Honeywell HPA 160 Review – A Great Medium/Large Room Purifier

Honeywell produces some of the best air purifiers today. As I’ve owned and review several others, I was intrigued by the HPA160 and wanted to see how it stacks up against the competition.

In my Honeywell HPA 160 review I’ll go into detail and tell you if it’s a good choice for your money (Hint: I really like it!)

Competing with popular and high-quality brands like Levoit and GermGuardian, the HPA 160 definitely has to be top-notch in order to succeed.

Read on if you’d like to find out all the details!

Getting to know the Honeywell HPA160

Honeywell HPA060 vs HPA160 vs HPA200 comparison image

The HPA 160 is part of Honeywell’s HPA series of air purifiers. They all share similar styling and us modular HEPA filters, meaning they use 1 or more of the same filters sold by Honeywell for similar purifiers. They’re also very similar in how they function control-wise, too.

The HPA160 is a “tower” purifier, meaning it has a bit of a lean design and stands tall. At almost 26″ (10 cm) in height, it’s a good looking unit and has a sleek, stylish design with contrasting silver controls within a glossy black panel.

It’s actually one of the many models produced by Honeywell in the HPA series of air purifiers. As the “big brother” to the HPA060 which is designed for small rooms, the HPA160 is designed for medium to large rooms about 170 square feet in size.

Of course, there’s absolutely no reason you can’t use it in smaller rooms, and it will clean the air in them even faster.

The HPA160 and other similar models in the product line use a true HEPA filter and a separate pre-filter to clean the air and permanently remove particulates that cause allergies, odors, and much, much more.

The HEPA filter difference

It works by using a “true” HEPA filter that’s highly efficient at removing nasty particulates in the air. Some of these are incredibly small – microscopic in size! The pre-filter complements the main HEPA filter by capturing odors and larger elements like hair and dust.

The HPA160 is very similar in design to the competing GermGuardian AC4825 in that it draws in dirty air from the rear using fans. This air is drawn through the filters then blown out of the front, producing clean, fresh air into the room.

It works by continuously cycling this process in order to purify a room’s air in a few hours.

The HPA160 uses simple controls (one of which is a touch control – I’ll go into more detail later) and has a black satin plastic body. The controls are accentuated by a nice satin silver trim around the gloss black and satin silver control section.

Unboxing the HPA160 and first impressions

Packaging

Honeywell HPA 160 unboxing packaging image
Unfortunately because of some distractions I had to delay opening my HPA160 after picking up. Finally, I got my hands on it! Upon opening it I found the same level of quality I experienced with the larger HPA200, it’s bigger brother for large rooms. The packaging was both of good quality and appeared to be environment-friendly as it was made from recycled cardboard material.

How’s the build quality?

Honeywell HPA 160 close up image
This is a well-made and solid air purifier. The body is made of ABS plastic with a satin (low-gloss) finish. The fit & finish were good and the panels lined up nicely and with no noticeable problems. The assembly was tight and well put together. It looks good and feels good to the touch!

As I always like to do I opened up the box to get an initial impression of the level of quality I’m getting. The Honeywell packaging was good and I was happy with how it appeared. The box is very nice also, as it not only features the benefits of the purifier but also clearly indicates which filters you need to buy for replacement.

As I have experience with both the Honeywell HPA200 and the HPA300 models, I wanted to see if it met the same expectations set for me. It did! The HPA160 is well-made and looks great, I have to say.

You can easily tell that someone did their homework when designing this model, as it looks very well designed and isn’t a copycat of other similar products on the market.

Although it’s a bit tall at around 26″ (about 10 cm) in height and weighs about 10 lbs (4.5 kgs) it’s actually pretty easy to move around.

There’s a handy carrying handle built into the rear which makes it easy to move. There are rubber pads on the base to keep it from scratching your floor as well.

Getting started

Honeywell HPA160 getting started image

After removing it and unwrapping the plastic, you’ll find a notice label on top of the purifier, near the controls. You’ll have to remove the filters from their bags and re-insert them into it.

While it can seem like a bit of an annoyance (especially considering that other brands don’t do this) I can appreciate that Honeywell keeps filters 100% fresh and undisturbed in these bags.

