Air purifier filters have the capability to remove harmful contaminants from your living environment and workspace. They trap 99.97% of dust, pollen, and allergens from the air. They also capture microscopic particles to help make your airspace cleaner and healthier.

Change your air purifier filter every 6 to 12 months for the best filtration results. To properly absorb odors, activated carbon air purifier replacement filters may need to be changed every 3 to 6 months. 

Some air purifiers have an indicator light that will illuminate when it needs to be changed, or you can check it for dust buildup to determine if you need to replace the filter sooner than expected.

If you don't replace your air purifier filter, over time it will become less efficient, and allow allergens, dust, and pollutants to affect your air, and potentially could cause respiratory issues or trigger allergy symptoms. A filter that is clogged might also strain the system’s motor, reducing airflow and shortening its lifespan. Check your air purifier regularly for dust and debris to ensure it works properly.

To pick the right air purifier replacement filters, identify your air purifier model and determine your air quality needs. Manufacturers design most air purifiers to work with a specific type of filter, so it’s a good idea to check your air purifier manual for the correct size and type. Some purifier models combine multiple technologies to filter and clean the air more effectively. If you have pets in the home or are sensitive to allergens or smoke, special air purifier filters exist to reduce these pollutants in your airspace. Adding pre-filters and replacing your filter regularly ensures you’ll have healthier air circulating in your home, may keep your purifier working at peak performance levels, as well as extend its life.

If you want to lengthen the life of your air purifier filter, proper care and regular maintenance are required. The pre-filter should be cleaned to prevent large particles from clogging up the main filter. The filter may have less buildup and last longer if you ensure your home or workspace is regularly vacuumed and dusted. Run the purifier on a lower setting when air quality is stable to reduce strain. Strategically place it in an open area to encourage better air circulation. Close open windows or doors to limit exposure to outdoor pollutants. Inspect the filter periodically for dust, so it performs correctly before you need to replace it.

Air purifiers use different filters to trap airborne pollutants. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right type.

• HEPA air filters: Improve air quality by trapping 99.97% of particles as small as 0.03 microns, including pollen, pet dander, and dust, and are Ideal for allergy sufferers.
• Activated Carbon Filters: Absorb odors, chemical pollutants, and smoke, and can be used with HEPA filters to increase filtration.
• Pre-Filters: Capture large particles before they reach the main filter, extending the life of HEPA and carbon filters.
• UV Filters: Destroy bacteria, viruses, and mold spores by using ultraviolet light. Sometimes used with HEPA filters for added sanitation.
• Ionic Filters: Release negatively charged ions while bonding with airborne particles, so they won’t circulate. Some ionic filters may cause the purifier to generate ozone as a byproduct. 
• Electrostatic Filters: Trap pollutants on charged plates by using static electricity, reducing airborne pollutants without needing to be replaced frequently. 
• Washable or Permanent Filters: Can be cleaned and reused, more cost-effective than disposable filters.
  

Your air purifier filter may need to be replaced if it's showing signs like a dark filter, reduced airflow, or dust or odors circulating in your living area. If you hear odd noises coming from your air purifier, it may be clogged or not filtering properly. If you or a family member has experienced an increase in allergy symptoms, your air purifier filter may be blocked with debris and won't adequately trap allergens. If this is happening, it might need to be replaced. 

Certain air purifier filters can be washed or reused, while others require replacement. Washable filters can be cleaned with water, but disposable HEPA and carbon filters degrade over time and need to be regularly replaced. Follow the maintenance recommendations in your purifier’s manual to prevent any damage from occurring.

Not all types of air purifiers can use a HEPA filter, but they are the most productive way to achieve superior filtration. If you use a type of HEPA air filter that isn’t compatible with your air purifier, it may not fit properly and can allow unfiltered air to circulate and make the air purifier less effective. Using incompatible replacement air purifier filters might make your purifier work harder, while straining or damaging its motor. Check the manual for your specific purifier to ensure you're using the correct one. 

If you vacuum an air purifier filter, it might remove some surface dust, but not adequately enough to ensure it fully cleans the air. Vacuuming it isn't the best solution when it's dirty. HEPA filters have fine, deep fibers that trap microscopic particles, and a vacuum may not clean them sufficiently. The vacuum cleaner might have excessive suction that could potentially damage the fibers. If your air filter is dirty, experts recommend following the manufacturer’s instructions and using proper maintenance procedures or replacing it instead of vacuuming it to ensure it continues to work effectively. If your purifier uses a washable filter, a better approach might be to rinse it with water if the manufacturer lists this as an option.