I’m sure many people have air filters in their homes, but how often do you clean them? The air purifier filter is a critical component of the system and should be checked periodically.
They are designed to capture particles in the home, including pollen, pet dander, smoke, dust mites, and more.
However, they can’t do their job without regular maintenance. That’s why I have developed this detailed guide on how to clean your Dyson air purifier filter step-by-step.
Can You Clean a Dyson Air Purifier Filter?
A Dyson air purifier filter should be cleaned every three months. This, however, varies significantly depending on the type of filter and how often you use your machine.
For example, a HEPA filter needs more frequent cleaning than a standard one because it has an increased capacity for collecting particles in the air.
The frequency of cleaning depends on factors such as how much dust is in your home and how frequently you vacuum it up. If you live in a dusty environment, your filter will need to be cleaned more often than if you live in a very clean environment.
Additionally, if you have allergies or asthma and are concerned about the effect of pollutants on your health, it’s better to clean your filters regularly. In some cases, this can even help reduce the symptoms of these conditions.
How to Clean a Dyson Air Purifier Filter Step by Step
Cleaning a Dyson air filter is not hard at all. You just need to follow these simple steps:
1. Turn off and unplug the appliance
You must turn off and unplug the appliance before taking it apart for maintenance. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for disassembling the unit, which may include screws or clips.
This helps prevent damage that could result from accidental contact with wires, motors, or other parts while you are cleaning. It also keeps you safe from electric shock.
2. Remove the filter
When you have unplugged and turned off your appliance, look at it to find where exactly your filter is located. Now you can take out that filter for cleaning.
Start by vacuuming any dust particles on the surface of the filter. If there are sticky spots on the filter, use an old toothbrush to scrub them away.
After scrubbing, put water into a spray bottle and moisten one side of the filter cloth; then, use another clean cloth to gently scrub away any dirt or dust on that side.
3. Rinse Under Cold Water
Don’t forget that your filter cloth is made of a porous material that can collect dirt and grime. When you are cleaning it, use only cold water because hot water can permanently damage your filter.
Hold one end of your filter under running water and scrub it gently with a brush. Use clean rags or paper towels to absorb excess moisture on your filter.
4. Let The Filter Dry
Don’t put your filter back into your appliance until it completely dries. A wet filter may become mildewed, which would permanently damage your appliance.
Always allow time for drying before putting your filter back in its original position. Otherwise, you might have to repeat this process again sooner than necessary.
5. Clean the attachments
The filter is essential to your air purifier, but you can also clean other parts if needed. Make sure that everything is completely dry before you start cleaning them.
Soak upholstery attachment pieces in warm soapy water to remove residual dirt and odor. Rinse well and let them air dry.
For surfaces, try using ammonia as a cleaner, but be careful when working with strong chemicals like ammonia because they may irritate your skin or lungs.
6. Wipe down the exterior
When you are done cleaning, wipe down all surfaces and attachments. Use a cotton cloth or clean rag for wiping. If you notice any stains on your appliance, try using rubbing alcohol as a cleaner.
Be aware that some cleaners might cause damage if they come into contact with certain materials, so always test them out in an inconspicuous place first.
7. Place the Filter Back Into Position
Once done, ensure your filter is back in its original position and you are ready to plug the appliance back in. Test it out by turning it on, ensuring no strange noises happen. Ensure all parts of your air purifier are completely dry before putting it back together.
How Often to Clean Dyson Air Purifier Filter
A good rule of thumb for cleaning your filter is every two or three months. Some filters can be cleaned more often depending on the type of environment you’re in.
If you have pets, smoke in your home, or have a baby who spits up a lot, it’s best to clean the filter monthly.
A dirty air purifier filter will cause lower quality air and eventually lead to an appliance breakdown. The best way to know when it’s time to clean your filter is if it starts making noise again (similar sound as when turned on) or if it begins blowing dust particles out instead of sucking them up.
How Do I Know When My Dyson Air Filter Needs Cleaning?
There are several signs that indicate when your Dyson air filter needs cleaning. When your air purifier is sucking in more air than blowing out, you know it’s time for a filter change.
If the performance has been consistent and the suction drops, this could also signify that it’s time for a new filter.
A dirty filter will result in decreased airflow because of dirt buildup on the filters, which slows down airflow speed through them. Signs of a clogged filter include little or no airflow, reduced machine power (suction), increased noise level, or an increase in dust particles.
Another sign that your filter may need to be cleaned is if you notice a funny odor from the unit.
How Do I Care For My Dyson Air Purifier?