Essentially, getting first set up is very easy:

  1. Remove the rear cover (see below, where I go into more detail)
  2. Remove the pre-filter, in the rear cover, from its holding tabs
  3. Remove it from its plastic bag and re-insert it into the tabs
  4. Remove the 2 HEPA filters and remove them from their bags
  5. Hooking the filters on the bottom slots in the body, insert them into the snap tab
  6. Re-install the rear cover

It only took me a minute or two to do this, and once you’ve done it for the first time it’s not really an issue anymore.

I did notice that the bottom filter was a bit harder to get into the purifier for some reason. Perhaps it was because this was my first time doing so, but it didn’t go in as quickly as I had hoped. But, it still wasn’t a real issue for me and I was on my way fairly quickly.

Built-in quick reference guide

HPA160 quick start guide image
Just above the rear cover’s release tab there’s a clear plastic loop. Pulling it up reveals a great little quick start guide. It’s a nice touch and very handy – you can’t lose it! It also features Honeywell’s customer support phone number. I really like this extra feature.

When getting started with your purifier for the first time, you might appreciate a special little added bonus this model has. There’s a quick-start guide on a printed plastic sheet that is built into the body. It’s located on the rear just above the cover’s release tab.

Pulling the small clear plastic loop reveals some basic instructions for using the purifier as well as the company’s customer service line and website should you have questions.

I think it’s great and it’s reflective of the Honeywell quality. Several other models in the HPA family feature this as well. For people who lose manuals easily or new users, it’s a great way to never have to worry about instructions.

Checking out the HPA160’s controls

Honeywell HPA160 controls
The HPA160 is sort of unique in that it features a touch control for the operational mode and fan speed (like the larger HPA200 but push buttons for other features. It’s a bit of a cross between the two types. It looks great and is easy to operate. I like how it looks: satin silver finish on the trim, brushed metal buttons, and a gloss black inset between them. Very classy.

The HPA160 borrows one feature from the larger HPA200 & HPA300 models: the fan mode is a touch control. However, unlike them, the Turbo and auto-off controls are not activated and use push buttons.

Two filter replacement reminders are provided, which is rather unique for an air purifier in this price range. It’s a great feature considering you don’t have to replace both filters at the same time as that’s more expensive.

Rather you can replace the pre-filter separately and later the HEPA filters as well.

How do the controls work?

By lightly touching the main fan speed button the purifier rotates through one of 3 operational modes.

Pushing the button with the clock symbol turns on the 2 hr auto-off timer. Pushing it again moves the selection to the 4 hr option, and so on.

When the Turbo button is pushed the purifier operates at maximum speed. Touching it again restores the previous fan mode in use.

Changing cleaning and other modes

3 basic modes of operation are provided:

  1. Germ
  2. General
  3. Allergen

These modes are really easy to control and you simply push the button again to rotate through the various settings.

Cleaning mode: Off -> Germ -> General -> Allergen -> Off.

Likewise, the auto-off timer is initially off and can be rotated through the 3 time options available: Off -> 2 hours -> 4 hours -> 8 hours -> Off.

In my opinion, the controls are incredibly easy to use and great for first-time owners.

I’m a bit confused, however, why Honeywell has named the 3 fan (cleaning) modes Germ, General, and Allergen. After using it, it seems as if they’re just low, medium, and high fan speed modes. Unfortunately the manual doesn’t differentiate these in detail.

Specifications

Honeywell HPA160 Specifications
  • Room size rating: 170 sq. ft (med.-large room)
  • 3-mode/speed fan control: Germ, General, Allergen
  • Turbo high-speed fan mode for rapid cleaning
  • True HEPA filters (uses 2 Honeywell Type H filters)
  • Smoke CADR rating: 110
  • Dust CADR rating: 120
  • Pollen CADR rating: 130
  • Touch control panel for fan mode
  • Quick start guide built into body
  • 2, 4, and 8 hour auto-off timer feature
  • HEPA filter replacement reminder
  • Pre-filter replacement reminder
  • 5-year limited warranty
  • Replacement HEPA filter: HRF-H2 (2 filters)
  • Replacement pre-filter: HRF-B2
  • Weight: 10.1 lbs (4.58 kgs)
  • Cord length: 6 ft.
  • Control location: top
  • Size: 8.11 x 11.08 x 25.59″ (20.6 x 28.1 x 65 cm)

CADR ratings

The HPA160 has pretty good fan speed which gives it a good Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) rating. The CADR is a documented test that determines how quickly an air purifier can clean the air in a room – the higher the score, the better.

