# Pet Dander/Dust **URL:** \ **Category:** Sensors\ **Created:** [February 11, 2023, 5:12pm UTC](https://community.purpleair.com/t/pet-dander-dust/3583 "2023-02-11T17:12:22Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 1\ **Showing post:** 2
**Author:** ![dwhitemv](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/flex020/user_avatar/community.purpleair.com/dwhitemv/32/1508_2.png) [@dwhitemv](https://community.purpleair.com/u/dwhitemv)\ **Post date:** [February 14, 2023, 10:26pm UTC](https://community.purpleair.com/t/pet-dander-dust/3583/2 "2023-02-14T22:26:22Z")
A filter would disrupt the sensor readings (filtering out what it is looking for!). The air flow path through the sensor is fairly straight so any dust build-up should be minimal. Regular monitoring of the sensor and performing this procedure when needed should keep the sensor on track. > [@Sensor Maintenance](https://community.purpleair.com/t/sensor-maintenance/1531): > > Once your sensor has been in service at the installation location, it becomes exposed to foreign contaminants. We expect the sensor to contact airborne particulate matter. But undesirable contaminants may impede the function of the sensor. We do not recommend a regular cleaning schedule for PurpleAir sensors, and no preventive maintenance is required. If one of the laser counters is not reporting as expected, is downgraded, reporting high, not working, or spikes erratically, then it is possible… --- _[View the full topic](https://community.purpleair.com/t/pet-dander-dust/3583)._