Cleaning the HVAC Air Filter and Why It’s Important

How long has it been since  you inspected your air conditioner filter? As standard practice, you should inspect it once a month and clean or replace it when it is dirty. Learn more about the multiple types of AC filters, why they require regular care and detailed instructions on how to clean and replace reusable filters correctly.

Types of AC Filters

Your filter type impacts indoor air quality, how effectively air flows and whether you can clean or swap it out when it becomes old. Here’s a breakdown of some popular types:

• Disposable filters are commonly made of fiberglass along with a paper frame. These filters are meant for short-term use and are best replaced every 30 to 90 days. They are generally affordable and easy to install but not very environmentally friendly because they are eventually thrown away.
• Reusable filters have sturdier frame materials such as aluminum or plastic. These filters can be rinsed out and reused several times, and can last many years if maintained correctly. They are more eco-friendly and cost effective in the long run. On the other hand, washing them takes extra time and effort than simply swapping out a disposable model.
• Electrostatic filters employ static electricity to capture pollutants quickly while ensuring airflow. These can be both disposable or reusable. Reusable electrostatic filters will need regular upkeep to preserve their effectiveness.
• HEPA filters, or high-efficiency particulate air filters, are the most effective filters around, trapping 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns. The majority of HEPA filters are disposable, but they last for up to one year before needing to be replaced. While they deliver exceptional filtration, they are more expensive and may not be compatible with all HVAC systems.

Why Should You Clean or Replace the AC Filter? 4 Important Reasons

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

1. Enhanced air quality: A new filter captures dust, pollen, pet dander and other particles, keeping your indoor air purer and contamination free. This plus is particularly vital for people with allergies, asthma or other breathing problems.

• Use energy more efficiently: If you never clean or change the filter, the dust and debris slowly filling it it causes the AC to strain even more. A fresh filter restores airflow, reducing the unit’s workload and putting a stop to an increase in your energy bills.

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

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

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

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

Prepare: As the first step, shut off the AC unit to prevent electrical damage. Then, find 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 pull out the filter from the slot. Look it over for holes or tears. If the filter is torn, go ahead and change it.

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

Wash the filter: Bring the filter outside and rinse it off with a garden hose. For a filter that’s as clean as possible, 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, do not turn on your air conditioner or you risk allowing more dust particles right back into the system.

It’s helpful to remember that disposable filters aren’t washable. They should always be replaced once they become too dirty. The replacement filter should be the same size to ensure compatibility with your AC unit.

Additional Components of an Air Conditioning System to Maintain

Along with the air filter, other AC parts require routine maintenance for peak performance and minimal expense. Call an HVAC technician for help maintaining components including:

• The evaporator coils located in the air handler absorb heat from the air. With use, these coils collect a lot of dust, which hampers heat transfer efficiency. Professionals use a special coil cleaning solution to clear away dust and grime.
• The condenser coils located in the part of the unit kept outside exhaust the heat taken out of your home. These coils are left out in the elements and can get dirty very easily. While you can lightly clean off dirt, leaves and other debris by grabbing a garden hose, leave more in-depth seasonal cleanings to a professional.
• The fan blades in your AC system’s blower will also collect dust and dirt. An HVAC technician will inspect the fan as part of an annual tune-up, washing and tightening the blades as needed to return to regular operation.
• The condensate drain line in your AC system can become clogged up with algae, mold and debris. If this happens, call a qualified contractor to clean the drain line using a commercial cleaner or mold treatment.

Request AC Maintenance Help

Regularly maintaining your AC air filter and other parts of your HVAC promotes optimal performance and healthy indoor air quality. Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is ready to help. Our ACE-certified technicians provide prompt, long-lasting solutions to all your comfort problems. To schedule your next AC maintenance visit, please contact us today.