In my review of the GermGuardian AC4900CA, I’ll cover performance, quality, features, any flaws I found, and much more. After being an owner for so long I’ve learned a lot.
I wanted to find out how the AC4900CA stacks up not just against other popular products from the company (like its twin the AC4825) but also its main competitors.
Read on to find out what I found and see if it’s a great choice for your home, too. (Hint: I love mine!)
Contents
- Unpacking & first impressions
- Specifications
- Size and thoughts on using a “tower” purifier
- Air cleaning ability & performance
- Does the AC4900CA produce ozone?
- Filter & UV bulb replacement indicators & cost
- The owner’s manual
- Noise levels during use
- Night brightness
- AC4900CA vs AC4825
- GermGuardian AC4900CA vs the Honeywell HPA100
- Review summary
Unpacking & first impressions
Packaging
My AC4900 purifier arrived well-packaged and securely held in place. After opening it I found the owner’s manual located conveniently on top. There’s practically NO setup! Just unbox it, unwrap it, and get started enjoying it!
My new purifier came well-packaged. The AC4900CA arrived in great shape as its held in place both at the top and bottom using recycled cardboard inserts. It’s an eco-friendly touch I appreciate.
Unboxing is simple and there’s no fuss whatsoever: just remove the packaging inserts, power cord plug cover, and the protective plastic bag.
You’ll find the owner’s manual placed on top upon opening the box.
As I already own and really enjoy similar and incredibly popular GermGuardian AC4825, I was really curious how it would compare. Is it just as good? How does it look, sound, and work?
It’s time to dig in and find out!
Build quality
Build quality is just as good as I’ve come to expect after owning & testing many GermGuardian products. Fit and finish are great, with no manufacturing defects or cosmetic issues. The AC4900 has a unique brushed metal appearance that’s stylish and modern. It’s a satin silver-gray effect I like.
As I always do, I ran the purifier through a series of once-over inspections I do as a basic check for build quality issues and any noticeable problems.
I’m happy to say the AC4900 is just as nicely put together as its sibling the AC4825.
Despite having a sturdy plastic housing, it looks more expensive than it really is (just like its sibling, it usually sells below $100) and looks quite nice.
Build quality & overall impression
The assembly is great. Construction is solid, with no misaligned body parts or noticeable flaws of any kind. The body features a very nice simulated brushed metal (satin) finish that works well.
Both the front air grill and the controls are smartly matched in color just right. While it’s very modern and stylish in design, it manages to not stand out too much. That is, it doesn’t look out of place in modern rooms. Quite the contrary – it resembles a classy and modern appliance.
Checking out the controls
Just like the AC4825, the controls are extremely simple to use and are together in one place. On this model, they’re forward-facing (and not on top). The controls work well and have a great “feel” when used. They’re tight, responsive, and don’t feel cheap. I like them.
Using the purifier is extremely easy. While it doesn’t have the more advanced electronic controls of some competitors, one advantage is simplicity.
Not everyone is well-suited to push button controls, after all.
To use the AC4900, just turn the fan speed to 1 of 3 settings (low, medium, and high). The power light will show when the unit is switched on.
To use the UV-C germ killing feature, there’s a momentary on-off push button switch. When turned on the blue UV-C light will light on as well.
The controls feel good – they’re not too “light” and not too firm. In other words, they’re firm enough to be easy to use but not easy to accidentally change.
The fan switch is also quiet and doesn’t add any annoying sounds when in use.
However, one thing kind of irritates me although it’s not really a big deal: when using the UV-C feature, turning the main power off sets the UV-C option back to the off state the next time you use it.
There’s no memory feature for that. I don’t understand it…but again, it’s a minor complaint I have, and that’s all.
Specifications
- Room size rating: 155 sq. ft (medium room)
- UV-C germ killing light
- Titanium Oxide odor molecule remover
- 3-speed fan control
- True HEPA filter w/ activated carbon filter
- CADR Rated 101+ (Clean Air Delivery Rate)
- Low-noise fan setting
- Replaceable UV bulb
- Dual-section blower fans
- Simple rotary control
- Pushbutton on/off UV switch
- Filter replacement reminder
- UV bulb replacement indicator
- 3-year limited warranty
- Replacement filter: FILTER B (FLT4825)
- Power use: 55W (max. fan speed)
- Carrying handle
- Weight: 9.84 lbs (21.7 kgs)
- Cord length: 6 ft.
