Did you realize that a staggering 50% of illnesses could be triggered or worsened by polluted indoor air?
Imagine how disconcerting it can be when your trusty Shark Air Purifier displays a persistent 100% air quality reading!
In this article, I will be answering the question of why does your shark air purifier always say 100%.
And I will also be sharing some practical tips on optimizing your air purifier settings for maximum effectiveness.

Why Does My Shark Air Purifier Always Say 100%?
Typically, a 100% reading means excellent air quality, as the device effectively removes contaminants. However, a constant 100% display could indicate a faulty monitor or calibration issue. To ensure accurate readings, maintain your air purifier, reset it when needed, and contact support if problems persist. Optimal air quality is essential for a healthy living space.
Furthermore, two possible reasons exist for a constant 100% air quality reading on your Shark Air Purifier:
- Mission Accomplished: The air purifier has effectively removed pollutants and contaminants, resulting in clean air.
- Inaccurate Air Quality Monitor: A defective air quality monitor can cause inaccurate readings. To resolve this issue, try resetting your Shark Air Purifier or contacting customer support for assistance.
Key Takeaways:
- A constant 100% air quality reading on your Shark Air Purifier could be due to the effective removal of pollutants or a faulty air quality monitor.
- Air quality sensors, including gas, particulate matter, and combination sensors, are essential for air purifiers.
- Factors such as calibration, maintenance, and environmental conditions can affect the performance of air quality sensors.
- To optimize your Shark Air Purifier, activate Auto Mode and adjust settings for specific needs, like allergies or VOCs.
- Proper use and maintenance of your air purifier include regular filter cleaning/replacement, correct positioning, and monitoring air quality.
Understanding Air Quality Monitors
Air quality monitors are essential components of air purifiers designed to detect and measure the presence of pollutants in the air.
There are three primary types of air quality sensors:
- Gas Sensors: These sensors detect harmful gases like volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone.
- Particulate Matter Sensors: These sensors measure particulate matter (PM), such as PM1.0, PM2.5, and PM10 particles, which include dust, pollen, and mold.
- Combination Sensors: These sensors incorporate both gas and particulate matter sensors to detect a broader range of pollutants.
Effectiveness And Limitations Of Air Quality Sensors
While air quality sensors are designed for accuracy and reliability, factors such as calibration, maintenance, and environmental conditions can affect their performance.
Common issues with air quality monitors include inaccurate readings, slow response times, and a limited range of detectable pollutants.

