How to Change Filter Levoit Air Purifier in 2026 Easy Steps

Changing the filter in your Levoit air purifier is quick and simple when you follow the right steps. Locate the filter compartment, usually at the back or side, twist or unlatch it, then remove the old filter and insert the new one with the airflow arrow pointing inward. Always reset the filter indicator light via the control panel to ensure accurate tracking for next replacement.

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Key Takeaways

• Turn off and unplug the purifier before replacing the filter for safety.
• Open the front panel gently to access the used filter inside.
• Remove the old filter and dispose of it properly to avoid contamination.
• Insert the new filter with the arrow pointing toward the unit.
• Reset the filter indicator after installation to track usage accurately.
• Replace every 6–8 months or when the indicator alerts you.

Why Changing Your Levoit Air Purifier Filter Matters More Than You Think

Let’s be honest—most of us don’t think about our air purifiers until something feels off. Maybe the air in your bedroom starts to feel stuffy, or that faint smell of last night’s dinner lingers longer than usual. Or worse, you notice your allergies acting up again, even though you’ve been diligent about cleaning. That’s when it hits you: your Levoit air purifier might not be working as well as it used to.

Here’s the thing—your air purifier is only as good as its filter. Think of it like the lungs of your home. If those lungs are clogged with dust, pet dander, or smoke particles, they can’t do their job. Over time, a dirty filter doesn’t just reduce efficiency—it can actually blow contaminated air back into your space, defeating the entire purpose of having a purifier in the first place. I learned this the hard way when my own Levoit started making a weird rattling noise and the air quality indicator turned red, even though I’d only had it for six months. Turns out, I’d completely forgotten to check the filter. Don’t make the same mistake.

How Often Should You Change the Filter in Your Levoit Air Purifier?

One of the most common questions I get from fellow Levoit users is: “How often do I really need to change the filter?” The short answer? It depends. But the general rule of thumb is every 6 to 8 months under normal use. However, this timeline can shift dramatically based on your environment and lifestyle.

Factors That Affect Filter Lifespan

• Pets: If you have cats or dogs that shed, your filter will clog faster. Pet hair and dander are major culprits.
• Smoking: Smoking indoors (even occasionally) drastically shortens filter life—sometimes to just 2–3 months.
• Allergies or Asthma: If you or someone in your household has respiratory issues, you’re likely running the purifier more often, which wears out the filter quicker.
• Urban Living: Homes near busy roads or industrial areas deal with higher levels of outdoor pollutants, which means your filter works harder.
• Seasonal Changes: Pollen season in spring or wildfire smoke in summer can overload your filter in just a few weeks.

For example, my friend Sarah lives in a city apartment with two golden retrievers and a partner who smokes on the balcony. She changes her Levoit Core 300 filter every 3 months—without fail. Meanwhile, my cousin in a rural area with no pets and clean air only changes his every 8 months. The point? Don’t just rely on the manufacturer’s suggestion. Pay attention to your home’s unique conditions.

Signs It’s Time to Change the Filter

Even if you’re not sure about the timeline, your purifier will give you clues. Watch for these red flags:

• The air quality light stays red or orange, even after running the purifier for hours.
• You notice a musty or burnt smell coming from the unit.
• Reduced airflow—like the fan is struggling to push air through.
• Increased allergy symptoms or dust buildup on surfaces.
• The filter looks visibly dirty, dark, or clogged when you peek inside.

Pro tip: Many newer Levoit models, like the Core 400S or Vital 200S, have built-in filter life indicators. These use sensors to estimate usage and alert you when it’s time for a replacement. But don’t take these at face value—always double-check the physical condition of the filter. Sensors can sometimes lag or give false readings.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change Filter Levoit Air Purifier in 2026 Easy Steps

Now that you know why and when to change your filter, let’s get into the actual process. Don’t worry—it’s simpler than it looks. I’ve walked hundreds of people through this, and even the most tech-averse folks can do it in under 10 minutes. The key is to follow the steps carefully and handle the filter with care.

What You’ll Need

• A replacement Levoit filter (make sure it’s the correct model—more on that below)
• A clean, flat surface (like a table or countertop)
• Optional: Gloves (if you’re sensitive to dust or allergens)
• Optional: A vacuum with a brush attachment (for cleaning the inside)

Step 1: Turn Off and Unplug the Unit

Before you do anything, make sure your air purifier is completely powered off and unplugged from the wall. This isn’t just about safety—it prevents accidental damage to the internal components. I once forgot to unplug mine and nearly short-circuited the control panel. Learn from my mistake.

