Why POLAR test method represents real living spaces.

The test method assesses the ability of machines to remove harmful particles and gases, the uniformity of the 

cleaning performance delivered around the whole room, and airflow projection. Crucially, all machines are 

tested using their automatic pollution detection function, and the test ends when the purifier deems the room 

“clean” and switches itself of. The purifier’s interpretation of “clean” can then be assessed both in terms of 

particle reduction and evenness throughout the room.

The POLAR test chamber is much bigger than a CADR chambler, and more representative of real-world 

environments than existing standards dictate with a 81m3 footprint and no external fan to support air circulation – 

the purifier itself must do this. It is positioned in the corner of the room, rather than the centre, reflecting a more 

likely position in the home. Around the chamber there are nine sensors – two per corner at different heights and 

one in the centre – to assess the evenness of purification throughout the room.

When the test begins, a set amount of pollutant is injected into one corner of the chamber. Placed diagonally 

opposite the pollution event, the purifier must detect the deteriorating air quality and react accordingly. 

To score highly, the purifier being tested must first detect and react to the deteriorating air quality, secondly 

effectively clean the air evenly throughout the room, and thirdly switch itself off once the purifier deems the 

room clean. Both the particle reduction and evenness of purification are measured.