Fresh Air System Filter Changes: Schedule, Care and Cost
Keeping the filters maintained is part of running a whole-home air purifier. For aqi0, the washable pre-filter and H13 HEPA panels have different care requirements. This is the aqi0 schedule; it should not be applied to another manufacturer’s equipment.
The maintenance schedule
| Part or service | When | Who handles it |
|---|---|---|
| Washable pre-filter | Every 7–10 days | Customer, following the supplied instructions |
| H13 HEPA service | About every 45 days through October–February | aqi0 under the care plan, or customer replacement with guidance |
| HEPA service outside peak season | Intervals set by pollution load | Arrange through aqi0 |
| Machine cleaning | At scheduled care-plan visits | aqi0 service team |
The technical note describes the panel rotation: each scheduled visit replaces one of the three H13 panels. A service visit does not mean that all three panels are replaced together. There is no fixed annual visit count in this guide.
Caring for the pre-filter
The pre-filter catches coarse debris before it reaches the finer filter. Switch the unit off before removing it and follow the cleaning demonstration supplied with your installation. It can be vacuumed or rinsed as directed; let it dry completely before refitting if washed. Do not apply those washing instructions to the HEPA panels.
Check for damage and correct seating when refitting. If the filter is difficult to access or does not fit back securely, contact the service team rather than forcing it.
Why HEPA replacement depends on use
The amount of material collected depends on outdoor conditions, operating hours and the installation. An overdue date alone cannot tell you the percentage of airflow lost or predict the room’s PM2.5. A filter’s colour alone is not a measurement of its remaining performance.
EPA recommends regular filter replacement and notes that overloaded filters do not work well. Follow the equipment manufacturer’s schedule. EPA air-cleaner guidance.
If indoor readings rise
Record when the change started, the room, equipment setting and recent filter service. Note cooking, open doors or windows, and outdoor pollution at the same time. Check whether the pre-filter is due for cleaning and whether the intake or outlet is obstructed.
A higher PM2.5 reading can have several causes; it does not prove the HEPA is overdue. Share the log with aqi0 if readings remain outside the agreed operating specification. The performance commitment and remedies explain the conditions under which the system is assessed.
The optional aqi0 monitor measures AQI/PM2.5. It is not a CO₂ monitor; ventilation investigations require an appropriate separate measurement.
Care-plan and replacement costs
| Option | Price | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Annual care plan | ₹14,750/year | Filter replacement and machine cleaning through the year; unscheduled fault visits covered |
| Individual H13 HEPA filter | ₹2,200 each | Correct panel and fitting instructions for your unit |
Pre-filter cleaning remains the customer’s routine task. See current pricing and the service terms before choosing a plan. For self-replacement, get the correct filter and fitting guidance from aqi0 so the seal and orientation are correct.
Arrange service
Send the team your installation details, last service date and any relevant readings. This helps distinguish a routine replacement from a fault or an airflow issue.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know which filter goes in the aqi0 unit?
The aqi0 H13 HEPA is a 362 × 276 × 50 mm pleated filter, currently sourced from one established HEPA manufacturer and fitted identically across every installation. If you’re buying separately, ask aqi0 directly — third-party filters at the same nominal size may not seal correctly in the housing.
Can I wash the H13 HEPA filter to extend its life?
No. HEPA media depends on a specific fibre orientation and electrostatic charge in some grades. Washing destroys both. The pre-filter is washable; the HEPA is replaceable, not washable.
What if I’m out of town for a month — should I still clean the pre-filter?
When you return, yes. The system itself can be switched off for extended travel (4+ days). When you come back, run a pre-filter clean before powering up so the first hour of fresh air isn’t carrying accumulated indoor dust.
Does the filter cycle change if I run the fan at peak speed all the time?
Slightly. Running at 6 V (peak setting) instead of 4–5 V (normal) increases airflow by roughly 20%, which means dust and PM2.5 load on both filters faster. If you run at peak continuously, expect the pre-filter to need cleaning every 5–7 days and the HEPA closer to the 45-day end even outside peak AQI season.
Can I delay the AMC visit?
Yes, by a week or two if needed. Beyond that, indoor PM2.5 starts climbing meaningfully during peak season. We’re flexible on scheduling but not on the cadence in winter — 45 days is the operational limit.