Best For
- Covers larger areas with 2,002 sq ft with 2 air changes per hour, or 4 air changes with 1,001 sq ft coverage.
- Dual intake filters with carbon, HEPA, and pre-filters – 6 total filters
- Wi-Fi enabled for remote control
Considerations
- Higher price when compared to similar systems
- Filter maintenance can be expensive, replacing 6 filters annually
Our Verdict
The AirDoctor 5500i is the latest variant of the AirDoctor 5000 series. The system is nearly identical to the AD5500, but with the addition of a Wi-Fi controllable air purifier. It maintains the same exceptional air purification performance as the previous models. However, adding Wi-Fi to the 5500 makes this new variant a fantastic choice for more automated and hands-free air purification.
The drawbacks are the same as the AD5500 model we have previously tested, which is the maintenance score. The filter cost is high, with only being able to use the AirDoctor-specific brand filters. Unfortunately, it’s something to consider when shopping for such a high-performing air purification system.
Filter Type: Carbon, HEPA
Coverage Area: 2,002 sq. ft.
CADR: 534 CFM
In This Review
Purification Performance | Ozone Test | Filters | Coverage | Build Quality | Noise Test | Usability | Maintenance | Size | Specs | Product Evolution | Comparison | FAQs
Performance Summary
At Modern Castle we test 11 different factors that impact the performance, build quality, and usability of the air purifier. Below is a complete list of our testing categories and their performance.
| Test Type | Test Data |
|---|---|
| PM2.5 (1 hour test) | 0.1 ppm |
| PM10 (1 hour test) | 0.1 ppm |
| Particles (1 hour test) | 14 |
| AQI (1 hour test) | 1 |
| Ozone Detected | 0.0 ppm |
| Filter Type | HEPA, Carbon, Pre-Filter, Ionizer |
| Coverage Area | 2,002 sq. ft. (186 sq. m.) |
| CADR | 534 CFM |
| Max Wind Speed | 15.2 mph (24.5 kph) |
| Noise Test | 66.9 dB |
Purification Performance
To test the purification performance of the AirDoctor 5500i, we placed it in a medium-sized room in our office (~14’ x 10`). Next, we lit incense to introduce smoke and other particulates into the air for 30 seconds. After, we use a professional air quality detector to take a measurement of the smoke-filled air.
Next, we run the air purifier on the highest fan speed for 2 hours, taking measurements of the air quality at the one hour mark and the end of the test. Here is what we found:
| Performance Metric | Starting Measurement | After 1 Hour | After 2 Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| PM2.5 | 31.8 ppm | 0.1 ppm | 0.1 ppm |
| PM10 | 54.5 ppm | 0.1 ppm | 0.1 ppm |
| Particles | 4279 | 14 | 33 |
| AQI | 92 | 1 | 2 |
In our air purification tests, the AirDoctor 5500i was able to reduce PM2.5 to 0.1 ppm at our 1-hour measurement. This is 0.39 ppm PM2.5 lower than the average of 0.49 PM2.5, based on all of our air purification tests to date. The AirDoctor again measured at 0.1 ppm PM2.5, beating the average again by 0.05 ppm for PM2.5
Below, we’ve included information on the testing criteria and what defines good vs. bad air quality. Simply, the lower the numbers the better.
This performance is nearly identical to the standard AirDoctor 5500. Both the 5500i and the 5500 have outstanding performance after the first hour, which demonstrates that this air purifier model can handle some of the toughest air purification needs with rapid cleaning power.
Ozone Test
With most air purifiers ozone generation isn’t an issue. That said, some that use negative ion generators have the potential to create ozone. To test this, we run the AirDoctor 5500i, letting it run for 1 hour and measure the levels of ozone before and after with an ozone meter device.
Pre-test Ozone
0.0 ppm
Post-test Ozone
0.0 ppm
In our ozone tests, the AirDoctor 5500i generated 0.0 ppm. This is consistent with our testing average of 0 ppm, based on all of our ozone tests to date.
Filters
The filters on the AirDoctor 5500i are unique and require AirDoctor-specific branded filter replacements.
Pre-Filter – These air filters are designed to catch larger particulates in the air before the main filters. It’s best designed to catch human/animal hair, lint, or large dust particles.
Carbon Filter – These filters focus on capturing chemical gasses. Filtering out harmful gasses, the Carbon / VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) filter reduces the amount of harmful contaminants floating around your room.
