Air Doctor, a well-known brand in air filtration created by Ideal Living, focuses on effectively removing harmful particles from the air. Their most popular and recognized models are the Air Doctor 3500 and 5500.
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), these devices are highly effective at reducing harmful substances in the air. Air Doctor purifiers excel at managing common indoor pollutants and also eliminate lingering odors, such as those from cooking.
This post will explore the features and benefits of the Air Doctor 3500 and 5500 models. We’ll also compare these options to help you choose the best air purifier for your needs.
For larger areas, the AirDoctor 5500 is your best bet. However, if you need a purifier for smaller spaces, the AirDoctor 3500 is an excellent option.
If maintaining a high CADR rating is important to you, the AirDoctor 5500 is an ideal choice, as it offers superior quality without excessive energy consumption.
Finally, if you prefer a straightforward yet high-performing option, the AirDoctor 3500 is a reliable pick.
| Air Purifier | Air Doctor 3500 | Air Doctor 5500 |
| Room Size Coverage | 638 sq. ft. 4x/hour | 1,001 sq. ft. 4x/hour |
| CADR (Smoke)/CFM | 340 | 534 |
| Fan Speeds | 4 | 6 |
| Noise Level | 39-59 dB | 30-50 dB |
| Power Consumption | 11 – 110 W | 10 – 100 W |
| Dimensions | 15.75″ (W) x 8.35″ (D) x 23″ (H) | 16” (W) x 16” (D) x 28.75” (H) |
| Weight | 18 lbs | 33 lbs |
| Price | Check Here | Check Here |
Air Doctor 3500 (AD3500) Air Purifier
The Air Doctor 3500 is a highly efficient air purifier designed for the largest rooms in your home, such as bedrooms, living rooms, kitchens, and more.
On Amazon, the Air Doctor 3500 has received excellent feedback from users, with 902 ratings averaging 4.7 stars.
Many top reviews praise the purifier for improving breathing issues, particularly for one customer’s mother. Another user purchased it as a gift for his wife, who suffers from allergies to dander and pollen. The purifier is also noted for effectively reducing cooking odors in the kitchen.
Overall, the Air Doctor 3500 is an outstanding choice for most homeowners, especially those with medium-sized homes.
Pros
Cons
Air Doctor 5500 (AD5500) Air Purifier
The Air Doctor 5500 delivers powerful, industrial-grade air purification, making it an ideal choice for homes with large, open living spaces and rooms with high ceilings, such as bedrooms and kitchens.
With an impressive 4.8-star rating on Amazon, it’s clear that many customers are extremely satisfied with its performance. These reviews provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the product.
Many users report being highly pleased with the Air Doctor 5500 after just one week of use. Some have noted its ability to prevent mildew in wooden cabinets during periods of high humidity, while others appreciate the peace of mind it brings when entertaining guests in their homes.
Pros
Cons
Design and Dimensions of the Air Doctor 3500 and 5500 Models
The AirDoctor 3500 is widely recognized as the trusted “Classic Defender” in air purification. Available exclusively in white, this model features a sleek rectangular design accented by a black border.
The AirDoctor 3500 has precise dimensions of 15.75 inches in width, 8.25 inches in depth, and 23 inches in height. It comes equipped with a 6-foot power cord and weighs approximately 18 pounds. Additionally, the recessed carrying handles make it easy to move the unit from one room to another.
On the other hand, the AirDoctor 5500 stands out as the most powerful purifier in the brand’s lineup, featuring a sleek white design. Significantly larger than the AirDoctor 3500, the 5500 measures an impressive 16 inches in width, 16 inches in depth, and 28.75 inches in height. This extra size contributes to its substantial weight of 33 pounds, though it shares the same 6-foot power cord as the 3500.
The AirDoctor 3500’s air vent is conveniently located on top, adjacent to the control panel, with the air quality gauge on the front panel. Similarly, the AirDoctor 5500 has its air outlet positioned on top, with a touch panel situated right next to it.
