses two identical filters, which are arranged on each side of the device. This means that this air purifier draws in air from the sides.

The air is filtered through and then exits through the grilles on top.

Size and Dimensions

The LV-H128 air purifier weighs 3.3 lb. The device is mobile and easily portable. The dimensions of the device are 6.7 x 6.7 x 10.4 inches. In terms of sizes, this Levoit is identical to the TaoTronics TT-AP001 air purifier, which I recently had the opportunity to test.

What’s in the box?

When the package arrives, you should have 1x Levoit LV-H128, 2x 3-in-1 filter, 1x power Adapter, 1x User Manual, 1x Aroma Pad, and 1x Warranty Card.

Features Overview

The Levoit LV-H128 brings some novelties when it comes to Levoit air purifiers. One of the wonders that I would single out and that many people will like is the possibility of using essential oils and thus additional freshening of the air in the room.

This model can be easily compared to other models from Levoit. On one side, we have the Levoit LV-H126, which is a minimal device without any advanced features. In the middle, we have the Levoit LV-H128, which uses electronics and has some advanced options. Finally, we have the Levoit LV-H132, which stands out by the night light option.

Two Fan Speeds and Sleep Mode

The LV-H128 essentially features two fan speeds and a sleep mode.

When in sleep mode, the device uses the slowest fan speed it has. Besides, after switching to sleep mode, all indicators will turn off after 5s.

The low mode is slightly louder and stronger than the sleep mode, while the high mode is the strongest mode on the Levoit LV-H128 air purifier.

Filter Reset Indicator

The filter reset indicator is essentially an indicator that lights up around the control buttons.

When it is time to replace the filter, this indicator will glow red. By pressing the button for 3s, the filter reset indicator will reset.

Dual Filter

What sets the Levoit LV-H128 apart is the dual filter. This air purifier uses a 2x 3-in-1 True HEPA filter. How good this innovation is and how effective this type of filtration is will be explained below in this review’s filter replacement section. For now, it is important to mention that I did not notice this type of filtration with other Levoit models.

However, the Medifyair MA-15 that I also tested uses an identical filtration system as this model.

Aroma Pad

This is also a unique innovation that I have not noticed with other Levoit products and other air purifier manufacturers.

Basically, the idea is to add 2-3 drops of essential oil to the aroma pad located on the device’s top. After you turn on the device, the air will pass through the sponge that has soaked in the essential oil, and in that way, it will spread the smell through the room.

This innovation is very well thought out; however, I noticed that 2-3 drops are not quite enough to feel a significant change in the room. So, while I was using the device, I poured 2-3 drops but several times during the day, and in that way, I got a stronger effect and far fresher air.

Certified Device

To protect your loved ones, LV-H128 meets ETL, FCC, and CARB requirements.

This model, like all other models from Levoit that I have tested so far, is ozone-free.

Safe, light, and small enough, the LV-H128 will be an excellent solution for a child’s room.

Room Coverage and CADR

Levoit LV-H128 is designed for rooms up to 64 sq. ft. (6 m²). The device has a CADR of 70 cubic meters per hour.

However, in my opinion, a room of this size is perhaps too big for the LV-H128. I would recommend you take a look at the Levoit Core 300, which is designed for slightly larger rooms but has a much more powerful motor and higher airflow if you need to cover such a large room.

This model can be ideal for some smaller rooms, such as a small bedroom, office, pantry, or similar room.

Filtration Technology

What I like about the Levoit LV-H128 is that it uses a dual filter.

Filtration is classic as with other Levoit devices I tested. It’s 3 stage filtration, without ionizers, UV light, or some additional options.

Because of all this, the Levoit LV-H128 is very safe to use and definitely does not produce ozone.

Filters are located on the sides. The filters are not washable. You will need to change them about twice a year.

Pre-filter

The fine preliminary filter is the first stage of filtration. It captures large particles such as dust, lint, fibers, hair, and pet fur.

Besides, another purpose of the pre-filter is to extend the life of a true HEPA filter. Therefore, it is necessary to periodically clean the pre-filter to remove the accumulated dust.

True HEPA filter

Almost all Levoit air purifiers use a true HEPA filter, which is really commendable, especially due to the very affordable price of Levoit air purifiers.

True HEPA filter at Levoit LV-H128 removes at least 99.97% of airborne particles 0.3 micrometers in diameter. This means it removes small particles such as mold spores, tiny dust particles, parts of smoke, and allergens such as pollen, dander, and mites.

By using a true HEPA filter, you can eliminate most if not all allergens from the air.

Carbon filter

In my opinion, the carbon filter is too small and not as efficient as it could be. This is basically a fibrous filter coated with carbon; sadly, Levoit does not use carbon pellets which are an advanced version of the carbon filter.

The lack of a good carbon filter will definitely affect the performance of the device. I think Levoit should have done a better job here, and that way, the LV-H128 would have been a far more complete air purifier. The primary purpose of this filter is to physically absorb smoke, odors, and fumes.

How to Replace Levoit LV-H128 Filters?

Although Levoit advises that the filters on this device be changed on average between 6-8 months, in my experience with the Levoit LV-H128, the filters should be changed on average every 6 months, not longer.

The filters are not washable, and you do not need to wash them under any circumstances. It is recommended to clean the pre-filter on average every 2-4 weeks.

The Levoit LV-H128 will notify you when it is time to replace the filter by making the indicator around the button illuminate red. Also, you should replace the filters if you notice that the device’s volume is suddenly increased, the airflow is drastically reduced, the device emits an unpleasant odor, or the filters are visibly dirty. I’ve noticed that some users complain that the filters last shorter than recommended, so follow these tips and check your filters often.

Total Time: 10 minutes.

Levoit Support and Warranty

The Levoit LV-H128 comes with a warranty card. With the purchased product, you get a 1-year warranty. However, on the warranty card, you have a detailed description of the procedure for extending the warranty to two years.

Basically, to extend the warranty to two years, all you need to do is register your product on Levoit’s Warranty Page.

I have tested Levoit support many times so far. I had no problems. People from support answered questions in record time. I always got extensive answers, with no circling or robotic answers.

Levoit offers many different options through which you can contact them. My favorite is via Facebook, but I also use email very often.

The email you can contact them at is support@levoit.com.

You can also find them on Facebook by clicking on this link.

FAQ on Levoit LV-H128