Maintaining the HVAC Air Filter and Why It’s Essential

How long has it been since  you looked at your air conditioner filter? As a general rule, you should examine it once a month and clean or replace it when it gets dirty. We’ll share details about the multiple types of AC filters, why they need regular care and step-by-step instructions on how to wash reusable filters correctly.

The Available Types of AC Filters

Your filter type influences indoor air quality, how effectively air flows and whether you should clean or swap it out when it becomes worn down or clogged. Here’s a summary of some of the most common designs:

• Disposable filters are typically made using fiberglass and a paper frame. These filters are meant for short-term use and need to be replaced every one to three months. They are typically inexpensive and simple to swap out but not very environmentally friendly since they generate waste.
• Reusable filters have stronger frame materials made with metals like aluminum or plastic. These filters can be cleaned and reused multiple times, often lasting a few years if maintenance is handled properly. They are more eco-friendly and cost effective in the long run. But on the downside, cleaning them takes extra time and effort than simply changing a disposable filter.
• Electrostatic filters utilize static electricity to trap pollutants effectively while ensuring airflow. These can be both disposable or reusable. Reusable electrostatic filters require regular cleaning to preserve their effectiveness.
• HEPA filters, or high-efficiency particulate air filters, are the top filters for residential needs, capturing 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns. The bulk of HEPA filters are disposable, but they remain effective for up to an entire year before needing to be replaced. While they provide superior filtration, they are costlier and may not be compatible with all HVAC systems.

Why Clean or Replace Your AC Filter? 4 Reasons Why

It’s a simple chore to ignore, but rinsing or replacing your AC filter is important for reasons like:

1. Enhanced air quality: A fresh filter captures dust, pollen, pet dander and other particles, keeping your indoor air fresher and contamination free. This kind of full spectrum comfort is especially crucial for people with allergies, asthma or other health issues.

• Energy efficiency: If you never wash or change the filter, the dust and debris caught inside it forces the AC to strain even more. A new filter optimizes airflow, reducing the unit’s workload and helping rein in your energy bills.

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

• Saving money on energy bills and early replacement: A fresh filter saves money by tightening up your energy bills, avoiding damage and minimizing the risk of premature replacement costs.

Instructions for Cleaning the AC Filter

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

Prepare: First, shut off the AC system to prevent electrical damage. Then, locate your AC filter. It is usually in the return air duct, in the air handler cabinet or within the unit itself.

Remove the filter: Slowly remove the filter from the slot. Examine for holes or tears. If the filter is visibly damaged, go ahead and change it.

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

Wash the filter: Take the filter outside 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: Lay the filter out to air dry completely before reinstalling it. In the meantime, do not use your air conditioner or you risk allowing more dust particles inside.

It’s helpful to remember that disposable filters should not be washed. They must be thrown away after they become too clogged up with debris. The replacement filter should be the appropriate size to confirm compatibility with your AC unit.

Other Elements of an Air Conditioning System to Maintain

Along with the air filter, additional AC components should receive consistent maintenance for best results and minimal expense. Call an HVAC professional for help cleaning the following:

• The evaporator coils within the indoor system remove heat from the air. After enough time, these coils collect a lot of dust, which reduces heat transfer efficiency. HVAC Experts apply a commercial-grade coil cleaning solution to remove dust and grime.
• The condenser coils found in the outdoor unit exhaust the heat removed from your home. These coils are exposed to the worst weather and become dirty fast. While you can carefully clean off dirt, leaves and other debris by grabbing a garden hose, leave more thorough seasonal servicing to a professional.
• The fan blades in your AC system’s blower will also accumulate dust and dirt. An HVAC professional will examine the fan as part of an annual tune-up, cleaning and realigning the blades as required to return to normal operation.
• The condensate drain line in your AC unit can become clogged up with algae, mold and debris. If this happens, choose a qualified maintenance specialist to clean the drain line using a strong cleaning solution or algaecide.

Request AC Maintenance Service

Regularly cleaning your AC filter and other important elements of your air conditioner encourages optimal performance and healthy indoor air quality. Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help. Our ACE-certified technicians deliver fast, reliable solutions to all your HVAC headaches. To schedule your next AC maintenance appointment, please contact us today.