CADR Calculator for Mold Spores
Find the minimum Clean Air Delivery Rate for your room.
Mold spores (2–100 μm) are a serious indoor air quality concern, especially in basements, bathrooms, and any room with elevated humidity. A HEPA air purifier captures 99.97% of mold spores, but the key is air turnover rate — you need enough ACH to keep spore concentrations consistently low.
For mold-prone environments, we recommend 5–6 ACH instead of the standard 4.8. This higher turnover rate compensates for the continuous spore production from active mold colonies.
Important: an air purifier captures airborne spores but doesn't kill active mold. You must address the moisture source (fix leaks, run dehumidifier below 50% RH) alongside air purification for complete mold control.
📐 How CADR Is Calculated
Formula: CADR = (Sq Ft × Ceiling × ACH) ÷ 60
AHAM recommends ≥ 4.8 ACH. Allergies: 6 ACH. Smoke/Asthma: 8 ACH.
Based on 240 CFM minimum Smoke CADR:
💡 Tips for Mold
- ✓ Air purifiers capture spores but don't kill mold — fix the moisture source first.
- ✓ Run a dehumidifier alongside the purifier to keep humidity below 50% RH.
- ✓ HEPA filters capture mold spores effectively. Replace every 6–8 months in moldy environments.
- ✓ Activated carbon helps with musty mold odors, but HEPA is the primary defense.