Maintaining Your HVAC System’s Air Filter and Why It’s Helpful

Have you looked at your air conditioner filter? As a rule of thumb, you should examine it every month and clean or replace it when it is dirty. We’ll share details about the different types of AC filters, why they need regular care and easy-to-follow instructions on how to wash reusable filters correctly.

Kinds of AC Filters

Your filter choice impacts indoor air quality, airflow efficiency and whether you can wash or change it when it becomes dirty. Here’s an overview of some popular types:

• Disposable filters are commonly made from fiberglass and a paper frame. These filters are designed for short-term use and need to be changed every 1 to 3 months. They are generally low cost and simple to install but less environmentally friendly since they generate waste.
• Reusable filters have more durable frame materials such as aluminum or plastic. These filters can be cleaned and reused again, and can last a few years if maintained correctly. They are more environmentally friendly and budget friendly over time. However, cleaning them takes extra time and effort than simply changing a disposable filter.
• Electrostatic filters utilize static electricity to capture pollutants effectively while preserving airflow. These can be either disposable or reusable. Reusable electrostatic filters need regular upkeep to preserve their effectiveness.
• HEPA filters, or high-efficiency particulate air filters, are the top 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 requiring replacement. While they deliver superior filtration, they are more expensive and aren’t 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 rinsing or replacing your AC filter is important for reasons like:

1. Enhanced air quality: A new filter traps dust, pollen, pet dander and other contaminants, keeping your indoor air cleaner and contamination free. This benefit is particularly vital for people with allergies, asthma or other health conditions that restrict breathing.

• Use energy more efficiently: If you never clean or swap out the filter, the dust and debris caught inside it makes the AC to exert even more energy. A new filter optimizes airflow, decreasing the unit’s workload and helping rein in your energy bills.

• Extend the system’s life span: Regularly maintaining the filter can help keep 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, preventing damage and minimizing the risk of unexpected AC replacement.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your AC Filter

Use these steps every one to three months to continue enjoying all the advantages of a fresh air filter:

Prepare: First, turn off the AC system to avoid electrical fire or similar hazards. Then, locate your AC filter. It is usually in the return air duct, in the air handler cabinet or inside the unit itself.

Remove the filter: Gently pull out the filter from the compartment. Examine for holes or tears. If the filter is visibly damaged, go ahead and replace it.

Vacuum the filter: Get 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, use a mild detergent.

Dry the filter: Leave the filter out to dry on its own completely before putting it back. Before that happens, remember to not turn on your air conditioner or you risk allowing more dust particles inside the unit.

It’s necessary to note that disposable filters cannot be washed. They should always be thrown away once they become too dirty. The replacement filter should be the appropriate size to confirm compatibility with your AC unit.

Other Parts of an AC Unit to Maintain

In addition to the air filter, other AC components need routine maintenance for optimal performance and minimal expense. Reach out to an HVAC technician for help servicing the following:

• The evaporator coils within the air handler absorb heat from the air. After enough time, these coils accumulate a lot of dust, which lowers heat transfer efficiency. Technicians employ a specific coil cleaner to clear away dust and grime.
• The condenser coils found in the part of the unit kept outside get rid of heat removed from your home. These coils are left out in the rain and snow, and get dirty fast. While you can carefully clean off dirt, leaves and other debris by grabbing a garden hose, leave more detailed seasonal maintenance to a professional.
• The fan blades in your AC unit will also accumulate dust and dirt. An HVAC professional will inspect the fan as part of an annual tune-up, wiping down and aligning the blades as required to return to normal operation.
• The condensate drain line in your AC system can become clogged up with algae, mold and debris. When drainage slows or stops, contact a certified maintenance specialist to clean the drain line using a strong cleaning solution or algaecide.

Request AC Maintenance Support

Regularly servicing your AC filter and other important elements of your air conditioner encourages smooth operation and higher indoor air quality. Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is ready to help. Our ACE-certified technicians provide quick, reliable solutions to all your comfort problems. To schedule your next AC maintenance service, please contact us today.