There is too much pressure drop through the filter. Either allow more air(ie., larger filter hole) or make the sensor for the blue light more sensitive so it comes on with less effort.
Right now, to overcome this as Tim mentioned, is to pull air with one quick burst then drag normally. This initial burst gets the sensor activated and over comes the pressure drop. Poking holes is probably not a good idea, because it's a pain (I've tried) and may allow too much air to fast to pass through the heating chamber resulting inadequate heating.
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