Cleaning Your AC Air Filter and Why It’s Necessary

How long has it been since  you looked at your air conditioner filter? As standard practice, you should examine it each month and take the appropriate steps when it gets dirty. We’ll share details about the multiple types of AC filters, why they work better with regular care and easy-to-follow instructions on how to clean and replace reusable filters correctly.

Types of AC Filters

Your filter design impacts indoor air quality, how effectively air flows and whether you can wash or swap it out when it becomes old. Here’s a summary of some common designs:

• Disposable filters are usually made using fiberglass and a paper frame. These filters are meant for short-term use and should be replaced every 30 to 90 days. They are usually affordable and simple to put in but less environmentally friendly as they generate waste.
• Reusable filters have sturdier frame materials like aluminum or plastic. These filters can be cleaned and reused multiple times, and can last several years if cared for correctly. They are more eco-friendly and budget friendly over their life span. But on the downside, cleaning them takes extra time and effort than simply replacing a disposable filter.
• Electrostatic filters employ static electricity to trap airborne particles efficiently while preserving airflow. These can be either disposable or reusable. Reusable electrostatic filters require regular washing to preserve their effectiveness.
• HEPA filters, or high-efficiency particulate air filters, are the best filters of all, trapping 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns. The majority of HEPA filters are single use, but they remain effective for up to an entire year before needing to be replaced. While they offer exceptional filtration, they are costlier and aren’t compatible with all HVAC systems.

Why Clean or Change the AC Filter? 4 Key Reasons

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

1. Improved air quality: A clean filter is more effective at trapping dust, pollen, pet dander and other particles, keeping your indoor air purer and healthier. This plus is especially vital for people with allergies, asthma or other respiratory conditions.

• Less energy waste: If you never wash or replace your filter, the dust and debris slowly filling it it causes the AC to exert even more energy. A clean filter restores airflow, lowering the unit’s workload and helping rein in your energy bills.

• Longer life span: Regularly maintaining the filter prevents the system from overheating, reduces wear and tear, and can even prolong your unit’s lifespan!

• Cost savings: A fresh filter reduces costs by tightening up your energy bills, preventing damage and minimizing the risk of early replacement for the AC.

Instructions for Washing Your AC Filter

Use these instructions every one to three months to get all the advantages of a new air filter:

Prepare: To start, turn off the AC system to prevent electrical damage. Then, find your AC filter. It might be in the return air duct, in the air handler cabinet or inside of the unit itself.

Remove the filter: Gently pull out the filter from its slot. Look it over for holes or tears. If the filter is torn, go ahead and toss it.

Vacuum the filter: Get the brush add-on for your vacuum cleaner to remove dirt, hair, fibers and other loose debris.

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

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

It’s important to note that disposable filters cannot be washed. They need to be thrown away after they become too dirty. The replacement filter should be the same size to make sure there’s compatibility with your AC unit.

Other Elements of an Air Conditioning System to Clean

Along with the filter, additional AC components need regular servicing for optimal operation and minimal expense. Reach out to an HVAC technician for help cleaning the following:

• The evaporator coils located in the air handler extract heat from the air. With use, these coils accumulate a lot of dust, which reduces heat transfer efficiency. HVAC Experts employ a commercial-grade coil cleaner to remove dust and grime.
• The condenser coils found in the part of the unit kept outside get rid of heat absorbed from your house. These coils are left out in the worst weather and become dirty fast. Although you can lightly clean off dirt, leaves and other debris using a garden hose, leave more thorough seasonal servicing to a professional.
• The fan blades in your AC system will also collect dust and dirt. An HVAC technician will check the fan as part of their yearly tune-up, wiping down and realigning the blades as necessary to restore normal performance.
• The condensate drain line in your AC system can become clogged up with algae, mold and debris. If this happens, contact a professional maintenance specialist to clear the drain line using a professional-grade cleaner or mold treatment.

Receive AC Maintenance Service

Regularly cleaning your AC filter and the rest of your air conditioner promotes smooth operation and higher indoor air quality. Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is here to help. Our ACE-certified technicians provide quick, reliable solutions to all your comfort problems. To schedule your next AC maintenance appointment, please contact us today.