HEPA Filter – HEPA stands for High Efficiency Particulate Air [filter]. These filters aim to reduce the amount of air particles from dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and small airborne particulates.
Ionizer – This feature releases negatively charged particles into your environment, forcing extremely small particles to clump together and fall to the ground. This feature can be turned on or off.
Coverage
The AirDoctor 5500i has a coverage area of 2,002 sq. ft. It is best suited for a large area that requires powerful purification. The AD5500i model can perform 1 air change per hour in a 2,002 sq ft setting, or for a smaller 1,001 sq ft area, 2 air changes per hour.
Coverage Area
2,002 sq. ft.
CADR
534 CFM
Comparing the AirDoctor 5500i to the average, we see it is notably larger. Across all air purifiers we’ve tested to date, the average coverage area is 729.7 sq. ft. and the average CADR is 288.8 CFM.
Wind Speed Test
Our wind speed test uses an anemometer placed directly on the air vents of the AirDoctor 5500i to measure the fan speeds in miles per hour. We run it on the lowest and highest fan speeds and record the speed of the air coming out of the device.
Minimum Wind Speed
2.5 mph
Maximum Wind Speed
15.2 mph
In our wind speed test, the AirDoctor 5500i was able to generate a maximum wind speed of 15.2 mph. This is 3.04 mph lower than the average of 12.16 mph, based on all of our wind speed tests to date.
When compared to the non-Wi-Fi model, we see that the 5500i does come in with a slightly 2.2 mph slower wind speed than the standard 5500.
Build Quality Test
Our build quality test is a subjective test where we examine and assess the major material and design components of the air purifier. Specifically, we are looking for build and design issues that are more likely to break and/or be difficult to use.
The AirDoctor 5500i body is constructed out of white plastic material. The system has a strong sturdy feel with a heavy base, preventing the AirDoctor 5500 from being knocked around. Overall, the 5500i received the same excellent scoring as the standard 5500.
| Part | Build Quality |
|---|---|
| Overall | Exceptional |
| Body | Excellent |
| Fan | Exceptional |
| Filters | Exceptional |
| Controls | Exceptional |
| Display | Excellent |
| Remote | n/a |
| Wheels | Excellent |
The same concern carries over from the standard Air Doctor 5500 with the filter covers. They still feel flimsy and more prone to cracking from repeated opening and closing. However, with careful handling, we do not see this as a major issue.
Noise Test
To determine the level of noise that the AirDoctor 5500i creates we use a sound meter and measure the decibel levels on both the lowest and highest fan speeds. In addition, we measure the ambient noise levels of the room as a baseline comparison.
Ambient Noise
44.2 dB
Min Noise
44.4 dB
Max Noise
66.9 dB
In our noise tests, the AirDoctor 5500i generated 66.9 dB of noise on the max fan speed. This is 4.9 dB higher than the average of 62.0 dB, based on all of our noise tests to date.
The AirDoctor 5500i came in with a similar score to the standard AirDoctor 5500, but 1.8 dB louder. This is not significantly louder and is not a noticeable difference in noise levels.
Usability
This new Wi-Fi-enabled model of the 5500 is an exceptional update to the series. With many modern air purifiers having app connectivity, this further enhances the already exceptional usability of the AirDoctor 5500i.
Setup
The setup is simple and takes no more than 5 minutes. The major steps are removing the filters from their plastic packaging, and connecting your new 5500i to the Wi-Fi and app.
Controls & Display
The control panel is simple and easy to use. Unlike some air purifiers we have tested, the buttons are clearly labeled and each button controls a single function.
The buttons have a backlight icon that makes it easy to see in the dark. Additionally, to verify that the button was pressed, there is an audible “beep” that lets the user know it registered the input.
On the front of the air doctor, is the air quality indicator with an LED light ring. This ring will display the air quality index with either blue for good air quality, orange for moderate, and red for poor air quality.
One of the most convenient features of the AirDoctor 5500i is the auto mode. When placed on auto mode, the AirDoctor 5500i will adjust the fan power when stronger air purification is needed. This feature demonstrates the true ability of a “plug in and forget” air purification system.
Wireless Controls
What sets this new AirDoctor series apart from all other AirDoctor models is its app connectivity. This app gives exceptional control and display of system information.
The app allows you to control every feature of the AirDoctor 5500i and even gives you real-time updates on air quality and location weather data.
