When to change the Filter on IKEA Fornuftig Air Purifier (Red Light)

Oskar Fällman

Updated on:

change filter ikea fornuftig

As with all air purifiers, the filters inside the IKEA Fornuftig need to be periodically replaced to keep the unit working as intended. The Fornuftig is a simples air purifier unit from IKEA and it doesn’t have any smart features checking the status or amount of air that has passed three the filter.

As every home is different it’s recommended to check the HEPA filter and the gas filter regularly and at least replace them at least every six months. Check filters regularly to see if they’re dirty, the HEPA will go from white to grey over time. There’s an LED light that indicates when you need to check or possibly replace them, too.

IKEA air filter replacement indication LED

IKEA air purifier’s red light on the top indicates when it’s time to check the filter to see if they need to be replaced. If you are living in an environment with a lot of pollution it’s recommended to check the filters at more regular intervals, at least every 4 months, or even more often.

The LED on the top is only a time-based indicator and will not account for the amount of air going three the filter or any individual factors.

How to replace the filter

  1. Disconnect the power and wait until the fan has stopped
  2. Remove the pre-filter from the pull tag. Clean the pre-filer with a vacuum cleaner or with water depending on the level of contamination.
  3. Remove filter(s), and handle used filters carefully, dispose of the filter in accordance with local environmental regulations in your country.
  4. Clean inside, removing all dust and dirt.
  5. Insert the new filter(s). (Do not touch the carbon filter.)
  6. Reconnect the power supply cord.
  7. When you have replaced a filter, press and hold the RESET button for 5 seconds. The reset initializes the filter replacement cycle counter.
  8. Attach the pre-filter.

Filter cleaning and replacement cycles for IKEA Fornuftig

As the LED only gives an indication is important to check the filters manually. You will see on the Pre-filter when dust and larger debris gets stuck and it’s time to clean it.

clean pre-filer ikea fornuftig

When the HEAP filter has turned grey then it’s time to change it. The IKEA filters are aggressively priced so it’s better to change them if you are uncertain. If you have a particle counter in your house you can use that data to determine when the filters are starting to lose their efficacy. Ikea has launched a sensor, VINDRIKTNING Air quality sensor.

FilterCyclesmethod
Pre-filterEvery 2~4 weeksCleaning
HEPA filterEvery 4 monthsReplacement
Carbon filterEvery 4 monthsReplacement
IKEA air filter replacement interval

* The recommended filter replacement cycles may differ depending on the operating environment.

About Oskar Fällman

Oskar Fällman, founder of FallmanTech, is a seasoned Onewheel rider and a visionary system engineer with a master's in Industrial Management and Engineering from Lunds University. With thousands of miles under his belt, Oskar combines technical expertise with a passion for technology and innovation. As a leader in the Onewheel community, he not only rides Onewheel's but also prioritizes safety, new innovations and the growth of the sport. As a system engineer he also holds a multiple patents and innovations. LinkedIn, Academia profile, Contact, Twitter, Patents.