Resetting an air purifier is a common maintenance procedure that helps resolve operational issues and restore optimal performance. Whether your device is displaying error codes, acting erratically, or simply needs a refresh after filter replacement, knowing the proper reset procedure is essential. Different brands and models have specific reset methods, ranging from simple button combinations to more complex sequences. This comprehensive guide walks through reset procedures for popular air purifier brands, troubleshooting tips, and best practices to keep your indoor air quality at its best.
Why You Might Need to Reset Your Air Purifier
Understanding when a reset is necessary can save you time and potentially prevent unnecessary service calls. Here are common scenarios when resetting your air purifier becomes necessary:
- Filter replacement indicators that won’t clear after installing new filters
- Unresponsive controls or touchscreen interfaces
- Error codes or warning lights that persist after addressing the underlying issue
- Irregular operation or cycling patterns
- After power outages or electrical surges
- When the purifier won’t power on despite being plugged in
- Following firmware updates that may have caused operational glitches
- When switching between different operational modes causes freezing
A reset essentially reboots the air purifier’s internal system, clearing temporary memory issues and restoring factory default settings in many cases. This process can solve approximately 80% of common operational problems without requiring technical support or repairs.
General Steps to Reset Different Air Purifier Types
While specific reset procedures vary by brand and model, these general approaches work for many air purifiers on the market:
Soft Reset Method
A soft reset is the gentlest way to refresh your air purifier’s system without losing your custom settings:
- Turn off the air purifier using the power button
- Unplug the unit from the electrical outlet
- Wait approximately 30 seconds for the internal capacitors to discharge
- Plug the unit back in
- Turn the air purifier back on
Hard Reset Method
When more persistent issues occur, a hard reset (factory reset) may be necessary:
- Ensure the unit is powered on
- Locate the reset button (often small and recessed) or identify the correct button combination
- Press and hold the reset button or the specific combination (often the power and another function button) for 5-10 seconds
- Look for indicator lights to flash or a reset confirmation on the display
- The unit will typically restart automatically
Note that a hard reset will typically erase all customized settings including timer preferences, fan speeds, and sometimes Wi-Fi connectivity information. You’ll need to reconfigure these settings after completing the reset.
How to Reset Specific Air Purifier Brands
Different manufacturers design their reset procedures with varying levels of complexity. Here are detailed instructions for the most popular air purifier brands in the American market:
Resetting Dyson Air Purifiers
Dyson’s premium air purifiers feature distinctive reset procedures depending on the model:
| Dyson Model | Reset Procedure | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pure Cool (TP series) | Press and hold the power button on the remote for 5 seconds | LED will flash to confirm reset |
| Pure Hot+Cool | Hold power and auto mode buttons simultaneously for 10 seconds | Requires reconnection to Dyson Link app |
| Pure Humidify+Cool | Press and hold the information button (i) for 5 seconds | Performs filter life counter reset |
| Dyson Purifier Formaldehyde models | On the remote, press and hold Standby ON/OFF button for 7 seconds | Display will countdown during reset |
For Dyson filter replacement resets specifically, press and hold the standby button for 6 seconds continuously until the display shows a countdown. This resets the filter life indicator after installing new filters.
Resetting Honeywell Air Purifiers
Honeywell offers a range of air purifiers with straightforward reset procedures:
| Honeywell Model | Reset Procedure | Indicator Response |
|---|---|---|
| HPA Series (100, 200, 300) | Press and hold the Filter Check button for 3 seconds | Filter indicator light turns off |
| QuietClean Tower Series | Press Filter Reset button for 5 seconds until beep sounds | Check Filter light extinguishes |
| AirGenius Series | Hold VOC and Allergen buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds | Unit will beep twice to confirm |
| InSight Series | Press and hold Filter and Timer buttons for 5 seconds | Lights will flash twice |
For Honeywell Wi-Fi connected models, an additional step may be required to reset network connectivity. Press and hold the Wi-Fi button for 12 seconds until the Wi-Fi indicator rapidly flashes, then reconnect through the Honeywell Home app.
Resetting Levoit Air Purifiers
Levoit air purifiers have become increasingly popular due to their affordability and effectiveness. Here are the reset procedures:
| Levoit Model | Reset Procedure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Core Series (300, 400, etc.) | Press and hold the Filter Indicator button for 3 seconds | Works after replacing filters |
| LV-H133 and LV-H134 | Hold the Filter Reset button for 3 seconds until beep sounds | Light will turn from red to off |
| Vista 200 | Press and hold Check Filter Indicator for 3 seconds | Red light will turn off |
| Smart Wi-Fi Models | Hold power button for 15 seconds for factory reset | Erases all settings including Wi-Fi |
For Levoit models with the VeSync app integration, you can also perform a reset through the app by navigating to Device Settings > Factory Reset. This is particularly useful when the physical controls are unresponsive.
