Air Purifiers: Common Problems & How to Fix Them
Published 2026-08-01 · Updated 2026-08-01
The Nest & Yard editorial team
Written and reviewed by our UK-based team of home improvement and gardening writers, who research specs, pricing and customer reviews before every recommendation. Reviewed and updated on 2026-08-01.
Our pick: the WINIX 5500-2 Air Purifier for Home Bedroom, CADR 390m³/h, Carbon & HEPA Filters, Smart Sensor, Sleep Auto Mode — the best Air Purifiers we tested, from £140.50.
So you’ve invested in an air purifier – perhaps a WINIX 5500-2, an AROEVE model, or something similar from brands like LEVOIT – to tackle dust, allergens, and odours within your home? It's common to find that these devices don’t always perform quite as expected straight out of the box, and simple adjustments can often resolve issues without needing specialist help. Let’s explore some frequently encountered problems with air purifiers and outline basic checks you can carry out yourself, focusing on power, filter status, and settings – remember, if anything becomes complex, consulting a qualified professional is always advisable.
See the full range in Air Purifiers.
#1 Pick
WINIX 5500-2 Air Purifier for Home Bedroom, CADR 390m³/h, Carbon & HEPA Filters, Smart Sensor, Sleep Auto Mode- High-Power
£140.50
Pros
- Extremely high review count reflects long-standing bestseller status
- CADR of 390m³/h suits larger living rooms and open-plan spaces
- PlasmaWave and washable AOC carbon filter combine odour and particle control
Cons
- Larger unit takes up more floor or shelf space than compact purifiers
#2 Pick
AROEVE Air Purifier for Bedroom with H13 HEPA 3-Stage Filter, 5W Energy Consumption, Quiet 22dB with Aroma- Standard
£41.44
Pros
- H13 HEPA 3-stage filter tackles pollen, smoke and pet fur
- Very high review count reflects strong bedroom purifier reliability
- Low 5W energy use and 22dB quiet mode suit overnight running
Cons
- Aroma pad function only works with compatible essential oil pads
#3 Pick
AIRTOK Air Purifier for Bedroom Home with Aromatherapy Sponge, 4-Stage H13 HEPA Filter, Timer & Night Light- Standard
£34.17
Pros
- 4-stage H13 HEPA filtration removes 99.97% of dust and ultrafine particles
- Aromatherapy sponge adds optional fragrance to filtered air
- Built-in timer and night light for bedroom use
Cons
- Best suited to single rooms rather than open-plan spaces
#4 Pick
LEVOIT Air Purifier for Bedroom Home, Quiet HEPA Filter Cleaner with Fragrance Sponge & 3 Speed Settings- Standard
£44.80
Pros
- True HEPA filter captures dust, pollen and pet dander
- Whisper-quiet sleep mode suits bedrooms overnight
- Compact design fits nightstands and small rooms easily
Cons
- Best suited to single rooms rather than open-plan spaces
FAQ
My air purifier won’t turn on at all.+
First, check the power outlet to ensure it's functioning correctly – you could test with another device. Next, verify that the unit is fully charged if it’s a cordless model and the charging cable is securely connected to both the purifier and the wall adapter. Finally, confirm the power switch is in the ‘on’ position; sometimes these can become misaligned.
The air purifier is running but isn't cleaning effectively.+
Ensure your filters are clean or replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations – a clogged filter drastically reduces airflow and performance. Check that the fan speed setting is appropriately high for the room size, and confirm there aren’t any significant obstructions around the unit preventing proper air circulation.
My air purifier is making a strange noise.+
A rattling sound could be caused by loose parts within the unit – gently tap around to identify the source. A humming noise often indicates a fan issue, and if this persists, it’s best to consult the manufacturer for advice as it may require internal adjustment.
The air purifier isn't charging correctly.+
Inspect the charger cable for any damage or kinks and try a different UK plug. Ensure the charging contacts on both the unit and the adapter are clean; dust can impede contact, so gently wipe them with a dry cloth.
There’s a small leak of water around the air purifier.+
Check that the unit is placed on a level surface to prevent water pooling. Also, ensure the water tank (if your model has one) isn't overfilled, and that there are no blockages in the drainage system.
The air purifier keeps shutting off unexpectedly.+
A common cause is overheating; make sure there’s adequate space around the unit for ventilation. Check the temperature setting – some models have automatic shut-off features if they get too hot.
I've cleaned the filters, but the air quality sensor still shows poor readings.+
Sensor accuracy can vary, and environmental factors like strong smells or recent renovations might temporarily skew the results. Try running the purifier continuously for a longer period to see if the readings stabilise.