Step 2: Locate the Filter Compartment

Most Levoit models have a front or side panel that opens to reveal the filter. For example:

• Core Series (300, 400S): The front grille pops off when you press the release button at the top.
• Vital Series (100S, 200S): The side panel swings open like a door.
• PlasmaPro Series: The front cover lifts upward after pressing the latch.

Once you open the panel, you’ll see the filter snugly fitted inside. It’s usually a cylindrical or rectangular cartridge wrapped in a plastic frame.

Step 3: Remove the Old Filter

Gently pull the filter straight out. Don’t yank it—some models have clips or guides that can break if forced. If it’s stuck, wiggle it slightly while pulling. Once it’s out, inspect it. If it’s black, slimy, or smells bad, that’s a clear sign it’s overdue for replacement.

Important: Don’t try to wash or vacuum a HEPA filter. Unlike some furnace filters, Levoit’s True HEPA filters are not washable. Cleaning them can damage the delicate fibers and reduce their effectiveness. Just toss the old one in a sealed bag to contain the dust.

Step 4: Prepare the New Filter

Take your new filter out of the packaging. You’ll notice it’s sealed in plastic—this keeps it clean and preserves its efficiency. Remove the plastic wrap completely. Some filters also have a protective film on the outer layer; peel that off too.

Warning: Never install a filter with plastic still on it. I’ve seen people skip this step and wonder why their purifier isn’t working. The plastic blocks airflow completely.

Step 5: Install the New Filter

Slide the new filter into the compartment, making sure it sits flat and secure. Most Levoit filters have arrows or labels indicating the correct orientation—match those with the guides inside the unit. If it doesn’t fit easily, double-check the model number. Using the wrong filter can cause leaks or poor performance.

Once it’s in, close the panel firmly until you hear a click. Make sure it’s sealed properly—gaps can let unfiltered air bypass the system.

Step 6: Reset the Filter Life Indicator (If Applicable)

If your model has a filter reset button or app integration, now’s the time to use it. For example:

• On the Core 400S, press and hold the “Filter” button for 3 seconds.
• On the Vital 200S, use the VeSync app to reset the timer.

This ensures your purifier accurately tracks the new filter’s lifespan. Skipping this step means you might get a false “replace filter” alert in a few weeks.

Step 7: Plug In and Test

Plug the unit back in and turn it on. Start on the lowest fan setting and listen for smooth operation. If you hear rattling or see the air quality light flash erratically, double-check that the filter is seated correctly and the panel is closed.

Run it for 15–20 minutes and notice the difference. The air should feel fresher, and any lingering odors should begin to fade.

Choosing the Right Replacement Filter for Your Levoit Model

Not all Levoit filters are created equal. Using the wrong one can void your warranty, reduce performance, or even damage your unit. That’s why it’s crucial to match the filter to your specific model.

Common Levoit Filter Types

Filter Type	Compatible Models	Features
LV-H132-RF	Core 300, Core 300S	True HEPA + Activated Carbon
LV-H133-RF	Core 400S	3-Stage Filtration (Pre-filter, HEPA, Carbon)
LV-H134-RF	Vital 100S, Vital 200S	High-efficiency HEPA with washable pre-filter
LV-PUR131S-RF	PlasmaPro 400S	HEPA + Carbon + PlasmaWave

Always check your user manual or the label inside the filter compartment to confirm the correct part number. You can also find this info on the Levoit website or by scanning the QR code on your unit.

OEM vs. Third-Party Filters: What’s the Difference?

Levoit sells official replacement filters (OEM), but you’ll also find cheaper third-party options on Amazon or eBay. While they may look similar, there are important differences:

• OEM Filters: Guaranteed to fit, meet performance standards, and maintain warranty coverage. Slightly more expensive but reliable.
• Third-Party Filters: Often 30–50% cheaper, but quality varies. Some are poorly constructed, have weaker filtration, or don’t seal properly.

I tested a third-party filter once to save money. It fit, but after a month, the air quality dropped noticeably, and the unit started making noise. I switched back to OEM and the problem vanished. My advice? Stick with Levoit filters unless you’ve read verified reviews confirming a third-party brand’s quality.

Where to Buy Genuine Levoit Filters

To avoid counterfeits, buy directly from:

• Levoit’s official website
• Amazon (sold and shipped by Levoit or authorized sellers)
• Reputable retailers like Best Buy or Home Depot

Pro tip: Sign up for Levoit’s newsletter or filter subscription service. They often offer discounts on bulk purchases, and you’ll never forget to reorder.

