Cleaning Your AC Air Filter and Why It’s Helpful

Have you looked at your air conditioner filter? As standard practice, you should inspect it once a month and take the appropriate steps when it is dirty. Find out what you should know about the multiple types of AC filters, why they need regular maintenance and step-by-step instructions on how to clean and replace reusable filters correctly.

Types of AC Filters

Your filter choice affects indoor air quality, how effectively air flows and whether you should clean or swap it out when it becomes worn down or clogged. Here’s an overview of some of the most common options:

• Disposable filters are usually made with fiberglass and a paper frame. These filters are designed for short-term use and need to be replaced every 1 to 3 months. They are generally low cost and easy to replace but not as environmentally friendly since they are eventually thrown away.
• Reusable filters have sturdier frame materials made with metals like aluminum or plastic. These filters can be cleaned and reused multiple times, and can last several years if maintained properly. They are more eco-friendly and affordable over their life span. On the other hand, washing them takes more time and effort than simply swapping out a disposable filter.
• Electrostatic filters utilize static electricity to capture particles efficiently while maintaining 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 around, trapping 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns. The bulk of HEPA filters are disposable, but they can be used for up to an entire year before having to be replaced. While they provide superior filtration, they are costlier and may not be compatible with all HVAC systems.

Why Clean or Change the AC Filter? 4 Important Reasons

It’s a common chore to forget about, but washing or replacing your AC filter is crucial for several reasons:

1. Better air quality: A fresh filter traps dust, pollen, pet dander and other pollutants, keeping your indoor air cleaner and safer. This plus is especially important for people with allergies, asthma or other respiratory conditions.

• Less energy waste: If you never clean or change your filter, the dust and debris caught inside it makes the AC to strain even more. A new filter optimizes airflow, lowering the unit’s workload and helping rein in your energy bills.

• Extend the system’s life span: Regularly washing the filter prevents the system from overheating, decreases wear and tear, and can even extend your unit’s lifespan!

• Saving money on energy bills and early replacement: A new filter lowers extra expenses by cutting your energy bills, preventing damage and minimizing the risk of premature replacement costs.

Instructions for Maintaining the AC Filter

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

Prepare: As the first step, shut off the AC unit to avoid electrical fire or similar hazards. Then, find your AC filter. It is usually in the return air duct, in the air handler cabinet or within the unit itself.

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

Vacuum the filter: Use the brush add-on for your vacuum cleaner to clear out any dirt, hair, fibers and other small debris.

Wash the filter: Bring the filter outside the house and give it a thorough rinse with a garden hose. For a filter that’s as clean as possible, use a mild detergent.

Dry the filter: Place the filter out to dry completely before putting it back. In the meantime, don’t turn on your air conditioner or you risk bringing more dust particles inside the unit.

It’s helpful to remember that disposable filters cannot be washed. They must be thrown away when they become clogged with dust. The replacement filter should be the appropriate size to make sure there’s compatibility with your AC unit.

Additional Components of an Air Conditioning System to Clean

Along with the air filter, additional AC parts should receive consistent servicing for peak performance and longevity. Reach out to an HVAC professional for help cleaning components including:

• The evaporator coils within the air handler extract heat from the air. After enough time, these coils accumulate a lot of dust, which reduces heat transfer efficiency. Technicians employ a commercial-grade coil cleaning solution to remove dust and grime.
• The condenser coils located in the part of the unit kept outside exhaust the heat absorbed from your home. These coils are left out in the worst weather and can get dirty very easily. Although you can carefully clean off dirt, leaves and other debris by grabbing a garden hose, leave more detailed seasonal servicing to a professional.
• The fan blades in your AC system will also collect dust and dirt. An HVAC professional will examine the fan as part of an annual tune-up, washing and adjusting the blades as required to return to regular performance.
• The condensate drain line in your AC system can get clogged up with algae, mold and debris. When drainage slows or stops, call a professional maintenance specialist to clear the drain line using a commercial cleaner or algaecide.

Receive AC Maintenance Service

Routinely maintaining your AC filter and other important elements of your air conditioning system fosters efficient operation and healthy indoor air quality. Winnipeg Supply Service Experts is ready to help. Our certified technicians offer fast, reliable solutions to all your air conditioning concerns. To book your next AC maintenance appointment, please contact us today.