The NuWave OxyPure Portable Air Purifier is designed to improve indoor air quality by filtering out various airborne particles and pollutants. It offers a range of operational modes and features to suit different user preferences and environmental conditions, all managed through an intuitive control panel.
Function Description
The OxyPure operates by drawing in air, filtering it through a multi-stage filtration system, and then releasing cleaner air back into the room. Its core function is to reduce particulate matter (PM2.5), which includes fine inhalable particles like dust, pollen, mold, smoke, organic compounds, and metals. The device utilizes an Air Quality Sensor to continuously monitor the indoor air and adjust its operation accordingly in certain modes.
The filtration system includes:
- Prefilter Access Panels with mesh Prefilters: These are located on both sides of the unit and are designed to capture larger particles before the air reaches the more advanced filters.
- HEPA/Carbon Filters: These double-sided filters are crucial for removing lead, dust mites, mold, and mold spores. The HEPA side is installed facing out, while the carbon side faces inward, providing comprehensive filtration. The HEPA filters are particularly effective, capturing 99% of particles 0.3 microns or larger, a technology originally developed to protect lab workers from radioactive dust.
The device is equipped with a fan that can operate at different speeds to facilitate air circulation and filtration. The control panel provides visual feedback on the current air quality and operational status through color-coded LED indicators.
Usage Features
The OxyPure offers several modes and settings for flexible operation:
- Power On/Off: When plugged in, the Power button is red, indicating Standby Mode. Pressing it once activates the unit, either resuming previous settings or starting in Manual Fan Speed Mode at Fan Speed 1.
- Manual Fan Speed Mode: This is the default operating mode upon first activation. Users can manually adjust the fan speed through four levels (1-4) by repeatedly pressing the FAN SPEED button. Pressing it a fifth time returns to Fan Speed 1. The control panel displays the current fan speed level.
- AUTO Mode: In this mode, the OxyPure automatically adjusts its fan speed based on the current air quality, as detected by its sensors. The fan speed increases when the air is dirty and decreases as it gets cleaner. To activate, press the AUTO/ECO button once. The upper half-circle LED will light up to indicate AUTO Mode is active.
- ECO Mode: Designed for energy and cost savings, ECO Mode also responds to air quality changes but does not run the fan continuously. To activate, press and hold the AUTO/ECO button for 1 second. In ECO Mode, the fan turns off, and most panel lights go dark. When air quality deteriorates (PM2.5 level over 50), the unit automatically switches to AUTO Mode. When air quality improves (PM2.5 level under 5), it automatically turns off again.
- TURBO Mode: This mode is for quickly clearing the air. It runs the OxyPure at the highest fan speed (Level 4) for a set duration. Pressing TURBO once runs it for 30 minutes, twice for 1 hour, and three times for 2 hours. Pressing it a fourth time turns TURBO Mode off. After the set duration, the unit reverts to Fan Speed 1 unless other buttons are pressed.
- SLEEP Mode: Ideal for light sleepers, this mode turns off the LED display on the control panel while keeping the fan active at its current speed. To activate, adjust the fan speed manually, then press SLEEP. Any button press will deactivate SLEEP Mode.
- TIMER Function: Users can set the OxyPure to run for a specific period (1, 2, 4, 6, 8, or 12 hours) by pressing the TIMER button. Pressing it a seventh time turns off the timer but not the unit. The timer can be used in conjunction with AUTO, FAN SPEED, and TURBO modes.
- Pet Lock: This feature disables the control panel to prevent accidental changes to settings by pets, children, or even the user. To activate, press and hold FAN SPEED until a padlock symbol lights up white. To deactivate, press and hold FAN SPEED again until the padlock symbol darkens.
- LED Brightness: The control panel LEDs are at full brightness when in use. If no key is touched for 30 seconds, the panel dims by 30%. Touching any key while dimmed or off restores full brightness.
- Air Quality Indicator: This indicator turns on when the unit is activated, displaying current air quality with four color-coded levels: green (clean), orange, burgundy, and red (dirty).
Maintenance Features
Regular maintenance is essential for the OxyPure's optimal performance and longevity.
- Filter Replacement Indicator: An LED Filter Icon near the SLEEP Mode button alerts users when HEPA/Carbon filter replacement is needed. It lights up yellow between 6-12 months of use (indicating filters MAY be replaced) and turns red after 12 months (indicating filters MUST be replaced immediately).
- Resetting the Filter Icon: After changing filters, the icon can be reset by pressing and holding SLEEP until two short beeps sound and the icon turns off.
- Prefilter Cleaning: The mesh Prefilter, part of the Prefilter Access Panel, can be washed in warm, soapy water. It must be thoroughly dried before reinstallation.
- HEPA/Carbon Filter Replacement: These filters cannot be cleaned and must be replaced. When the filter icon changes color, it's time to replace them. The process involves turning off and unplugging the unit, moving it to a well-ventilated area, wearing disposable rubber gloves, opening the Prefilter Access Panels, removing the old filters and disposing of them in a plastic bag, unwrapping and installing new NuWave filters, securely closing the panels, and then plugging in and turning on the unit. It is crucial to remove all plastic wrapping from new filters before installation to avoid damage and voiding the warranty.
- Cleaning the OxyPure Exterior: The exterior and vent grids can be wiped down with a damp cloth. A gentle, non-abrasive cleaner can be applied to the cloth (not directly to the unit).
- Sensor Cleaning: The filter sensor can be cleaned with a dry or slightly wet cotton swab, ensuring any moisture is removed with a dry swab afterward.
- Troubleshooting: The manual provides guidance for common issues such as the unit not turning on, the timer not working, fan speed not changing, weak airflow, or the unit producing smoke or odor. For persistent problems, users are advised to contact customer service.
The manual emphasizes the importance of following all safety precautions and instructions for safe and effective use of the OxyPure.