
Alen A375 UV Air Purifier
With the A375 UV, Alen has attempted to address some of the concerns of its earlier model, the A350. Particle
filtration is excellent, but the A350 lacked a VOC filtering component. The A375 UV deals with this concern and expands
the list of electronic features offered.
What I like about the A375 UV
The A375 UV features expanded electronic features. With the same push-button, digital controls, this unit comes
equipped with a remote control. The A375 UV has an Auto Mode that will adjust the fan speed based on current
particle and/or odor contaminant levels. There are two small sensors on the upper-front of the face plate which measure air quality.
By far though, the most substantial upgrade on the A375 UV is its ability to filter and neutralize VOC’s and pathogens. To this
end, Alen has fitted the A375 UV with two UV bulbs. UV light is shown to disrupt the cell walls of microorganisms as well as
alter their DNA. A permanent titanium dioxide grid oxidizes VOC's and other harmful compounds. This differs in that tradition activated carbon
filters often simply trap the chemicals. The titanium dioxide grid in combination with UV light actually breaks down harmful chemicals and gases, rendering
them inert. The use of this photo-catalytic oxidation technology is a decided improvement over the A350.
Only slightly heavier than the A350 model, the A375 UV remains lightweight and compact. The ABS body blends
easily into any surrounding décor, and can be mounted to the wall.
The A375 UV is very quiet on the first two settings. However, trying to sleep while the unit is on the two highest settings may prove to be a little difficult.
Like all models that Alen produces, the A375 UV is easy to use and maintain. Changing the filter
takes only a few minutes, but replacing the UV bulbs will take a little longer and require the use of a screwdriver.
Both bulbs are situated behind the HEPA filter and can be accessed the same way as if you were changing the filter.
The A375 UV is energy efficient and easy on the wallet. It is Energy Star rated and uses about as much electricity as a light bulb.
One key component to all Alen air purifiers is the warranty. The A375 UV comes with
Alen’s standard Lifetime Warranty. With proper filter replacement (every six months), Alen ensures
that should their product malfunction or ever go on the fritz, you will be covered. This kind of peace
of mind is nearly unmatched in the industry.
What I do not like about the A375 UV
Though the Alen does come with a lifetime warranty, keeping your warranty valid is contingent upon replacing the
filter every six months. In exchange for a lifetime warranty, this is a fair deal. Besides proper filtration of any air purifier is dependent upon
regular filter changes.
As with the A350, we are not entirely sold on the effectiveness of the ionizer, but this
feature can be turned on or off with the simple push of a button.
Overall, the Alen A375 UV is a significant upgrade from the A350. By adding just a few key features,
Alen has managed to address nearly all the shortcomings of the A375’s predecessor. The A375 UV retains the
ease of use, convenience, efficiency and lifetime warranty, while adding VOC filtration and pathogen removal.
For most allergy sufferers, this model is an excellent buy.
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