Cleaning Your HVAC System’s Air Filter and Why It’s Helpful

When was the last time you inspected your air conditioner filter? As a general rule, you should inspect it every month and clean or replace it when it is dirty. Learn more about the multiple types of AC filters, why they work better with regular upkeep and step-by-step instructions on how to wash reusable filters effectively.

Types of AC Filters

Your filter type affects indoor air quality, ventilation efficiency and whether you should wash or replace it when it becomes worn down or clogged. Here’s a summary of some popular designs:

• Disposable filters are typically made using fiberglass with a paper frame. These filters are meant for short-term use and should be swapped out every 1 to 3 months. They are usually low cost and easy to replace but less environmentally friendly because they generate waste.
• Reusable filters have sturdier frame materials made with metals like aluminum or plastic. These filters can be rinsed out and reused again, and can last several years if maintenance is handled properly. They are more environmentally friendly and cost effective over their life span. On the other hand, washing them takes additional time and effort than simply replacing a disposable model.
• Electrostatic filters use static electricity to capture particles quickly while preserving airflow. These can be both disposable or reusable. Reusable electrostatic filters will need regular washing 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 as small as 0.3 microns. Most HEPA filters are disposable, but they can be used for up to 12 months before needing to be replaced. While they offer superior filtration, they are costlier and may not be compatible with all HVAC systems.

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

It’s a common chore to forget about, but cleaning or replacing your AC filter is important for a few reasons:

1. Improved air quality: A fresh filter traps dust, pollen, pet dander and other pollutants, keeping your indoor air cleaner and safer. This benefit is particularly 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 causes the AC to exert even more energy. A clean filter restores airflow, reducing the unit’s workload and helping rein in your energy bills.

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

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

A Step-by-Step Guide to Washing 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 hazards. 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: Slowly take out the filter from the compartment. Look it over for holes or tears. If the filter is visibly damaged, go ahead and replace it.

Vacuum the filter: Get the brush accessory on your vacuum cleaner to get rid of dirt, hair, fibers and other particles.

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

Dry the filter: Leave the filter out to dry completely before reinstalling it. In the meantime, 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 need to be swapped out once they become clogged with dust. The replacement filter should be the same size and type to make sure there’s compatibility with your AC unit.

Additional Components of an AC Unit to Maintain

Along with the air filter, additional AC parts should receive regular upkeep for optimal performance and minimal expense. Contact an HVAC professional for help maintaining components including:

• The evaporator coils located in the air handler absorb heat from the air. After enough time, these coils collect a lot of dust, which lowers heat transfer efficiency. HVAC Experts apply a commercial-grade cleaning solution to clear away dust and grime.
• The condenser coils located in the part of the unit kept outside expel heat removed from your house. These coils are left out in the worst weather and become dirty very easily. Even though you can carefully wash away dirt, leaves and other debris with a garden hose, leave more in-depth seasonal maintenance to a professional.
• The fan blades in your AC unit will also gather dust and dirt. An HVAC technician will examine the fan as part of an annual tune-up, cleaning and aligning the blades as required to return to regular operation.
• The condensate drain line in your AC unit can get clogged up with algae, mold and debris. Should this happen, contact a professional maintenance specialist to restore the drain line using a strong cleaning solution or mold treatment.

Schedule AC Maintenance Help

Regularly servicing your AC air filter and the rest of your air conditioning system encourages efficient operation and better indoor air quality. Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is available to offer our support. Our ACE-certified technicians offer prompt, long-lasting solutions to all your HVAC headaches. To schedule your next AC maintenance visit, please contact us today.