In The Box
- AirDoctor 5500i
- 2x HEPA Filters
- 2x Carbon Filter
- 2x Pre Filter
Maintenance
The AirDoctor 5500i has an estimated yearly maintenance cost of $250. The following are the major maintenance tasks for the AirDoctor 5500i.
| Task | Description | Est. Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| HEPA Filter | Empty dust bin as needed | $125 |
| Carbon Filter | Remove tangles and any obstructions | $125 |
| Pre Filter | Periodically clean and replace as needed | $0 |
Size & Dimensions
The AirDoctor 5500i has the same dimensions as the AirDoctor 5500. The dimensions are 28.8”(H) x 16”(L) x 16”(W). The AirDoctor 5500i does have wheels for added mobility.
| Attribute | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 28.8″ (73.2 cm) |
| Length | 16.0″ (40.6 cm) |
| Width | 16.0″ (40.6 cm) |
| Weight | 33.0 lbs. (15.0 kg) |
Specifications
The following table details the product specifications according to the manufacturer.
| Manufacturer Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | AirDoctor |
| Model | AD5500i |
| Height | 28.8″ (73.2 cm) |
| Length | 16.0″ (40.6 cm) |
| Width | 16.0″ (40.6 cm) |
| Weight | 33.0 lbs. (15.0 kg) |
| Filter | HEPA, Carbon, Pre-Filter, Ionizer |
| Noise Levels | 67 dB (max) |
| Coverage Area | 2,002 sq. ft. |
| CADR | 534 CFM |
| Wi-Fi Compatible | Yes |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Price | Check Price |
Product Evolution
The AirDoctor 5500i is the Wi-Fi enabled model for the 5500 series, which launched in early 2023. It features the same fantastic purification performance, exceptional filters, and easy user controls from its standard version. The big difference is the Wi-Fi and app connectivity that expands user functionality with the 5500i
AirDoctor also released a Wi-Fi version of the smaller AirDoctor 2000i and AirDoctor 3500i.
How does AirDoctor 5500i compare?
Below is a complete list of our air purifier tests and critical product data compared side by side to the average based on all of our air purifier tests to date.
| Test Type | Test Data | Avg. Data |
|---|---|---|
| PM2.5 (1 hours) | 0.10 ppm | 0.49 ppm |
| PM10 (1 hours) | 0.10 ppm | 0.74 ppm |
| Particles (1 hours) | 14 | 61.04 |
| AQI (1 hours) | 1 | 1.91 |
| Ozone Detected | 0.0 ppm | 0.0 ppm |
| Filter Types | HEPA, Carbon, Pre-Filter, Ionizer | n/a |
| Coverage Area | 2,002 sq. ft. | 749 sq. ft. |
| CADR | 534 CFM | 292 CFM |
| Max Wind Speed | 15.2 mph | 12.3 mph |
| Noise Test | 66.9 dB | 62.2 dB |
Across all data points, the AirDoctor 5500i dominated in practically every category due to its exceptional filter quality, area coverage, and CADR. Its new Wi-Fi compatibility and app further improve the usability of an already impressive purifier.
Other Air Purifiers to Consider
For Coverage
Medify MA-112
The Medify MA-112 is an air purifier with a large size and an ultra-large coverage area.
This air purifier is best used for filtering large/high-traffic rooms in a home or office. Ideally, this purifier would be placed in a centralized location within the home/office to ensure even coverage.
For Wireless Controls
IQAir Health Pro
The IQAir HealthPro Plus is a HEPA air purifier with a large coverage area of 1125 sq. ft.
This system is best used for medium to large rooms in a home or office. The air purification unit comes with a remote to allow for ease of use across the room.
For Purification
AirDoctor 5500
The AirDoctor 5500 is the non-Wi-Fi compatible model in the 5500 series.
The AirDoctor 5500 would be best for large rooms that need a strong purification performance and not necessarily the remote control functionality.
FAQs
The 5500i offers Wi-Fi connectivity whereas the standard 5500 can only be controlled by the control panel. This allows for app connectivity and wireless control of the device.
AirDoctor purifiers come with a convenient “Auto Mode” that will adjust the fan speed to meet the current air quality needs, allowing it to run 24/7 without user input.
No, AirDoctor filters are not washable. They are single-use filters, and exposing them to water will damage the filter, and possibly the system itself.