Honeywell HPA160 CADR ratings label image
The HPA160’s AHAM ratings label. Unlike some of the other products sold today, Honeywell has had an industry standard performance evaluation performed. It’s a great way to know you’re getting an effective purifier with proven results.

The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) provides home air quality testing for air purifier manufacturers. Air purifiers in particular are rated according to dust, smoke, and pollen cleaning efficiency. The higher the number the better.

It’s basically a rating you can use to evaluate 2 similar models when shopping. The rating is also based on the amount of air cleaning due to the rate at which a purifier can move air. Naturally, bigger air purifiers therefore have high ratings.

The HPA160 of course cannot match the larger and more expensive HPA200 and HPA300 models with larger fans, but it can definitely provide efficient air cleaning.

Carrying & moving the purifier

Honeywell HPA160 side view handle

The HPA160 has a built-in carrying handle on the rear near the top.It’s easy to move it around as needed by placing your fingers inside with 2 hands. Very handy!

Although it’s rather tall at almost 26″ in height it’s actually easy to move to different locations in your room. I measured the weight at about 10 lbs (4.5 kg). I didn’t have any issues or find it clumsy to move about.

Honeywell has added a nice feature to make it portable – there’s a carry handle area on the top rear. That’s a nice touch which is also shared by some of the GermGuardian brand products too.

Air cleaning ability & performance

I’m especially enthusiastic about home air quality and wanted to see how well the HPA160 performed. I’ve had problems with dust in my home for a considerable time so I was eager to give it a try.

The Turbo mode is a special feature unique to the Honeywell product line. It maximizes the fan speed in order to more quickly purify your room’s air when you don’t mind the additional noise volume. After a using it for some time I began to appreciate it more and more.

While there are other products with somewhat similar cleaning ability like the GermGuardian AC5000E the others don’t have a Turbo high-speed feature.

What kind of filters does it use?

Honeywell HPA160 filter images
The HPA160 uses 2 standardized Type H Honeywell filters (white) also used by some other models as well. The Type B pre-filter (black) is separate and is held in the rear cover as shown.

The High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are used in conjunction with a pre-filter (fitted into the rear cover) which catches larger elements like hair and larger dust. It can additionally trap odors over time as well.

HEPA filters are made of very dense material and are very efficient for cleaning air. They can remove 99.97% of nasty elements in your air down to an incredibly small 0.3 microns in size. (A micron, or micrometer, is 1/1,000,000 of a meter in size).

The design allows Honeywell to share a standard size filter in different quantities for use by several different models in the product line. The HEPA filters sell for close to $20 for a 2-pack and the pre-filters for about $9 for a 2-pack as well.

As an example, the HPA060 uses 1 Type H HEPA filter. The instructions are very clear and it makes things easier and less confusing when it comes time to buy a replacement filter.

Installing the filters

Honeywell HPA160 filters image
After removing the purifier from the packaging, you’ll need to open the rear cover, remove the filters from their bags, and re-install them. It’s not hard to do, although for some reason the bottom one was a bit trickier to insert my first time.

The purifier is shipped with 2 Type H true HEPA filters which you’ll need to remove from their plastic bags and insert into their openings. Similarly, the pre-filter must be removed from the plastic bag and inserted into the filter cover/grill as shown earlier.

The HEPA filters weren’t hard to install, with the exception of the bottom one a small bit. They’re inserted bottom-first at an angle into a small slot on each side. They’re then angled upward and click into place in a retaining tab at the top.

Overall I found it easy to do, however, the bottom one was a bit resistant to going in on my first try.

The odor reducing pre-filter that’s included is basically a rectangular section of filter material. It’s held in by tabs on the cover.

Here’s a list of some of the most common elements the HPA160 can remove:

  • 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

The pre-filter

This is a less dense, thin section that traps larger particles like hair, fuzz, and so forth before they reach the HEPA filters. It’s also treated in order to reduce odors and trap substances like that in the air.

