Specifications
| Manufacturer | Levoit |
| Model | LV-H126 |
| Dimensions (inches / cm) | 10.5 x 6.8 x 7.9 inches (26.7 x 17.3 x 20.1 cm) |
| Weight (pounds / kg) | 5lb (2.3 kg) |
| Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) | 48 CFM (82m³/h) |
| Filtration Technology | Pre-filter, HEPA Filter and Activated Carbon Filter |
| Filter Replacement Indicator | Yes |
| Filter Life | 6-8 months |
| Number of Fan Speeds | 3 - Speed 1, Speed 2, and Speed 3 |
| Air Quality Sensor Air Quality Sensor Summary: Out of 67 air purifiers tested, only 31 have the air quality sensor. | No |
| Air Quality Indicator | No |
| Auto Mode Auto Mode Summary: Out of 67 air purifiers tested, only 32 have auto mode functionality. | No |
| Smart App Smart App Summary: Out of 67 air purifiers tested, only 20 have smart app functionality. | No |
| Voice Control Voice Control Summary: Out of 67 air purifiers tested, only 20 have voice control functionality. | No |
| Other Features | No |
| Coverage (4.8 ACH)
Room Coverage Explanation: ACH is a measurement used in indoor air quality management to indicate how many times the air within a defined space is changed/moved through the filter media.
For more details, visit our ACH calculator tool. | 75 sq. ft. (7 m²) |
| Performance Ratings Performance Ratings Score Summary: 8.5 - Average Score (67 products) 9.8 - Best Score (2 products) 2.5 - Worst Score (2 products) We use the Temtop LKC-1000S laser particle meter to test the particle removal efficiency of every air purifier. It measures PM2.5 (µg/m3), PM10 (µg/m3), Particles (per/L), and HCHO (mg/m3) in the air, and also calculates the AQI. You can read more about our testing methodology here. | |
| Power Consumption
Power Usage Summary: Our extensive testing of 67 air purifiers revealed the following power consumption insights:
Check out our power consumption calculator tool. | 35W |
| Operating Costs Ratings Operating Costs Ratings Score Summary: 9.1 - Average Score (67 products) 10 - Best Score (2 products) 8 - Worst Score (1 products) We measure the power usage at all speeds using an energy meter, after which we calculate how much it would cost to use the device at a particular fan speed for one month. For reference, we use an energy price of $0.12 per kWh. You can read more about our testing methodology here. | |
| Noise Level (low – high) | 42.3 - 61.2 dBA |
| Noise Ratings Noise Ratings Score Summary: 9.3 - Average Score (67 products) 10 - Best Score (1 products) 8.2 - Worst Score (1 products) We use a special noise measurement tool to test the noise level of the air purifier at all speeds. We measured the noise level on the dBA scale. You can read more about our testing methodology here. | |
| Best Suited For | Small Spaces Portable Use |
| Warranty | 2-year |
Full Review
The Levoit LV-H126 is one of the first air purifiers released by this brand. It was introduced shortly after the popular LV-H132 model.
Since then, Levoit has released many new, improved, and better models that are more reliable, better priced, and more efficient than the one we will review today.
However, it’s an interesting, well-designed, small device that can easily be used in bedrooms, on desktops, or in similar places.
However, the design isn’t what makes an air purifier a good choice. So, keep reading to find out what we have to say about this small air purifier from Levoit.
How We Tested the Levoit LV-H126?
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-H126 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-H126 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-H126 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.
Performance – Particle Removal Tests
Performance – Particle Removal Tests:
8.5 - Average Score (67 products)
9.8 - Best Score (2 products)
2.5 - Worst Score (2 products)
We use the Temtop LKC-1000S laser particle meter to test the particle removal efficiency of every air purifier. It measures PM2.5 (µg/m3), PM10 (µg/m3), Particles (per/L), and HCHO (mg/m3) in the air, and also calculates the AQI.
You can read more about our testing methodology here.
We tested the performance of the Levoit LV-H126 in two different rooms, both run in real-life conditions and measured with the Temtop laser particle meter.
The air purifier operated at maximum speed in both tests. Before we move on to the results, I want to mention that I expected much better performance, even though this is a tiny air purifier with low CADR.
