How to Clean Your AC Filter

When was the last time you checked your air conditioner filter? As standard practice, you should examine it once a month and clean or replace it when it gets dirty. We’ll share details about the multiple types of AC filters, why they require regular care and step-by-step instructions on how to clean and replace reusable filters correctly.

Why Clean or Change the AC Filter? 4 Important Reasons

It’s a common chore to forget about, but rinsing or replacing your AC filter is a key part of overall system maintenance for a few reasons:

1. Saving Money

A fresh filter reduces costs by tightening up your energy bills, limiting damage and minimizing the risk of early replacement for the AC.

2. Use Energy More Efficiently

If you never clean or change the filter, the dust and debris slowly filling it it forces the AC to strain even more. A new filter preserves airflow, decreasing the unit’s workload and helping to manage your energy bills.

3. Improved Air Quality

A clean filter is more effective at trapping dust, pollen, pet dander and other contaminants, keeping your indoor air cleaner and contamination free. This plus is especially crucial for people with allergies, asthma or other respiratory conditions.

4. Prolonging Your Equipment’s Life Span

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

A Step-by-Step Guide to Washing the AC Filter

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

Follow these guidelines every one to three months to enjoy all the perks of a clean air filter:

1. Prepare: To start, 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. Remove the filter: Slowly pull out the filter from its housing. Look it over for holes or tears. If the filter is ripped, go ahead and change it.

3. Vacuum the filter: Get the brush accessory on your vacuum cleaner to remove dirt, hair, fibers and other particles.

4. Wash the filter: Bring the filter outside and give it a thorough rinse with a garden hose. For a more thorough clean, apply a mild detergent.

5. Dry the filter: Place the filter out to dry completely before placing it back. But before you do so, don’t turn on your air conditioner or you risk getting more dust particles inside.

Other Helpful Info About AC Filters and Maintenance

There Are Several Different Kinds of AC Filters

Your filter design affects indoor air quality, ventilation efficiency and whether you should wash or replace it when it becomes dirty. Here’s a breakdown of some common models:

Disposable filters are typically made using fiberglass along with a paper frame. These filters are intended for short-term use and should be replaced every one to three months. They are generally affordable and quick to put in but not as environmentally friendly since they need to be thrown out.

Reusable filters have more durable frame materials like aluminum or plastic. These filters can be cleaned and reused again, often lasting several years if maintained properly. They are more environmentally friendly and cost effective over their life span. On the other hand, cleaning them takes additional time and effort than simply changing a disposable filter.

Electrostatic filters employ static electricity to capture airborne particles effectively while ensuring airflow. These can be designed to either be disposable or reusable. Reusable electrostatic filters require regular upkeep to maintain their effectiveness.

HEPA filters, or high-efficiency particulate air filters, are the top filters for residential needs, removing 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns. The majority of HEPA filters are disposable, but they can be used for up to an entire year before requiring replacement. While they deliver superior filtration, they are higher priced and may not be compatible with all HVAC systems.

Additional Components of an Air Conditioning System to Maintain

Along with the air filter, additional AC components should receive routine maintenance for peak operation and longevity. Contact an HVAC professional for help cleaning the following:

• The fan blades in your AC system’s blower will also accumulate dust and dirt. An HVAC technician will inspect the fan as part of their yearly tune-up, cleaning and realigning the blades as required to return to regular performance.

• The condenser coils within the outdoor unit exhaust the heat absorbed from your home. These coils are exposed to the rain and snow, and become dirty very easily. While you can gently clean off dirt, leaves and other debris by grabbing a garden hose, leave more thorough seasonal maintenance to a professional.

• The evaporator coils located in the indoor system absorb heat from the air. With use, these coils collect a lot of dust, which restricts heat transfer efficiency. Professionals apply a commercial-grade cleaning solution to remove dust and grime.

• The condensate drain lines in your AC system can become clogged up with algae, mold and debris. If this happens, call a certified contractor to clear the drain line using a professional-grade cleaner or algaecide.

Schedule AC Maintenance Support

Consistently cleaning your AC filter and the rest of your air conditioning system fosters optimal performance and healthier indoor air quality. Environmental Systems Associates is here to help. Our certified technicians provide prompt, reliable solutions to all your HVAC headaches. To arrange your next AC maintenance visit, please contact us today.