HEPA filters are designed to remove 99.97% of particles in the air, such as dust, pollen, and pet dander. These particles are trapped by electrostatic attraction or mechanical action in HEPA filters. Dust particles may clog the filter over time.
People don’t know when to replace their HEPA filters because the manufacturer doesn’t inform them, or it’s hard to find the information online. This may result in a buildup of dust and allergens over time.
But how often to change HEPA filter in air purifier? An air purifier’s HEPA filter’s lifespan depends on many aspects, from the type of purifier to air quality. Experts agree that changing the filter every six months to a year is the best approach.
In the following article, we will explain how this might happen in detail, including what factors can contribute to clogged filters system and some suggestions to keep them free of debris.
Importance of Changing Your Air Purifier Filters
Air purifiers are necessary for anyone who wants to breathe clean air, especially if you have allergies or asthma. But even the best purifier won’t work its best unless the filters are regularly changed.
Clogged and dirty HEPA filtration systems will reduce the ability to clean the air, which can lead to several health problems, including:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Sinus problems
- Respiratory infections
In order to keep your family healthy and safe, it’s essential to change your purifier’s filters regularly, according to the manufacturer’s instructions (if provided).
How Often to Change HEPA Filter in Air Purifier?
In your home, HEPA filters trap particles like pollen, dust, and smoke in order to clean the air. These filters can remove contaminants up to 99.97% of airborne particles, making your air much cleaner.
But over time, that Hepa filter will start to become clogged up. You’ll want to change your HEPA filter regularly so it can continue doing its job correctly.
According to experts, these air filters need to be replaced every 6 to 12 months, depending on the type of filter and how often it’s used. Please check the manufacturer’s website or the packaging of your HEPA filter for specific instructions before replacing it.
Some purifiers come with a built-in timer that will let you know when to replace the HEPA filter. Others have filter change indicator lights that will turn on when it’s time to change the filter.
If your purifier doesn’t have one of these features, you can always check the filter itself. If it looks dirty or clogged, it’s time for a replacement. Regularly changing your HEPA filter is vital in keeping your air clean and healthy.
Most purifiers come with a recommended schedule from manufacturers for when you should replace their filters. If you’re not sure when to replace your filter, or if it’s been more than a year since your last chance, check the air purifier filter itself.
Factors that Lead to Clogged HEPA Air Filters
Although a HEPA filter’s ability to clean the air diminishes, other factors can lead to a clogged filter. These include:
Poor Quality Filters:
Most air purifiers come with cheap filters that don’t perform an excellent trapping particle. Over time, these filters will become clogged and need to be replaced more often. Ensure you purchase a quality purifier with high-quality HEPA filtration systems.
A High Volume of Airflow:
If your air cleaner is constantly running and dealing with a high airflow volume, it will become clogged more quickly. Try to run your purifier only when you need it, and make sure the room is completely sealed off when it’s running.
Debris Buildup:
If you don’t clean your purifier regularly, fine particles and other debris will accumulate and clog the filters. Depending on how much you use your purifier, you should clean it every six to twelve months.
Poor Ventilation:
Poor ventilation can also lead to a build-up of particles and cause the filters to become clogged. Make sure your home is well-ventilated and that you’re not running your purifier in a room that doesn’t have good circulation.
Dirty Environment:
Your replacement filters will likely become clogged more quickly if you live in a dusty environment. Moreover, if you have pets, their hair will also accumulate on the filter. Make sure to keep your home clean and free of dust and pet hair.
Hours Used in a Day:
The more hours you use your air purifier in a day, the quicker the filters will become clogged. Try to use your purifier only when you need it.
Indoor Air Pollution Sources:
Other factors leading to clogged filters are indoor air pollution sources like smoke, pet dander, and chemical fumes. Try to limit your exposure to these pollutants as much as possible.
When changing your purifier’s HEPA permanent filters, it’s essential to be vigilant and do it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You’ll ensure that your air purifier is always working at its maximum capacity and keeping your air clean and healthy.
Tips for Maintaining Your Air Purifiers
In addition to regularly changing your air purifier’s HEPA filters, there are other ways you can keep them maintained:
- Remove the Filters and Wash Them: If the filters get too dirty, you can remove them and wash them (if they are washable filters) with hot water and a mild detergent. Allow the filters to dry completely before reinstalling them.
- Vacuum the Exterior of the Air Purifier: If there’s a lot of dirt and debris build-up on the exterior of your air purifier, you can vacuum it with a soft brush attachment.
- Keep the Area Around the Air Purifier Clean: Ensure nothing stops the air purifier from getting proper ventilation. Keep the area around it clean and free of dirt, pet hair, and other debris.
By following these tips, you can help keep your air purifiers running smoothly and ensure that your home’s air is always clean and healthy.
FAQs
Let us examine some of the most common questions regarding air purifiers and changing HEPA filters:
01. How Long Does a Hepa Air Filter Last?
The HEPA filter of a vacuum used strictly in the residential setting should last for two to three years before it needs to be replaced.
02. How Do I Know If My HEPA Filter Is Dirty?
The easiest way to tell if your HEPA filter is dirty is to look at it. If it’s covered in dirt and debris, then it’s time for a replacement. A dirty air filter will have accumulations of dirt and debris and will appear black.
03. Are Hepa Filters Effective Against Covid?
HEPA filters are effective against a wide range of airborne particles, including Covid. But cleaning or filtering the air will not be sufficient to prevent COVID-19 transmission.
04. Do Hepa Filters Help With Allergies?
HEPA filters can help reduce allergies by removing allergens such as pollen, dirt mites, and pet dander from the air. They are effective in controlling asthma symptoms as well.
In Conclusion
Regularly changing your air purifier’s HEPA filters is essential for ensuring that your air purifier is always working at its best capacity and keeping your air clean and healthy.
You can maintain your HEPA filters in addition to replacing them regularly: removing the filters and washing them with hot water and mild detergent, vacuuming the exterior of the air purifier, and keeping the area around it clean.
By following these tips from this article on how often to change HEPA filter in air purifier, you can help keep your air purifiers running smoothly and ensure that your home’s air is always clean and healthy.