Honeywell Air Purifier Filter Replacement Guide
Find the right replacement filter for your purifier, understand letter codes, and learn how to replace and reset filters properly.
Replacing filters on schedule keeps your unit quiet, protects the motor, and preserves full Clean Air Delivery Rates. Whether identifying which filter fits your purifier or checking replacement intervals, this guide outlines every letter code, model requirement, and installation step.
Filter Types & Letter Codes
Honeywell uses simple letter codes across its product lines to make finding your match easy:
- Filter R (HRF-R1, HRF-R2, HRF-R3): The primary particulate filter. Certified True HEPA replacements capture up to 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns, including pollen, pet dander, and fine dust. The 3-pack option provides three identical cartridges for larger machines.
- Filter A (HRF-A100): The outer carbon wrap. This pre-filter traps large debris like hair and lint while absorbing household odors before air reaches the HEPA layer.
- Universal HRF-AP1: A large, cut-to-fit carbon sheet that can be trimmed for any console model, yielding multiple pre-filters per pack.
- Filter S (HRF-SS1, HRF-SP1, HRF-SC1): Specialty enhancement cartridges designed to nest beside Type R filters, targeting smoke, pet odors, or volatile organic compounds.
Model Compatibility Chart
Most Honeywell console purifiers use modular Type R filters. Units scale up by adding more cartridges side by side:
HPA100 Series
Uses one Type R True HEPA filter and one Type A carbon pre-filter.
HPA200 Series
Requires two Type R filters along with a wide carbon pre-filter.
HPA300 Series
Uses three Type R filters and one large carbon pre-filter wrap.
InSight Series
Models like the HPA5300 take certified True HEPA replacements paired with on-screen filter life trackers.
Genuine OEM vs. Generic Filters
Aftermarket knockoffs often seem tempting, but generic options frequently cut corners on frame fit and paper density. Choosing certified factory filters guarantees several key advantages:
- Zero air bypass around the edges, ensuring dirty air cannot slip past the seal.
- Motor protection against excessive static pressure that can cause fans to overheat or run loud.
- Verified 99.97% microscopic particle containment tested to AHAM standards.
How to Replace & Install Filters
Follow this simple sequence when changing your filter media:
- Turn off and unplug the purifier before releasing the front grille.
- Remove the outer black pre-filter, then pull out the used Type R cartridges.
- Insert the white True HEPA filters first into the inner chamber, then place the black carbon pre-filter directly against the outer grille.
- Ensure the airflow arrows printed on the Type R frame point inward toward the fan wheel.
- Tuck the carbon sheet under the built-in retaining tabs so it lies flat across the entire face.
- Plug the unit back in, turn it on, and hold the illuminated filter reset button for 3 to 5 seconds until you hear a chime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between HRF-R1, HRF-R2, and HRF-R3?
All three part numbers contain the exact same Type R True HEPA filter. The number simply indicates the pack quantity: HRF-R1 contains one filter, HRF-R2 contains two, and HRF-R3 contains three.
How often do I need to replace each filter stage?
Replace carbon pre-filters every 3 months (approximately 2,160 operating hours) to maintain effective odor removal. Replace True HEPA filters every 12 months (approximately 8,400 hours) to keep particle capture at peak performance.
How do I turn off the red filter light after replacement?
Honeywell filter lights do not turn off automatically. With the purifier powered on, press and hold the illuminated filter button for 3 to 5 seconds until you hear a beep and the LED shuts off.
Related Products
Honeywell Store Past News Articles
Browse the latest Honeywell Store news, product updates, buying guides, safety tips, promotions, and store announcements.
Honeywell Air Purifier Filter Light Guide: Meaning, Reset & First Use Setup

Honeywell Lamps Guide: Smart Desk, Table & Floor Lighting for Home and Office

Honeywell Air Purifier Filter Replacement Guide: Models, Sizing & Reset

Honeywell Home X8S Smart Thermostat: Redefining Connected Climate Control

Honeywell HWC778 Cool & Warm Mist Humidifier Review

Honeywell TurboForce HF715: Heavy-Duty Whole-Room Air Circulation for Large Spaces

Honeywell Can Cooler: Ice-Cold Drinks Made Easy

Breathe easier with the Honeywell HPA120W and HPA120B

Finding the Right Ceiling Fan for Any Room

Beat the Summer Heat with Honeywell Fans

Optimize Your Indoor Air Quality: Honeywell Filters vs. Allergy Season

The Breath of Fresh Air: Improving Air Quality During Allergy Season with Air Purifiers and Filters

