Knowing how to clean your air purifiers at home can actually save you a lot of money in the long term. After all, they don’t come cheap. Over time, air purifiers can become less effective if they are not properly maintained and cleaned. Dust, allergens, and pollutants can accumulate within the unit, hindering its performance. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of cleaning your air purifiers with easy do-it-yourself steps to ensure they continue to provide you with the best air quality possible.
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Is Your Air Purifier Washable Or Non-Washable?
Regular maintenance will lead your air purifier to function at its best. Central to this maintenance is cleaning air filters, which is essential for the efficient operation of your purifier. However, not all air filters are created equal, and their cleaning methods can vary depending on the type of filter. In this section, we’ll explore the crucial distinction between washable and non-washable air purifier filters.
HEPA Filters:
HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are among air purifiers’ most common filter types. They excel at trapping microscopic particles such as dust, pollen, and allergens. When it comes to cleaning your HEPA filter air purifiers, there’s a distinction to be made between washable and non-washable HEPA filters.
Non-Washable HEPA Filters:
Non-Washable HEPA Filters: Most HEPA filters are non-washable and disposable. When they become clogged with particles, their efficiency diminishes, and they need to be replaced. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding the replacement frequency, typically every six to twelve months, to maintain optimal air purification performance. However, sometimes using a vacuum cleaner can also render as effective.
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Washable HEPA Filters:
Some air purifiers feature washable HEPA filters. These filters would just need some rinsing with lukewarm water and mild detergent and then thoroughly dried before reinstalling. Keep in mind that washable HEPA filters are less common and typically found in higher-end air purifiers.
Carbon Filters:
Carbon filters, often used alongside HEPA filters, are designed to adsorb odours, gases, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Unlike HEPA filters, carbon filters are almost always non-washable and non-reusable. Attempting to wash a carbon filter can damage its adsorption properties, rendering it ineffective. As such, carbon filters need to be replaced periodically, typically every three to six months or as specified in your air purifier’s user manual.
Checking Your User Manual
It would be wise to dig in and get the user manual provided by the manufacturer. There, you will find the answers on whether your air purifier filters are washable or non-washable. The user manual contains specific maintenance instructions, including filter cleaning and replacement guidelines. With this information, you will know that you’re following the correct procedures at least.
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How To Clean Your Air Purifiers Yourself?
So now you are aware of your air purifier’s filter type and how you should be treating it. Washable and non-washable filters of air purifiers require different approaches. However, both have the same initial steps that you need to follow.
Step 1: Unplug and Disassemble Air Purifier
- Plug off the Purifier from the electrical outlet. This is to avoid any accidents.
- Disassemble the purifier. Read the user manual carefully on removing the filters so that you don’t damage anything along the way.
Step 2: Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, gather the following supplies:
- A soft, lint-free cloth
- Mild dish soap
- Warm water (not too hot)
- A vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment
Replacement filters (if applicable)
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Next Step For Cleaning Washable Filter:
Clean The Exterior Of The Air Purifier
- Damp a soft cloth in warm, soapy water to wipe down the exterior of the air purifier.
- Wipe off the dirt from the surface. You can try using a mild cleaning solution if the spots are stubborn.
Clean The Air Filters:
- Use a cloth to gently scrub the air filter so that you can remove trapped particles and gunk. Be careful not to apply excessive pressure, which can damage the filter.
- For stubborn stains or odours, you can soak the filter in a mild detergent or soap water for around ten minutes to help break down dirt. Rinse thoroughly after cleaning.
Drying and Reassembly
- Allow the washed filter to air-dry completely before reassembling it into the air purifier. You can blow dry it with a vacuum cleaner in low power. Ensure it is entirely dry to prevent mould or bacterial growth.
- Reassemble the air purifier following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Plug in the purifier and resume normal operation.
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Next Steps For Non-Washable Filters:
- Insert the fresh filter in your air purifier. You can easily get them online or from your local market. Do ensure which type you need to go for.
- Remove all the dust from the exterior components using a dry cloth or vacuum cleaner.
- Reassemble the air purifier components as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Plug the purifier back into the electrical outlet and check its operation.
You may wanna try using your same old filter by simply dusting it instead of a new one, but this may affect the life span of the air purifier. This is because if your filter cannot get wet, it means it is disposable. Putting it back after cleaning might increase efficiency in the short term, but it ends up putting more strain on the motor, resulting in slow damage.
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How Often Do You Need To Clean Your Air Purifiers?
To maintain your air purifier’s performance, make cleaning a part of your routine. Depending on the air quality in your home and the manufacturer’s recommendations, clean or replace the filters as needed, and perform a light cleaning of the exterior and interior at least once a month.
Also Read: Air Purifier Buying Guide
In A Nutshell
In the quest for cleaner, healthier indoor air, one of the most critical steps you can take is learning how to clean your air purifiers properly. It’s the key to ensuring they perform at their best, day in and day out. By following these simple DIY steps, you’ll be on your way to enjoying the benefits of a close-to-new air purifier that is ready to give its best performance.
Remember, maintaining your air purifier isn’t just about your device; it’s about the well-being of you and your loved ones. The air we breathe impacts our health, and a well-maintained air purifier is crucial in providing us with clean, fresh air. Regular maintenance is a small effort that yields significant rewards. So, make it a routine, keep your air purifier in peak condition, and savour the benefits of cleaner, healthier indoor air.
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