- Control location: top front
- Size: 8.87 x 7.125 x 21.75″
Size and thoughts on using a “tower” purifier
At just under 22 inches in height, the AC4900 definitely isn’t a small model. “Tower” purifiers are those that are taller than they are wide and don’t use a low-profile design.
They’re normally taller by design due to the use of more internal fans which is the case for this model as well. Additional fans are used to offer better air cleaning performance by a higher airflow rate.
It’s definitely important to make sure you have enough room for it before buying. However, at only about 9″ or so at its widest point, it fits nearly anywhere in my experience.
Note that you’ll need to be sure to keep a few feet (say 3 feet) unblocked space behind and in front of it to allow proper airflow so it can work as intended.
Purifiers need a fair amount of unrestricted space to circulate and clean the air in a room.
Carrying the purifier
The built-in handle works well to help you move it within a room. It’s a nice feature I’ve always loved in the other models I own as well.
One feature that I really appreciate is the built-in carrying handle that’s in the top rear of the body. It’s large enough so that you can grip the purifier easily when moving it around.
It’s a nice touch that you don’t always see on competing products. On occasion when I needed to reposition the unit (like during cleaning, opening doors, etc) it came in handy.
Air cleaning ability & performance
The purifier’s filter (the FLT4825 filter included from the factory) trapped a LOT of dust! You can extend the pre-filter life by vacuuming off excessive hair or dust as needed as you can see I did here. Dust is a very bothersome air quality problem in my home and the AC4900 made a big difference when I used it regularly.
Recommended for medium-sized rooms up to around 155 square feet in size, it’s well suited for many homes, offices, and other living areas.
While you can use it in larger rooms, I don’t recommend doing so as that increases the time required for it to cycle the air and trap particulates. For larger rooms, you’re better off with a larger model like the AC5000 large room purifier.
During testing my AC4900 was really helpful at helping me deal with my biggest air quality problem: dust.
As you can see above, it trapped a lot of that terrible dust that plagues my air and covers surfaces regularly. Additionally, the activated carbon filter cut down on odors and any nasty airborne vapors I had due to cleaning products or even food in the room.
Just be sure to remember that air purifiers work by cycling air in the room. It takes a few hours to completely cycle and clean a room’s air. You’ll also want to use it regularly as well.
I often leave mine running all day while I’m gone.
The AC4900CA HEPA filter with prefilter attached alongside the rear cover/grill.
GermGuardian AC4900 square feet coverage and room size
While it’s recommended for medium-sized rooms (up to 155 square feet) there’s absolutely no reason you can’t use it in smaller rooms!
In fact, smaller rooms would greatly benefit even more – you’ll find it cleans the air even faster in that case.
For reference, rooms about 155 square feet in size are roughly a 10 x 15.5 ft. Also, note that this is an estimated size recommendation. It’s doesn’t have to be used in a room that’s exactly that size.
Filter ability
The AC4900’s HEPA filter (white) is made of a folded, dense fiber material. The prefilter is a (black) thin mesh material that works to trap larger elements like dust and hair as well as trap odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The HEPA filter is a “true” HEPA model in that it meets the requirements for excellent air filtering performance. It’s a great filter and works well in my experience.
A high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter is combined with a prefilter/activated charcoal filter. The HEPA filter is fantastic for trapping the most common air quality contaminants like those that cause allergies.
Some of the most troublesome air contaminants the AC4900 can remove are:
- Pet dander
- Pet hair (thanks to the pre-filter)
- Dust mite allergens
- Pollen
- Dust
- Home construction particles
- Smoke residue
- Smoke odors
- Chemical and organic odors
- Chemical vapors
The “3-in-1” name used for advertising purposes comes from the 2-section filter and the addition of the UV-C germ killing feature.
The filter is an assembly in which the replaceable prefilter is attached to the HEPA filter using a Velcro-type attachment.
The prefilter’s job is to capture larger particles (such as dust, pet hair, and lint) and prevent them from wasting the HEPA filter material. Additionally, the activated carbon filter in the material can absorb and trap odors, airborne chemical vapors, perfumes, and more.
The true HEPA filter captures an amazing 99.97% of particles passing through it down to 0.3 microns in size. That’s less than 1/1,000,000 of a meter. That’s incredibly small! Such elements aren’t visible to the human eye as they’re microscopic in size.
It’s a great filtering system and works well. After having an initial break-in period in which the “new product smell” had time to disperse, the filters worked great and I came home to very fresh and comfortable air.
