Maintaining the HVAC Air Filter and Why It’s Important

How long has it been since  you inspected your air conditioner filter? As a rule of thumb, you should inspect it every month and clean or replace it when it looks dirty. Learn more about the multiple types of AC filters, why they require regular maintenance and easy-to-follow instructions on how to wash reusable filters properly.

Types of AC Filters

Your filter design affects indoor air quality, ventilation efficiency and whether you should wash or swap it out when it becomes worn down or clogged. Here’s a summary of some of the most common types:

• Disposable filters are commonly made from fiberglass along with a paper frame. These filters are designed for short-term use and need to be replaced every 1 to 3 months. They are typically affordable and simple to put in but not as environmentally friendly as they are eventually thrown away.
• Reusable filters have stronger frame materials like aluminum or plastic. These filters can be cleaned and reused again, often lasting many years if maintenance is handled correctly. They are more eco-friendly and budget friendly over their life span. On the other hand, cleaning them takes additional time and effort than simply changing a disposable filter.
• Electrostatic filters use 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, trapping 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 12 months before requiring replacement. While they offer superior filtration, they are more expensive and may not be compatible with all HVAC systems.

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

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

1. Enhanced air quality: A new filter captures dust, pollen, pet dander and other contaminants, keeping your indoor air fresher and healthier. This kind of full spectrum comfort is especially crucial for people with allergies, asthma or other respiratory conditions.

• Energy efficiency: If you never wash or replace your filter, the dust and debris clogging it makes the AC to strain even more. A clean filter restores airflow, reducing the unit’s workload and helping rein in your energy bills.

• Prolonging your equipment’s life span: Regularly washing the filter prevents the system from overheating, lowers wear and tear, and can even prolong your unit’s lifespan!

• Saving money: A fresh filter lowers extra expenses by tightening up your energy bills, limiting damage and minimizing the risk of early replacement for the AC.

Your Guide to Maintaining Your AC Filter

Use these steps every one to three months to get all the perks of a fresh air filter:

Prepare: As the first step, power down the AC unit to prevent electrical hazards. Then, locate 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 pull out the filter from the compartment. Examine for holes or tears. If the filter is ripped, go ahead and toss it.

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

Wash the filter: Bring the filter outside and rinse it off with a garden hose. For a deeper clean, add a small amount of a mild detergent.

Dry the filter: Leave the filter out to air dry completely before reinstalling it. In the meantime, don’t use your air conditioner or you risk getting more dust particles right back into the system.

It’s necessary to note that disposable filters cannot be washed. They must be replaced after they become too dirty. The replacement filter should be the same size to confirm compatibility with your AC unit.

Other Parts of an Air Conditioner to Clean

Along with the filter, additional AC components need consistent upkeep for optimal performance and minimal expense. Reach out to an HVAC technician for help servicing parts like:

• The evaporator coils within the indoor system remove heat from the air. Over time, these coils gather a lot of dust, which lowers heat transfer efficiency. Professionals use a special coil cleaning solution to eliminate dust and grime.
• The condenser coils within the part of the unit kept outside expel heat absorbed from your home. These coils are exposed to the elements and can get dirty very easily. Although you can gently rinse off dirt, leaves and other debris using a garden hose, leave more thorough seasonal servicing to a professional.
• The fan blades in your AC unit will also collect dust and dirt. An HVAC technician will examine the fan as part of an annual tune-up, washing and aligning the blades as needed to restore normal performance.
• The condensate drain line in your AC unit can get clogged up with algae, mold and debris. When drainage slows or stops, call a qualified maintenance specialist to clean the drain line using a professional-grade cleaner or algaecide.

Schedule AC Maintenance Support

Routinely cleaning your AC filter and other parts of your air conditioner promotes optimal performance and better indoor air quality. Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is here to help. Our ACE-certified technicians deliver prompt, reliable solutions to all your HVAC headaches. To book your next AC maintenance appointment, please contact us today.