How to Clean an AC Filter

Experts agree that the key to making your air conditioner last is a commitment to regular maintenance and care. And keeping your air conditioner running efficiently is also important for your home’s air quality. While most air conditioners don’t typically require a high level of maintenance, keeping their filters cleaned or changed is the one thing you don’t want to put off.

In this post from General Heating and Air Conditioning in Minnesota, we’re covering everything you need to know to clean your air filter and keep your AC running great. To schedule your air conditioning maintenance services, give us a call today. 

The Importance of Air Filters

The air filter in your AC unit cleans the air circulating through your system. These are just a few of the contaminants your air filters remove:

●        Hair

●        Animal fur and dander

●        Pollen

●        Dirt and dust

●        Mold spores

●        Microorganisms and bacteria

●        Chemical particulates

Air Filters and AC Performance

As air moves through the filter, these contaminants become stuck to the filter, leaving you with clean, fresh air. Because every bit of air passing through your system goes through your air filter, maintaining a clean filter is essential for a number of reasons:

●      Air Quality

A dirty filter isn’t able to remove contaminants from your system, which means they’re going to get circulated back through your air. This can lead to poor air quality in your home, even interfering with your family’s respiratory function.

●      Duct Cleanliness

Although dirty air ducts might seem like an “out of sight, out of mind” situation, they can lead to a condition known as “sick building system” where contaminants like mold, pollen, and other allergens build up inside the ducts and continuously circulate through the home. This can also lead to the unpleasant musty smell that is often found in older homes and buildings.

●      Energy Costs

The harder your AC has to work, the greater your household energy usage. This can hit your monthly energy costs in a big way, driving up bills and taking a toll on the environment at the same time.

●      AC Function

The number one reason behind all HVAC system malfunctions comes down to problems resulting from a dirty air filter. Dirty filters force systems to work harder, pushing equipment beyond its intended level of function. This can lead to breakdowns in the equipment and cause fans to work too hard, wearing out much sooner than intended.

Cleaning Your Air Filter

Before cleaning your air filter, you first need to determine if it’s a disposable filter or if it needs to be cleaned regularly. Disposable filters should not be cleaned and should be replaced at least once every three months.

Follow these steps to clean a reusable air filter:

1.    Turn Off Your Air Conditioner

Never try to clean your AC filter while the air conditioner is running as this allows unfiltered air to run through your system. Wait until your filter is replaced to turn the AC unit back on.

2.    Find Your Air Filter

Although the air filter location can vary depending on the type of air conditioner, your air filter can most likely be found near the cold air return. If you’re unclear on the location, consult your manufacturer’s manual. Use a screwdriver to unscrew any necessary screws, and set them aside.

3.    Clean the Filter

Use your vacuum cleaner attachment or a handheld vacuum to remove all of the dirt and dust from your filter. If your filter is especially dirty, use your shower head to apply warm water against the direction of airflow by facing the dirtiest side down. This pushes the dirt out and away from the filter, leaving it clean.

4.    Dry Your Filter

Make sure your air filter is completely dry before replacing it. To dry your filter adequately, lean it against the bathtub. After a few hours, flip it over and dry the other side. If the filter isn’t drying enough, try applying a hair dryer set on its coolest setting, but be careful to avoid using heat. After drying, slide your filter back in and replace the screws. Be sure to check your filter each month.

Call Our Minnesota Air Conditioning Service

Besides regular air filter cleaning, it’s a good idea to stay on top of AC problems as soon as they arise. At General Heating & Air Conditioning, we provide emergency services day and night, every day of the year.

If you identify any of these problems, contact our air conditioning repair team right away:

●        Strange sounds

●        Frequent cycling

●        Inadequate airflow

●        Water leaks

●        Unpleasant odors

●        Hot air blowing

We also offer regular inspections and maintenance service for HVAC systems without any pressure to invest in an unnecessary air conditioning replacement. To schedule your air conditioning service, call General Heating & Air Conditioning in Shakopee at 952-445-2820 or contact us online.