In summary, while the AirDoctor 5500 is heavier and more robust, the AirDoctor 3500 is a more portable option, ideal for those who need an air purifier that is easy to carry around.
What Types of Air Pollutants Can the Air Doctor 3500 and 5500 Eliminate?
The Air Doctor 3500 and 5500 are designed to tackle a wide range of air pollutants, ensuring cleaner and healthier indoor air. Here’s what they can effectively remove:
1. **Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10):** These include fine dust, pollen, and smoke particles, which can be harmful when inhaled.
2. **Allergens:** Common allergens such as pet dander, dust mites, and mold spores are effectively captured, making these units ideal for allergy sufferers.
3. **Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs):** These are harmful chemicals released from household products, paints, and cleaning supplies. Both models are equipped to filter out these toxic compounds.
4. **Odors:** The activated carbon filter in these units helps neutralize unpleasant odors from cooking, pets, and smoke.
5. **Bacteria and Viruses:** Both models feature UltraHEPA filters that are capable of capturing bacteria and viruses, reducing the risk of airborne transmission of illnesses.
6. **Smoke:** Whether from cigarettes or wildfires, the Air Doctor 3500 and 5500 can effectively reduce smoke particles and their associated odors.
7. **Chemical Pollutants:** The units are designed to filter out harmful gases and chemicals, providing additional protection from environmental pollutants.
Overall, both the Air Doctor 3500 and 5500 are equipped to handle a comprehensive range of airborne pollutants, making them suitable for creating a healthier indoor environment.
Comparison of Filters in Air Doctor 3500 vs. 5500
Airborne pollutants, allergens, and irritants stand no chance against the UltraHEPA filter, which is why AirDoctor designed this air purifier to capture and eliminate them.
This advanced filter is capable of removing a wide range of airborne pathogens. All AirDoctor models, from the 3500 to the 5500, are equipped with this powerful filtration technology.
The AirDoctor 3500 comes with one Carbon/VOC filter and one UltraHEPA filter, along with a Pre-filter for added protection.
Similarly, the AirDoctor 5500 is equipped with a comprehensive backup filter set, including two Pre-filters, two Carbon/VOC filters, and two UltraHEPA filters.
Be sure to replace the UltraHEPA filter in each unit every 12 months, while the Carbon/VOC filter should be replaced every six months.
In conclusion, both the Air Doctor 3500 and 5500 come equipped with three high-quality filters that you can trust to effectively eliminate airborne contaminants.
Air Doctor 3500 vs. 5500: A Comparison of Key Features
The Air Doctor AD3500 is a compact and efficient air purifier that is easy to set up, with straightforward controls and low maintenance requirements. Simply unpack the filter, plug it in, and you’re ready to go.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the key features that set these models apart:
Air Doctor 3500 Features:
– Includes one set of three high-quality filters
– Effective in large rooms
– Four fan speed settings
– Auto-mode air quality sensor
– Dual Action Carbon/Gas Trap/VOC Filter
– Filter Change Alert
– Professional WhisperJet fans
– Ionizer function
– Sealed System for enhanced air purification
The AirDoctor 3500 is designed with user-friendliness in mind. Its intuitive interface and simple design make routine maintenance a breeze. The unit is also portable, thanks to the handles on both sides.
Air Doctor 5500 Features:
– Comes with two sets of each of the three high-quality filters
– Highly effective in larger and wider rooms
– Six fan speed settings
– Preset timer with repeating automatic operation cycles
– PM2.5 laser sensor for precise air quality measurement
– 3-color LED display showing current air quality
– Lockout feature for added safety
– Filter Change Alert
The AirDoctor 5500 is one of the most powerful and efficient air purifiers on the market, making it an excellent choice for maintaining optimal indoor air quality.
Comparison Summary:
While both models share many of the same essential features, there are three main differences: fan speed options, room coverage, and the number of filter sets.
– **Fan Speeds:** The AirDoctor 3500 offers four fan speed settings, while the AirDoctor 5500 provides six.
