Tips for Changing Air Purifier Filters

Use an air purifier to prevent virus transmission

Currently, air purifiers are starting to be widely used in homes and public places to prevent the transmission of viruses, bacteria and other dangerous pathogens in the air, including COVID-19. Using this air purifier is one of the recommended methods for reducing air pollutant levels in closed rooms without sufficient air circulation.

However, the effectiveness of an air purifier also depends on several factors. These include room size that is appropriate to the capacity and capabilities of the air purifier machine, frequency of use, and the use of filters according to their function which are cleaned and replaced regularly.

Ideally, an air purifier is used at all times to ensure that the air is always clean and that more pathogens are filtered out. The more effectively the air purifier works, the higher the levels of viruses, bacteria, dust, odors and other pathogens that are filtered and stick to the filter. Especially if the air purifier uses a HEPA 13 filter which has an effectiveness of up to 99.98% in filtering very small microorganisms up to 0.3 microns.

Also read: Are air purifiers effective at killing viruses in the air?

If the filter is saturated because it filters out many microorganisms, the air purifier cannot function effectively. Therefore, it is very important to replace the air purifier filter and clean the unit regularly. The recommended frequency of replacing HEPA 13 filters is once every 2 months.

Replace the air purifier filter safely

Replacing the air purifier filter should not be done haphazardly, in fact it is highly recommended that it be done by experts.

Microorganisms filtered through the filter may survive for a while before finally dying naturally. Therefore, it is very possible that the HEPA 13 filter that will be replaced contains active microorganisms.

Therefore, replacing the HEPA 13 filter must be carried out while wearing complete PPE to avoid contamination due to exposure to microorganisms on the hands or inhalation by the person replacing it.

Rules for disposing of used water purifier filters

Used air purifier filters are hazardous waste and must be handled with care and following applicable environmental health regulations. The following are the rules for disposing of used air purifier filters that hygiene experts from Calmic recommend:

• The air purifier filter that will be replaced must be tightly wrapped and sealed so that it cannot easily open in the disposal area.

• Disposal of used filters must also be handled and carried out in a special place or by a hazardous waste management company.

Failure to replace filters and improper handling of used air purifier filters will reduce the effectiveness of using the air purifier and pose health risks.

Therefore, make sure you have consulted about the needs and use of the air purifier before using it.