If you want to regularly and properly clean your hard-working air purifier, a few simple steps might be enough for this household task. As a rule, such household appliances are uncomplicated and low-maintenance, but require occasional care to function smoothly. Keeping your air filter clean is important to protect yourself from poor air quality caused by outside factors such as allergens or air pollution. To make the cleaning process easier, you can follow the tips and simple step-by-step instructions listed below.
What should you consider before cleaning your air purifier?
Regular cleaning of the device extends its lifespan and maximizes the amount of pollutants and allergens it filters. Additionally, air purifiers work most efficiently when their filters are offaccumulated particles such as dust, pollen or animal hair are clogged. Cleaning the air purifier is even more important if you or a family member relies on clean air to control asthma or other respiratory diseases.
Qualitative models can therefore also be a significant financial investment. Get the most out of your money by cleaning your equipment monthly and replacing filters annually when necessary. It's best to check the manual to see how often the manufacturer recommends cleaning and replacing the filters.
Can you wash HEPA filters from air purifier?
HEPA stands for High Efficiency Particulate Air. Devices equipped with it work by sucking air through an extremely fine filter that catches everything from mold, dust and animal hair to bacteria. The more material your HEPA filter traps, the less effective it becomes. It is therefore important to regularly remove dirt from this unit, especially if you suffer from allergies.
Additionally, there are certain types of HEPA filters that are washable and considered permanent. These can be washed accordingly under cold water. However, always check your device's manual before attempting to wash your HEPA filter as some types are not suitable for water purification. If your air purifier is not washable, you can still carefully vacuum dirt from the filter.
Improve indoor air quality and diligently clean the air purifier
While air purifiers are efficient at removing nearby contaminants, their effectiveness depends on how regularly they are maintained. To ensure that the device works properly, it is important to clean not only the external air filter, but also the internal air filter. The exact cleaning process depends on the type of air purifier you have. Here are the materials needed and steps you should follow beforehand:
- Brush with soft bristles
- Dishwashing liquid or soapy water
- Microfiber cloth
- Vacuum cleaner with brush attachment
- Protective face mask
- Air filter (if you have a disposable model)
- Wear a protective face mask and gloves. If you suffer from severe allergies or if your filter catches strong pollutants, you should protect yourself from them during the cleaning process.
- Remove people with severe allergies from the room. Some debris may be released during the cleaning process and you don't want to cause a reaction.
- Be sure to disconnect the device from the power supply by unplugging it to minimize the risk of electric shock and possible damage.
- Before cleaning, wipe the exterior of the device with a clean, damp cloth.
- Use a vacuum attachment on low speed and vacuum the outer grille.
- Then carefully remove the internal parts and filters from the device housing.
- First, you can wash or vacuum the internal parts including the filter. Be extremely careful when doing this. Many filters rely on the integrity of very delicate meshes that could be damaged during the cleaning process.
- Allow the filter to dry completely before replacing it. Your air purifier may not work as efficiently if the filter is wet. Additionally, a wet filter can start to form mold. Allow your air filter to dry in a clean part of your home before replacing it.
This is how you can clean an air purifier equipped with a HEPA filter
If you have a HEPA filter, check whether yours is washable or non-washable before cleaning. Most air purifiers are equipped with two different filters: a pre-filter and a HEPA filter. Some even have a third filter. Individual manufacturers' recommendations vary when it comes to cleaning filters. Many of them insist on replacing the filters regularly. Permanent HEPA filters that are not waterproof should be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner. These types of filters are not designed to come into contact with water. Cleaning these types of filters with water can cause damage. Here are the steps to follow:
- Wearing a protective face mask, first turn off and unplug your air purifier.
- Clean the filtered air outlet, usually located on the top and back of the unit, with a dry, soft-bristled brush. This will help you remove dust and dirt that can block airflow.
- Following the manufacturer's instructions, remove the front grille of your air purifier.
- Clean the grid with warm, soapy water and wipe dry with a microfiber cloth.
- Then remove the non-washable HEPA filter.
- Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to clear it of dust and dirt.
- Put the filter back into the air purifier and reattach the front grille.
- Wipe the outside of the air purifier with a dry or slightly damp microfiber cleaning cloth.
Follow simple instructions for washable HEPA filter
Washable HEPA filters can usually be rinsed with water and can be used for years. Always check the manufacturer's instructions before cleaning to ensure your model can withstand water cleaning.
- First, follow steps 1 to 4 above.
- Then remove the HEPA filter and wash it under warm running water until clean. You can also soak your filter in hot water if it is extremely dirty.
- Now let the washed HEPA filter dry before reinserting it. Your air purifier may not work as efficiently if the filter is wet, and this can quickly lead to mold growth.
- Once dry, reinsert the filter and reattach the front grille.
- Again, wipe the outside of the air purifier with a dry or slightly damp microfiber cleaning cloth.
Clean an air purifier equipped with a foam filter
The foam filters you find in air purifiers and vacuum cleaners are called pre-filters. These washable filters essentially capture larger particles in the air like pet hair before it gets to the HEPA filter. These are a little more durable and can be cleaned in no time.
- First rinse the filter with warm water.
- Then add a drop or two of dish soap.
- Then lather the filter well.
- Rinse well until the water runs clear, being careful to remove any soap residue.
- First, carefully wring out excess water.
- Finally, allow the pre-filter to air dry before replacing it.
Clean air purifier with disposable filter
Unlike HEPA filters, disposable air filters are designed to withstand frequent cleaning with water or dust. It is advisable to purchase a replacement filter for these models.
- First, follow steps 1 to 4 described for washable HEPA filters.
- Then locate your disposable air filter or air filter kit, as some models have several of them.
- Replace dirty filters with a manufacturer-approved filter or filter set.
- With your new filter or filter set in place, reattach the front grill.
- Finally, in this case, too, wipe the outside of the air purifier with a dry or slightly damp microfiber cleaning cloth.
Clean air purifier equipped with carbon filter
Carbon filters are made of activated carbon and are typically used to filter out gases emitted by common household products. However, such carbon filters vary greatly depending on the model. Some can be easily vacuumed to remove larger debris and reused for up to a year, while other iterations need to be discarded and replaced more frequently.
- First, follow steps 1 to 4 above.
- Clean or replace your carbon air filter according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Insert the new or freshly cleaned filter into the air purifier and reattach the front grille.
- Wipe the outside of the air purifier with a dry or slightly damp microfiber cleaning cloth.
Be sure to clean your air filters every three months or when they become visibly dirty. To help, set a reminder with Alexa or Google Assistant. Note that specific cleaning requirements may vary slightly depending on the brand and model of air purifier you purchase. Be sure to check the printed or online user manual that comes with your air purifier to confirm maintenance needs. Regardless, your air purifier will require some maintenance and will likely follow the information listed above.
