How to Change the Filter in Your Air Purifier for Allergies: A Comprehensive Guide

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has conducted studies that demonstrate that air purifiers, portable air filters, and disinfectants can help improve cardiovascular and respiratory health by reducing indoor pollutants. Some models come with indicators that alert you when it's time to clean, vacuum, or replace the filter. Generally, a HEPA filter needs to be changed annually, pre-filters last for 30 days, and carbon filters can last from three to six months. Permanent filters should be cleaned every three months and replaced when damaged.

If you're looking for the best air purifier for your room, our guide will help you save time and effort. Most air purifier filter replacement programs have a cycle of between three and 12 months. We conducted our first series of tests using authentic 12-month HEPA filters from a widely used Winix 5500-2 air purifier. If you have allergy sufferers or people with asthma in your home, they may be more sensitive to airborne particles such as dust mites and pollen. It is important to check the filter at least once a month.

Ultimately, the decision on how often to check, clean, or replace your air purifier's filter is up to you. We tested if there were ways to reduce costs while still maintaining clean indoor air that was free of odors and alleviated allergies. That's why all Hunter air purifiers have a filter replacement indicator built into the control panel so you can tell if the filters are dirty. UV air purifiers, ionic air purifiers, and ozone generators do not need filters, although there are hybrid devices that contain several air purification technologies. This metric will vary depending on the make and model of the air purifier and how much it has been used.

All HEPA-based air purifiers, activated carbon air purifiers, and electrostatic air purifiers will need filters. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to make your air purifier work as efficiently as possible. You should also take into account how much an air purifier costs; the more expensive the unit, the more often you'll need to replace the filter quickly. Pollen grains are relatively large, so if you have seasonal allergies, a cheaper filter might work well for you. Pre-filters are key to separating good air purifiers from great ones. While dirt may be something you want to avoid, it is actually a good sign because it means that your air purifier is working as it should.

In addition to regular filter maintenance, you can extend the life of an air purifier by cleaning its exterior once a month and refraining from running it at full speed for extended periods.