GeneralAire GA50A20 User Manual
Page 6

Note: There may be some arcing or snapping sounds 
from the collecting cells. This is normal when the unit is 
new. In about 2 weeks, as the sharp edges of the cells 
become smoother, the arcing will disappear. 
OPERATION
The Air Cleaner will run as long as there is adequate
airflow through the ducts. The Air Cleaner will not run if 
the system fan is off. For proper operation, follow these 
simple steps: 
1. Run heating/cooling system fan continuously, and on 
low speed if available.
2. Remove furniture or carpets which block return air
grilles throughout your house, so that air moves 
freely to the furnace/ air conditioner. 
3. Check for proper operation of the system fan.
WHITE DUST
After installation of the Air Cleaner, you may notice
some white dust on tabletops and shelves. Most large 
particles such as lint, are too heavy to remain airborne 
and tend to settle quickly, never reaching the air cleaner. 
This white visible dust is normally referred to as
“clean dust.” As the Air Cleaner is removing the dark and 
staining particles from the air, the lint will also be cleaner. 
Lint dust is most noticeable on dark furnishings; in
homes containing new carpeting; and where there is a lot 
of household traffic from occupants and pets. To reduce 
lint dust, use continuous fan operation and keep return 
vents unrestricted to create an efficient airflow. 
Note: The Air Cleaner does NOT produce more lint or 
dust. 
MAINTENANCE
It is important to follow a scheduled maintenance for 
maximum performance of the Air Cleaner. 
Cell And Prefilter Cleaning
The collecting cells and prefilters must be cleaned on a 
regular basis for the Air Cleaner to function at its peak of 
efficiency. The frequency of cleaning will vary from one 
house to another. On average, the cells should be 
cleaned every 3 months. 
1. Remove access door, collecting cells and prefilters. 
2. Place cells in a laundry tub. Rinse with hot water and 
spray completely with DAX Detergent (or a non-
chlorine, 
non-corrosive,
non-abrasive
liquid
household detergent. Allow detergent to run down 
both sides of plates and ionizing wires. Let stand for 
5 minutes or fill up laundry tub with water and DAX 
Detergent, and dunk cells up and down until water is 
dirty. 
3. Rinse cells well with hot water (maximum 120°F/49°
C).
4. To remove contaminate from the ionizing wires use
an old toothbrush. Slide the brush bristles over the 
wire and gently drag the brush up and down the wire 
once. Be very careful when cleaning the wires as 
they become very brittle with age. 
5. If dirt remains on the cell plates, let the cells soak in a
solution of DAX Detergent and water for 30 minutes.
6. Tilt cells on 45° angle on their short side, with arrows
pointing
sideways.
Allow
to
dry
completely,
approximately 8-10 hours. A hair dryer may be used 
to speed up drying time. 
7. To wash prefilters, spray with DAX Detergent, rinse
and let dry. Do not wash in the same water as 
collecting cells. 
8. Do not place the cells in the air cleaner if they are
wet.
9. Place cells and prefilters back into cabinet. Close
door and turn power switch ON. If the performance 
light does not come on or arcing occurs, turn Air 
Cleaner OFF and allow air from system fan to dry 
cells completely. 
Activated Carbon Filter Replacement
Carbon filters help remove odors from the air. If the
Air Cleaner has been equipped with optional carbon 
filters, they should be replaced every 3 - 6 months. Filters 
are NOT washable. Replacements are available through 
CAUTION
Make sure to turn Air Cleaner and system fan OFF 
before performing any maintenance or removing any 
components. 
CAUTION
Damage to cells may occur if improperly handled or 
washed. Do not wash cells in a dishwasher. Never use 
any object to clean between the cell plates, as this may 
cause damage to plates or ionizing wires. Never place 
cell in oven to dry. The edges of the cell may be sharp - 
handle with care. 
6
Replacement Carbon Filters:
GA50A14
Set of 3 Part #EAC14-12
GA50A20, GA50A22
Set of 3 Part #EAC20-12
Fig. 6
— DAX Detergent and Carbon Filters are
DAX
32 oz Spray Bottle
Part #9900
