As we embrace the first signs of spring, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of warmer days and longer nights. But before opening the windows to let in that fresh air, have you checked your portable air purifier? With the season change, it’s a great time to ensure your device's filters are still doing their job. A quick check now can make a big difference to your home’s air quality.
Why spring? why now?
During spring allergens come out to play. Pollen from trees, grasses, and flowers fill the air, and with it, a host of particles that can affect your health. We often think of air pollution as an outdoor problem, but the air inside our homes and workplaces can be just as polluted. Smoke, vapours, mould, and chemicals from paints or cleaning products can all negatively impact indoor air quality.
Homes and workplaces are where we spend the majority of our time, and when indoor air quality drops, so can our health. Indoor pollutants are on the rise, driven by factors like chemicals in home products and poor ventilation. That’s why it’s so important to ensure your air filter is up to the task.
Over the winter, your portable air purifier has worked hard to capture dust, dander, and other pollutants. As spring brings a sudden increase in pollen and other allergens, your device's filters might be overwhelmed. Now’s the time to check it and ensure it’s still protecting your indoor air.
Health risks of neglecting your air purifier's filters
Indoor air quality is a global issue, and neglecting your device's filters can expose you to pollutants that may affect your well-being. Poorly maintained air purifiers can allow harmful particles to circulate in your home, which can trigger respiratory issues and other health problems. Both short- and long-term exposure to indoor air pollution can contribute to a range of health issues, including respiratory diseases, heart disease, cognitive deficits, and even cancer. The World Health Organization estimates that 3.8 million people worldwide die each year from illnesses related to harmful indoor air from sources like dirty cookstoves and fuel.
Certain groups, such as children, older adults, individuals with pre-existing conditions, and those living in lower socioeconomic households, are often more vulnerable to these risks. By maintaining your device and its filters, you're not just improving the air quality in your home—you're protecting your health and the health of those most at risk.
Maintenance: cleaning vs. swapping your air purifier's filter
Maintaining your air purifier's filters doesn’t always mean replacing it. Regular cleaning can extend the life of the filters and keep your system working efficiently. Most brands recommend cleaning the pre-filter every month. This thin, black, flexible filter captures larger particles like hair and dust, preventing them from clogging up the carbon filter. Simply vacuum the pre-filter gently to maintain airflow and ensure it’s doing its job.
HEPA filters generally need to be replaced rather than cleaned, and the frequency depends on usage and air quality.
When to swap your air purifier's filter(s)?
After several months of use, even the best filters can become saturated and less effective at trapping particles. If cleaning isn’t enough to restore your filter’s performance, it might be time for a replacement. Factors to consider include:
- Filter type: HEPA filters generally need replacing every 6 to 12 months, while carbon filters may need swapping more frequently.
- Usage: if you've been using your portable air filter more frequently during the colder months, it may need replacing sooner.
- Environmental factors: if you live in an area with high pollution or heavy pollen, your filter may need to be swapped more often.
Quality filters are designed to handle heavy loads and provide long-lasting performance, ensuring the most effective filtration for your indoor air.
What happens if you don’t maintain your air purifier's filters?
Skipping filter maintenance can have negative effects on both your health and the performance of your device. Here’s what can happen:
1. Poor filter efficiency
If your device's filter is clogged or overworked, it will no longer perform at its best. Air filters need to maintain consistent airflow to work efficiently, and a clogged filter restricts airflow, causing your air filter to work harder. Restricted airflow can lead to decreased efficiency, meaning your device has to use more power to do the same job.
2. Health problems
Dirty filters can allow allergens, dust, and other harmful particles to circulate in your home. Common indoor allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and even cockroaches can contribute to poor air quality and trigger asthma or allergies.
How to maintain your device's filters for optimal performance
1. Inspect regularly
It’s a good habit to check your device's filters every 1-3 months. Even if they don’t look dirty, they may still be clogged with particles. If they appear clogged or discoloured, it’s time to replace them.
2. Check your airflow
When filters become clogged, they can restrict airflow. Reduced airflow means your device has to work harder, which not only reduces its effectiveness but can also cause it to wear out faster.
3. Clean or replace
Some portable air purifier come with washable filters that can be cleaned and reused. If your filter is not washable, replacing it is the best option to ensure effective filtration.
4. Invest in high-quality filters
Choosing a reliable, high-quality air purifier and filters ensures that your system operates efficiently, maintaining consistent airflow and keeping your home’s air clean. Quality filters are designed to last longer and perform more effectively, regardless of the season, offering dependable filtration throughout the year.
Maintaining your portable device's filters in spring might seem like a small task, but it can have a big impact on both the air quality in your home and the efficiency of your air purifier. By cleaning or replacing your filter when needed, you’ll ensure the air you breathe is cleaner, your device runs smoothly, and your energy consumption stays low.
So, before you enjoy the fresh spring air, make sure your device is ready. A well-maintained air purifier can help you breathe easier and maintain a healthier home environment.