Home Climate Control with Honeywell Heaters & Thermostats

Honeywell Smart Thermostats for Modern Comfort and App-Based Control

Heating Efficiency with Honeywell Furnace Filters this Winter

Balancing Indoor Humidity with Honeywell Technology

Smart Home Connectivity with the Honeywell X8S Smart Thermostat

Honeywell Heaters: Safety, Efficiency, and Warmth for Winter

Preparing Your Home for Fall: Essential Honeywell Products

A Guide to Honeywell's Most Popular Smart Lamps

Experience Total Comfort, No Matter the Space: The Honeywell Slim & Small Portable Air Conditioner

Why the Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat Outshines Standard Models

Stay Cool and Save with Honeywell Ceiling Fans

Guaranteed Performance and Perfect Fit with Honeywell Filters

Beat the Summer Dryness: Embrace Comfort with Honeywell Humidifiers

Stay Cool This Summer with Honeywell Fans, Air Conditioners & Thermostats

Enjoy Targeted Cooling and Enhanced Comfort with Honeywell Portable Air Conditioners

Budget Friendly Honeywell Fans Keep You Cool In Summer Heat

Upgrade Your Air: Honeywell Air Purifier & Filters

Energy Savings and Simple Control: A Look at the Honeywell Home X2S

Honeywell Wireless Door Chimes, Portable Door Bell Series

Changing Honeywell Furnace Filters and Why It Is Important

Allergy-Free Spring: How Honeywell Air Purifiers Can Help

Preparing for Winter: Choosing the Right Honeywell Thermostat

Safety and Peace of Mind: The Perfect Honeywell Heater

Illuminate Your Workspace in Style and Comfort with the Honeywell Cordless LED Desk Lamp

Find Winter Relief with a Honeywell Air Purifier

Upgrade Your Home's Air Filtration with Honeywell Furnace Filters

Stay Warm and Cozy This Fall with Honeywell Heaters

Why You Should Use Honeywell Humidifier Filters and Avoiding Knockoff Filters

The Honeywell Store Introduces Three New Innovative Desk Lamps

A Comparison of Warm Mist, Cool Mist, and Cool Moisture Humidifiers

Honeywell Warm Mist Humidifier: A Breath of Fresh Air

Why Should I Get a Honeywell Dehumidifier?

Shield Your Home's Comfort with a Honeywell Thermostat Lock Box

Take Control of Your Light: Unveiling the Power of Honeywell Light Switch Timers

Experience the Honeywell Difference: Series 5 & 9 Wireless Doorbells

Quick Setup, Bright Alerts: Honeywell Wireless Doorbell

How to Install Honeywell Programmable Thermostats

How to Install Honeywell Non-Programmable Thermostats

How to Install Honeywell Wi-Fi Thermostats

Honeywell InSight HEPA Air Purifier: The Ultimate Air Purifier for Smoke

Honeywell Thermostat Reset: A Step by Step Guide

Take a Breather, Hear Clearly, See Sharply: Honeywell Safety Solutions for National Safety Month

Find Your Perfect Breeze: A Guide to Honeywell Fans, Portable Air Conditioners & Thermostats

Don't Let Summer Heat Steal Your Comfort: The Power of Cool Mist Humidifiers

Celebrate National Pet Month with a High-Tech Treat: Smart Pet Feeders and Bowls

Enjoy Fresher Air This Summer with Honeywell Air Purifiers

Door Chimes: Your Summertime Soundtrack

Spring into Clean Air: Why You Should Change Your Furnace Filter Now

Why Spring is Primetime for Filter Replacement

You Can Improve Your Indoor Air Quality: Get the Honeywell HPA200 Air Purifier Today

Breathe Easy This Spring with a Honeywell Air Purifier

Stay Warm and Cozy with Honeywell Portable Heaters

Upgrade Your Home's Comfort and Efficiency with the Honeywell Digital Baseboard Heater Thermostat

True HEPA Protection for Your Home: Honeywell Large Room Air Purifier

Honeywell Humidifier Benefits All Year Long - Humidifying Is Not Just for the Colder Months

Honeywell VC16 Aeromax Pro Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

Shooting Hearing Protection for Smaller Heads

Honeywell Heaters: Keeping You Warm and Comfortable All Winter Long

Howard Leight Women's Earmuffs and Genesis Safety Glasses: Protect Your Hearing and Vision in Style

Honeywell Smart Lighting: The Best Desk Lamps for Your Home

Honeywell Aeromax Elite Cordless Vacuum Cleaner: Experience the Next Level of Superior Suction

Honeywell Pro Cordless Vacuum: Superior Cleaning Made Easy

How Do I Clean Air Purifier Filters? And Other Filter Questions Answered

The Best Air Purifiers for Wildfire Smoke

What's the Best Air Purifier for my Home?

