That ominous red glow on your Homedics air purifier may spike your blood pressure but take a deep breath and relax. No need to panic – the red light is not a dire warning sign, merely a helpful reminder that your trusty unit needs some simple TLC.
Much like a car’s “check engine” symbol, the red indicator is the Homedics appliance’s way of letting you know its hard-working filter has become dirty or clogged and could use some cleansing or replacing.
In this straightforward guide, we will demystify that cryptic crimson beacon and walk through exactly when and how to refresh the filter to guarantee optimal performance.
What Does Red Light Mean Homedics Air Purifier?
So, what’s the red light anyway? The red light on your Homedics air purifier is a warning indicator that something is wrong with your air purifier.
Different models of the Homedics air purifier might have different meanings for the red light. But in general, the red light could mean that it’s time to change the filter, the air quality of the space around it is poor, or the device is malfunctioning or faulty.
Some Homedics air purifier models come with additional features, such as a UV-C light and fan speed settings, that can trigger the red light. For example, some Homedics models come with a UV-C light that kills bacteria, viruses, and mold spores.
You might be wondering how the light kills the germs. The light from the UV-C bulb creates a short-wave ultraviolet light that has the ability to inactivate airborne pathogens and microorganisms that might be in the air (unseen by the naked eye).
For those models, the red light could also mean that the UV-C bulb needs to be replaced. The UV-C bulb was designed to last for 10000 hours of use – so if you have used the UV-C light for more than 417 days (13 months), then replacing the bulb should fix the red light.
There are also models that come with a filter reset feature. This feature allows users to reset the filter indicator light after changing the filter. For these models, the red light could mean that the reset process failed.
Regardless of the Homedics air purifier model you use, it’s important to always read the user manual that came with the unit. The user manual can help you understand the true meaning behind the red light for your model.
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Causes and Solutions for Red Blinking Light on Homedics Air Purifier
As mentioned in the previous heading, the red light can be caused by several factors. In this section, we’ll look at the causes in more detail. By addressing these issues, you can ensure that your air purifier operates at its best performance.
Here are some of the most common causes of the Homedics air purifier red light:
1. Expired Filter
The major reason for the red light appearing on your device is the need for a genuine Homedics replacement filter.
The filter in your air purifier plays a very important role in capturing airborne particles, including pollutants, gases, pollen, dust mites, and other allergens, with sizes as small as a few microns. But overtime, the filter can become clogged with particles which, in turn, reduces its air purification efficiency.
Homedics air purifiers usually come with filter replacement indicators that signal you when it’s time to change the filter which takes out the guesswork.
The air filters on your device were made to last for 3-6 months depending on factors like the type of filter (HEPA-Type filter, True HEPA filter, or activated carbon filter), how often it’s used, and of course the quality of air in your room. This means that, if you live in a dusty area or have pets, then you may have to change the filter more frequently.
So, in most cases, if you are seeing the red light – depending on your model, the light may stay on continuously or flash intermittently – it’s probably time for you to change your filter.
How to Replace the Filter in Homedics Air Purifier
Replacing the filter in a Homedics air purifier is super easy and should only take you a couple of minutes. Just follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Turn off your unit
Before you open it up, be sure to flip the switch to turn your unit completely off. Unplug it too just to be safe and place it on a level surface. Let it sit for a few minutes so the inside can cool off – this makes it safer to handle.
Step 2: Locate the Filter Cover
The filter compartment is usually on the back or side of the air purifier. You’ll need to pop off the cover to get to the filter area inside. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to unscrew the screws. Then lift off the panel.
When lifting the panel, make sure that you are careful, so you don’t end up causing damage to any internal component.
Step 3: Remove the Old Filter
Once you have found the filter cover, it’s now time to remove the old filter and install a new one from certified manufacturers to ensure optimal performance.
Some Homedics portable air purifiers come with a removable frame that you may need to lift off in order to gain access to the filter.
Depending on the model of your device, you might find two filters inside – activated carbon pre-filters and true HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters. To proceed you first need to determine which filter requires replacement.
Typically, it is the HEPA filter that needs replacing as the pre filters are reusable. However, if both filters require replacement it is recommended to replace them one at a time.
Once you have identified the filter(s) in need of replacement carefully pull down on each side until it pops out of place from its slots, within the chamber coverings. Take care not to damage any components during this process.
