Follow These Steps to Maintain Your AC Filter

How long has it been since you checked your air conditioner filter? As a general rule, you should examine it every month and take the appropriate steps when it is dirty. Learn more about the different types of AC filters, why they need regular maintenance and step-by-step instructions on how to clean and replace reusable filters effectively.

Why Should You Wash or Replace Your AC Filter? 4 Important Reasons

It’s a simple chore to overlook, but cleaning or changing your AC filter is a key part of overall system maintenance for several reasons:

1. Saving Money

A fresh filter lowers extra expenses by cutting your energy bills, limiting damage and minimizing the risk of premature replacement costs.

2. Energy Efficiency

If you never clean or swap out the filter, the dust and debris clogging it makes the AC to strain even more. A fresh filter restores airflow, decreasing 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 particles, keeping your indoor air fresher and contamination free. This benefit is especially vital for people with allergies, asthma or other health conditions that restrict breathing.

4. Prolonging Your Equipment’s Life Span

Regularly washing the filter stops the system from overheating, lowers wear and tear, and can even extend your unit’s life span!

Your Guide to Maintaining Your AC Filter

Before you go grab the filter, it’s helpful to remember that disposable filters cannot be washed. They should always be replaced after they become too dirty. The replacement filter should be the same size and type to ensure compatibility with your AC unit.

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

1. Prepare: First, turn off the AC system to avoid electrical damage. Then, find your AC filter. It might be in the return air duct, in the air handler cabinet or inside of the unit itself.

2. Remove the filter: Carefully pull out the filter from its compartment. Check for holes or tears. If the filter is damaged, go ahead and toss it.

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

4. Wash the filter: Take the filter outside and give it a thorough rinse with a garden hose. For a filter that’s as clean as possible, add a small amount of a mild detergent.

5. Dry the filter: Lay the filter out to air dry completely before placing it back. Before that happens, remember to not use your air conditioner or you risk allowing more dust particles inside.

Extra Helpful Info About AC Filters and Maintenance

Types of AC Filters

Your filter type impacts indoor air quality, airflow efficiency and whether you can clean or replace it when it becomes dirty. Here’s a summary of some of the most common models:

Disposable filters are usually made using fiberglass and a paper frame. These filters are intended for short-term use and are best swapped out every 1 to 3 months. They are generally affordable and simple to replace but not as 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 several times, often lasting many years if maintained correctly. They are more eco-friendly and budget friendly in the long run. On the other hand, cleaning them takes extra time and effort than simply swapping out a disposable model.

Electrostatic filters employ static electricity to capture airborne particles effectively while ensuring airflow. These can be designed to either be disposable or reusable. Reusable electrostatic filters need regular washing to maintain their effectiveness.

HEPA filters, or high-efficiency particulate air filters, are the most effective filters of all, capturing 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns. The majority of HEPA filters are single use, but they can be used for up to an entire year before having to be replaced. While they offer high filtration, they are more expensive and aren’t compatible with all HVAC systems.

Additional Components of an AC Unit to Maintain

In addition to the air filter, other AC parts need routine upkeep for optimal operation and longevity. Call an HVAC professional for help cleaning the following:

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

• The condenser coils located in the outdoor system get rid of heat absorbed from your house. These coils are exposed to the elements and can get dirty very easily. While you can gently clean off dirt, leaves and other debris by grabbing a garden hose, leave more detailed seasonal maintenance to a professional.

• The evaporator coils located in the air handler remove heat from the air. After enough time, these coils collect a lot of dust, which lowers heat transfer efficiency. Technicians apply a special coil cleaner to eliminate dust and grime.

• The condensate drain lines in your AC unit can become clogged up with algae, mold and debris. Should this happen, contact a qualified contractor to clear the drain line using a strong cleaning solution or mold treatment.

Request AC Maintenance Service

Routinely cleaning your AC air filter and other parts of your air conditioner promotes smooth operation and higher indoor air quality. Canyon State Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing is available to offer our support. Our certified technicians offer fast, reliable solutions to all your HVAC headaches. To schedule your next AC maintenance appointment, please contact us today.