How Do Honeywell Air Purifiers Work?

How Do Honeywell Electric Bikes Compare To Other E-Bikes?

Are Honeywell Electric Bikes a Best E-Bike of 2023?

Save 10% on Genuine Honeywell Filters When Using a Subscription

Honeywell Portable Air Conditioners: Answering Your Installation Questions and More

What Does an Air Purifier Capture?

Honeywell Mini Split Air Conditioners: Multi Seasonal Cooling & Heating

Honeywell Ceiling Fans: Answering Your Frequently Asked Questions

Genuine Honeywell Filters: Are They Worth It?

The Obvious & Not So Obvious Honeywell Home Security Products

Why You Should Be Using a Resideo Water Leak & Freeze Detector

Honeywell Air Coolers: Energy Efficient Cooling with Humidification

Honeywell Fans: Where Are You Using Yours?

How Honeywell Products Can Help You Save Money by Reducing Energy Costs

Why You Should Choose a Honeywell Permanent Filter Air Purifier

What Should I look for before purchasing a Honeywell HEPA Air Purifier?

Honeywell Door Knobs & Deadbolts: Which One is Right for Me?

Honeywell Dehumidifiers: What Do They Do and Why Do I Need One?

The Best Honeywell Portable Air Conditioners of 2022

How Do I Put On My Honeywell N95 Flatfold Disposable Respirator?

How do I Clean My Honeywell TurboForce Fan?

Genuine Honeywell Filters: Compatible Does Not Mean Comparable

New Honeywell Heaters for the Winter Season

How Do I Clean my Honeywell Humidifier?

Honeywell Humidifier Replacement Filters: What You Need to Know
Honeywell Safety Eyewear: Put Safety in Sight with the Right Winter Eyewear

Honeywell e-bikes: A Closer Look at the Debut Series of Electric Bikes

Honeywell HVAC Furnace Filters: Why & How Often You Should Change Filters

Honeywell Humidifiers: Knowing Where & How to Use Them Best

Honeywell Air Purifiers: Understanding Common Airborne Allergens and How to Deal With Them!
Honeywell Air Purifiers: Soothing Relief In The Living Room & Bathroom

Honeywell Air Purifiers: Improve Indoor Air Quality In The Kitchen & Bedroom

Furnace HVAC Filter Guide: How to Measure Air Filters and Understanding MERV Rating

Honeywell Air Coolers: Strong, Maneuverable Cooling for the Summer

Honeywell Thermostats: Finding the Perfect Thermostat
Honeywell Air Purifiers: Our Top Five Air Purifiers of 2021

Honeywell Personal Hand Dryer: Touchless, Hands Free Drying

Best Portable Fans from Honeywell in 2021

Honeywell E Bikes: Affordable Electric Bikes in a Variety of Styles

Honeywell TurboForce Fans: Personal to Whole Room Cooling

Honeywell True HEPA Air Purifier: The Gold Standard in Air Purification

Honeywell HF Smart Wi-Fi Portable Air Conditioners: Control from Anywhere

Honeywell Contempo Air Conditioners: Portable, Efficient, Quiet

New Honeywell Dual Layer Face Cover: Advanced Filtration Meets Custom Comfort

Honeywell Enhanced Air Purifier Filters: Targets & Removes Specific Odors & VOCs

New Honeywell Digital and Smart Safes: Innovative Features, Elite Protection

Honeywell Fireproof & Waterproof Safes: 3-in-1 Protection in the Home

Honeywell Filterless Humidifiers - Easy To Maintain & Clean

Protect What's Important with Honeywell Portable Safes for Work, Dorm Rooms & Travel

Honeywell Warm Mist Humidifier: Warm, Filter-Free Visible Mist

Honeywell Humidifiers: Cool, Filtered Invisible Moisture

Honeywell Humidifiers: Top Five Humidifiers for Winter

Honeywell Heaters: Top Five Heaters for Winter

Honeywell Humidifiers: Filter & Filter Free Humidifiers
Honeywell Humidifiers: Guide to Cool & Warm Mist Humidifiers
