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Cleaning Your AC Air Filter and Why It’s Necessary

Have you checked your air conditioner filter? As a general rule, you should examine it every month and take the appropriate steps when it gets dirty. We’ll share details about the various kinds of AC filters, why they need regular upkeep and detailed instructions on how to clean reusable filters correctly.

There Are Several Different Kinds of AC Filters

Your filter design influences indoor air quality, airflow efficiency and whether you can clean or swap it out when it becomes worn down or clogged. Here’s a summary of some common designs:

  • Disposable filters are typically made from fiberglass with a paper frame. These filters are intended for short-term use and should be changed every one to three months. They are typically affordable and quick to install but not very environmentally friendly since they need to be thrown out.
  • Reusable filters have sturdier frame materials such as aluminum or plastic. These filters can be rinsed out and reused multiple times, and can last several years if maintained correctly. They are more environmentally friendly and budget friendly over their life span. On the other hand, washing them takes extra time and effort than simply changing a disposable model.
  • Electrostatic filters employ static electricity to capture airborne particles quickly while ensuring 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 best filters for residential needs, capturing 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns. The majority of HEPA filters are disposable, but they last for up to 12 months before requiring replacement. While they deliver superior filtration, they are costlier and aren’t always compatible with all HVAC systems.

Why Clean or Replace the AC Filter? 4 Key Reasons

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

  1. Improved air quality: A fresh filter is more effective at trapping dust, pollen, pet dander and other contaminants, keeping your indoor air fresher and healthier. This benefit is particularly important for people with allergies, asthma or other respiratory conditions.
  • Energy efficiency: If you never clean or change your filter, the dust and debris slowly filling it it forces the AC to exert even more energy. A new filter optimizes airflow, decreasing the unit’s workload and helping to manage your energy bills.
  • Prolonging your equipment’s life span: Regularly maintaining the filter can help keep the system from overheating, reduces wear and tear, and can even prolong your unit’s lifespan!
  • Cost savings: A fresh filter lowers extra expenses by tightening up your energy bills, limiting damage and minimizing the risk of unexpected AC replacement.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Maintaining Your AC Filter

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

Prepare: First, power down the AC system to prevent electrical damage. Then, access your AC filter. It will most likely be found in the return air duct, in the air handler cabinet or inside the unit itself.

Remove the filter: Gently take out the filter from the compartment. Check for holes or tears. If the filter is visibly damaged, go ahead and change it.

Vacuum the filter: Grab the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to clear out any dirt, hair, fibers and other loose debris.

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

Dry the filter: Place the filter out to dry on its own completely before placing it back. Before that happens, do not run your air conditioner or you risk allowing more dust particles inside.

It’s helpful to remember that disposable filters cannot be washed. They must be thrown away after 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.

Other Parts of an Air Conditioner to Clean

Besides the filter, additional AC parts need routine maintenance for best results and longevity. Reach out to an HVAC technician for help servicing the following:

  • The evaporator coils located in the indoor unit extract heat from the air. Over time, these coils collect a lot of dust, which restricts heat transfer efficiency. Professionals apply a commercial-grade coil cleaner to eliminate dust and grime.
  • The condenser coils located in the outdoor unit expel heat absorbed from your house. These coils are exposed to the elements and become dirty very easily. While you can gently rinse off dirt, leaves and other debris using a garden hose, leave more in-depth seasonal maintenance to a professional.
  • The fan blades in your AC system’s blower will also gather dust and dirt. An HVAC professional will examine the fan as part of an annual tune-up, wiping down and aligning the blades as needed to restore normal operation.
  • The condensate drain line in your AC unit can get clogged up with algae, mold and debris. Should this happen, contact a certified technician to restore the drain line using a strong cleaning solution or algaecide.

Receive AC Maintenance Service

Consistently cleaning your AC filter and other important elements of your HVAC ensures optimal performance and healthy indoor air quality. Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is available to offer our support. Our ACE-certified technicians provide prompt, long-lasting solutions to all your comfort problems. To schedule your next AC maintenance service, please contact us today.

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