Washing the HVAC Air Filter and Why It’s Helpful

Have you checked your air conditioner filter? As a rule of thumb, you should inspect it every month and clean or replace it when it is dirty. Learn more about the various kinds of AC filters, why they require regular care and detailed instructions on how to wash reusable filters correctly.

There Are Several Different Kinds of AC Filters

Your filter type affects indoor air quality, how effectively air flows and whether you should wash or swap it out when it becomes worn down or clogged. Here’s a summary of some of the most common types:

• Disposable filters are usually made from fiberglass with a paper frame. These filters are intended for short-term use and are best changed every 30 to 90 days. They are generally affordable and easy to replace but not very environmentally friendly because they are eventually thrown away.
• Reusable filters have stronger frame materials like aluminum or plastic. These filters can be washed and reused multiple times, often lasting several years if cared for properly. They are more environmentally friendly and affordable in the long run. That being said, washing them takes extra time and effort than simply swapping out a disposable model.
• Electrostatic filters utilize static electricity to capture particles effectively while preserving airflow. These can be either disposable or reusable. Reusable electrostatic filters need regular cleaning to maintain their effectiveness.
• HEPA filters, or high-efficiency particulate air filters, are the top filters around, removing 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns. The bulk of HEPA filters are single use, but they last for up to one year before requiring replacement. While they provide superior filtration, they are higher priced and aren’t always compatible with all HVAC systems.

Why Should You Clean or Change the AC Filter? 4 Reasons Why

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

1. Improved air quality: A clean filter captures dust, pollen, pet dander and other contaminants, keeping your indoor air fresher and safer. This plus is especially crucial for people with allergies, asthma or other health issues.

• Energy efficiency: If you never wash or swap out the filter, the dust and debris clogging it forces the AC to strain even more. A fresh filter preserves airflow, decreasing the unit’s workload and putting a stop to an increase in your energy bills.

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

• Saving money on energy bills and early replacement: A new filter reduces costs by tightening up your energy bills, limiting damage and minimizing the risk of early replacement for the AC.

Instructions for Cleaning Your AC Filter

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

Prepare: As the first step, shut off the AC unit to prevent electrical fire or similar hazards. Then, access your AC filter. It will most likely be found 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 slot. Examine for holes or tears. If the filter is visibly damaged, go ahead and replace it.

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

Wash the filter: Bring the filter outside the house and rinse it off with a garden hose. For a deeper clean, add a small amount of a mild detergent.

Dry the filter: Leave the filter out to dry on its own completely before reinstalling it. In the meantime, do not use your air conditioner or you risk getting more dust particles inside.

It’s helpful to remember that disposable filters should not be washed. They need to be thrown away after they become clogged with dust. The replacement filter should be the same size to ensure compatibility with your AC unit.

Other Parts of an Air Conditioner to Maintain

Besides the air filter, other AC parts need routine servicing for best operation and longevity. Reach out to an HVAC contractor for help cleaning components including:

• The evaporator coils located in the indoor unit remove heat from the air. Over time, these coils accumulate a lot of dust, which hampers heat transfer efficiency. Professionals employ a special coil cleaner to clear away dust and grime.
• The condenser coils found in the outdoor unit exhaust the heat removed from your house. These coils are subjected to the worst weather and can get dirty quickly. Although you can gently clean off dirt, leaves and other debris by grabbing a garden hose, leave more thorough seasonal maintenance to a professional.
• The fan blades in your AC unit will also gather dust and dirt. An HVAC contractor will check the fan as part of their yearly tune-up, cleaning and tightening the blades as needed to return to normal performance.
• The condensate drain line in your AC system can get clogged up with algae, mold and debris. If this happens, call a professional technician to restore the drain line using a commercial cleaner or mold treatment.

Schedule AC Maintenance Service

Regularly servicing your AC filter and other parts of your HVAC fosters efficient operation and healthy indoor air quality. Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is here to help. Our ACE-certified technicians provide fast, long-lasting solutions to all your air conditioning concerns. To book your next AC maintenance visit, please contact us today.