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

Have you inspected your air conditioner filter? As standard practice, you should examine it once a month and clean or replace it when it looks dirty. Learn more about the various kinds of AC filters, why they need regular maintenance and step-by-step instructions on how to clean reusable filters properly.

There Are Several Different Kinds of AC Filters

Your filter type impacts indoor air quality, how effectively air flows and whether you can clean or replace it when it becomes old. Here’s a summary of some popular options:

• Disposable filters are commonly made of fiberglass with a paper frame. These filters are meant for short-term use and should be swapped out every one to three months. They are usually low cost and simple to swap out but not as environmentally friendly as they generate waste.
• Reusable filters have stronger frame materials such as aluminum or plastic. These filters can be rinsed out and reused several times, and can last several years if maintained correctly. They are more environmentally friendly and cost effective in the long run. That being said, cleaning them takes additional time and effort than simply swapping out a disposable filter.
• Electrostatic filters employ static electricity to capture particles efficiently while preserving airflow. These can be both disposable or reusable. Reusable electrostatic filters require 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 down to 0.3 microns. Most HEPA filters are disposable, but they remain effective for up to an entire year before having to be replaced. While they deliver high filtration, they are more expensive and may not be compatible with all HVAC systems.

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

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

1. Improved air quality: A clean filter captures dust, pollen, pet dander and other pollutants, keeping your indoor air fresher and healthier. This benefit is particularly important for people with allergies, asthma or other breathing problems.

• Use energy more efficiently: If you never wash or swap out the filter, the dust and debris caught inside it makes the AC to work even harder. A clean filter restores airflow, decreasing the unit’s workload and putting a stop to an increase in your energy bills.

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

• Saving money on energy bills and early replacement: A fresh filter lowers extra expenses by cutting your energy bills, preventing damage and minimizing the risk of unexpected AC replacement.

Your Guide to Washing the AC Filter

Follow these guidelines every one to three months to get all the perks of a fresh 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 inside of the unit itself.

Remove the filter: Gently take out the filter from the housing. Check for holes or tears. If the filter is ripped, go ahead and change it.

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

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

Dry the filter: Set the filter out to dry completely before putting it back. In the meantime, do not turn on your air conditioner or you risk allowing more dust particles inside.

It’s necessary to note that disposable filters aren’t washable. They must be replaced once they become clogged with dust. The replacement filter should be the same size and type to ensure compatibility with your AC unit.

Other Parts of an Air Conditioner to Maintain

Along with the air filter, additional AC parts require consistent maintenance for best results and longevity. Call an HVAC contractor for help servicing components including:

• The evaporator coils within the indoor system extract heat from the air. With use, these coils collect a lot of dust, which hampers heat transfer efficiency. Professionals apply a specific coil cleaner to remove dust and grime.
• The condenser coils found in the part of the unit kept outside exhaust the heat taken out of your house. These coils are exposed to the rain and snow, and become dirty fast. While you can carefully rinse off dirt, leaves and other debris with a garden hose, leave more thorough seasonal maintenance to a professional.
• The fan blades in your AC unit will also accumulate dust and dirt. An HVAC contractor will examine the fan as part of an annual tune-up, washing and adjusting the blades as required to restore regular performance.
• The condensate drain line in your AC system can get clogged up with algae, mold and debris. Should this happen, choose a qualified contractor to restore the drain line using a strong cleaning solution or mold treatment.

Schedule AC Maintenance Service

Regularly cleaning your AC filter and other important elements of your air conditioning system fosters efficient operation and healthy indoor air quality. Rob's Albertan Service Experts is available to offer our support. Our certified technicians offer prompt, long-lasting solutions to all your HVAC headaches. To book your next AC maintenance visit, please contact us today.