Note: the prefilter can be replaced separately to save money. You won’t have to buy a complete replacement filter set, I’m happy to say.
The ultraviolet light (UV-C) germ killing feature
One trademark feature of the family of air purifiers from Guardian Technologies is the addition of an ultraviolet (UV) based germ killing feature.
The system operates using a special UV-emitting bulb along with a titanium oxide (TiO2) germ killing device. Working together these render sickness-causing germs and other microbes harmless.
The UV light bombards the molecular structure as they pass through the purifier and works to destroy them, essentially. In order to work, you’ll have to have the fan speed in positions 1-3 as it requires airflow to work.
You’ll also need to manually switch on the feature when you’d like to use it.
There’s a built-in safety switch that prevents the unit from operating when the rear cover and rear filter are removed. The light is totally enclosed so there’s no chance of UV exposure as well.
Unlike the AC4825, the feature’s on-off switch keeps the feature on the next time you turn the purifier back on.
UV-C light technology works with filters to enhance the elimination of airborne germs. Titanium Dioxide is activated by the UV-C light to decompose remaining odor molecules
caused by smoking, cooking, and pets.AC4900 owner's manual
Does the AC4900CA produce ozone?
Does the AC4900CA produce ozone that can potentially cause headaches? That’s a common question I’ve learned is on the minds of many potential air purifier owners.
The truth is that filter-based purifiers won’t contribute anything unhealthy to the air as they don’t produce emissions, gases, or by-products. The AC4900CA is perfectly safe and healthy. It does not produce ozone.
Filter & UV bulb replacement indicators & cost
Replacement indicator lights
Both filter replacement and UV bulb replacement indicators use the existing power and UV on/off lights. When a replacement is needed or the filter should be checked the indicators change colors.
There’s a great set of features built in to let you know when it’s time to check the filters for replacement and install a new UV bulb.
After 6 months of use the front green LED light will change to red and blink indicating it’s time to check the filters. Likewise, the UV indicator will change from blue to solid red to show the bulb is no longer working and should be replaced.
If your filter has had very light use and isn’t in need of a replacement you can reset the indicator by holding the UV-C button for 5 seconds.
Condition | Meaning |
---|---|
UV indicator turns from blue to red | (UV bulb needs replacement |
Power light turns red & blinking | Filter needs check/replacement |
Filter life and costs
The FLT4825 is the genuine replacement filter from GermGuardian. The package includes a HEPA filter and the active carbon filter section. While the original filter set is only around $30+, you can save money by buying 3rd party replacements.
Filter life is around 6-8 months depending upon use and the level of particulates in the air where it’s used.
As an example, consider that cigarette produces a significant amount of particles as well as odors that will become trapped in both filter sections. You can definitely expect a limited filter life in that case.
For lighter use filter life will be extended, however, and replacement periods will be fewer and further in between.
Replacement filters cost around $30 or so for the genuine GermGuardian set. However, 3rd party budget models like this contain a less expensive filter. Or some include 2 filters in the box.
If you’re trying to keep costs down those are great options. Don’t forget that the prefilter can be replaced separately if the HEPA filter isn’t totally used-up.
Prefilters are also available in economical 4-packs as well.
How to replace the filter
Filter replacement is VERY simple and only takes a handful of seconds to do. I was very happy with how easy and straightforward it was.
Filter replacement is a breeze! So simple and fast. I was very happy with the design and how I was up and going in only a few seconds.
To do so, you’ll just have to do the following:
- Press down on the release tab on the rear cover
- Pull the cover down and out (there are 2 tabs on the bottom that sit in slots)
- Using your fingers, pull the filter out to remove it
- Replace the filter using the opposite motion
- Insert the cover’s tabs in the base
- Swing the cover up and snap the release tab back in place
That’s it! You’re done and ready for more great air cleaning.
UV-C bulb replacement & pricing
Image showing the UV bulb cover removal screws. Replacement is simple and only really takes a handful of minutes. You’ll need a Phillips screwdriver (not included) to replace a dead bulb.
The replacement UV bulb, part #LB4000. They’re priced at around $25. The life rating is 10-12 months, although some owners have reported shorter life. However, I haven’t had any issues with mine.
Expect to pay close to $25 for a replacement UV bulb. You’ll need a Philips head screwdriver (not included) to remove the rear metal shield that covers it. Afterward, replacement is as easy as unplugging the old one and inserting the new one.