However, it outperformed many competitive air purifiers in the performance tests.
Testing in a 194 sq. ft. (18 m²) Room
In the first test, in a room of 194 sq. ft. (18 m²), which is much larger than the recommended dimensions, the Levoit LV-H126 managed to improve the air quality by 85%.
| # | Starting Baseline | After 60min |
|---|---|---|
| PM 2.5 | 82.4 µg/m³ | 12.1 µg/m³ |
| PM 10 | 115.4 µg/m³ | 17 µg/m³ |
| Particles | 119552 per/L | 17618 per/L |
| AQI | 109 | 16 |
It reduced the PM2.5 particulate matter from 82.4 to 12.1 µg/m³. The test lasted for 60 minutes.
When compared to competitors, it’s clear that many performed better than this Levoit.
Particle Removal Test Room - Comparison
Comparison between the Levoit LV-H126 and its competitors in particle removal tests in a 194 sq. ft. (18 m²) room.
For example, the Medify MA-15 improved the air quality in this room, under the same conditions, by 92%.
Testing in a 120 sq. ft. (11 m²) Room
In the second test, in a 120 sq. ft. (11 m²) room, it achieved the same result with an air quality improvement of 85%.
It’s unusual for an air purifier to produce the same result in two different tests, and I believe this is the first and only case.
| # | Starting Baseline | After 60min |
|---|---|---|
| PM 2.5 | 36.8 µg/m³ | 5.4 µg/m³ |
| PM 10 | 51.6 µg/m³ | 7.5 µg/m³ |
| Particles | 53467 per/L | 7858 per/L |
| AQI | 52 | 8 |
In this test, it reduced the PM2.5 from 36.8 to 5.4 µg/m³.
Performance – Smoke Removal Test
I wouldn’t say that the Levoit LV-H126 is good at neutralizing bad odors, mainly because it doesn’t have a high-quality carbon filter and has a low CADR.
Smoke Box Test - Comparison
In this chart, you can see how quickly the Levoit LV-H126 removes smoke from a glass box compared to its competitors.
However, this small air purifier positively surprised me. It performed better than some competitive air purifiers, such as the Arove MK01, which needed 139 seconds, or the IKEA UPPÅTVIND, which needed 92 seconds.
The Levoit LV-H126 needed 48 seconds to remove all the smoke from the glass box. While this result isn’t exceptional, it’s one of the best among air purifiers in the same class.
Noise Levels Test
Noise – Sound Level Tests:
9.3 - Average Score (67 products)
10 - Best Score (1 products)
8.2 - Worst Score (1 products)
We use a special noise measurement tool to test the noise level of the air purifier at all speeds. We measure the noise level on the dBA scale.
You can read more about our testing methodology here.
We tested the noise level of the Levoit LV-H126 at all speeds. It’s not too loud at the first speed, producing only 42.3 dBA.
Noise Levels Test - Comparison
This chart compares the noise levels at the minimum and maximum speeds of the Levoit LV-H126 air purifier with those of its competitors.
However, it’s quite loud at the maximum speed, especially considering the CADR-to-noise ratio. It produces a sound of 61.2 dBA. As you can see in the chart above, this result places the LV-H126 among the top three loudest air purifiers compared to its competitors.
| Fan Speed | Levoit LV-H126 (dBA) |
|---|---|
| Speed 1 (Low) | 42.3 dBA |
| Speed 2 (Medium) | 45.2 dBA |
| Speed 3 (High) | 61.2 dBA |
I have included the noise level data for all speeds in the table above.
What also surprised me is that such a small air purifier with such a low CADR uses a 35W motor. Frankly, I expected a better-optimized motor with lower power consumption.
If you were to run it at maximum speed, 24 hours daily, for one month, your electric bill would increase by about $3.03. This isn’t a huge cost, but keep in mind that we used an electricity price of $0.12/kWh for the calculation.
| Fan Speed | Levoit LV-H126 (W + $/month) |
|---|---|
| Standby | 0W ($0) |
| Speed 1 (Low) | 9.2W ($0.81) |
| Speed 2 (Medium) | 13.2W ($1.16) |
| Speed 3 (High) | 34.6W ($3.03) |
Out of all the air purifiers compared in the chart, only the TruSens Z-1000 uses more power, and it will cost you about $3.61 in the same scenario.
