Vornado Air Purifier Filter Replacement: Which Pack Fits Your Model?
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Finding the right vornado air purifier filter replacement comes down to matching your purifier cabinet size with the correct media pack. If you run a console model like the AC300, AC500, or PCO series, you need the large rectangular MD1-0022 true HEPA element paired with an MD1-0023 carbon pre-filter wrap. Compact desktop units like the CYLO50 or QUBE50 require the square slide-in MD1-0039 cartridge instead. Choosing an incompatible shape or thickness prevents the door latch from closing and breaks the airtight perimeter seal required for effective room cleaning.
This guide covers 5 replacement packs designed to maintain consistent airflow and capture fine particulate matter across various machine generations. They differ primarily in machine compatibility, filter staging, and the length of time the bundled components support your maintenance cycle. Some provide a full two-year multi-stage supply for large consoles, another is tailored for a single-year refresh cycle, and dedicated options serve compact cylinder units. Checking your machine model number against the appropriate cartridge geometry avoids fitment issues and keeps fan motor resistance within design specifications, much like planning a levoit air purifier filter replacement schedule for other household rooms.
Which Vornado Air Purifier Filters Should You Buy
- For heavy-use households running large console units requiring an extended multi-stage supply: MD1-0022 Replacement Filter.
see 1 of 5 - For everyday living rooms and shared home offices needing durable polypropylene pleats: MD1-0022 Filter for Vornado Air Purifier.
see 2 of 5 - For maintenance-focused homeowners who prefer vacuuming their pre-filter media monthly: PUREBURG Air Purifier Filter Compatible.
see 3 of 5 - For dedicated AC series console owners seeking an exact single-machine, one-year set: Replacement Filter Combo.
see 4 of 5 - For smaller bedrooms or compact offices equipped with cylindrical or square desktop units: MD1-0039 Filter.
see 5 of 5
What Sets These Models Apart
| Filter Model | Compatible Machine Series | Pack Contents | Primary Media Rating | Typical Service Horizon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MD1-0022 Replacement Filter | AC300, AC350, AC500, AC550, PCO series | 2 HEPA + 4 Pre-Filters | H13 True HEPA / MERV 13 | Up to 24 Months (Single Unit) |
| MD1-0022 Filter for Vornado | AC300, AC350, AC500, AC550, PCO series | 2 HEPA + 4 Pre-Filters | Polypropylene Pleated Media | Up to 24 Months (Single Unit) |
| PUREBURG Air Purifier Filter | AC300, AC350, AC500, AC550, PCO series | 2 HEPA + 4 Pre-Filters | H13 True HEPA | Up to 24 Months (Cleanable) |
| Replacement Filter Combo | AC300, AC350, AC500, AC550 | 1 HEPA + 4 Pre-Filters | H13 Grade / MERV 13 | 12 Months (Single Unit) |
| MD1-0039 Filter | CYLO50, CYLO51, QUBE50 | 2 Integrated Cartridges | H13 Grade 3-in-1 Media | Two Complete Replacements |
Figures in this table are copied from the Amazon listings for these models.
Buying Tips for Vornado Air Purifier Filters
Before purchasing any replacement media, inspect the silver specification label located on the underside or rear panel of your machine cabinet. Vornado console models use precise part codes such as AC1-0015-06 for the AC300 or AC1-0018-06 for the PCO500. Knowing your exact model code confirms whether your machine requires the full-sized 11.8-inch rectangular MD1-0022 frame or the compact 7.25-inch square MD1-0039 cartridge. Ordering by cabinet appearance alone often leads to sizing mismatches, especially between mid-size consoles and compact desktop cubes.
Take note of how many active filter bays your unit operates. While models like the AC300, AC350, and PCO200 utilize a single HEPA element, larger high-capacity machines like the AC500 and PCO500 feature dual chambers that require two MD1-0022 filters and two MD1-0023 pre-filters installed simultaneously. If you operate an AC500, a six-piece bundle containing two HEPA cores will cover one complete machine refresh, whereas a combo kit containing only one HEPA core will leave you one filter short.
Always inspect the sealing gaskets and perimeter edges when unboxing your replacement components. High-efficiency filtration relies on mechanical perimeter pressure to force incoming air through the dense pleated fiber matrix rather than allowing it to escape around the plastic frame. When inserting new carbon pre-filters, secure them smoothly across the front face of the pleated core using the cabinet tabs to prevent fluttering noise and ensure complete pre-filtration coverage.
FAQ
How often should I change my Vornado air purifier filters?
For standard console models, the activated carbon MD1-0023 pre-filter should be replaced every three months to prevent odor saturation and trap large dust. The main MD1-0022 true HEPA filter should be replaced every twelve months. In compact units utilizing the all-in-one MD1-0039 cartridge, replace the entire cartridge according to the machine indicator light or roughly every six to twelve months depending on room air quality.
Are MD1-0022 and MD1-0039 filters interchangeable?
No, they are completely different sizes and shapes. The MD1-0022 is a large rectangular filter measuring approximately 11.8 by 10.2 inches built for AC and PCO console purifiers. The MD1-0039 is a compact square cartridge measuring 7.25 by 7.25 inches engineered strictly for CYLO50, CYLO51, and QUBE50 desktop models. They cannot fit into each other’s mounting bays.
Do I need to replace both filters at the same time on AC500 models?
Yes, large console platforms like the AC500, AC550, and PCO500 utilize dual filter chambers to move higher volumes of air. Replacing only one side creates uneven airflow resistance across the blower wheel, pulling more air through the older, loaded filter and reducing overall air cleaning efficiency. Both sides should be refreshed with matching media simultaneously.
Can I wash my Vornado HEPA or carbon filters with water?
No, neither the pleated HEPA elements nor the carbon pre-filters are waterproof. Exposing pleated true HEPA media to water damages the delicate paper and synthetic microfibers, destroying their particulate capture capabilities. Water also clogs the microscopic pore structure of activated carbon. For surface maintenance, gently vacuum the exterior pre-filter with a soft brush attachment.
What is the difference between MD1-0022 and MD1-0023?
MD1-0022 refers to the thick, white, pleated true HEPA main filter that captures microscopic particulates like dust, dander, and smoke. MD1-0023 designates the thin, black, activated carbon pre-filter wrap that attaches over the HEPA core to catch lint and absorb household odors and chemical vapors.








