Replacing a pre-filter helps to reduce the indoor allergens and keeps the unit in good working condition. Once you have the unit in place, or at least every 3 months, you will need to replace the pre-filter. Don’t be surprised at how dirty the pre-filter is the first time you change it. Once you clean it you may consider purchasing more air filters for other rooms in your home. If you don’t currently own a single room air filter seeing the pre-filter may persuade you to buy one. The Single Room Honeywell filter can be purchased at Walmart, Target, and Meijer for around $100. It is amazing how much dust, pet and human dander, pollen, and other pollutants are in the air. When changing the filter take the unit outside or in a garage to prevent recontamination of the air in your home.

Changing a Pre-Filter

The Honeywell single room air filter is easy to clean. Many units have indicators for filter changes. Use the following  step-by-step process for changing the pre-filter and cleaning the unit when the pre-filter light comes on.

Step 1: Take your Honeywell filter outside.

Step 2: Place the unit on its side with the knob facing up.

Step 3: Unscrew the knob and remove.

Step 4: Remove the unit cover to expose the HEPA filter and pre-filter.

Step 5: Carefully remove the filters from the unit.

NOTE: If you have allergies then you may want to wear a face mask during this process. Removing the filter carefully will help to reduce the amount of dust released back into the air.

Step 6: Remove the pre-filter by releasing the Velcro tabs.

NOTE: Keep the Velcro tabs for later use with the replacement pre-filters.

Step 7: Dispose of the pre-filter in the trash. You can wrap it in a plastic bag or simply place it in the garbage can.

Step 8: Clean the casing of the filter using a vacuum with a HEPA filter such as a Dyson brand vacuum. Vacuum all vents and the HEPA filter unit.

Step 9: Open the pre-filter box and remove the filter from the packaging.

NOTE: The Honeywell pre-filters are universal. The filter is one large sheet that needs to be cut to size to fit this model.

Step 10: Measure and cut the proper width of the filter or use the template provided with the replacement.

Step 11: Measure and cut the proper length of the filter.

NOTE: Wrap the unused portion of the filter and store in a dry location to use for the next cleaning. Save the Velcro tabs to use two shorter pieces of pre-filter to wrap around the unit.

Step 12: Roll the pre-filter around the HEPA filter.

Step 13: Secure the pre-filter in place using the Velcro tabs.

Step 14: Insert the HEPA filter with the pre-filter back into the unit.

Step 15: Replace the cover.

Step 16: Secure the cover using the knob.

Step 17: Set the unit upright and plug it in.

Step 18: Turn the unit on high.

NOTE: The pre-filter light is still on after you change the filter. You will need to reset the filter light by pressing and holding the button until the light turns off.

Using home air filters can greatly reduce the amount of allergens in your home. You may notice the difference immediately especially if you sleep with a filter in your room. Purchasing a filter for each room may not be necessary, but can help to improve the air quality in your home.