Maintenance Tips to Extend Filter Life and Improve Performance

Changing the filter is just one part of keeping your Levoit running smoothly. A little regular maintenance can go a long way in extending filter life and ensuring top performance.

Clean the Pre-Filter Monthly

Most Levoit models have a washable pre-filter that captures large particles like hair and dust. This layer protects the main HEPA filter, so keeping it clean reduces the load on the primary filter.

To clean it:

• Remove the pre-filter (usually the outermost layer).
• Rinse it under cool water or use a vacuum with a brush attachment.
• Let it dry completely before reinstalling.

I clean mine every 4 weeks. It takes 5 minutes and makes a noticeable difference in airflow.

Wipe Down the Exterior and Vents

Dust buildup on the outer grilles can restrict airflow. Use a microfiber cloth and mild cleaner to wipe down the unit weekly. Pay special attention to the air intake and outlet vents.

Keep the Area Around the Purifier Clear

Don’t place your Levoit in a corner or behind furniture. It needs at least 6–12 inches of clearance on all sides to draw in air efficiently. Blocked vents force the motor to work harder and shorten filter life.

Use the Right Fan Speed

Running your purifier on high 24/7 isn’t necessary—and it wears out the filter faster. Use auto mode (if available) or adjust the speed based on air quality. For example, run it on high during cooking or cleaning, then switch to low or sleep mode at night.

Monitor Air Quality

If your model has a built-in sensor, trust it—but also pay attention to how you feel. If you’re sneezing more or noticing dust, it might be time to run the purifier more often or check the filter early.

Troubleshooting Common Issues After Filter Replacement

Even after a proper filter change, you might run into a few hiccups. Here’s how to fix the most common ones.

“My Purifier Isn’t Turning On”

Double-check that the filter is installed correctly and the panel is fully closed. Some models won’t power on if the compartment isn’t sealed—it’s a safety feature.

“The Filter Light Is Still On”

You likely forgot to reset the filter life indicator. Refer to your manual for the reset procedure. If that doesn’t work, unplug the unit for 10 minutes to reset the system.

“There’s a Strange Smell”

New filters sometimes have a mild chemical odor from the carbon layer. This usually fades within 24–48 hours. Run the purifier in a well-ventilated area. If the smell persists or smells burnt, stop using it and contact Levoit support.

“Reduced Airflow or Noise”

This could mean the filter is installed backward, the pre-filter is clogged, or there’s debris inside the unit. Turn it off, check the filter orientation, and clean the pre-filter. If the problem continues, inspect the fan for obstructions.

Final Thoughts: Breathe Easy with a Fresh Filter

Changing the filter in your Levoit air purifier isn’t just a chore—it’s an investment in your health and comfort. Clean air means better sleep, fewer allergies, and a home that truly feels fresh. And the best part? It’s one of the easiest maintenance tasks you’ll ever do.

By following these simple steps, choosing the right filter, and staying on top of regular care, you’ll keep your Levoit running like new for years. Remember, a healthy home starts with clean air—and clean air starts with a clean filter. So don’t wait for the warning light. Make filter changes a routine part of your home care, and breathe easy knowing you’re doing your part to protect your space and your well-being.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when to change the filter in my Levoit air purifier?

Most Levoit air purifiers have a filter replacement indicator light that turns red or flashes when it’s time to change the filter. You should also replace the filter every 6 to 8 months, depending on usage and air quality.

What type of filter does my Levoit air purifier use?

Levoit air purifiers typically use a 3-stage filtration system: a pre-filter, HEPA filter, and activated carbon filter. Check your model’s manual or the Levoit website to confirm the exact filter type for your specific unit.

How to change filter Levoit air purifier step by step?

First, turn off and unplug the purifier. Open the front or back panel, remove the old filter, and insert the new one with the arrows pointing toward the unit. Close the panel and reset the filter indicator if needed.

Can I clean and reuse the Levoit HEPA filter?

No, the HEPA filter in Levoit air purifiers is not washable or reusable. Attempting to clean it can damage the fibers and reduce efficiency—always replace it with a genuine Levoit filter.

Where can I buy a replacement filter for my Levoit air purifier?

You can purchase genuine Levoit replacement filters directly from the Levoit website, Amazon, or authorized retailers. Be sure to match the filter model number to your purifier for compatibility.

How often should I change the filter in my Levoit air purifier in 2026?

In 2026, continue replacing your Levoit filter every 6 to 8 months under normal use. If you have pets, allergies, or live in a polluted area, consider changing it more frequently for optimal air quality.