9 common Dyson air purifier problems (and how to fix them)

Launched in the UK in the early 90s, Dyson may be most well-known for their vacuum cleaners, but they’ve also been producing air purifiers since 2015. Many of their units don’t just clean the air, however. For example, their HP04 Hot + Cool also works as a fan and heater and their PH03 unit is a premium combo of humidifier, fan, plus purifier. 

Yet while all of this sounds amazing, Dyson purifiers don’t always work perfectly. Luckily, we’ve listed the most common issues, such as the purifier not turning on. Most importantly, we’ve provided helpful tips on how to resolve these problems.

You’ll also find links to manuals, plus info about the correct power rating and room size for each device and how to contact Dyson directly.

Problem 1: My Dyson air purifier isn’t turning on

While this is frustrating, you should be able to fix it once you know the cause.

❓ Have you checked the power source?

Be sure to double-check the unit is plugged into an outlet. If so, it’s possible that the outlet itself is faulty, so try unplugging it and using a different outlet.

❓ Have you looked at the power switch on the purifier itself?

If you can see that the switch is in the “On” position, the issue may be with the internal wiring of the purifier. It’s best to contact Dyson customer support for further help if this is the case.

❓ Is the Power Rating inaccurate?

If the power rating is incorrect, your cleaner is unlikely to work properly. Check out our table below to find your device’s power supply.

Dyson Air Purifier Model	Power Supply	Rated Power
Pure Cool Link TP02	100V / 50/60Hz	6 — 56 W
Humidify + Cool Autoreact PH3A	120 V	40 W
Humidify + Cool PH03	120 V	6 — 40 W
Cool Formaldehyde TP09	120 V	6-40 W
Cool Autoreact TP7A	120 V	40 W
Humidify+Cool Formaldehyde PH04	120 V	120 W
Hot+Cool Formaldehyde HP09	120 V	40 — 1400 W
Hot+Cool HP07	120 V	40 — 1400 W
Hot+Cool Link HP02	120 V	6W – 40W (fan) 1500 W (heater mode)
Hot+Cool HP01	120 V	6W — 40W (fan) 1500 W (heater mode)
Hot + Cool HP04	120 V	6W — 40W (fan) 1500 W (heater mode)
Purifier Cool TP07	120 V	6 — 40 W

Problem 2: My Dyson air purifier isn’t rotating

Dyson fans are made with high-quality oscillation features that usually work effortlessly. If you’re having this particular problem, you can do several things.

❓ Is the filter clean?

The filter needs to be clean for the fan to rotate effectively. It’s a good idea always to check the filter first when you’re having issues. Dyson recommends changing filters every 12 months as they become clogged with pollutants. 

Here’s how to change a Dyson Pure Hot + Cool filter:

1. Make sure the unit is switched off and unplugged from the outlet.
2. Press both catches on either side of the unit simultaneously and lift this off the main body.
3. Using the arrow indicators, press and release the filter.
4. Dispose of the filter in a sealed garbage bag to ensure harmful particles won’t get dispersed back into the air.
5. Remove the new filter from its packaging.
6. Secure the new filter inside the filter casing.
7. Place the filter casing onto the unit’s main body and push down until you hear it click into place.
8. Locate the sensor hatch on the side of the machine and use a cotton swab to clean the inside.
9. Refit the sensor hatch until you hear it click shut.
10. Plug the purifier in at the outlet and press the On/Off button.
11. Press and hold the On/Off button on the remote for approximately six seconds. You should notice a loading pattern rotating clockwise on the LED display.
12. Once the pattern is complete, your purifier should work normally.

❓ Are there any obstructions? 

Be sure to remove any obstructions that could be blocking the rotation of the unit. 

❓ Could it be the power supply?

The unit needs to be securely plugged into an outlet. Also, double-check that the outlet is functioning properly. 

❓ Is the switch in the “On” position?

If you’ve checked this and tried all of the above solutions, there may be an internal wiring issue with the unit. Be sure to contact Dyson customer support for additional help.

Problem 3: My Dyson air purifier is displaying a warning sign

It can be a bit worrying if you see a warning sign. Let’s take a closer look.

❓ Is the filter attached correctly?

A warning triangle might show on your screen if this doesn’t fit properly. Be sure to reattach the filters securely.

❓ Have you checked the user manual?

The manual should help you diagnose the problem so you can fix it yourself. But if this is tricky, you can contact Dyson directly for more help and information.

Problem 4: My Dyson air purifier isn’t connecting to wi-fi

There are a few things you can try if you have connection issues.

❓ Have you checked the connection between the unit and the router?

Your purifier must be placed within the router’s range and connected to a 2.4GHz network. Also, make sure there aren’t any obstructions between the unit and the router. 

❓ Are the Wi-Fi settings correct?

Double-check that the Wi-Fi is turned on and you’ve selected the correct network.

Problem 5: My Dyson Air Purifier Isn’t Cleaning the Air Effectively

The most important thing about a purifier is that it cleans the air properly. Here’s what to do if you’re experiencing problems.

❓ Is the filter clean?

Be sure to check this and replace it if necessary. Also, clear any obstructions that might block airflow through the purifier.

❓ Do you need to clean the fan?

You can vacuum around the front of the fan, the controls and the main fan head. You can also try wiping the fan with a damp microfiber cloth. Remember to clean around the sensor ports and avoid sticking anything through them, as this could damage the sensors.

❓ Is it the power supply?

Ensure the purifier is plugged into an outlet and that this is working properly. If there aren’t any problems with the outlet, look at the power switch. Again, if this is set to “On,” there may be an internal issue with the unit, so it’s best to contact customer support.

