Cleaning Your Air Purifier: A Vital Task for Health and Longevity

Updated On: May 5, 2023

In the quest for a healthy living environment, air purifiers stand as stalwart defenders, battling allergens, pollutants, and particles to maintain our well-being. Yet, even these guardians of clean air need their own maintenance to function optimally.

Understanding the nuances of cleaning each type of air purifier ensures their continued effectiveness and longevity. Let us delve into the steps to clean every kind of air purifier, for a home imbued with freshness and purity.

Step 1: Get Prepared

Before embarking on the cleansing journey, gather the necessary tools:

A soft brush for gentle dust removal
A soft cloth, preferably microfiber, for surface cleaning
A vacuum with a soft brush attachment for deep cleaning
Alcohol cotton swabs (if applicable to your purifier's dust sensor)
Alcohol wipes to clean tempered glass screens
Lukewarm water and mild detergent for washable filters

Keep the owner’s manual with you.

Step 2: Remove the Filters

Begin the cleaning process by powering off your air purifier and unplugging it from the outlet. Proceed to remove all filters and detachable parts following the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring a thorough cleansing process.

Step 3: Clean the Filters

Step 3.1: Cleaning the Pre-filter

For washable pre-filters, employ mild detergent and lukewarm water for cleaning. Rinse thoroughly and air-dry before reassembly.

Clean the pre-filter every two to four weeks or as required.

Step 3.2: Cleaning the HEPA Filter

HEPA filters typically need replacement rather than cleaning, except for specific models with washable variants. If your HEPA filter is not washable, gently clean the outer surface with a soft brush or vacuum hose.

Clean the HEPA filter once a month and replace it as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 3.3: Cleaning the Activated Carbon Filter

Most activated carbon filters are not washable and require replacement. However, some models like Winix have reusable carbon filters that can be lightly rinsed with room temperature water.

Step 3.4: Rechargeable Carbon Filters:

Place activated carbon filters in sunlight for 60 minutes every two months to reactivate and maintain their efficiency.

Step 3.5: Cleaning Permanent Washable Filters

To clean these filters:

If your purifier features permanent washable filters, soak them in lukewarm water with mild detergent for about 3 minutes, gently swishing them to remove trapped dirt.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, including how long the filter can be left in the water.

Step 4: Clean the Exterior of the Air Purifier

Step 4.1: Exterior Wiping:

The outer body of the air purifier deserves attention too:

Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the exterior of the purifier. You can use a damp cloth, but be cautious not to let any water seep into the machine.

Step 4.2: Vacuum the Grill:

Vacuum the air inlet and outlet grills to eliminate accumulated dust and debris. Check for any obstructions that may hinder airflow.

Step 4.3: Clean the Dust Sensor

For air purifiers equipped with dust sensors, proper cleaning is essential to maintain accurate air quality detection:

– Gentle Cleaning:
Employ a cotton swab or soft brush to clean the sensor. You can also use a wet cloth or alcohol swabs.
– Vacuum Dust Grill:
Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove dust from the sensor grill.

Step 5: Reassemble Your Air Purifier

With all components cleaned and dry, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to reassemble the air purifier correctly. Once reassembled, plug it back in and power it on.

Conclusion: A Clean Purifier for a Healthier Home

Regularly cleaning your air purifier ensures optimal performance and longevity. The meticulous care bestowed upon these machines will reward you with an environment teeming with fresh, purified air.

By adhering to the steps outlined here, your air purifier will continue to serve as a reliable defender of your health, battling pollutants and allergens to create an oasis of purity within your home. So, take charge of your air purifier’s well-being, and it shall repay you with cleaner, safer air for years to come.

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