Interpreting The Shark Air Purifier Readings
Air purifiers like the Shark Air Purifier display air quality information through percentage-based readings, color-coded indicators, Air Quality Index (AQI) values, and humidity and temperature readings.
These readings help users understand the current state of their indoor air quality and make necessary adjustments.
Here is a table explaining the air quality color and its meaning on the Shark air purifier:
Air Quality Color | Meaning |
Blue | Good air quality with low particle concentration (85-100% clean air, 0-25 particles) |
Amber | Fair air quality with moderate particle concentration (70-84% clean air, 26-80 particles). Increase fan speed or select the auto mode for better results. |
Red | Poor air quality with high particle concentration (0-69% clean air, 81-430+ particles). Increase fan speed or select auto mode for better results. |
Benefits Of Air Quality Sensors In An Air Purifier
Incorporating air quality sensors in an air purifier offers several advantages, including improved air quality monitoring, automatic adjustments, and health benefits, such as reduced respiratory problems and allergy symptoms.
Other Benefits of Air Quality Sensors:
- Detect pollutants: Air quality sensors detect airborne pollutants, activating the air purifier to filter them out.
- Measure harmful particles: These sensors use infrared or laser beams to measure the number of harmful particles in the air.
- Multi-sensor capabilities: Some high-end air purifiers include gas sensors that detect various gases, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
- Real-time feedback: Sensors display readings on a screen or through LED indicators, allowing users to monitor air quality in real time.
- Identify pollution sources: These sensors can help users monitor indoor air quality and pinpoint potential sources of pollution.
How Accurate Is The Shark Air Purifier?
The Shark Air Purifier is accurate in monitoring and improving air quality. It is HEPA certified, capturing 99.98% of particles larger than 0.2 microns, and can quickly purify.
The Clean Sense IQ technology automatically adjusts fan speed based on detected air quality, improving efficiency.
Although filters are currently hard to find and there’s no app connectivity, the device works quickly, improving air quality in most rooms in under 10 minutes.
Overall, The Shark Air Purifier offers accurate air quality monitoring and improvement.
Optimizing Your Shark Air Purifier Settings
To maximize the effectiveness of your Shark Air Purifier, consider adjusting the recommended settings to accommodate specific needs, such as allergies or VOCs.
Activating Auto Mode automatically allows the air purifier to adjust its settings based on the detected air quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is My Air Quality Never At 100%?
Achieving 100% air quality is nearly impossible due to various outdoor and indoor pollutants.
Traffic emissions, industrial activities, weather conditions, and modern home design contribute to less-than-perfect air quality.
To minimize exposure to unhealthy air, use air purifiers and avoid outdoor activities during high pollution.
Should I Keep My Shark Air Purifier On High All The Time?
While keeping your air purifier on high all the time may seem like a good idea, there are pros and cons to consider.
Running your air purifier constantly at a high setting can improve air quality but may also increase energy consumption and wear on the device.
Instead, consider using Auto Mode, which adjusts the air purifier’s settings based on detected air quality, balancing effectiveness and energy efficiency.
What does the auto setting on the Shark air purifier do?
The auto setting on the Shark air purifier enables the device to automatically adjust its fan speed based on the current air quality in the room.
By continuously monitoring the air, the purifier can efficiently clean the air while optimizing energy usage and noise levels.
This feature ensures optimal air purification without the need for manual intervention.
Tips For Your Shark Air Purifier Usage And Maintenance
To keep your air purifier functioning optimally, regularly clean and replace filters, position the device correctly, and avoid common mistakes, such as placing the air purifier too close to walls or other obstructions.
Here are some more tips to help maintain your Shark Air purifier
- Read the manual: Before using your air purifier, read the manual carefully to understand its features, functions, and maintenance requirements.
- Use the unit consistently: To maintain good air quality, use your air purifier consistently, especially in areas with high pollution levels or allergens.
- Monitor the air quality: Keep an eye on the air quality in your home and adjust the settings on your air purifier accordingly. Some units have sensors that can automatically adjust the fan speed based on the air quality in the room.
- Don’t rely solely on air purifiers: While they can help improve indoor air quality, they are not a substitute for proper ventilation, regular cleaning, and other measures to reduce indoor pollutants.
What Should I Do if My Shark Air Purifier Continues to Display a 100% Air Quality Reading Despite Cleaning the Filters?
Suppose your Shark air purifier continues to display a 100% air quality reading despite cleaning the filters.
In that case, you can follow these steps to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue:
Power cycle The unit:
Turn off the air purifier, unplug it from the wall, wait for about 30 seconds, and then plug it back in and turn it on.
This may reset the system and resolve the issue.
Check The Filters:
Ensure you have cleaned or replaced all necessary filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
This may include the pre-filter, HEPA filter, and/or activated carbon filter.
Inspect The Air Quality Sensor:
Locate the air quality sensor on your Shark air purifier (refer to the user manual if you’re unsure of its location) and gently clean it with a soft cloth or cotton swab.
Dust and debris can accumulate on the sensor, causing inaccurate readings.
Reset The Filter Indicator:
If your air purifier has a filter indicator light, reset it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
This may involve pressing a button or a combination of buttons for a specific duration.
Relocate The Air Purifier:
Ensure the air purifier is placed in an open area with proper airflow and is not obstructed by furniture or other objects.
This will help the device function efficiently and provide accurate air quality readings.
Run The Air Purifier Continuously:
If you’ve just cleaned or replaced the filters, the device may take some time to recalibrate and show an accurate air quality reading.
Run the air purifier continuously for a few hours and check if the reading improves.
Final Thoughts
If your Shark air purifier always shows 100%, it could be great air quality, a faulty sensor, a dirty filter, or needing a reset.
Knowing these causes helps you maintain your purifier’s efficiency.
If you’ve tried everything and it still says 100%, contact Shark customer service.
Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and replacing filters.
Next time your purifier displays 100%, you’ll know how to tackle the issue. Keep this in mind, and you’re good to go!
If you have any other problems, email Shark or reach them at 1-855-523-4061. You can also find the manual here.

(Author)
Irene Batres is eager to help others create an indoor allergen-free home. She has years of experience testing out air purifiers, dehumidifiers, and other products designed to help with indoor air quality. Learn more about me.