How to Clean an Air Purifier (You Really Should)

Air purifiers make your household cleaner and healthier. But it’s easy to let proper, regular air purifier maintenance slip your mind. Sometimes the devices cleaning our homes need a little cleaning themselves!

Regularly cleaning your air purifiers extends their lifespan and maximizes the amount of pollutants and allergens filtered out of your air. Read on and learn how to clean your air purifier.

Can You Wash Air Purifier Filters?

Yes! Air purifiers work most efficiently when their filters aren’t clogged up with old particulates like dust, pollen, or pet dander. Cleaning your air purifier is even more important if you or a family member rely on clean air to control asthma or other respiratory conditions.

Decent air purifiers can be a significant financial investment. Get the most out of your money by cleaning your devices on a monthly basis and, if necessary, replacing their filters annually.

Check your device manual to learn how often the manufacturer recommends cleaning and replacing filters.

Can You Wash a HEPA Filter?

HEPA stands for high-efficiency particulate air. HEPA purifiers work by drawing air through an extremely fine filter that captures everything from mould, dust, and pet dander to bacteria. The more stuff your HEPA filter has captured, the less effective it becomes. That’s why it’s so important to clean your HEPA filter regularly, especially if you suffer from allergies.

Certain types of HEPA filters are “washable” (also called “permanent”). These can be washed under cold water. Always check your device’s manual before attempting to wash your HEPA filter, though, as some types should not be washed with water. If your purifier is not washable, you can still gently vacuum debris off of the filter.

How to Clean an Air Purifier

The exact cleaning process will depend on the type of air purifier you have. Always check your device manual before attempting to clean the purifier. Here are the steps you should follow:

• Wear a protective face mask and gloves. If you suffer from severe allergies, or if your filter is capturing any strong pollutants, protect yourself during the cleaning process.
• Clear anyone with severe allergies out of the room. Some debris might be released during the cleaning process, and you wouldn’t want to trigger a reaction.
• Unplug the unit.
• Wipe down the unit exterior with a clean damp cloth.
• Using a vacuum attachment on a low setting, vacuum the air intake grill.
• Remove interior parts and filters.
• Wash or vacuum interior components including filters. Be extremely gentle. Many filters rely on the integrity of very delicate mesh that could be damaged in the cleaning process.
• Let the filter completely dry before reinstalling. Your air purifier might not work as efficiently when the filter is wet. Additionally, a wet filter might start growing mould. Let your filter dry in a clean part of your home before using it.
• Reinsert the filter.

Choose Aire Serv for all your IAQ Needs

Having an air purifier and keeping it clean is only one part of the battle. The best way to keep your indoor air pollution in check is to learn more about your HVAC systems and the quality of the air in your home. Schedule an IAQ assessment with your local Aire Serv^®. Request an appointment online or call now to get started.