– **Filter Sets:** The AD3500 includes one set of each of its three high-quality filters, whereas the AD5500 comes with two sets.
– **Room Coverage:** The AD5500 is capable of covering larger spaces compared to the AD3500.
Overall, both AirDoctor models are user-friendly and offer valuable features that enhance indoor air quality. According to reviews on Amazon and other platforms, these purifiers are well-regarded by customers.
Which Air Doctor Model Uses More Power: 3500 or 5500?
The Air Doctor 3500 consumes slightly more energy than the AirDoctor 5500, though both operate on a standard voltage of 120 volts. The AD3500 uses 11 watts of power on its lowest setting, whereas the AD5500 uses 10 watts.
At maximum power, the AirDoctor 3500 can draw up to 110 watts, while the AD5500 peaks at 100 watts.
For example, with electricity priced at $0.12 per kWh, the annual energy cost for the AirDoctor 3500 in auto mode would be approximately $96.70. In contrast, the AirDoctor 5500 would cost around $33.55 per year. This means that running the AD3500 could result in a higher electricity bill compared to the AD5500.
According to Energy Star, the estimated annual energy consumption for the AD3500 is 641.85 kWh, while the AD5500 consumes about 625.05 kWh. However, these figures are based on the highest fan speed, which isn’t typically used all the time.
In summary, while continuous use of an air purifier is important, both models are relatively energy-efficient, keeping operating costs low.
Which Air Doctor Model is Quieter: the 3500 or the 5500?
The AirDoctor 5500 is significantly quieter compared to the AD3500. At its lowest speed, the 5500 operates at just 30 dB, and at its highest, it reaches 50 dB.
As mentioned earlier, users particularly value the quiet performance of the 5500, which ensures a peaceful night’s sleep.
In contrast, the AirDoctor AD3500 can be quite loud when set to its maximum speed, reaching noise levels of 59 dB. Many homeowners find this noise level to be louder than other air purifiers. Even at its lowest speed, the AD3500 operates at 39 dB.
Both models feature WhisperJet fans that utilize silent operation technology, making them 30% quieter than other brands.
Air Doctor 3500 vs. 5500: CADR and Room Coverage Comparison
The Air Doctor 3500 is designed for spaces up to 638 square feet, where it circulates air four times per hour. In a larger area of 1,274 square feet, it can circulate air twice per hour.
When it comes to Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR), the AirDoctor AD3500 has a rating of 340, which is standard among high-end and mid-range air purifiers.
On the other hand, the AirDoctor 5500 is capable of handling rooms as large as 1,001 square feet, with air circulation occurring four times per hour, or every 15 minutes. For even larger spaces of up to 2,001 square feet, it circulates air twice per hour, or every 30 minutes.
Crucially, the AirDoctor 5500 boasts a CADR of 534, making it an excellent choice for larger areas.
As a general rule, the higher the CADR, the more effectively the unit cleans indoor air. If CADR is a priority for you, the AirDoctor 5500 is the superior choice.
Is the Maintenance of Air Doctor 3500 and 5500 Difficult?
No, maintaining the AirDoctor 3500 and 5500 is straightforward and hassle-free.
The main task involves regular cleaning and replacing filters, particularly the sensors. Only the pre-filter requires periodic cleaning. Just follow the six-month and 12-month replacement schedule for the filters.
In general, it’s important to remember to replace the filters as needed to ensure optimal performance.
Air Doctor 3500 vs. 5500: Which One Is Right for You?
The Air Doctor 5500 stands out as the top choice for its superior performance, advanced features, and larger modular design. It excels at enhancing air quality, offering numerous benefits that make it a reliable option.
On the other hand, the AirDoctor 3500 is a great choice if you prefer a simpler design. Its straightforward construction makes it easy to maintain, and its compact size ensures it’s portable and easy to move around.
Our recommendation: Choose the AirDoctor 5500 for larger spaces, while the AirDoctor 3500 is ideal for smaller, more compact areas.
