Why Does the Air Purifier Not Working?

Do you need clarification on what makes a good air purifier? Do you need help picking the best air cleaner? Perhaps your air purifier is malfunctioning, and you don’t know how to fix it. 

This guide will give you a detailed overview of what you need to do to fix your air purifier so it can start cleaning the air again! 

An air purifier’s job is to purify and clean the air. But if it is not working, the air you breathe becomes dirty. Before you rush out to purchase a new one, troubleshooting tips can save you some money. 

Remember that there are a few reasons an air purifier might stop working. Those are electrical or mechanical faults. The filter needs changing, runs at a too-low setting, is too close to a wall, or needs to be bigger for the room. 

How Do Air Purifiers Work?

To better understand what’s wrong with your air purifier, it will help if you learn how most air purifier work. When we talk about filter-based models, they feature a set of internal fans that draw air in. It runs through the filtering mechanism and spits it into your living space.

On the other hand, ionic purifiers release negatively charged ions into the atmosphere, which bond and weigh down airborne pollutants. Another thing you must keep in mind is the benefits of using an air purifier. 

What are the Common Problems of Air Purifiers 

An air purifier won’t work if it has a loose or damaged fan, an improperly installed filter, a clogged filter, or a frozen motor. Poor maintenance, an old filter, power cord failure, or unresponsive controls can also stop it from running.

You need to reset the device after repairs to guarantee it works properly. 

Problem #1 – Old filter 

Your air purifier might stop working because the old filter needs replacing. 

When we talk about filter replacement, every manufacturer has its guidelines. For instance, GermGuardian and Levoit air purifiers suggest changing the filter after six months.

Other air purifiers have a combination of filters. You should clean it regularly to optimize the home’s air quality. Specific manufacturers insist on utilizing a genuine or specific filter for filtering replacement.

Always read the manual if you’re uncertain when to change the filter. Fortunately, many air purifiers have a filter change indicator light and sound alert to remind you to change them. 

So, how can you determine if the air purifier needs filter replacement? 

1. Pay attention to the filter change indicator reminder.
2. You can consult your user manual to know when to change the filters.
3. Test the air purifier’s airflow by checking if it’s blowing out any air and listening to determine if the fan is noisy. That can mean that the filter requires replacing.
4. When changing the filter, mark it in your calendar and track the time to understand when you should do it again.

How can you change the filter of your air purifier? Follow the steps below.

1. Turn off and unplug the air purifier.
2. Based on your model, remove the cover of the device.
3. Eliminate the old air filter by pulling off the air purifier. 
4. Install the new filter by sticking it into the air purifier.
5. Look at the arrow on the filter to guarantee proper installation. Most filters have arrows or something similar. The arrows must point toward the air purifier.
6. Replace the cover and tighten it. 
7. Rest your filter change indicator.

Problem #2 – You installed a generic filter

A generic or non-filter can easily become the cause of the malfunction of your air purifier. Most manufacturers state that you must only use their brand filter.

Make sure you use the proper filter brand. Utilize the proper type of filter. Installing a carbon filter with a combination filter isn’t a brilliant idea. Make sure you use the proper filter size. It won’t fit into the slot properly if you purchase a too-big filter. But if it’s too small, it won’t cover the entire space, and dirt and dust will pass through. 

To fix this, make sure you:

1. Consult your user manual to ensure the proper filter type is compatible with the air purifier.
2. Check to determine the type of filter you need. Does it need a carbon filter, HEPA, or a combination?
3. Learn the filter’s size to get before purchasing one.
4. Purchase an added filter for future replacement during your purchase. 

Problem #3 – Irregular maintenance

Without proper maintenance, your air purifier won’t function properly for a long time. Regular use of an air purifier without correct care may cause the motor or fan to malfunction.

Also, the air purifier will perform properly and last a long time if you maintain it. If the air purifier is malfunctioning, and you haven’t done your maintenance, it’s time for you to consider one. 

Here’s how you can maintain your air purifier:

1. Check the air filter regularly and replace it when needed. But it will depend on your home’s overall air quality.
2. Listen to the flashes, beeps, and tones of the air purifier. They all mean something.
3. You should reset your air purifier regularly. Reset it after opening it, changing it, or cleaning the filter.
4. When replacing the air filters, ensure you only utilize the suggested tips by the manufacturer.
5. Remove dirt and dust from the carbon filter using a vacuum cleaner.
6. For air purifiers with UV light, check that the UV light on the air purifier is on. That kills disease-causing bacteria, making the air you and your family inhale healthier.
7. Avoid washing and reusing combination filters. Instead, replace them regularly. 

Also, on no account should you use your air purifier outdoors.

Problem #4 – Power cord failure 

One of the common reasons your air purifier may not be running is a power cord failure. No household appliance or device will work if there’s a problem with the power cord. The same applies to air purifiers.

If the power line breaks or there are burnt components, expect it to not work.

