How to keep your air purifier fighting fit during smog season: A comprehensive maintenance guide

To keep your air purifier effective during smog season, follow this maintenance guide to ensure top performance. Also find our top picks to purchase the best.

Smog is a common sight in North Indian cities like Delhi during the onset of winter every year. This poisonous mix of smoke, fog, and air pollutants, poses serious health risks. Prolonged exposure to smog can lead to respiratory issues, and cardiovascular problems, and worsen conditions like asthma. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions, are particularly at risk. To combat the harmful effects of smog, air purifiers are becoming essential household devices. They help filter out pollutants, allergens, and toxins, ensuring cleaner, healthier air inside our homes.

Regular filter cleaning ensures your air purifier maintains optimal performance.

By Neha Ravi Khandelwal

Neha Ravi Khandelwal
Neha Ravi Khandelwal is a Senior Digital Content Producer, Lifestyle at HT Shop Now, where she specialises in furniture, home, and travel, turning real-world expertise into practical advice that readers can rely on.

Career journey and experience
Neha began freelance writing in 2010 and started her mainstream media journey with the Times of India in 2022, and later joined the Hindustan Times. In the past, she has led interior design projects, interned in visual merchandising at Shoppers Stop and Pantaloons, and managed operations for multiple women-led startups.

To satiate her curiosity, she has completed beginner’s certifications in pottery, scuba diving, baking, creative writing, and more. She takes pride in having read over 2000 books (yes, she did count, and can share a list!) and spent 8 years practising Bharatnatyam and has even ghostwritten a book on Ladakh Tourism.

Subject expertise
With a Master’s in Interior Design and 10 years of building homes, Neha knows space-saving furniture and budget-friendly finds inside out. She instantly visualizes rooms and curates practical, stylish solutions.

In travel, she offers packing guides, luggage tips, and trip advice, all backed by research, expert input from field experts, and hands-on experience.

Education and professional background
Neha holds a Master’s degree in Interior Design and had early stints as a visual merchandising trainee at Shoppers Stop and Pantaloons. These experiences shape every article she writes.

Editorial Philosophy
I write with one single goal: To simplify searching through the abundance of products on the market by finding the right one suited to my readers' needs based on personal experience, user reviews and ratings. When all else fails, Neha speaks to experts who can solve the query.

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To ensure that your air purifier remains effective throughout the smog season, proper maintenance is crucial. This includes regular cleaning, timely filter replacements, and positioning the device in the best location for maximum efficiency. Troubleshooting common issues, like reduced airflow or strange noises, is also necessary to keep your purifier running at its best. In this article, we will explore how to maintain your air purifier, when to replace its filters, how to place it for optimal performance, and how to troubleshoot problems to ensure long-term reliability.

Keep your air purifier pristine: A comprehensive maintenance guide

How to care for an air purifier?

Exterior Care: Dust the outer casing regularly with a soft cloth to prevent dust build-up. Wipe away smudges and fingerprints to maintain its appearance.

Pre-Filter Cleaning: Vacuum the pre-filter to remove dust and debris. For a deeper clean, wash it with mild detergent and warm water. Ensure it's completely dry before reinstalling.

Top picks for air purifier brands in India

What is the maintenance of an air filter in an air purfier?

Understanding Filter Types

HEPA Filters: Highly efficient at trapping microscopic particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander.

Activated Carbon Filters: Excellent for removing odours, smoke, and harmful gases.

UV-C Filters: Eliminate bacteria and viruses through ultraviolet light.

Checking Filter Condition

Regularly inspect filters for dirt, discolouration, or damage. Refer to the user manual or filter life indicator for replacement timing.

Filter Replacement

Follow the manufacturer's instructions to replace filters. Use genuine or compatible filters to maintain optimal performance.

Best Honeywell air purifiers for you:

Where do I place my air purifier?

Room Selection: Place your air purifier in rooms with high pollution levels, such as bedrooms, living rooms, or kitchens.

Ideal Positioning: Avoid placing the purifier against walls or in corners. Position it in a well-ventilated area for efficient airflow.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Excessive Noise: Check for obstructions, reduce fan speed, or consult the user manual for troubleshooting tips.

Weak Airflow: Clean or replace filters, ensure proper power supply, or seek professional service.

Strange Odours: Replace activated carbon filters, clean the interior, or check for mould or bacteria.

Best Philips air purifiers for you:

In conclusion, regular maintenance, proper placement, and timely filter replacement are crucial for optimal air purifier performance, especially during smog-filled seasons. By keeping the exterior clean, regularly cleaning or replacing the pre-filter, and understanding the different filter types, you can ensure your purifier works efficiently. Correct placement in a well-ventilated area maximises its effectiveness in improving indoor air quality. Addressing common issues like excessive noise, weak airflow, or strange odours can prevent disruptions and maintain optimal performance. By taking these proactive steps, you not only extend the life of your air purifier but also protect your health by breathing cleaner, safer air.

How can I make my air purifier last longer?

Maintenance Task	Action	Tips
Regular Cleaning	Dust the exterior regularly.	Wipe away fingerprints and smudges to maintain appearance.
Pre-Filter Cleaning	Vacuum the pre-filter to remove dust. Wash it with mild detergent.	Air dry completely before reinserting to avoid mould growth.
Filter Types	Understand different filters: HEPA, activated carbon, etc.	HEPA filters capture fine particles, carbon filters eliminate odours.
Checking Filter Condition	Visually inspect the filter for dirt or discolouration.	Use filter life indicators, if available, to monitor conditions.
Replacing the Filter	Follow manufacturer instructions to replace filters.	Choose compatible filters and replace as recommended.
Optimal Placement	Place the purifier in rooms with the highest pollution exposure.	Ensure there is proper airflow and avoid walls or corners.
Troubleshooting Noisy Operation	Check for obstructions in intake/outlet.	Adjust fan speed settings if necessary.
Troubleshooting Weak Airflow	Clean or replace filters, check power supply.	Ensure the unit is properly plugged in and functioning.
Troubleshooting Strange Odours	Replace activated carbon filters and clean the unit's interior.	Regularly clean the interior to avoid lingering odours.

More air purfiers for you:

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How to Keep Your Air Purifier Fighting Fit During Smog Season : FAQs

• How often should I clean the pre-filter?

  Clean the pre-filter every two to three weeks to remove accumulated dust and debris.

• When should I replace the main filter?

  Replace the main filter as per the manufacturer’s instructions, usually every 6-12 months, or when the filter life indicator alerts you.

• Where should I place my air purifier?

  Place it in a room with high pollution exposure, away from walls, corners, or obstructions, to ensure proper airflow.

• What should I do if my purifier emits strange odours?

  Check and replace the activated carbon filter if needed, and clean the unit's interior thoroughly to remove odour sources.

• How do I troubleshoot weak airflow?

  Inspect and clean or replace filters, ensure there are no obstructions, and verify the power supply for any issues.

Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, concerning the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.

 

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