When combined, these 2 types of filters form an effective way to clean the air. The pre-filter also reduces the need to replace the filters – which Honeywell recommends is every 12 months. 3-6 months for the pre-filter, or as needed if heavy use has occurred.

In the case of odors you need to understand that the Honeywell purifier will help, but it isn’t an instantaneous solution. It takes time for it to cycle the air and remove odors. It’s great to have, however!

Opening the rear cover

Honeywell HPA160 open cover diagram
Opening the rear cover is simple. Just 1) push down on the release tab with your thumb and 2) swing the cover down, then pull it out. There are 2 tabs at the bottom that fit into slots that are used when reinstalling it.

Do these in reverse order after replacing filters. The release tab will snap at the top indicating it’s locked into place.

It’s very simple and I don’t have any complaints. It’s also how the rival GermGuardian AC5000E is designed as well.

Filter life and costs

Honeywell HPA160 replacement filters
Honeywell recommends replacing the HEPA filters every 12 months or so and the pre-filter every 3 months.

This is because using the pre-filters both extends the life of the more expensive HEPA filters but also pre-filters have a limited life for absorbing odors and other chemical substances in the air.

This is in contrast to others which average 6 to 8 months before recommended replacement, so that’s actually very good.

Replacing both HEPA filters will cost around $29 dollars or so for a 2-pack made by Honeywell. The pre-filter averages somewhere close to $6, so it’s really a good deal in that case.

While $29 or so may sound like a bit of money, it’s actually not bad at all as many other products cost close to $30 for each 6 or 8 month replacement period.

Filter replacement reminders

Honeywell HPA160 filter reminders image
The replacement reminders are illuminated based on the amount of time the purifier has been used for. They can be reset as needed. It’s unique in that they’re separate rather than there only being one (as many competitors do).

What sets the HP160 apart from other purifiers is that it features separate replacement reminders for the HEPA and pre-filter elements. Honeywell’s design is different and many, if not most competitors don’t feature this.

When one or both are illuminated you may check the filters. The reminders are cleared by pressing a button and holding it for about 2 seconds. The light will turn off clear and the reminder will be reset.

Note: Of course, you can also replace filters before the reminder occurs according to the manual. Purifier switched off, press and hold each button separately for 5 seconds. The indicator lights will illuminate. Then again press and hold that indicator light until it goes off. After doing so a reminder is returned to its reset state.

Is it safe? Does this purifier produce ozone? What about headaches?

There’s no ozone produced.

The subject of headaches and air purifiers is actually a highly researched question on the internet. The truth is that an air purifier that only filters the air doesn’t produce any emissions.

The most important thing to know is that the HPA160 simply filters the air. It cannot add anything to air, give off gases, or produce any irritants by itself. It will not cause headaches. This model is perfectly safe and there are NO health concerns to worry about.

Using the auto-off timer feature

Honeywell HPA160 auto-off timer diagram
This is one of my favorite features and one that surprisingly much of the competition doesn’t have.

The auto-timer will switch off the purifier after 2, 4, or 8 hours have passed. It’s really easy to use. Just push the button marked with the clock symbol to set it to one of the 3 hour settings (2, 4, or 8 hours). After the time elapses it will turn itself off automatically.

Each time you push the button the indicator light for a selection will rotate through 2, 4, or 8 hours. Doing so a 3rd time will turn it off again. It’s so simple but so handy!

That’s a great way to leave it running when you’re gone during the day but won’t have to worry about running your electrical bill up.

The owner’s manual

Honeywell HPA160 HPA060 owners manual

The owner’s manual English section is only about a few pages in length. However it’s very clear and helpful. It covers the most important basic information you need to use and maintain your purifier.

What’s great is that it makes it easy to find the customer service telephone number if you need it.

In case you’re curious, here’s a download link for the HPA160 owner manual.

Noise levels during use

You might be thinking it could be a loud one. In fact not only is it very quiet – it’s one of the better sounding ones I’ve tested so far!

Compared to the GermGuardian AC5000E or AC4825, for example, the noise had much less of a motor “whirr” and seemed more pleasing to me.

