How to Clean Your AC Filter

How long has it been since you checked your air conditioner filter? As a general rule, you should examine it once a month and clean or replace it when it gets dirty. Find out what you should know about the various kinds of AC filters, why they work better with regular maintenance and detailed instructions on how to wash reusable filters correctly.

Why Clean or Replace the AC Filter? 4 Important Reasons

It’s an easy chore to overlook, but washing or changing your AC filter is crucial for several reasons:

1. Saving Money

A new filter saves money by tightening up your energy bills, avoiding damage and minimizing the risk of unexpected AC replacement.

2. Use Energy More Efficiently

If you never wash or change your filter, the dust and debris slowly filling it it forces the AC to strain even more. A clean filter optimizes airflow, reducing the unit’s workload and helping rein in your energy bills.

3. Enhanced Air Quality

A fresh filter captures dust, pollen, pet dander and other contaminants, keeping your indoor air purer and safer. This plus is especially crucial for people with allergies, asthma or other respiratory conditions.

4. Longer Life Span

Regularly maintaining the filter prevents the system from overheating, lowers wear and tear, and can even lengthen your unit’s life span!

Instructions for Cleaning Your AC Filter

Before you go grab the filter, it’s important to note first that disposable filters cannot be washed. They need to be replaced once they become clogged with dust. The replacement filter should be the appropriate size to confirm compatibility with your AC unit.

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

1. Prepare: To start, power down the AC system to avoid electrical fire or similar hazards. Then, access your AC filter. It might be in the return air duct, in the air handler cabinet or inside the unit itself.

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

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

4. Wash the filter: Take the filter outside and spray it down with a garden hose. For a deeper clean, add a small amount of a mild detergent.

5. Dry the filter: Place the filter out to dry completely before placing it back. In the meantime, don’t use your air conditioner or you risk allowing more dust particles inside.

Other Useful Information About AC Filters and Routine Service

Kinds of AC Filters

Your filter choice influences indoor air quality, how effectively air flows and whether you can clean or replace it when it becomes old. Here’s a breakdown of some common models:

Disposable filters are typically made from fiberglass along with a paper frame. These filters are designed for short-term use and are best replaced every 1 to 3 months. They are usually inexpensive and quick to put in but less environmentally friendly because they generate waste.

Reusable filters have sturdier frame materials such as aluminum or plastic. These filters can be rinsed out and reused again, and can last many years if cared for correctly. They are more eco-friendly and budget friendly over time. That being said, washing them takes more time and effort than simply swapping out a disposable filter.

Electrostatic filters employ static electricity to trap pollutants quickly while maintaining airflow. These can be either disposable or reusable. Reusable electrostatic filters require regular upkeep to preserve their effectiveness.

HEPA filters, or high-efficiency particulate air filters, are the top filters around, capturing 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns. The bulk of HEPA filters are single use, but they can be used for up to 12 months before having to be replaced. While they deliver exceptional filtration, they are costlier and aren’t always compatible with all HVAC systems.

Other Parts of an AC Unit to Clean

Along with the air filter, additional AC components need routine upkeep for peak results and longevity. Call an HVAC technician for help cleaning the following:

• The fan blades in your AC system will also accumulate dust and dirt. An HVAC technician will inspect the fan as part of their yearly tune-up, washing and tightening the blades as necessary to return to regular operation.

• The condenser coils found in the part of the unit kept outside expel heat absorbed from your home. These coils are subjected to the rain and snow, and become dirty very easily. Although you can carefully wash away dirt, leaves and other debris by grabbing a garden hose, leave more in-depth seasonal servicing to a professional.

• The evaporator coils inside the indoor unit remove heat from the air. Over time, these coils accumulate a lot of dust, which hampers heat transfer efficiency. Professionals apply a commercial-grade coil cleaner to eliminate dust and grime.

• The condensate drain lines in your AC system can get clogged up with algae, mold and debris. Should this happen, choose a certified maintenance specialist to clear the drain line using a commercial cleaner or algaecide.

Receive AC Maintenance Help

Routinely maintaining your AC air filter and other parts of your air conditioner ensures efficient operation and healthy indoor air quality. McLoughlin Plumbing Heating & Cooling is available to offer our support. Our certified technicians offer quick, long-lasting solutions to all your air conditioning concerns. To arrange your next AC maintenance service, please contact us today.