Are you wondering if you can clean your IQAir filters? The answer is yes, but it depends on your filter type.
While most pre-filters are washable, permanent HEPA filters are not washable.
Additionally, the more polluted or dusty your environment is, the quicker your filter will get jam-packed with dirt.
As a result, this warrants checking your filter occasionally and cleaning it more regularly if required. Read on to learn more.
Can IQAir Filters Be Cleaned?
IQAir filters can be cleaned, but the cleaning method depends on whether they are washable or non-washable.
Washable filters, such as pre-filters, can be rinsed using mild pressure to avoid damage.
On the other hand, permanent HEPA filters, which are non-washable, should not be washed but can be vacuumed when they accumulate debris.
Your product manual should clearly state whether the filter is washable or vacuum-only.
While cleaning your filter can help extend its lifespan, it's important to note that it's not a permanent solution. Over time, the filter will still need to be replaced.
Want to compare with other products? Dive deep into our IQAir vs. Molekule Comparison.
It's also important to note that the filter lifespan may vary depending on factors such as air quality and usage patterns.
The filters may require frequent replacement in areas with high pollution levels or regular use.
How To Clean An IQAir Filter
Cleaning your IQAir filter is a straightforward process. Here are the steps to clean an IQAir filter effectively:
Step 1: Identify Filter Type
Check your product manual to determine if your IQAir filter is washable or only for vacuum cleaning.
Step 2: Cleaning Washable Filters
Remove washable filters from the air purifier, tap them over a wastebasket to loosen clumped grime and excess dust particles, and rinse under a running tap with low to moderate pressure.
Use lukewarm or cold water as per the manufacturer's instructions.
Step 3: Vacuuming Non-Washable Filters
If your filter is not washable, you can still clean it using a vacuum cleaner.
Use a soft brush attachment to remove any dust or debris from the filter gently. Be careful not to damage the filter during cleaning.
It's important to note that you should never use compressed air or a high-pressure water stream. This can damage the filter and reduce its effectiveness.
Step 4: Air-Drying
Allow the filter to air-dry completely before reinstalling it. A minimum of 24 hours is recommended for air-drying a washable filter after shaking off excess water.
Step 5: Reinstalling
Once dried, reinstall the filter into the air purifier, ensuring it sits correctly in its housing.
Step 6: Resetting Filter Life
Finally, reset the filter life on your air purifier's control panel to keep track of when the next replacement is due.
Considerations When Cleaning An IQAir Filter
When cleaning an IQAir filter, several considerations need to be made to ensure the maintenance doesn't adversely affect the purifier's functionality or longevity:
- Know whether your filter is washable or non-washable. As explained, pre-filters are typically washable, while HyperHEPA filters are not.
- Regular inspection for debris accumulation is crucial. Clean washable filters every 2-3 months or when visibly dirty.
- Always adhere to the guidelines provided in the manual or the manufacturer's website regarding cleaning and maintenance.
- Regardless of cleaning, replace filters per the manufacturer's recommended schedule to maintain optimal performance.
- Monitor your air purifier's performance. Decreased efficiency may indicate a need for cleaning or replacement.
Can You Wash IQAir Filters?
The answer is yes, but only if you have the washable pre-filter. On the other hand, the HEPA filter is not washable and must be replaced.
It's important to note that washing the pre-filter is not a substitute for replacing it.
Washing will only remove larger particles, and over time, the filter will become clogged with smaller particles that cannot be removed through washing.
Why Shouldn’t You Wash IQAir HyperHepa Filters?
Washing IQAir HyperHEPA filters is strongly discouraged due to several critical reasons.
These filters are designed to capture ultrafine particles with exceptional efficiency, including those as small as 0.003 microns, at a remarkable 99.5% efficiency rate.
Their efficiency relies on a delicate and intricate fine fiber structure that creates a dense filtration matrix.
Washing these filters can damage this structure, potentially leading to tears or another structural compromise.
Moreover, it can develop moisture, which poses a significant risk to HEPA filters. When exposed to water, the filter fibers can swell, obstructing airflow and reducing filtration efficiency.
The result is a filter that can no longer effectively capture pollutants from the air.
How Often Do You Need to Change IQAir Filters?
The need for changing IQAir filters depends on the type of filter and usage.
For instance, the PreMax filter lasts for 18 months, HyperHEPA for four years, and V5-Cell for two years, based on a usage of 10 hours a day.
Need a HyperHEPA replacement? Follow the link below!
See this replace filter on Amazon.
What Is The Cost Of Replacing IQAir Filters?
The average annual cost for replacing IQAir Filters ranges from $130 to $140, considering the air purifier is run 10 hours a day at speed 3.
However, the cost could be lower if you run it less.
Curious about filter costs? Learn more about How Much a HEPA Filter Typically Costs.
How To Change IQAir Filters
Changing your IQAir filters is a simple process that ensures your air purifier continues to work effectively. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Unplug Your Air Purifier
Before you begin, unplug your air purifier to ensure safety during the filter replacement process.
Step 2: Open Locking Arms
Press and gently pull the locking arms outward until they snap into the open position, allowing you access to the filters.
Step 3: Remove Diffuser
Take off the diffuser to reveal the filter frames beneath it.
Step 4: Remove The First Frames And Bottom Frame
Next, remove the two upper frames containing the HEPA and gas filters to simplify access to the pre-filter.
Step 5: Extract The Pre-Filter
Carefully pull out the bottom frame to access and remove the pre-filter when it's visibly covered in dust and particles.
Step 6: Replace The Pre-Filter
Unwrap the new pre-filter and attach one of the pre-filter electrostatic sheets to the Velcro on the box filter.
Insert the pre-filter with the electrostatic sheet side down, ensuring the blue sticker indicating "this way up" is oriented upwards.
Reattach the filter clamps to the sliding grooves and secure them. Then, place the frame back into the housing.
Finally, reattach the diffuser and securely fasten the locking arms by pressing them inward until it clicks.
To replace the HEPA and gas filter, follow a similar procedure.
Wondering about the longevity of filters? Check out our guide on How Long a HEPA Filter Usually Lasts.
Step 8: Reset Filter Life Counter
After replacing the filter, you'll need to reset the filter life counter.
Resetting the filter life counter can be done through the control panel. Begin by pressing the menu button seven times, and then press and hold the enter key until a blinking cursor appears.
Once it does, release the enter key. Next, use the arrow button to choose the pre-filter replacement option, and confirm this selection by pressing the enter button twice.
You'll notice the filter light LED on the control panel transitioning from red to green. That's it. You've completed the steps!
For a visual walkthrough, watch this short YouTube video.
Bottomline: Should You Clean IQAir Filters?
The key takeaway about cleaning IQAir filters is simple: check your manual to know your filter type, and if it's non-washable, you should replace it instead of trying to clean it.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions diligently. In doing so, you'll ensure the longevity and efficiency of your IQAir air purifier, ultimately contributing to a healthier indoor environment.