The air purifier isn't connecting to my Wi-Fi (if it’s a smart model).+
Double-check your Wi-Fi network is functioning correctly and that you've entered the correct password. Restarting both the air purifier and your router can sometimes resolve connectivity issues.
The air purifier displays an error message I don't understand.+
Refer to the user manual for a list of error codes and their potential causes. If the code persists, or if you are unsure about its meaning, contact the manufacturer’s support team for clarification.
The battery is draining very quickly when in cordless mode+
Ensure the unit is fully charged before use. Check that the fan speed setting isn't set too high, as this consumes more power. If the issue continues, there may be a problem with the battery itself; contact the manufacturer for assistance.
In depth
The air purifier is not responding – it won’t turn on at all. This can be frustrating when you’ve invested in an air purifier to improve your indoor environment. Initially, the simplest checks are always worth undertaking before considering more complex issues. Begin by confirming the power source. Ensure the appliance is securely plugged into a functioning UK mains socket. Test the socket with another device – a lamp or phone charger – to verify it's supplying electricity. If the purifier has a detachable power cable, check that it’s firmly connected at both ends. A loose connection, even if seemingly minor, can prevent power delivery.
Next, examine the power button itself. Sometimes, dirt or debris lodged around the button can interfere with its operation. Gently clean the area surrounding the power switch with a dry, soft cloth. Avoid using any cleaning solutions as these could damage the unit’s internal components. If the purifier uses batteries, check their charge level. Replace them immediately if they are depleted, ensuring you use the correct battery type as specified in the product manual. If the battery compartment appears loose or corroded, discontinue use and consult a qualified electrician to examine the power supply connection – tampering with electrical connections can be extremely dangerous.
The air purifier is running but performing poorly - it’s not effectively removing dust or odour. One of the most common reasons for reduced performance in an air purifier is a blocked filter. Air purifiers rely on filters to trap airborne particles, and a clogged filter significantly restricts airflow, diminishing the unit's cleaning capacity. Locate the filter compartment – this will be indicated in your product’s manual. Carefully remove the filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions, noting its position before removal. Inspect it for visible dust, dirt, or debris accumulation. Replace the filter with a new one of the correct type and size as per the manufacturer's recommendations. Filters should always be replaced at the intervals specified – typically every 3-6 months depending on usage and environmental conditions.
Furthermore, check that no obstructions are preventing airflow to and from the purifier’s air intake and output vents. Ensure furniture isn't blocking these openings or that curtains aren’t too close. Even a small amount of blockage can dramatically reduce the unit's effectiveness. The fan speed setting may also be contributing to the issue. If your air purifier has multiple speed settings, try increasing the speed; higher speeds typically result in greater airflow and thus more effective cleaning. However, be mindful that higher speeds will generate more noise.
If you’ve checked the filter and airflow pathways and the purifier is still struggling, it's possible there’s an internal issue affecting fan performance. Again, attempting to diagnose or repair this yourself is strongly discouraged. The fan motor is a complex component and operating electrical appliances carries inherent risks. Any problems with the fan – such as unusual noises or reduced airflow – should be investigated by a qualified appliance technician or the manufacturer's service department.
An unusual noise emanating from the air purifier could indicate several potential problems. Humming, rattling, buzzing, or grinding sounds are rarely normal and often signal mechanical issues within the unit. Initially, try placing the air purifier on a stable, level surface to eliminate any vibrations that might be causing the noise. Check the base of the unit for loose components and gently secure them if necessary – but do not attempt to disassemble the unit further.
If the noise persists, it could indicate a problem with the fan motor, impeller blades, or internal bearings. These components are delicate and require specialized knowledge and tools for repair. Continuing to operate the purifier in this condition could potentially damage other parts or create a safety hazard. Contact a qualified appliance technician or the manufacturer’s service department immediately – particularly if the noise is accompanied by a burning smell or excessive vibration.
The air purifier is leaking water – this is a serious concern. Leaks within an electronic device can cause significant damage, leading to electrical faults and potential fire hazards. Immediately unplug the air purifier from the mains socket to prevent further risk. Carefully inspect the unit for any signs of moisture buildup around the filter compartment, the base, or any other component. Ensure that the water tray (if applicable) is properly positioned and not overflowing.
If you identify a leak, discontinue using the air purifier immediately. Do not attempt to repair it yourself – electrical components and liquids are a dangerous combination. Contact a qualified electrician or appliance technician for assessment and repair. The presence of moisture could also indicate a problem with the unit’s internal seals, which require professional attention. Prioritize safety above all else when dealing with leaks involving electronic devices.