❓ Is the air purifier in the ideal room size as specified by Dyson? 

To work effectively, your Dyson purifier needs to be placed in the right room for its capacity. Check your device below. 

Dyson Air Purifier Model	Ideal Room Size in Square Feet	Ideal Room Size in Square Meters
Pure Cool Link TP02	400	37
Humidify + Cool Autoreact PH3A	290	27
Humidify + Cool PH03	290	27
Cool Formaldehyde TP09	290	27
Cool Autoreact TP7A	290	27
Humidify+Cool Formaldehyde PH04	290	27
Hot+Cool Formaldehyde HP09	290	27
Hot+Cool HP07	290	27
Hot+Cool Link HP02	290	27
Hot+Cool HP01	290	27
Hot + Cool HP04	400	37
Purifier Cool TP07	290	27

Problem 6: My Dyson air purifier isn’t responding to the remote

The Dyson remote helps ensure your purifier’s smooth running. Here’s what to look for if there are any problems. 

❓ Have you checked the batteries?

It’s important to make sure these are fresh and installed correctly.

❓ Do you need to change the settings?

Double-check that your purifier is set to respond to the remote.

❓ Are there any obstructions between the purifier and the remote?

This may also affect the connection so remove anything that could get in the way.

Problem 7: The continuous monitoring function isn’t working

When continuous monitoring is turned on, your Dyson purifier can gather information about the air quality, temperature and humidity in your environment. If this isn’t working properly, it could be one of these causes:

❓ Do you need to reset your Dyson air purifier?

You can try resetting the unit if the manual doesn’t describe a set procedure. Follow these steps:

1. Find the standby On/Off button.
2. Press and hold the button for 20 seconds.
3. You should notice that the Wi-Fi symbol will flash white and green. This indicates that your network settings have been removed, and your purifier is reset.

❓ Have you checked the manual?

This will let you know if there’s a specific troubleshooting process for your model.

Problem 8: The air quality sensor isn’t working

The sensor measures temperature, humidity levels and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to establish the kind of pollutants in the air. It’s a super helpful feature because the sensor uses this information to adjust your purifier’s settings accordingly. But what if it’s not working properly? Let’s take a look.

❓ Does the sensor need cleaning?

In most cases, the sensor has simply begun to malfunction because of dust. Follow our guide on how to clean it effectively:

1. Locate your purifier’s sensor. On most units, this is on the left of the LCD display. You’ll be able to spot the sensor by its two tiny sensor holes.
2. Once you’ve found the sensor, turn off the unit.
3. Dust the sensor holes by using a dry dusting brush. 
4. You can also vacuum debris out of the holes (using the correct attachments). A HEPA vacuum will help to ensure the complete capture of dust particles.
5. Another option is to use a blow dryer in a cool setting, as the high pressure should quickly remove debris.
6. Switch the purifier back on; the sensor should give you an accurate reading.

❓ Is the filter dirty?

This can also be another reason why the sensor isn’t working properly. Be sure to check the filter regularly and change it if it seems damaged or is due to be replaced. 

❓ Is your room too small?

A small room can mean poor airflow, which means the sensor feels too confined to function correctly. You can quickly fix this by opening a window or door to get the air circulating.

❓ Is the sensor blocked?

If there’s furniture in front of your purifier, the sensor may become blocked and unable to detect the surrounding air correctly. Simply make sure that nothing is obstructing its view.

❓ Is the setting correct?

Be sure to check that you’re using the correct setting on your purifier so that it knows how to filter the air efficiently. Each Dyson model has different settings for airborne pollutants, such as VOCs and humidity. 

❓ Is the sensor damaged?

If you’ve tried all the above solutions with no luck, then it may be that the sensor itself is damaged. In this instance, it’s best to contact Dyson customer support for more advice.

Problem 9: My Dyson air purifier is making a strange noise

According to Dyson’s own troubleshooting advice, you may hear such sounds as clicking,  whining or whistling. Here’s what to do: 

❓ Have you checked around the base?

If your device clicks when oscillating, some obstructions or debris may be around the base. Be sure to remove anything like this.

❓ Have you removed the loop amplifier?

If you can hear a whining or whistling sound, try removing the loop amplifier and refitting it. Ensure there isn’t an uneven gap between the loop and the main body.

How to get in touch with Dyson

If you’re still experiencing problems, there are various ways you can get in touch with Dyson. You can call them at 8447054777 and their phone lines are open 8:00 am — 8:00 pm CST Monday to Friday and 9:00 am — 6:00 pm CST Saturday. 

You can also use their live chat function via their website. The chat button appears on the bottom right corner of the site as soon as a Dyson Expert becomes available. You can also click this button at any time for helpful troubleshooting advice and information.

If you want to use social media, you can follow them on… 

• Twitter: @AskDyson
• Facebook: facebook.com/dyson 
• YouTube: youtube.com/dyson

You can also join the Dyson community to connect with other owners and share your Dyson experience.

Find the manual for your Dyson air purifier

Click on the link below for your device.

Dyson Air Purifier Model	User Manual
Pure Cool Link TP02	Manual
Humidify + Cool Autoreact PH3A	Manual
Humidify + Cool PH03	Manual
Cool Formaldehyde TP09	Manual
Cool Autoreact TP7A	Manual
Humidify+Cool Formaldehyde PH04	Manual
Hot+Cool Formaldehyde HP09	Manual
Hot+Cool HP07	Manual
Hot+Cool Link HP02	Manual
Hot+Cool HP01	Manual
Hot + Cool HP04	Manual
Purifier Cool TP07	Manual