Monthly Power Cost – Comparison
Comparison of the monthly power cost at maximum speed between the Levoit LV-H126 and some of its competitors.
Considering the price of replacement filters and the power usage, we can say that the Levoit LV-H126 isn’t too expensive to maintain.
Filtration Technology
I already said that the filtration system of 3-in-1 is well-known in air purifiers. It is one of the best filtration methods. Without a problem, it removes cigarette and wildfire smoke and allergens such as dust and pollen. It also removes all kinds of odors, including VOCs.
However, the filter is not reusable, which means you can’t clean it; you need to replace it. Never use any oils on the filter, which some people may think to use to refresh the air.
A 3-in-1 Filter is the combination of HEPA filter and activated carbon filter + separated pre-filter. You can’t replace HEPA and activated carbon filter separately.
How to Replace Levoit LV-H126 Filter?
The filter needs to be replaced every six to eight months. However, if you notice a smaller airflow, the weird smell coming from an air purifier, or a louder working, then you can replace the filter sooner.
Step 1
Before everything, turn off the air purifier and remove the rear cover.
Step 2
Pull the old filter out with black tabs.
Step 3
It is recommended to clean the dust using a vacuum cleaner inside the air purifier. Do not use water or any other liquids.
Step 4
Once you take a new filter out, place it inside with a pre-filter, and pull tabs facing out.
Step 5
Put the rear cover back.
Step 6
Use a filter reminder wheel if you want to track filter change.
Once in a while, it is advisable to clean the pre-filter and inside of the air purifier. With regular cleaning, you can prolong filter life and improve air purifier efficiency.
Filter Reminder Wheel
You can use a reminder wheel in two ways. You can place it on a current month and then track how long the filter is used. Or you can set it in the future and replace the filter when you reach the desired month. The filter wheel contains numbers from 1 to 12, which represent months.
Design
LV-H126 has a unique design that can be substituted for a speaker. The whole device is white; only the front panel is made with a light blue color. The air inlet is on the back, while the air outlet is on the front. Basically, the air is pushed to the blue panel, which then disperses the fresh air on the sides. This side dispersion makes sure that if you place this device in front of your eyes, the air will not blow directly in your face.
There is no control panel or any other digital command on the device. The only control you have is speed control. The speed control wheel is below the blue front panel, and you can only change speed. By the looks of it, I can agree that the direct rival to LV-H126 is the GermGuardian AC4100. They have an identical design and similar features.
Control Dial/Wheel
There are no advanced features on this device. You won’t find any LCD on it that may give you more information about what’s going on. The only thing you can do is turn the wheel and increase or decrease the fan’s speed.
Size and Dimensions
Size matters; even though LV-H126 is a small air purifier, it is still good at air filtration. With only 4.5 lb, you can easily move it from one room to another, and if you like, you can bring it with you when you travel. Dimensions (10.5 x 6.8 x 7.9 inches) allow you to travel easily with Levoit LV-H126. With such a small size, it will perfectly fit in a small room or a bedroom.
Accessories and Parts
When you receive a package from Levoit, you should get a user manual, LV-H126 Personal HEPA Air Purifier, two charcoal pre-filters, and a 2-in-1 HEPA and carbon filter.
When looking for a perfect spot for LV-H126, make sure it is 15 inches (38 m²) away from the wall and any other objects.
Features Overview
3-in-1 Filtration System
As already mentioned, this air purifier uses charcoal pre-filter, HEPA filter, and activated carbon filter. The latter two are coming as a package. In other words, once you replace the HEPA filter, you are also replacing the carbon filter. In this strong filtration system, you will be free from smoke, viruses, pollen, allergens, dust, pet dander, and other pollutants.
Modern Design
With a modern design and small size, this air purifier finds its spot in a room easily. You can place it on a desktop, and people will think that this is a PC speaker.
Good For Bedrooms
Low noise allows you to sleep undisturbed. If you place it at a first speed, the device will make a noise that will not disturb you unless you need total silence for sleep. Also, the previously mentioned windshield will make sure that the air is not directly blowing in your face, disturbing people while sleeping.
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