Struggling to maintain your indoor air quality? Its a year-round issue for many, and during the middle of the winter, you want to capture as many airborne particles as possible.
Simply put, a clean air purifier is better for your household. "If an air purifier is not well-maintained, its efficiency and performance can decrease significantly," shared Dr. John McKeon, CEO of Allergy Standards Ltd. "Air filters can become clogged with particles like dust, pet dander, and allergens, reducing airflow and causing the purifier to work harder, which may lead to increased energy consumption and shortened device lifespan."
Poor efficiency is just the start. He adds, "A neglected purifier may also become a source of indoor pollution, as trapped particles could re-enter the air. Depending on the filters used, and factors such as humidity, issues with mold growth could also arise in neglected devices."
If you forget to maintain your air purifier, overworked motors and clogged filters might spell a shorter lifespan. Given that air purifiers are a big investment for many homeowners, keeping them well-maintained can help extend their lifespan.
Can a dirty air purifier filter make indoor allergies worse?
"Yes, a 'dirty' air purifier can negatively impact the indoor environment, by contributing to airborne allergens if it circulates the air but fails to remove particles and allergens as intended," cautions McKeon. "When disposable filters are not replaced or reusable filters cleaned, they can potentially become a breeding ground for mold spores, bacteria, and other allergens. Instead of removing allergens, the purifier may recirculate them into the breathing zone."
Whether you have severe seasonal allergies and suffer from allergic rhinitis, have other health issues, or simply want to live in the most healthy environment, leverage advanced filtration technology throughout your home.
Tips for a Weekly, Monthly, and Quarterly Cleaning Routine
"When initially selecting an air purifier to meet your needs, focus on air cleaning efficiency, room size, filtration system, and third-party certifications," shares McKeon. "Look for models that have been independently tested and certified by reputable third parties like the Asthma & Allergy Friendly® Certification Program. Certified Asthma & Allergy Friendly® Air Purifiers undergo rigorous testing to ensure they sustain performance and remove over 90% of allergens from the air, not just redistribute them.
To maintain good air purification, here’s a suggested maintenance checklist:
Routine Monthly Cleaning
- Inspect the filter for visible debris, clean, or replace if needed.
- Wipe down the exterior with a dry cloth and clean vents with a soft brush to prevent dust buildup. Our air purifiers have removable screens that capture larger particles, and I vacuum these screens gently by hand every month. Some purifiers have washable filters, but be sure to check your model's guidelines for regular maintenance.
- Check for unusual noises or reduced airflow that might indicate issues.
Quarterly Deep Cleaning
- Deep clean the air purifier according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Replace pre-filters or activated carbon filters, if applicable, for optimal performance.
- Keep an eye on the filter maintenance indicator. If you don't clean it quarterly, it'll likely let you know when it's due for a change.
Annual Maintenance
- Replace non-washable HEPA filters (some models recommend that you do this quarterly, not annually).
- Check and clean air quality sensors in models with smart features. Left dirty, it can start to throw bad readings.
- Review the user manual to ensure proper long-term maintenance.
What are the signs that my air purifier might need maintenance sooner than scheduled?
While routine cleaning schedules are helpful, sometimes an air purifier might need attention earlier. Look out for signs like unusual noises, reduced airflow, or a persistent musty smell, which could indicate clogged filters or mold growth.
Also, a sudden drop in air quality—like an increase in dust or allergy symptoms—might mean the purifier isn’t functioning properly. And, for models with a smart air quality indicator, inaccurate readings could point to a dirty sensor.
Are there eco-friendly options for air purifier maintenance?
Quarterly filter replacements can feel wasteful, so we do prefer products that are upkeep more sustainable. If you're feeling the same, choose purifiers with washable or reusable filters to reduce waste. Instead of disposable cleaning wipes, use a damp microfiber cloth to clean the unit’s exterior. If you have a model that requires replacement filters, consider brands that offer recycling programs for used filters. Additionally, energy-efficient purifiers with certifications like ENERGY STAR can help minimize electricity usage.
