Why You Should Care for Your AC Filter

Have you checked your air conditioner filter? As a rule of thumb, you should inspect it once a month and take the appropriate steps 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.

Why Should You Wash or Replace the AC Filter? 4 Reasons Why

It’s a simple chore to overlook, but cleaning or changing your AC filter is important for several reasons:

1. Saving Money on Energy Bills and Early Replacement

A fresh filter lowers extra expenses by cutting your energy bills, avoiding damage and minimizing the risk of early replacement for the AC.

2. Less Energy Waste

If you never clean or change your filter, the dust and debris clogging it forces the AC to strain even more. A fresh filter restores airflow, reducing the unit’s workload and helping rein in your energy bills.

3. Improved Air Quality

A new filter captures dust, pollen, pet dander and other contaminants, keeping your indoor air fresher and contamination free. This benefit is particularly crucial for people with allergies, asthma or other health issues.

4. Extend the System’s Life Span

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

Instructions for Washing the AC Filter

Before you go grab the filter, it’s important to note first that disposable filters aren’t washable. They must be swapped out when they become clogged with dust. The replacement filter should be the same size and type to confirm compatibility with your AC unit.

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

1. Prepare: To start, shut off the AC unit to prevent electrical damage. Then, locate your AC filter. It will most likely be found in the return air duct, in the air handler cabinet or inside of the unit itself.

2. Remove the filter: Slowly take out the filter from the slot. Check for holes or tears. If the filter is damaged, go ahead and change it.

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

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

5. Dry the filter: Place the filter out to dry completely before placing it back. In the meantime, remember to not turn on your air conditioner or you risk getting more dust particles right back into the system.

Other Useful Info About AC Filters and Maintenance

Kinds of AC Filters

Your filter design impacts indoor air quality, how effectively air flows and whether you can clean or change it when it becomes worn down or clogged. Here’s a summary of some popular types:

Disposable filters are commonly made of fiberglass and a paper frame. These filters are designed for short-term use and should be changed every one to three months. They are usually affordable and easy to install but less environmentally friendly because they need to be thrown out.

Reusable filters have sturdier frame materials like aluminum or plastic. These filters can be rinsed out and reused again, often lasting many years if cared for properly. They are more eco-friendly and budget friendly over their life span. On the other hand, washing them takes more time and effort than simply replacing a disposable model.

Electrostatic filters employ static electricity to capture particles quickly while ensuring airflow. These can be either 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 around, capturing 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 12 months before needing to be replaced. While they offer high filtration, they are more expensive and aren’t compatible with all HVAC systems.

Other Parts of an Air Conditioning System to Clean

Besides the air filter, other AC parts need regular upkeep for peak operation and minimal expense. Contact an HVAC professional for help cleaning the following:

• The fan blades in your AC system will also accumulate dust and dirt. An HVAC professional will inspect the fan as part of an annual tune-up, cleaning and tightening the blades as needed to restore normal performance.

• The condenser coils located in the outdoor system exhaust the heat removed from your house. These coils are exposed to the rain and snow, and become dirty quickly. Although you can gently wash away dirt, leaves and other debris using a garden hose, leave more thorough seasonal servicing to a professional.

• The evaporator coils within the indoor unit extract heat from the air. After enough time, these coils accumulate a lot of dust, which restricts heat transfer efficiency. Technicians apply a special cleaning solution to remove dust and grime.

• The condensate drain lines in your AC unit can get clogged up with algae, mold and debris. Should this happen, call a certified maintenance specialist to restore the drain line using a commercial cleaner or algaecide treatment.

Schedule AC Maintenance Support

Routinely servicing your AC air filter and the rest of your air conditioning system fosters smooth operation and better indoor air quality. Motta Heating and Air Conditioning is available to offer our support. Our certified technicians offer fast, reliable solutions to all your comfort problems. To arrange your next AC maintenance appointment, please contact us today.