After removing the filter take a moment to clean using a soft damp cloth and sanitize the surrounding area using an air disinfectant wipe or spray. This ensures that all dust and debris are cleared before installing the filter(s).
Note: Never use water, detergents, wax, polish, or any chemical solution to clean the outside of your unit because they can damage your unit.
Shop: Homedics Filters
Step 4: Install the New Filter
Installing the filter is as simple as removing the one.
To install the filter(s) securely place each side of the filter into its housing covers by pressing evenly. Make sure it fits snugly against parts, like the fan or motor.
Also, ensure that the filter edges align perfectly with the frame to create a seal and prevent any leakage into the system.
After you have finished installing the filter, reattach the frame back to its position. If you have diligently followed all the step-by-step instructions provided in this guide congratulations! You have effectively replaced your filter(s).
Step 5: Turn on your unit
The replacement process is not complete if the device is not turned on and reset. To do that, press and hold the power button for several seconds. Doing that will reset the device as it starts up again.
Once it finally boots up, the red light will disappear, and you can now relax knowing that your air purifier is now running smoothly with the fresh filter installed.
2. Burnt Bulb UV-C
If you notice the blinking red light on the control panel, it means that the UV-C bulb, responsible for producing a negative charge to inactivate airborne pathogens, has either burnt or stopped working.
The UV-C bulb was designed to last for 10000 hours and once it expires, it triggers the red light. The red light is your device’s way of telling you that it’s time to change the UV-C bulb.
How to Replace the Homedics Air Purifier UV Bulb
Before doing anything, it’s important for you to proceed with caution by first turning off the purifier and removing the power cord from the electrical outlet. Once you have done that, follow the steps below to change the UV-C bulb in your device:
Step 1: Take off the cover of the UV-C bulb
To start you’ll want to remove the cover of the UV-C bulb. Begin by taking off the HEPA-type filter located on top of it.
Once you’ve completed that grab a Phillips head screwdriver. Use it to unscrew the two screws, in the middle of the panel that hold the UV-C bulb cover in place. Keep these screws safe.
Step 2: Remove the UV-C bulb
Now that you’ve removed the cover you should have a view of the UV-C bulb. To take it out gently. Rotate it from its sides.
Please be cautious when removing the bulb as excessive force might cause it to break. While it is no longer functional, dealing with glass fragments can be unpleasant and potentially painful.
Step 3: Install the new UV-C bulb
After you have taken out the burnt or expired UV-C bulb, it’s now time to replace it with the new bulb.
To install the new bulb, hold it on both ends and push it into the slots. Again, make sure not to use too much force as you might end up breaking a UV-C bulb that’s perfectly fine.
After installing the new bulb, replacing the bulb is next. To securely attach the screws in the center utilize a Phillips head screwdriver. Then insert the HEPA type filter into its designated slot. Lastly, switch on your device.
If the UV-C bulb has been correctly installed and is not defective, you will notice that the red light will disappear.
3. Cleaning Reminder
Dust and mineral buildup can accumulate internally after using the air purifier for a long period of time. The buildup decreases the purifier’s optimal performance.
But it’s difficult to tell when to clean and when not to. Luckily, some Homedics models have a “Clean Filter” red light that reminds you to deep clean the unit when needed.
How to Clean the Homedics Air Purifier Filter
As you are probably aware, one of the causes of the red light is a dirty or expired filter. If your filter is still within its expiration date but dirty, a simple cleaning can help restore its performance and allow for its reuse.
1. To clean a filter, begin by turning off your device and unplugging it from the outlet. Then remove it from its location.
2. Once that is done rotate the latch on top of your unit counterclockwise to loosen it and gain access to the filter. When it becomes loose enough open it up to reach and remove the filter from inside your air purifier.
3. After removing it use the brush attachment of your vacuum cleaner to eliminate any debris or dust, from both sides of the filter.
4. It is recommended to use a vacuum attachment with a suction power not exceeding 1″ water lift as this will help prevent any damage.
5. Once you have finished vacuuming, rinse both sides of the filter thoroughly using warm water until all the dirt has been removed. After cleaning the filter give it sufficient time to dry before reinserting it into the air purifier.
6. Finally, when the clean filter has been properly dried, place it back into the unit. Make sure that each side is facing the airflow direction arrows indicated on the frame. Then securely close the lid, plug the power cord back, into the wall and turn on the air purifier.
