Why You Should Maintain Your AC Filter

Have you looked at your air conditioner filter? As a rule of thumb, you should check it once a month and take the appropriate steps when it is dirty. Find out what you should know about the different types of AC filters, why they require regular maintenance and step-by-step instructions on how to wash reusable filters properly.

Why Should You Wash or Change the AC Filter? 4 Key Reasons

It’s an easy chore to ignore, but cleaning or changing your AC filter is crucial for a few reasons:

1. Cost Savings

A new filter lowers extra expenses by tightening up your energy bills, limiting damage and minimizing the risk of premature replacement costs.

2. Use Energy More Efficiently

If you never clean or replace the filter, the dust and debris caught inside it makes the AC to exert even more energy. A fresh filter preserves airflow, lowering the unit’s workload and helping to manage your energy bills.

3. Enhanced Air Quality

A fresh filter traps dust, pollen, pet dander and other particles, keeping your indoor air cleaner and contamination free. This benefit is particularly vital for people with allergies, asthma or other respiratory conditions.

4. Extend the System’s Life Span

Regularly maintaining the filter prevents the system from overheating, reduces wear and tear, and can even extend your unit’s life span!

Instructions for Maintaining the AC Filter

Before you go grab the filter, it’s necessary to point out first that disposable filters cannot be washed. They should always be replaced when they become clogged with dust. The replacement filter should be the same size to make sure there’s compatibility with your AC unit.

Apply these guidelines every one to three months to get all the benefits of a new air filter:

1. 1. Prepare: As the first step, shut off the AC system to prevent electrical damage. Then, access your AC filter. It is usually in the return air duct, in the air handler cabinet or inside the unit itself.

2. 2. Remove the filter: Carefully pull out the filter from the housing. Check for holes or tears. If the filter is damaged, go ahead and toss it.

3. 3. Vacuum the filter: Get the brush accessory on your vacuum cleaner to remove dirt, hair, fibers and other loose debris.

4. 4. Wash the filter: Bring the filter outside the house and rinse it off with a garden hose. For a filter that’s as clean as possible, use a mild detergent.

5. 5. Dry the filter: Lay the filter out to air dry completely before reinstalling it. Before that happens, do not run your air conditioner or you risk getting more dust particles inside the unit.

Other Useful Info About AC Filters and Routine Service

The Available Types of AC Filters

Your filter type influences indoor air quality, ventilation efficiency and whether you can wash or replace it when it becomes old. Here’s an overview of some of the most common options:

Disposable filters are commonly made using fiberglass along with a paper frame. These filters are designed for short-term use and should be swapped out every 30 to 90 days. They are typically low cost and easy to replace but not as environmentally friendly as they need to be thrown out.

Reusable filters have more durable frame materials such as aluminum or plastic. These filters can be washed and reused multiple times, often lasting a few years if maintenance is handled properly. They are more environmentally friendly and cost effective over time. On the other hand, cleaning them takes additional time and effort than simply replacing a disposable model.

Electrostatic filters utilize static electricity to trap airborne particles effectively while maintaining airflow. These can be either disposable or reusable. Reusable electrostatic filters require regular washing to preserve their effectiveness.

HEPA filters, or high-efficiency particulate air filters, are the top filters of all, removing 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns. Most HEPA filters are single use, but they can be used for up to one year before needing to be replaced. While they offer superior filtration, they are higher priced and aren’t compatible with all HVAC systems.

Other Elements of an Air Conditioning System to Maintain

Besides the filter, additional AC parts should receive routine upkeep for optimal operation and minimal expense. Call an HVAC technician for help maintaining parts like:

• • The fan blades in your AC unit will also accumulate dust and dirt. An HVAC technician will check the fan as part of an annual tune-up, washing and adjusting the blades as needed to return to regular performance.

• • The condenser coils located in the outdoor system release heat removed from your home. These coils are left out in the rain and snow, and can get dirty fast. Even though you can carefully clean off dirt, leaves and other debris with a garden hose, leave more detailed seasonal cleanings to a professional.

• • The evaporator coils inside the air handler extract heat from the air. After enough time, these coils accumulate a lot of dust, which lowers heat transfer efficiency. HVAC Experts use a special coil cleaning solution to clear away dust and grime.

• • The condensate drain lines in your AC unit can become clogged up with algae, mold and debris. Should this happen, contact a professional technician to clear the drain line using a professional-grade cleaner or algaecide.

Schedule AC Maintenance Service

Regularly servicing your AC filter and other important elements of your air conditioning system promotes smooth operation and better indoor air quality. Wyant Heating & Air is ready to help. Our certified technicians provide prompt, long-lasting solutions to all your comfort problems. To arrange your next AC maintenance service, please contact us today.