Follow These Steps to Care for Your AC Filter
How long has it been since you inspected your air conditioner filter? As standard practice, you should inspect it every month and take the appropriate steps when it gets dirty. Find out what you should know about the different types of AC filters, why they need regular upkeep and easy-to-follow instructions on how to clean reusable filters correctly.
Why Should You Wash or Change the AC Filter? 4 Key Reasons
It’s an easy chore to overlook, but cleaning or replacing your AC filter is important for several reasons:
1. Cost Savings
A clean filter saves money by tightening up your energy bills, preventing damage and minimizing the risk of early replacement for the AC.
2. Use Energy More Efficiently
If you never wash or swap out your filter, the dust and debris caught inside it forces the AC to exert even more energy. A new filter restores airflow, decreasing the unit’s workload and putting a stop to an increase in your energy bills.
3. Better Indoor Air Quality
A new filter traps dust, pollen, pet dander and other particles, keeping your indoor air cleaner and safer. This kind of full spectrum comfort is particularly important for people with allergies, asthma or other breathing problems.
4. Extend the System’s Life Span
Regularly cleaning the filter can help keep the system from overheating, lowers wear and tear, and can even extend your unit’s life span!
A Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your AC Filter
Before you go grab the filter, it’s necessary to point out first that disposable filters aren’t washable. They should always be swapped out after they become too clogged up with debris. The replacement filter should be the same size and type to make sure there’s compatibility with your AC unit.
Use these guidelines every one to three months to get all the perks of a new air filter:
- Prepare: To start, turn off the AC unit to avoid electrical hazards. Then, access 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.
- Remove the filter: Carefully remove the filter from its compartment. Check for holes or tears. If the filter is ripped, go ahead and change it.
- Vacuum the filter: Use the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to get rid of 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, use a mild detergent.
- Dry the filter: Leave the filter out to air dry completely before reinstalling it. Before that happens, remember to not use your air conditioner or you risk getting more dust particles right back into the system.
Other Helpful Info About AC Filters and Routine Service
The Available Types of AC Filters
Your filter type affects indoor air quality, airflow efficiency and whether you can clean or swap it out when it becomes worn down or clogged. Here’s a summary of some of the most common models:
Disposable filters are typically made using fiberglass along with a paper frame. These filters are designed for short-term use and are best replaced every 30 to 90 days. They are generally low cost and quick to swap out but not very environmentally friendly since they are eventually thrown away.
Reusable filters have more durable frame materials made with metals like aluminum or plastic. These filters can be cleaned and reused again, often lasting a few years if maintained correctly. They are more eco-friendly and affordable over time. However, washing them takes additional time and effort than simply replacing a disposable model.
Electrostatic filters employ static electricity to trap pollutants efficiently while maintaining airflow. These can be both disposable or reusable. Reusable electrostatic filters will need regular upkeep to maintain their effectiveness.
HEPA filters, or high-efficiency particulate air filters, are the top filters of all, capturing 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns. The bulk of HEPA filters are disposable, but they remain effective for up to one year before having to be replaced. While they offer high filtration, they are costlier and aren’t always compatible with all HVAC systems.
Additional Components of an AC Unit to Maintain
In addition to the air filter, other AC parts need regular servicing for best performance and longevity. Reach out to an HVAC technician for help cleaning parts like:
- The fan blades in your AC system’s blower will also gather dust and dirt. An HVAC professional will inspect the fan as part of an annual tune-up, washing and adjusting the blades as necessary to restore regular operation.
- The condenser coils found in the part of the unit kept outside expel heat removed from your house. These coils are exposed to the rain and snow, and become dirty fast. While you can gently rinse off dirt, leaves and other debris with a garden hose, leave more thorough seasonal cleanings to a professional.
- The evaporator coils within the air handler remove heat from the air. With use, these coils accumulate a lot of dust, which lowers heat transfer efficiency. Technicians employ a specific coil cleaning solution to clear away dust and grime.
- The condensate drain lines in your AC system can get clogged up with algae, mold and debris. Should this happen, contact a professional contractor to restore the drain line using a commercial cleaner or algaecide treatment.
Request AC Maintenance Service
Consistently maintaining your AC filter and the rest of your air conditioning system encourages smooth operation and higher indoor air quality. Crawford Services is here to help. Our certified technicians provide quick, reliable solutions to all your comfort problems. To arrange your next AC maintenance service, please contact us today.