Once you’ve cleaned or replaced the filter properly, you’ll notice that the red-light changes to a blue light. That’s how you’ll know you fixed the issue causing the red light to come on.
4. Poor Air Quality
For some Homedics air purifiers, the red light could appear when the air quality in the space around it is poor, particularly if you have carpeting that can trap dust particles and allergens, which can affect not only you but also your beloved small pets.
Poor air quality can be caused by several factors such as high levels of pollution, smoke, pollen, pet dander, household odors, and even VOCs (volatile organic compounds), which may be more prevalent in moist conditions.
In the case of poor air quality, the red light appearing is letting you know that your unit is currently working hard to keep the air fresh and healthy for you and every animal in your home.
5. Misuse of the Air Purifier
If you keep your air purifier running for extended periods at a high speed behind closed windows and doors, you are improperly using the device.
This is a problem for your device since leaving it on for too long in that environment can lead to the device excessively drying the air in the room which can trigger the red light indicator.
Hence, it’s important to always consider the actual conditions of your room and adjust the intensity and duration of the air purifier usage accordingly. In addition to that, it’s also important to maintain moderate ventilation in the room as it helps to prevent the red light.
6. Power Disruption
Electrical outages or loose connections can temporarily disrupt power supply to your Homedics unit. When power is abruptly lost and restored, or if you have a damaged cord, the red light may flash as the purifier reboots and recalibrates itself.
Also, if your Homedics air purifier has a timer function, a power disruption might reset the timer settings and cause the red light to appear. Make sure to check and reconfigure the timer function after a power outage.
7. Malfunctioning Device
Sometimes, it’s not the filter nor the air quality causing the red light on your device. The red light can appear as a result of a faulty or malfunctioning component in your device.
This could be due to a faulty sensor or fan motor – basically, any type of technical issue can trigger the red light. Homedics air purifiers have multiple sensors that monitor air quality, water levels, and more. So if these sensors get dirty or defective, they can incorrectly activate the red light.
If you suspect that your air purifier has a defect causing the red light, it is recommended to refer to the user manual or contact Homedics customer support for further assistance in resolving the issue.
8. System Initialization or Mode Selection
Sometimes, the red light flashing on your device is not a problem or something you should try fixing.
During system initialization or when changing modes, your air purifier may display a flashing red light. Don’t worry, this is normal and is just part of the startup process or mode selection.
However, it can sometimes be difficult to tell them apart (i.e., normal red light or problem red light), hence it’s important to consult your user manual for specific blink patterns or codes associated with initialization or mode changes.
9. Software Glitches
Bugs in the installed firmware can potentially trigger red lights without any actual issues. Updating to the latest software version available from Homedics typically resolves software-linked red-light problems.
Final Thoughts
The red light is not a death knell – it’s simply your unit’s way of signaling that it needs some care and attention. While frustrating, a little maintenance is a small price to pay for years of purified air from your trusty Homedics companion.
With some basic troubleshooting, you can quickly decode the meaning behind the glow, address any malfunction, and get your appliance back up and running optimally (under normal usage conditions).
Remember to look after your air purifier proactively as well. With diligent filter replacements, scheduled cleanings, firmware updates, and periodic resets, you can avoid unnecessary red-light dilemmas in the first place and reduce the presence of common household allergens in your home.
Knowledge is power when it comes to illuminating solutions for your Homedics helper. So next time that menacing red appears, consult our comprehensive guide to efficiently triage issues and breathe easy once again. Your air purifier purchased at Costco deserves some TLC, and you deserve clean, healthy air.
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FAQ
How do you reset the red light on Homedics Air Purifier?
Some Homedics air purifier models come with a filter reset button. Not many people know why it’s there or what it is used for. The filter reset button is used to reset the filter life indicator on the unit. This button is located on the control panel near the power button.
If you use a model with the filter reset button, then you have to reset the filter after installing a new filter. To do this, press and hold the reset button for three seconds. Once you do that, the filter light indicator will reset to 100% and that should take care of the red light you are seeing.
Note: Only use the filter reset button after you have replaced an old filter with a new one. If pressed otherwise, it can give an inaccurate reading of how much life your current filter has.
Adrian is an ISCET licensed professional that has completed the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam and has the expertise to diagnose and repair any appliance. He is well-versed in the latest technologies and techniques and is always up-to-date on the latest industry standards.