Caring for your Dyson air purifier will help ensure the product lasts longer and functions more efficiently. Here is how you should care for your air purifier.
1. Regular cleaning
You must clean out your Dyson air purifier every two months. This helps to remove dust, pollen, pet dander, and other contaminants from your home’s air.
2. Give it a check-up
It’s also essential to give your machine a check-up once in a while. Look at all the filters, vents, and other parts of the unit for any problems or issues that may need attention.
If there are any problems with the filters, replace them with new ones as soon as possible. If small particles are in the system, use the hose attachment to clear them out.
3. Keep the area clean
It’s also essential to keep your air purifier area clean. You should wipe down all of its surfaces after every use and vacuum up any messes that may occur around it.
You can also buy a cover for your machine if you don’t want pet dander or dust building up on it while it is in storage between uses.
4. Monitor your filters
You also need to regularly check your air purifier’s filters. If you have a washable pre-filter, wash it with cold water when you clean your machine.
To ensure a longer lifespan for all your filters, replace them on time and ensure they are free from tears or holes. You should replace any worn-out filters immediately.
FAQs
1. Are Dyson air purifier filters reusable?
Dyson air purifier filters are not intended for reuse and should be replaced every 12 months. The filter should be removed from the machine and washed with water, using a dishwashing detergent that does not contain bleach or fabric softener (for best results, use a Dyson filter cleaner).
Rinse thoroughly with clean water, then pat dry with a lint-free cloth before reattaching the filter to the machine. Use a brush if necessary to remove any stubborn debris on the surface of the filter.
The reason for not reusing your Dyson air purifier filters is that they have been designed to work in conjunction with other parts to create the desired filtration process.
When these parts wear out over time, it affects how well the filter captures pollutants, which is why they need to be replaced regularly.
2. Are Dyson air purifier filters washable
No, it is recommended not to wash your Dyson air purifier filter because it will cause them to break down faster and affect their effectiveness.
It is recommended to replace them every 12 months, but you can vacuum the dirt off instead. If you want to wash the filter, it must be done very carefully.
Follow the instructions explained above, and ensure no small bits of food or hair are stuck on the outside of the filter. Be careful when drying the filter, as moisture could damage it.
3. Why does my Dyson Air Purifier smell?
The smell on your Dyson air purifier may be due to the following;
(I) Carbon filter
The carbon filters are meant to absorb unwanted smells from your air, but if they get dirty over time, they will smell bad instead.
If you have recently changed your filter, ensure no debris is stuck on its surface before reattaching it back onto your machine. You may also need to wash and dry it again for it to have a clean scent.
(II) Ozone
The ozone filter creates ozone which destroys bacteria and microbes that might be present in the air.
If the ozone filter gets too hot, it will produce unpleasant odors, which might be detected by people sensitive to such smells.
Ensure your machine is not near anything that could heat up the ozone filter, such as appliances with open flames or a stovetop.
(III) Insufficient ventilation
Your machine’s room must have adequate circulation and fresh air supply. In case of warm weather, ensure that all windows are opened while operating the machine.
Do not keep it running in one room without circulating the air periodically. Maintain an appropriate distance between yourself and the unit during operation.
Therefore, if your air purifier smell, ensure the ventilation is good and replace the filter more often than usual.
(IV) Faulty UV light filter
The smell from your Dyson Air Purifier might also be caused by a faulty UV light filter. This component is designed to destroy microorganisms in the air and prevent molds from growing inside your machine.
Try cleaning the UV light first, removing any visible dust particles. Then test whether it’s still emitting light. If so, you can continue using it; otherwise, purchase a new one.
4. What do you do with old Dyson air filters?
The old Dyson air filters should be disposed of properly by taking them to your local recycling center. This service is provided by many recycling centers, ensuring that the filter is disposed of safely.
Alternatively, you can seal the filter in a plastic bag and place it in your household garbage.
5. Are Dyson air purifiers worth it?
Yes, Dyson air purifiers are worth it! They are expensive at first glance but consider how much you’ll save on electricity bills.
Plus, they use HEPA-grade technology to trap 99% of pollutants from entering your home – making them worth the money spent.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning the Dyson air purifier filter is a straightforward process that takes only a few minutes. You only need a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment and some tissues.
Always turn off the device before performing any maintenance work on it. With these simple steps in mind, you will be able to clean your Dyson air purifier for many years.
Home Air Quality is founded by Bernard K to provide information on Indoor Air Quality in Homes and enlighten people about what they need to know about creating and maintaining a comfortable and healthy home environment.
We believe that “Quality air brings a healthy life.”