Resetting Blueair Air Purifiers
Blueair purifiers, known for their Swedish design and efficiency, have specific reset procedures:
| Blueair Model | Reset Procedure | Confirmation |
|---|---|---|
| Blue Pure Series | Press and hold the button for 5 seconds after filter replacement | LED changes from red to blue |
| Classic Series | Press filter indicator button for 5 seconds | Red light turns to blue/yellow |
| Sense+ Series | Swipe down on touch display and hold for 7 seconds | Display flashes confirmation |
| HealthProtect Series | Hold filter button for 3 seconds, then press Auto button | Filter warning light disappears |
For Blueair models with Wi-Fi capabilities, network reset requires holding the filter and dimmer buttons simultaneously for 10 seconds until the Wi-Fi indicator blinks rapidly. You’ll then need to reconfigure the connection through the Blueair app.
Resetting Coway Air Purifiers
Coway air purifiers from South Korea feature these reset methods:
| Coway Model | Reset Procedure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| AP-1512HH (Mighty) | Press and hold the Filter Reset button for 2 seconds | Red light turns off after filter replacement |
| Airmega Series | Press and hold Filter Reset button for 3-5 seconds | Indicator returns to blue |
| AP-0512NH | Hold the Reset button with a paperclip for 3 seconds | Unit will beep once |
| Airmega Smart Models | In the app, navigate to Settings > Reset Filter Life | Can also be done on unit by holding Smart button for 5 seconds |
For a complete factory reset on newer Coway models, power off the unit, then press and hold both the Power and Speed buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds while powering it back on. The unit will beep three times to confirm the reset.
Resetting Winix Air Purifiers
Winix air purifiers offer these reset options:
| Winix Model | Reset Procedure | Confirmation |
|---|---|---|
| 5300-2, 5500-2 | Press and hold Reset button for 5 seconds after filter change | LED indicator will shut off |
| C535, C545 | Press Filter Reset button for 3-5 seconds | Light turns from red to off |
| AM90, AM80 | Hold Check Filter button for 5 seconds | Indicator light will blink then turn off |
| HR900 & HR1000 | Press and hold water/filter reset for 3 seconds | Will reset water refill or filter indicators |
For Winix PlasmaWave technology issues, toggle the PlasmaWave button off and on 5 times in rapid succession, then perform a soft reset by unplugging for 30 seconds to clear any lingering issues with the ionizer functionality.
Troubleshooting Common Reset Issues
Even when following the correct reset procedures, you might encounter these common issues:
Reset Button Unresponsive
If pressing the reset button doesn’t produce results:
- Ensure you’re applying firm, direct pressure if it’s a recessed button
- Try using a paperclip or similar tool for small reset buttons
- Make sure the unit has power when attempting the reset
- Check that you’re pressing the correct button – consult the manual if unsure
- Try the sequence multiple times, as timing can be critical
Air Purifier Won’t Power On After Reset
When the unit fails to restart after a reset attempt:
- Verify the power cord is securely connected at both ends
- Test the outlet with another device to confirm it’s working
- Check for tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses
- Allow the unit to sit unplugged for at least 1 hour to fully discharge
- Inspect for physical damage to the power cord or plug
Filter Indicator Still On After Reset
If the filter replacement light persists:
- Confirm you’ve installed the filter correctly (direction matters)
- Ensure all panels and covers are properly closed and secure
- Try a more comprehensive reset method (hard reset)
- Check if there are multiple filter indicators – some units have separate pre-filter, HEPA, and carbon filter lights
- Consult the manual for specific filter reset sequences for your model
When to Contact Customer Support
While resetting can resolve many issues, certain situations warrant professional assistance:
- Multiple reset attempts fail to resolve the issue
- Unusual noises, smells, or smoke after resetting
- Display showing error codes that persist after reset
- Physical damage to the unit or its components
- Water damage or electrical shorting signs
- Unit is still under warranty (avoid voiding coverage with DIY repairs)
Before calling support, document your issue and reset attempts. Have your model number, serial number, and purchase date ready. Many manufacturers offer troubleshooting wizards on their websites that can provide model-specific guidance before escalating to a phone call.
Maintenance Tips to Prevent Reset Problems
Proper maintenance minimizes the need for frequent resets. Follow these preventative practices:
- Regular filter cleaning and replacement according to manufacturer schedules
- Vacuum external air intake grills monthly to prevent dust buildup
- Keep the air purifier away from high humidity areas
- Use a surge protector to prevent electrical damage during power fluctuations
- Update firmware regularly for smart air purifiers
- Avoid placing the unit near heat sources or in direct sunlight
- Clean any washable pre-filters every 2-4 weeks
- Keep the sensor areas clean on models with air quality monitoring
Many modern air purifiers include maintenance reminder systems based on actual runtime rather than calendar days. Following these personalized schedules rather than generic timeframes ensures optimal performance and reduces system errors requiring resets.