I found it easy to do. If you’re not comfortable with tools I’d recommend having a friend or family member do it for you.
Bulb life is estimated at 10-12 months of use, although a few owners have reported that their bulbs died after only a few months. However, mine has been fine.
The owner’s manual
Just as I’ve come to expect the owner’s manual was again clear, detailed, and easy to read. All basic & important information is included. There’s also information about how to contact the company as well as replacement part numbers.
I always check the owner’s manuals when reviewing products because I know how frustrating it can be when information is lacking or confusing.
After unpacking my purifier I flipped through the manual. It’s clear, well-written, and gets right to the point. It’s also printed in English, French, and Spanish.
Although short (about 10-12 pages for English, I think) it’s concise and good. Inside you’ll find:
- How to use your purifier
- The indicator lights (power, air filter replacement reminder, and UV light bulb replacement)
- Replacement filter model specs
- How to contact support
- Power consumption
- Specifications: size, weight, and square feet coverage
Honestly, the purifier is so darn easy to use it’s really not necessary, although if you’re a first-time buyer I’d recommend brushing up on product use tips.
However, one thing did annoy me: the Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) ratings aren’t inside as well as a few other specs missing. They’re available elsewhere (especially the GermGuardian site).
If you’re not familiar with these ratings from the American Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM), it’s a voluntary standard way of testing purifiers.
Noise levels during use
The manufacturer lists the AC4900CA as a quiet (low-noise) purifier, and in my testing I found it to be true.
- Low speed (#1) is fairly quiet, and suitable for sleeping if you’re a light sleeper like me
- Medium (#2) is actually not very loud. It’s hardly noticeable at all if I’m watching YouTube or listening to music
- High (#3) has a moderate level of noise and can be masked by the sound of your TV or radio. However, it’s fairly noticeable but not loud.
The high setting is useful for fast and the most powerful cleaning of air contaminated with odors, smoke, etc.
I think most people will be able to sleep well with it on low or medium. While not as quiet during low-speed as others like the Levoit LV-H132, I’m happy with it.
Additionally, you’re trading performance for lower noise, unlike others.
The main reason it’s not as quiet as some competitors is because it uses 2 fans for more airflow to be more effective at cleaning the room’s air.
Volume measurements
I prefer to personally measure, record, and verify the noise levels of the products I test. My sound level meter is used with a consistent measurement to get a good reading of typical real-world use. It’s a good way to be sure the data backs up my opinions & experiences during testing.
I measured volume levels using a No products found. at 1 meter (3.28 ft) from the purifier. Here’s what I found:
Measurement/Speed | Volume (dB) |
---|---|
Off (room noise) | 39.3 |
Low | 42 |
Medium | 51 |
High | 58.3 |
A note about the sound while running
One thing I’ve noticed – and let me be very clear…it’s not a big deal – is that during use, there’s a characteristic “hum” of some type produced.
It’s a by-product of how this family of air purifiers works. The electric motor is driven by a control board that quickly switches power on and off to the motor to keep the desired speed.
It’s just a minor trait, and I actually rarely hear it at all. However, after first buying the purifier, you may hear it for a few hours since it’s brand new and hasn’t been broken in yet.
Based on my testing, measurements, and personal use I believe it’s a quiet purifier and has a nice, pleasant sound.
Night brightness
Although the design has front-facing LED indicators, in real use at night they’re not a distraction for me. Unlike some others they’re dim enough that they don’t annoy me or interrupt my sleep. However, it’s important to note that the human eye is especially sensitive to blue light, so you may want to switch off the UV-C feature at bedtime.
Unlike some competitors in its room size range that I’ve tested, there’s no way to dim or turn off the indicator lights.
However, in practice, I didn’t find them to be a bother at night. Then again, as the human eye is especially sensitive to blue light, I did switch off the UV-C feature at bedtime.
Interestingly enough, the front-facing LEDs are a style feature only on the AC4900CA. They’re not shared by GermGuardian Air Purifier for Home with HEPA Filter, Removes 99.97% of...
Both lights have a soft glow that’s not overbearing in my opinion. They don’t “light up the room” or anything like that. Fortunately it’s obvious that smart design went into keeping the brightness level low.
If you’re a light sleeper like me you don’t have anything to worry about. If necessary, you can always face the purifier at an angle if you’d like to use the UV-C feature at night but not see the blue light.
AC4900CA vs AC4825
The AC4825 (left) is the super-popular counterpart to the AC4900CA (right). They’re essentially identical in performance, features, and even share the same internal functional parts. Both also use the same replacement filters, making more filters available.
