Here is your comprehensive guide on how to clean an air conditioner filter.
Both important aspects of maintaining a conditioning system and allowing it to clean your air.
Why are air conditioner filters important?
Air conditioner filters are necessary as they filter out harmful contaminants such as bacteria, dirt, dust, pollen or allergens which can build up in the filter.
This improves the standard of air in your home, which in turn improves your quality of life.
Air filters and air conditioning units effectively clean your air. However, the filters in these units can only do their important job if kept clean!
In this article, we will explore the importance of keeping your air filter clean in order to clean the air in your home.
How often should you clean air conditioning filters?
Should an air conditioning filter be left uncleaned for a prolonged period of time it may begin to clog.
This will allow moisture to build in the filter; as a result, mould may grow. Nobody wants this! This may lead to this mould being ventilated into your home, impacting your health, comfort and energy bills.
As such, you should aim to clean your filter monthly- especially during prime times such as winter and summer.
Certainly, clean your filter at least every 3-4 months.
Signs that your air conditioning filter needs cleaning
Here are some indicators that your air conditioner filter should be cleaned.
Noisy
If your conditioning unit has become increasingly noisy then this may be a sign that your air conditioning unit needs a clean.
Keep an eye out for any changes in the sounds coming from your air filters and be aware that this may mean that your air conditioner’s air filters require checking.
Not working correctly
If your air conditioner unit is costing more than usual or cleaning your air less effectively then this may indicate that your air conditioner’s air filters need cleaning.
Make sure to keep an eye out for any indication that the conditioning system is becoming less cost-effective also, as this may indicate a need for cleaning also.
These issues may also mean that something further is at hand, and should this be the case, we recommend that you seek help from a professional service such as Daikin.
Step by Step guide
Here are some simple steps to cleaning your AC filter in order to return your air conditioner to its former glory! We do recommend that you consult your operation manual prior to beginning.
1) Turn off the AC Unit.
2) If there is any dust or visible dirt- vacuum the air filter.
3) For a deeper clean, wash the air filter in a sink filled with one part water and one part white vinegar and allow to soak for one hour.
4) Double check for any physical signs of damage such as tears. If these are evident the system will require replacing.
5) If you have washed your filter then you will need to let it air dry before putting it back in.
5) If all is well and your filter is clean and dry, return both filter and front panel.
Now your filter can effectively clean your air!
Air Filter FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions on AC filters which we hope will help you find the solution you are looking for.
However, should you require more advice then seek the advice of an air conditioning unit service- such as Daikin.
What happens if I don’t clean my aircon filters?
If air-con filters are left uncleaned then they pose the risk of becoming both ineffective and a detriment to health and comfort in the home.
This happens as the substance in the filter is sprayed into the home through the air ventilation system.
It may also make your air conditioning system less cost-effective.
Regular cleaning of your air conditioning system will improve both the cost-effectiveness of your electricity bills and safety of your home air maintenance.
Can you put a wet filter in your air conditioner?
Do not put a wet filter back into your air conditioner.
This will only pose more potential problems in the future, such as ice, mould or condensation growing on the filter.
You should also avoid drying it with a towel in case you cause damage to the delicate filter.