If the air purifier suddenly stops running and you clean and replace the filters, reset it after every filter change. Create a regular maintenance plan and check the power cables, as they can be the culprit.

To fix this, do the following:

1. Check your power supply.
2. Plug another appliance into the outlet to determine if it works.
3. Try another outlet.
4. Replace your power cord. 

If you need an efficient and practical power supply for your air purifier, Prowin Power got you covered. 

Problem #5 – Unresponsive controls 

Every air purifier has controls for adjusting the device models. Depending on your model, air purifiers have push buttons or touch controls. Over time, it’s possible that the controls will not respond or that the filter cover isn’t attached properly and stops the controls from running.

That can happen because of a stuck button or the user hits it too hard, causing it to be damaged or jammed. Also, the power supply or filter cover may malfunction if the controls aren’t working, leading the air purifier to stop working. 

Here are some solutions for you:

1. Verify that you turn on the air purifier.
2. Check if the power button is damaged or stuck. 
3. Change the filter cover of your air purifier based on the instruction from your manufacturer.
4. Contact customer service or consult your user manual if you’re having problems finishing the task. 

Problem #6 – Damaged or loose fan 

A damaged or loose fan can be another cause of an air purifier’s malfunction. Have you bumped or dropped your air purifier? Perhaps you used the fan for an extended time. Remember that a fan can become loose, causing the fan’s position to change.

Also, a damaged fan is a typical cause of an air purifier not working, as it won’t function even if it’s only slightly damaged. 

Some of the fixes you can do for your damaged fan:

1. Turn off and unplug the air purifier.
2. Remove the cover and remove the intake grilles with foam pre-filters and the filters.
3. Remove any screws securing the filter housing.
4. Remove the long screws that keep the main housing together and detach the pieces to access the fan.
5. Assess the fan to determine if it’s broken or damaged.
6. If yes, contact your device’s customer care team for a fan replacement. 

For your loose fan, consider doing the following fixes:

1. Turn off and unplug the devices.
2. Dissemble the air purifier by removing its cover.
3. Check the fan for loose screws.
4. Tighten the screws with a screwdriver.
5. Reassemble and change the cover and tighten it.
6. Reset the air purifier when done. 

Problem #7 – Reset needed 

A malfunctioning air purifier may also need some resetting. You should reset your device after a filter change or just after opening the unit. It won’t function until you reset it.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Turn off your device by pressing the power button to reset it.
2. Other air purifiers may have a blinking red light. Once the reset light blinks, your air purifier will begin making noise.
3. If your unit has a HEPA filter, it will display HEPA reset.
4. Press and hold the air purifier’s power button until you see the light stops blinking.
5. It may have a tiny button that you can use as a paper clip to press and hold for three to five seconds.
6. Your filters are not reset. Turn it off and back on. 

Problem #8 – Incorrectly installed filter 

Did you know that an air purifier may produce noises or not work if you do not install the filter correctly? If you hear sudden noises coming from the device, it’s a sign that something is wrong.

Other air purifiers have a red light feature, informing you if the filter is malfunctioning. For instance, if you install the filter backward, the air will have difficulty passing the material. Your air purifier will work overtime to compensate for the lack of airflow, leading to it not working.

Here are some quick fixes for you:

1. Turn off and unplug the device from the power source.
2. Disassemble it by removing the cover and the air filter by drawing it off the air purifier.
3. If the filter has an arrow, you can confirm if it’s not installed correctly by checking the arrow on the filter. Reinstall it properly. The arrows must point toward the air purifier.
4. If it doesn’t have an arrow, consult your manual to determine how to install the filter properly.
5. Change the cover and tighten it up. 
6. Reset it as usual.

Problem #9 – Clogged filter 

A clogged filter is the most typical reason for your air purifier not working. Dust, pet dander, dirt, and other contaminants could clog filters, limiting the device’s efficiency.

You will find different air purifiers, each with its model and set of filters. Nonetheless, some of the commonly used filters are media filters, washable filters, electrostatic filters, UV light filters, carbon filters, and HEPA filters.

Other air purifiers only use one type of filter, while some use a combination. Your air purifier can stop working if those filters are not correctly replaced or cleaned. 

Here’s how to deal with it.

1. Turn off the unit and release it from the power source.
2. Remove the cover and unlock it to access the filter.
3. Detach the pre-filter and check if you need to clean or replace it.
4. Find black spots or any discoloration on the pre-filter and clean it.
5. Change the HEPA filter with a new one if it’s black or grey.
6. Reinstall the pre-filter and tighten the cover.
7. Reset it as usual when done. 

Final Thoughts

Like any equipment or appliance, air purifiers will not last forever. Nonetheless, you don’t like to experience premature failure because the manufacturer poorly manufactured it using cheap parts. Right? 

If you’re looking for a good power supply for your air purifier, Prowin Power comes to the rescue. We are a power supply vendor for air purifiers, and we have a wide array of AC power adapters and power boards for the air purifiers. Contact us today to learn more about power supply solutions!