Honeywell Air Purifier Red Light Won’t Go Off? (Easy Fix)

The issue of a Honeywell air purifier red light won’t go off can be worrisome as this color indicates an issue with the air quality or signals a maintenance alert.

If you have a red light on your purifier, don’t worry; this guide has some solutions for you.

To fix your Honeywell air purifier red light, start by resetting the filter change indicator and checking the power source for issues. Next, clean the pre-filter and device base.

Now that you know a few of the potential solutions to a Honeywell red light, let’s first try to understand why it occurs.

Why is My Honeywell Air Purifier Red Light Not Going Off?

A blinking red light on your Honeywell can have varying meanings based on your device model.

However, universally, the red light indicates that your device needs servicing or that your indoor air quality pollution is high.

Here are some of the most frequent causes of a Honeywell air purifier light that won’t go off:

Now that you have a more precise understanding of why your red light appears on the Honeywell device let us try out some fixes.

How to Fix Honeywell Air Purifier Red Light Won’t Go Off

Tip: Always place your purifier on a level and flat location, away from furniture or walls.

Solution 1: Resetting the Filter Indicator Light

If you ask why is the red light on my Honeywell air purifier blinking, it is likely due to a periodic filter replacement alert.

Honeywell purifiers have an internal clock that sends an alert every few months to replace your filter.

To clear this, you have to reset the timer via a button.

Here is how to reset your filter replacement alert for most Honeywell purifier models:

1. Ensure the air filter is correctly cleaned or replaced and securely fitted.
2. Plug the air purifier into an electrical outlet and turn it on.
3. Find the “Check Filter” or “Check Pre-filter” button on the control panel.
4. If the “Pre-filter” button is illuminated, press it twice quickly.
5. For an illuminated “Check Filter” button, press and hold it for a few seconds.
6. Wait for the light to blink twice, indicating a successful reset.

After these steps, you can try to repeat the process if the light doesn’t turn off after the first attempt​​​​. 

Note: For extended storage of more than 30 days, remove the HEPA and Pre-Filters.

Solution 2: Troubleshooting Power Source Issues

An overlooked cause of a blinking red light is that perhaps your device struggles to get consistent voltage or has a power-related issue.

This could lead to software malfunctions and a false red light notification.

Here are some general guidelines to ensure your Honeywell purifier is properly powered:

1. Ensure your air purifier is properly plugged into a working electrical outlet.
2. Test the outlet with another appliance to confirm its functioning.
3. Examine the condition of the air purifier’s power cord for any damage or creasing.
4. Reset any tripped circuit breakers in your home if you have had a surge recently.
5. Don’t plug your air purifier into a power strip with multiple other running devices.

Note: Don't allow foreign objects or water to come into contact with the exhaust or vent.

Solution 3: Perform General Maintenance and Cleaning

In case your unit is properly connected to power, then a red light could be because your purifier has excessive dust buildup and struggles to take in air.

This could cause a red light to occur, indicating a filter issue or air quality alert.

Here are the steps to properly service your Honeywell air purifier: 

1. Turn off and unplug your Honeywell air purifier before maintenance.
2. Clean the exterior and air intake opening of the unit with a soft, damp cloth.
3. Remove the side or top panels to access the internal filter compartment.
4. Gently clean the interior with a dry cloth, avoiding moisture.
5. Check for any debris blocking the pre-filters or vents and vacuum them thoroughly.
6. Ensure your main HEPA filter is properly seated and locked into position.

Remember to perform these basic maintenance steps periodically to ensure efficient operation and to extend the operational life of your device​​.

Note: Don't use your air purifier in the laundry area or other damp rooms or near water.

Solution 4: Addressing Stuck Buttons

Sometimes, during normal use, a button can get stuck in place, causing your Honeywell software issue.

This can occur even on touch-screen panels if there is a smudge on the touchscreen.

Here is how to check and fix stuck buttons on your Honeywell air purifier:

1. Examine all the buttons on the air purifier’s control panel.
2. Press each button individually to check for any that are stuck.
3. Gently wiggle any stuck buttons to release them.
4. Clean around the buttons to remove any dust or dirt.
5. Check if the red light issue resolves after unsticking the buttons.

Note: HEPA filters with carbon can't be cleaned and have to be replaced when depleted.

Solution 5: Replace The Honeywell Filter 

A possible answer to how to turn off red light on Honeywell air purifier is to replace its filter with a new one once it’s depleted.

As true HEPA filters use carbon to filter pollutants, particles get lodged inside and can’t be cleaned or vacuumed off.

Here is how to replace your Honeywell air purifier filter:

1. Turn off the air purifier and unplug it from the outlet.
2. Access the filter compartment by removing any covering panels.
3. Remove the old filter, then remove the protective plastic cover on your new filter.
4. Install the new filter properly and fit it securely.
5. Plug in and turn on the air purifier.
6. Press and hold the filter reset button for about 1 minute.
7. Release the button and wait for the red light to go off.

Depending on your environment, a new filer should last at least a couple of months with regular use.

If you ordered a brand new air purifier and get a red light, skip this replacement step.

Note: Don't place the purifier near areas with strong fumes like smoke or cooking vapors.

Solution 6: Consider Air Quality Issues

If your Honeywell device has a red light that is glowing or persistently on, it could indicate poor indoor air quality instead of a filter issue.

To clear this red light, you can try out a couple of steps to optimize the airflow and reduce the pollution levels.

Here is how to check for indoor air quality issues for your Honeywell device:

1. Move the air purifier to different areas of your home to test air quality.
2. If you notice that the fan speed increases with a red light – it indicates high pollution.
3. Reference your purifier’s maximum room size filtration capacity and relocate if needed.
4. Clean the room you place the purifier in before turning it on to reduce dust levels.
5. Ensure windows and doors are closed whenever you turn on your device.
6. Keep your Honeywell out of laundry rooms or other places with high humidity.

If you find that the air quality indicator is red, turn your purifier to the highest fan speed and let it work for at least an hour.

Note: For persistently high pollution, consider a larger or more powerful air purifier.

Solution 7: Check For Faulty Components

If you have tried all of the steps in our guide so far, but your Honeywell still has a red light, it may have a hardware defect.

This can happen during device shipment or improper use, such as spilling liquids on the device or lodging foreign objects in the air duct.

Here is how to check your Honeywell for hardware issues:

1. Inspect your Honeywell air purifier for any visible damage or plastic deformation.
2. Listen for any unusual noises that might indicate internal issues.
3. If you suspect a faulty component, avoid opening the unit yourself.
4. Check for warranty coverage or service options from Honeywell.
5. If the unit is making loud noises, this could indicate motor or fan issues.
6. Avoid using the purifier if you suspect serious internal damage.

If you have spotted hardware damage or can’t fix the red light yourself, contact Honeywell support or a professional technician for repairs or advice​​​

Note: Don't place fabrics or attempt to dry clothes on top of or near your air purifier.

Quick Recap

To fix a Honeywell air purifier red light won’t go off, reset the filter indicator and clean your purifier pre-filter and outer shell.

Next, replace the filter if needed and check the air quality.