How to Clean Your AC Filter

How long has it been since you checked your air conditioner filter? As a rule of thumb, you should inspect it every month and take the appropriate steps when it is dirty. We’ll share details about the various kinds of AC filters, why they require regular upkeep and easy-to-follow instructions on how to clean reusable filters properly.

Why Should You Wash or Replace Your AC Filter? 4 Important Reasons

It’s an easy chore to ignore, but rinsing or replacing your AC filter is important for several reasons:

1. Cost Savings

A clean filter reduces costs by tightening up your energy bills, avoiding damage and minimizing the risk of premature replacement costs.

2. Energy Efficiency

If you never wash or replace your filter, the dust and debris slowly filling it it makes the AC to work even harder. A clean filter preserves airflow, reducing the unit’s workload and putting a stop to an increase in your energy bills.

3. Better Indoor Air Quality

A fresh filter is more effective at trapping dust, pollen, pet dander and other contaminants, keeping your indoor air fresher and safer. This benefit is especially vital for people with allergies, asthma or other breathing problems.

4. Longer Life Span

Regularly washing the filter prevents the system from overheating, reduces wear and tear, and can even extend your unit’s life span!

Instructions for Maintaining the AC Filter

Before you go grab the filter, it’s helpful to remember that disposable filters cannot be washed. They must be thrown away when they become too clogged up with debris. The replacement filter should be the same size to make sure there’s compatibility with your AC unit.

Apply these guidelines every one to three months to continue enjoying all the perks of a clean air filter:

1. 1. Prepare: First, shut off the AC system to prevent electrical damage. Then, find your AC filter. It is usually in the return air duct, in the air handler cabinet or inside of the unit itself.

2. 2. Remove the filter: Slowly pull out the filter from its compartment. Examine for holes or tears. If the filter is visibly damaged, go ahead and change it.

3. 3. Vacuum the filter: Grab the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to get rid of dirt, hair, fibers and other loose debris.

4. 4. Wash the filter: Take the filter outdoors and rinse it off with a garden hose. For a more thorough clean, use a mild detergent.

5. 5. Dry the filter: Place the filter out to dry on its own completely before placing it back. But before you do so, remember to not turn on your air conditioner or you risk bringing more dust particles inside the unit.

Other Helpful Information About AC Filters and Routine Service

Kinds of AC Filters

Your filter choice affects indoor air quality, ventilation efficiency and whether you should wash or replace it when it becomes old. Here’s an overview of some common options:

Disposable filters are usually made with fiberglass along with a paper frame. These filters are meant for short-term use and need to be changed every 1 to 3 months. They are typically low cost and simple to install but not very environmentally friendly as they need to be thrown out.

Reusable filters have sturdier frame materials such as aluminum or plastic. These filters can be washed and reused several times, often lasting a few years if cared for correctly. They are more environmentally friendly and cost effective over time. However, cleaning them takes more time and effort than simply swapping out a disposable filter.

Electrostatic filters employ static electricity to trap pollutants efficiently while preserving airflow. These can be both disposable or reusable. Reusable electrostatic filters will need regular upkeep to maintain their effectiveness.

HEPA filters, or high-efficiency particulate air filters, are the best filters around, trapping 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns. The bulk of HEPA filters are single use, but they remain effective for up to one year before requiring replacement. While they deliver exceptional filtration, they are costlier and aren’t always compatible with all HVAC systems.

Other Elements of an Air Conditioning System to Maintain

Besides the filter, additional AC parts should receive consistent servicing for optimal results and minimal expense. Call an HVAC professional for help cleaning components including:

• • The fan blades in your AC system’s blower will also accumulate dust and dirt. An HVAC technician will examine the fan as part of their yearly tune-up, wiping down and adjusting the blades as necessary to restore normal performance.

• • The condenser coils found in the outdoor unit get rid of heat removed from your house. These coils are subjected to the elements and can get dirty quickly. Although you can gently clean off dirt, leaves and other debris using a garden hose, leave more thorough seasonal cleanings to a professional.

• • The evaporator coils inside the indoor unit absorb heat from the air. After enough time, these coils accumulate a lot of dust, which restricts heat transfer efficiency. Technicians employ a special coil cleaning solution to remove dust and grime.

• • The condensate drain lines in your AC system can get clogged up with algae, mold and debris. When drainage slows or stops, contact a professional technician to clear the drain line using a strong cleaning solution or algaecide.

Request AC Maintenance Help

Regularly maintaining your AC filter and other parts of your HVAC encourages optimal performance and higher indoor air quality. Geisel Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, Inc. is here to help. Our certified technicians offer prompt, reliable solutions to all your air conditioning concerns. To schedule your next AC maintenance appointment, please contact us today.