How Often Should Activated Carbon Be Replaced?

The following is a guide to replacement frequency for different uses:

1. Air Purification (Formaldehyde Removal, Deodorization, and Dehumidification)
This is the most common use in homes, such as in new homes, wardrobes, refrigerators, and cars.

General Use (such as Deodorization in wardrobes, shoe cabinets, and small spaces): Replace every 3-6 months.

Removing Formaldehyde, TVOC, and Other Contaminants from New Homes: During the initial period when pollutant concentrations are high, it is recommended to replace the carbon every 1-3 months. As concentrations decrease, the recommended replacement frequency can be extended to 3-6 months.

Important Tips:

Sun Regeneration: If activated carbon bags used for air purification are not saturated, expose them to sunlight for 3-5 hours every 2-3 weeks to release some moisture and volatile pollutants, thereby restoring some of their adsorption capacity and extending their lifespan. However, this cycle can only be repeated 2-3 times before it must be replaced.

How to tell: If you notice a recurring odor or the activated carbon pack noticeably increases in weight (due to absorption of water and contaminants), it's time to replace it or expose it to sunlight.

2. Water Treatment (Water Purifiers, Aquarium Filters)
Activated carbon used for water treatment requires more frequent replacement because water constantly flows through it, allowing it to absorb water quickly.

Home water purifiers (pre-filters or direct drinking fountains): It's generally recommended to replace them every 6-12 months. Be sure to follow the official recommendations of your water purifier brand, as designs and carbon rod quality vary greatly.

Aquarium filters: It's recommended to replace them every 2-4 weeks. Organic matter, pharmaceuticals, and pigments in the aquarium can quickly saturate the activated carbon, rendering it ineffective. If used solely to remove pharmaceuticals, remove it immediately after use.

3. Industrial and Special Uses
Gas masks and industrial waste gas treatment: These applications are directly related to health and safety, and have strict replacement cycles. They must be used strictly in accordance with the product manual or safety specifications. This cycle is usually calculated based on usage time or cumulative number of uses.

How to determine if activated carbon is saturated?

Smell: Hold the charcoal bag close to your nose. If the previously odorless bag begins to emit a sour, musty, or other unpleasant odor, it is saturated.

Observe the effect: If the odor in the area becomes noticeable again.

Weigh: Compare before and after use. The greater the weight increase, the more impurities are adsorbed.

Finally, purchasing advice:

Choose coconut shell activated carbon, which generally has better adsorption performance than coal-based charcoal.

Opt for vacuum packaging to avoid absorbing a large amount of airborne impurities before delivery.