In case you weren’t aware, the AC4900CA is in fact a twin to the wonderful and best-selling AC4825. I’ve owned and really enjoyed for a long time now.
There are few if any differences between the two. However, as far as details go, one is the unique glowing blue trim ring around the top which the AC4825 has. It’s a very handsome design and looks great.
While not as popular as its twin, the AC4900CA offers a cool and fresh take on the traditional black design of the other. Air cleaning performance and specs are the same as well.
GermGuardian AC4900CA vs the Honeywell HPA100
Of the products on the market, in my opinion, one of the best and most comparable is the Honeywell HPA100. It offers some features the AC4900 doesn’t but it’s also lacking in a few areas. It’s available in a white version as well. Room size coverage is also the same at 155 sq. ft. It’s a competent rival to the GermGuardian.
After testing, owning, and enjoying the AC4900CA I can confidently say it’s a winner and a great choice. However, there are other choices out there, and one of the best comes to mind.
Although it’s not even close to the popularity of GermGuardian models, the Honeywell HPA100 is a truly solid performer, is well made, and offers electronic touch controls instead of manual controls.
If you prefer those features it’s worth considering as well.
Filter replacement is a bit more complicated as it uses multiple standard-sized Honeywell replacement filters. Additionally, the design is a bit odd in that the prefilter doesn’t attach to the HEPA filter(s) like the GermGuardian design.
Features the HPA100 offers that the AC4900 doesn’t are:
- Electronic touch controls
- A Turbo high-speed setting
- Auto-off timer
However, there’s no germ killing feature offered. That’s absent in the Honeywell HPA series of purifiers, and it’s unfortunate. You’ll also pay a few dollars less for the GermGuardian model as well.
Don’t get me wrong, I love some of the features of the HPA100, but I’m a happy GermGuardian owner and have become really fond of them. I’m not sure if I could ever give them up!.
Review summary
The AC4900CA is a worthy bearer of the GermGuardian name. It shares the same performance, quality, and ease of use I’ve come to love from the ones I own.
While not as popular as its sibling AC4825, it’s great-looking and gets the job done quietly. I’m sure you’ll grow to love yours just as much as I have.
My advice? Don’t pay full price. Head over to get a better price and see nearly 500 buyer reviews at Amazon.
Overall
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Quality - 9.2/10
9.2/10
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Value - 8.9/10
8.9/10
-
Ease of use - 9.8/10
9.8/10
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Air cleaning ability - 9/10
9/10
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Features - 7/10
7/10
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Noise levels - 8.8/10
8.8/10
Well-made and solid, the AC4900CA provides great air purification in a uniquely style package.
The GermGuardian AC4900CA turned out to be a real treat to own, test, and use daily – I love mine! A functional twin to the incredibly popular AC4825 model, it provides identical performance with a unique style. Just like its sibling it’s incredibly easy to use, works, well, and it’s quiet too. And just like the other one, I’ve grown fond of it quickly. People who want an air purifier that “just works” without any fuss or complicated controls will appreciate it.
Noise levels are low, filter replacement is super easy, and the UV-C germ killing feature is an added bonus not found on most competing products. While it doesn’t offer fancier features I really love such as electronic controls or an auto-timer like Honeywell, the benefit is a better value for your dollar. You get the same (or more) room coverage for less money than many others sold today. Air cleaning performance is great and the ability to replace the prefilter separately can really help keep costs down. It’s a great choice and I’m happy to recommend it to anyone.
Pros
- Great air coverage for its price range
- AHAM Verified & Energy Star Certified
- True HEPA filter + prefilter/carbon filter
- Very easy to operate
- UV-C feature kills germs – not found in many competitors
- Carry handle built-in
- Dual-fan design
- Filter replacement reminder
- UV bulb replacement reminder
- 3-year warranty
- Maintenance is easy to perform
- Low operational noise
- Reliable
- Well-built
- Available in functionally identical AC4900CA model
- Prefilter/carbon filter separately replaceable
- Won’t tip over easily
Cons
- UV-C feature has no memory feature
- No auto-sensing self-operation feature
- No auto-off timer feature
- Blue light may draw attention to eyes at night
- Tall height may not be suitable for all users
- Rotary manual control fan speed switch (vs electronic)
- No other color options available for this model
- You’ll need to buy 3rd party filters to save money as originals are more expensive