
Air pollution is getting worse in urban areas, and air purifiers are an essential appliance in many households. But here’s the big question: Should you run your air purifier 24/24? And if you do, does it truly maximize performance, or could it actually backfire?
1. The Impact of Running an Air Purifier 24/24
Many people still believe that: “The more it runs, the cleaner the air!” However, the truth is that running your air purifier nonstop may not always be the best approach because:
+ The air inside your room smells odd, almost like disinfectant in a hospital.
+ The machine becomes noisier, sluggish, and far less efficient than when it was brand-new.
+ Your electricity bill slightly increased, even though the device consumes relatively little power.
+ You may notice dry, itchy skin or chapped lips, even when the weather isn’t particularly dry.
+ All these signs point to one thing: your air purifier may be overused and operating incorrectly.
2. Why You Shouldn’t Keep Your Air Purifier On All Day
2.1 Ion or Ozone Imbalance
Many modern air purifiers on the market now come equipped with ion generators or ozone technology to help eliminate bacteria and viruses. But when these machines run continuously in a closed indoor environment, the density of negative ions or ozone can become too high. Cause unpleasant odors. Lead to symptoms like nasal irritation or a tight chest, especially for sensitive individuals.

2.2 Should You Run Your Air Purifier 24/24, Filters Get Dirty Much Faster.
Running your air purifier 24/24 allows dust and pollutants to accumulate rapidly in the filters. Once the filter becomes overloaded, air can no longer pass through efficiently, meaning the purifier has to work harder to compensate.
This results in louder noise, higher energy consumption, heat build-up, and a noticeable drop in overall performance. Over time, this accelerates wear and tear on the machine and its components, shortening its lifespan and making it less cost-effective.
2.3 Indoor Air Becomes Too Dry
When an air purifier is used 24/24 in a closed room, air is constantly filtered without moisture replenishment or ventilation, leading to a drop in humidity. Which can cause: dry, irritated skin, chapped lips. For sensitive users: dry nose, sore throat, coughing, or trouble sleeping.
If possible, you should opt for models that include a humidifier or moisture-control feature, which helps balance moisture while purifying the air, such as the Puritrak Airsen AS488 air purifier.

3. If Running Your Air Purifier 24/24 Isn’t Ideal – What’s the Right Way to Use It?
To get the best results from your air purifier without causing side effects, it’s important to use it strategically and scientifically to maintain the most efficiency:
3.1 Use It in Cycles – Not Nonstop
There’s no need to keep your air purifier on all day long. Instead, run it during key periods when air pollution tends to spike, such as:
+ Early morning: During the night, fine dust particles settle quietly. As family members start moving around in the morning, those particles get stirred back into the air. That’s the perfect time to turn on the purifier.
+ Rush hour: This is when vehicle emissions are at their highest, especially if your home is near a busy road or urban area.
+ Targeted usage during indoor pollution: Switch on your air purifier when there are specific pollution sources inside your home, like: someone smoking indoors, cooking activities, pets shedding hair or dander.

3.2 Use the Right Modes for the Right Moments
Most modern air purifiers on the market today are equipped with air quality sensors. When set to Auto Mode, the purifier automatically adjusts based on real-time air quality, helping you save energy and extend the device’s lifespan.
For bedrooms or children’s rooms, Sleep Mode is a great choice. In this mode, the purifier runs at ultra-low noise levels, ensuring a peaceful night’s sleep.
Many models also come with timer settings or smartphone connectivity, allowing you to schedule when the machine turns off. This saves time, conserves power and prevents the purifier from running unnecessarily long.

3.3 Clean and Replace Filters Regularly
Running your air purifier 24/24 can speed up dust accumulation in the filters, reducing efficiency and requiring more frequent cleaning. Pre-filters: Clean every 1–2 months by removing and washing.
Activated carbon filters: Depending on how often the purifier is used and the environment, carbon filters usually need to be replaced every 12 to 24 months, but this can be flexible.
HEPA filters: The most important component in an air purifier.
On average, these should be replaced every 12 to 24 months, depending on the level of air pollution and how heavily the machine is used.
Regular cleaning and timely replacement of filters ensures your air purifier performs at its best, delivering consistently clean, healthy air for your home and family.

3.4 Monitor Air Quality via Sensor or Indicator Lights
After running your air purifier for a while, if the LED display turns green or the air quality index (AQI) returns to a safe level, that means the air is clean.
At this point, it’s a good idea to switch the machine to Auto Mode or let it automatically adjust based on indoor air quality, saving energy while maintaining performance.
4. Extra Tips to Maximize Your Air Purifier’s Performance
+ Place it in the center of the room for better airflow. Avoid placing it too close to walls, keep at least 30 cm of space, and steer clear of polluted corners.
+ Do not place it near heat sources like stoves, space heaters, or other heat-emitting appliances.
+ Pair it with indoor plants, a humidifier, or open windows regularly to maintain healthy humidity and oxygen levels in the room.
See more : How to Use Your Air Purifier Effectively in 2025

Above is answer of why “Should You Run Your Air Purifier 24/24?” If you need support information about air purifiers, please contact the information below. Puritrak’s technical department will guide you to answer your questions. Thank you for reading the article!
Puritrak products and services:
- Puritrak air purifier
- Puritrak indoor air quality measuring device
- Puritrak outdoor air quality measuring device
- AQM solution

Contact info:
- Hotline: 0904.800.006
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