Your Winix air purifier red light is on, and you don’t know what this means. Worry not! You are at the right blog post. Here I will discuss the reasons behind the blinking and continuous red light on the purifier and will explain how to turn it off. So, without any delay, let’s get started!
Quick Answer
To answer quickly, it is important to understand what red light tells us. There are 2 modes of red light. One is solid red and the other is the flashing one.
- Solid red light: Generally when solid red light is on it’s due to the elevated pollutants in the air.
- Blinking red light: On the other hand, the red light starts flashing on the purifier due to the filter not being installed properly or needing to be replaced.
However, these are the basics only! Continue reading as I will discuss in detail the difference between blinking and continuous glowing of red light and how to resolve it. Also, get insights on how to change filters in 8 different Winix air purifiers and some important tips to extend the lifetime of your purifier. Let’s deep dive in!
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Solid Winix Air Purifier Red Light: The Main Reason and Easy Fix
Red light glows up in the purifier when the sensor detects poor air quality. To resolve this you need to take the following measures:
- Firstly, turn off the auto mode;
- Set the fan to the max possible setting;
- Leave the device running for a few hours till air pollution is minimized.

After following the guidelines correctly, you’ll notice that the air quality indicator will then turn to either blue or amber based on the air quality.
Winix Air Purifier Blinking Red Light Explained!
The Winix cleaner filter indicator is usually located on the top of the purifier. Listed below are some of the reasons that triggers red light blinking:
- Dirty filter;
- The filter needs to be replaced;
- Incorrect installation of new filter.

Sometimes even after catering these issues, the red light keeps blinking. To resolve this you will need to reset the purifier. The reset button for the filter can usually be found close to the filter replacement indicator.
It’s not actually a push or touch button but instead, there is a hole in it, usually labeled as reset or with a rewind arrow shape. To reset your purifier you will need a paper clip or SIM ejector:
- Turn your air purifier;
- Insert the sim ejector or paperclip in the filter reset button, press and hold it for five seconds.
- Once you hear a beep, the lights on the filter replacement indicator will go off. Release the button at this point.

Related Topic: Aroeve Air Purifier Red Light Issue: Main Reason and Easy Fix
After resetting, your purifier is ready to provide clean air again. Here’s a related helpful video you should check out.
Handy Guidelines to Replace Filters in Winix Purifiers: 8 Different Models Discussed
Now let’s learn how to replace filters in different models of Winix to resolve the red light issue. Here are the common steps you need to perform.
General Guidelines for Winix C535, Winix 5500-2, Model 5300-2, Winix 9800, Model AM80, and Winix AM90
Filter-changing process of these purifiers is all the same. Let’s learn about the process:
- First thing first, remove the front panel to open it by pulling out the upper edge.

- Now gently remove the HEPA filter and carbon filter.

- Now, let’s put in the new filters. Place the carbon filter beside the pre-filter and position the HEPA filter in front of it.

- Close the front panel by placing it in line with the purifier body and firmly push it.

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Winix A231 or A230
Both these models have the same methodology to remove the filter. Listed below is an easy way to change the filter:
- Flip your purifier upside down.
- On the bottom of the purifier, rotate the handle anti-clockwise to open the cover.
- Remove the old air filter and push in the new one such that its top side is downwards.
- Put the filter cover back on and turn it clockwise to secure it.
Winix HR900
Here’s how you can replace the old filters in this model:
- Hold the upper edge of the front panel firmly and pull it out towards you making sure that it releases the latch at the lower edge of the panel.
- After removing the panel, you will see a pre-filter at the front, press the clips on the top of the pre-filter to take it out.
- Remove the old filters from their slots and install the new ones ensuring that the carbon filter is placed in between the true HEPA filter and pre-filter.
- To put the air purifier together, first hitch the lower edge of the front panel and then secure the upper edge.

3 Tips To Maintain Your Air Purifier
Listed below are some handy tips to extend the life of your purifier:

- Choose the appropriate Filter: It is recommended to always use the air filter that is suitable for your device. This will ensure that your purifier will work seamlessly and will give optimal performance. Also, some filters like HEPA have a limited lifespan of only a year, so change them when needed.
- Clean Your Purifier Regularly: With the passage of time, dust and debris accumulate on the purifier which can reduce its efficiency. So one must clean their unit periodically to avoid any issues.
- Use your Purifier Correctly: Avoid blocking the vents of the purifier, as it can block the airflow, and don’t cover its sensors while running it. Also, don’t use it in a room that is too large for its capacity as it can overload your purifier.
For more insights, check out this helpful video.
Related Topic: Levoit Air Purifier Red Light: 6 Easy Steps How to Fix It!
FAQs
Why does my air purifier turn red when I walk by?
Your air purifier turns red when you walk near it because the sensor detects the air change around it and indicates about indoor pollution.
How often should I expect to see the red light on my Winix air purifier?
You can expect a red light on the Winix air purifier to indicate an increase in pollutant levels in the room. The filter replacement red light will start blinking when the HEPA filter exceeds its lifespan, which is usually around 6 – 12 months but may vary depending on usage
Can I ignore the red light on my Winix air purifier?
No, you cannot ignore the red light on the Winix air purifier as it may be turned on due to low air quality. In this case, you’ll need to run it at maximum speed. On the other hand, if it’s flashing red light, that means you need to change the HEPA filter.
Can I use my Winix air purifier with the red light on?
Yes, you can use the Winix air purifier with the red light on as it typically indicates that the purifier is actively working to improve air quality by detecting and eliminating pollutants in the environment.
How can I prevent the red light from appearing on my Winix air purifier?
To prevent the red light from appearing on your Winix air purifier you need to regularly replace filters every 12 months and keep tabs on your indoor air quality.
Conclusion
Summing up, the Winix air purifier red light serves as a helpful indicator for assessing air quality and filter replacement needs. It’s essential to understand the different red light modes to ensure optimal purifier performance.
When the solid red light is on, it signals high levels of pollutants in the room, prompting you to run the purifier at its maximum speed to improve air quality. When the air is purified the light will change to either amber or blue.
If the filter replacement red light is blinking, it indicates that the air filter has become dirty and requires cleaning. If cleaning the filter doesn’t turn off the light, it’s time to replace the filter with a new one. Usually, HEPA filters have a life of 6 to 12 months, so you will have to replace them timely.

Danny is a passionate writer who loves to share his knowledge about air purifiers. He’s been writing for 10 years, and he’ll share all that experience with Very Well Home viewers to help you make the best decision when it’s time to buy an appliance!