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The lifespan of a whole-house air purifier or filtration system depends on several factors, but with proper maintenance, they are built to last. A whole-house system that integrates with your home's ductwork can last 10 to 15 years, or even for the entire lifetime of your existing HVAC system. To maximize the unit's lifespan, perform regular cleanings, change filters as recommended, and schedule an annual inspection to catch potential issues early. The system's longevity also depends on its frequency of use and how hard it must work to maintain your desired air quality. For comparison, smaller, portable air filter systems typically last between five and ten years.

Air purifiers are meant to kill airborne mold, along with pollen and dirt. Air purifiers are a good option if you have allergies and need a whole-home solution, whereas dehumidifiers are best for naturally damp areas (like a bathroom). Consider getting an indoor air quality test to determine if an air purifier is right for you.

You should plan to change your AC unit's filter every one to three months, depending on the manufacturer's recommendations. You should also clean the coils at least once per year, but if you have pets or someone in your household has allergies, you might need to clean them more often. Fortunately, many pros will clean the coils and change the filter for you during an inspection, which you should schedule once or twice per year.

For washable or electrostatic air conditioner filters, you can soak and rinse them with water. If you rinse the filter with water, make sure to use a faucet, shower head, or garden hose with a gentle water pressure setting, as strong water pressure could damage the filter.

But for disposable filters, water could ruin the filter, even allowing mold to grow in the filter. Instead, these filters should be replaced.