Three operational modes are provided: Germ, General, and Allergen. As I was testing it, it seemed as if those 3 operational modes corresponded to low, medium, and high respectively.

Turbo mode is definitely not low volume and isn’t suitable for sleep time. But it’s a great feature to have during times when you won’t mind it.

Volume measurements

Using this No products found. to measure volume, I recorded the volume levels at 1 meter (3.28 ft) from the purifier.

Measurement/Mode Volume (dB)
Off (Room noise) 39.3
Germ mode 42.5
General mode 47
Allergen mode 53.2
Turbo mode 57

In fact, it’s quieter than many smaller purifiers! That’s what surprised me a bit. And I’m very pleased with it, I have to say.

While turbo has a very noticeable volume level and “whoosh” sound, the other settings are very similar – and lower – than many other products on the market

It’s honestly very easy to forget it’s running when the high-speed Turbo is off because it’s so quiet.

Brightness levels in a dark room

Honeywell HP160 in dark room brightness
I’m fairly sensitive to light and sound when sleeping or relaxing at night. And I know I’m not the only one, so I make sure to check brightness levels in the dark. Blue LEDs like those used on this model are often too bright. This one was fine.

As one of my tests I used the model in a darkened room just like I’d use at night when sleeping. Overall, I found the indicator lights are not too bright.

However, just like any product with light emitting diode (LED) indicators, a little bit goes a long way. I could still a bit of light in the room and on the ceiling. If you’re sensitive to light like I am I’d recommend covering it up.

Unfortunately, this model doesn’t offer an illumination dimmer like the larger HPA200 does. That’s a shame because I’ve found it to be a great feature to have.

Final thoughts

So…after testing and owning the HPA 160, here are my thoughts. Overall, I really like it! It’s a great purifier that offers some very nice features and sounds so quiet and pleasing when in use.

I do have a few minor complaints. There’s no UV-C germ killing feature offered like in the AC4825 I reviewed here, for example.

Additionally, the lack of an illumination dimmer is a shame. However, it’s not a deal breaker and certainly isn’t enough of a concern to change my mind. Again, it’s a minor gripe.

If you’re looking for an excellent medium or large size air purifier that covers a recommended 170 square feet, it’s a great choice.

Don’t hesitate. It’s a great one, so head over to check the current price at Amazon.

Overall
9/10
9/10
  • Quality - 9.2/10
    9.2/10
  • Value - 8.5/10
    8.5/10
  • Ease of use - 9.7/10
    9.7/10
  • Air cleaning ability - 9/10
    9/10
  • Features - 8.6/10
    8.6/10
  • Noise levels - 9/10
    9/10

A very quiet, and very capable choice for medium or large rooms to 170 sq. feet. Well-made and a great performing model.

The HPA160 is a great choice! Simply put, it’s one of the nicer products I’ve tested and I enjoyed doing so. Well-made with good assembly and construction. Filters are easy to replace and readily available. Separate filter reminders are provided. Turbo mode is a bonus way to speed up air cleaning. I love the auto-off timer as well. It’s pleasing to the ear when running on standard speeds. I’d recommend it first to anyone not needing a germ killing feature.

Pros

  • High-speed Turbo mode for faster cleaning
  • High CADR rating – great purification efficiency
  • HEPA filters last approx. 12 months
  • Odor-reducing pre-filter is inexpensive
  • Pre-filter can be replaced separately
  • Carrying handle
  • 5-year limited warranty
  • Touch controls works well; buttons too
  • Built-in quick start guide
  • Customer support is good
  • Helpful owner’s manual
  • Auto-off timer shuts off automatically
  • One of the most quiet purifiers
  • Filter replacement is easy
  • Indicator lamp brightness is fairly low
  • Good build quality, fit and finish are nice
  • Filter performance is good, fresh air quicker

Cons

  • Auto-off timer only adjustable in 2, 4 or 8 hours
  • Manual doesn’t clarify the 3 main operational modes
  • No auto-sensing feature
  • Germ-killing feature not available like competitors
  • No illumination dimmer like the HPA200/300
Grant Williams

About the author

Grant is a professional engineer by trade and has experience with both maintenance and do-it-yourself home projects. He enjoys sharing his expertise & ideas with others to help them improve their comfort and quality of life. Read more »

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