Changing and keeping the air conditioning filters on regularly is one of the most simple, inexpensive, and effective strategies to keep your air conditioner functioning smoothly during the heat of the summer. If you have pets or someone who smokes, you should change or clean your air conditioner filter regularly. However, our HVAC technicians are regularly faced with an air conditioner filter that has been forgotten for too long. If your air conditioner’s filter is not cleaned and maintained regularly, it decreases performance. Dirty air filters require more energy to function, which raises electricity expenses. If you do not clean the AC filter regularly, dust, filth, bacteria, mildew, and mold will gather up.
What Is an Ac Filter?
The filters in AC are the most important part of your air conditioning system. Its major role is to protect the system’s internal parts by capturing dust, grime, and other outside pollutants including hair, pet fur, and threads. It allows for cleaner air circulation while also preventing debris from clogging the system. However, like any essential part, the AC filter needs regular AC maintenance to keep it working properly.
AC filters are intended to capture a variety of particles, including dirt and dust pollen, spores of mold, fibers, lint, hair, pet fur, and some metal, plaster, and wooden debris. Furthermore, they help collect germs and other microbes, making them essential to ensuring not only the function of your air conditioner but also the air quality. Regular AC air filter cleaning ensures these filters function efficiently, prolonging the unit’s life and keeping your indoor environment healthy.
Why You Should Change Your AC Filter
It is important to understand how to change an AC filter because it is responsible for not only maintaining optimum air quality in your residence but also avoiding dirt and debris from entering the HVAC unit. This kind of debris can accumulate easily, especially when you have pets or a lot of particles in the house. Frequent air filter repairs will help keep the air conditioning unit clean, reducing damage and allowing it to keep working smoothly for longer periods.
Filter replacement is also an important aspect of maintaining your HVAC system parts clean. When your filter becomes clogged with debris and dirt, it can no longer operate properly, and pollutants and toxins will not just enter your air system but also adhere to your HVAC parts. If all the parts of your HVAC system, such as the coils, become dirty, they may freeze up or stop working properly, requiring repair and even system failure.
Steps to Cleaning Your AC Filter
Cleaning your AC filter is essential for ensuring that your air conditioning system runs smoothly and gives clean, cold air. Dust and debris gather in the filter over time, reducing airflow, putting pressure on the cooling system, and increasing energy expenses. Follow the steps given here to fully clean your air conditioner’s filter.
Turn Off the AC Unit
Before you begin, make safety your number one concern. Turn off and unplug the air conditioning system from the electrical source. This minimizes electrical breakdowns and makes sure the fan and other parts do not move while you clean the filter. If your AC unit is hardwired, turn it off at the electrical circuit breaker.
Locate and Remove the Filter
Are you wondering where the air filter on an AC unit is? Most air conditioner filters are found inside the front grille of a wall unit, inside the return air ducts for essential systems, or within the protective covering of compact units. If you don’t know where to find the filter, consult with us. Once found, gently remove the filter. Be gentle so as not to damage the frame or filter material.
Inspect the Filter
Consider inspecting the condition of the filter. Look for signs of excessive dirt, dust, or blockage that could impede ventilation. If you discover tears, rips, or substantial wear, replace the filter rather than clean it. Cleaning the reusable filters to maintain Daikin AC air filter cleaning standards.
Vacuum the Filter
To remove dirt and dust, use a vacuum cleaner fitted with a brush attachment. Sweep the vacuum gently over the filter’s outside, being sure to cover every part. This phase removes the majority of the debris, making the cleaning procedure easier and more effective.
Wash the Filter
By combining warm water and mild soap or detergents to make the cleaning solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can harm the filter material. Soak the filter in warm, soapy water and gently use a gentle brush or mop to remove any stubborn particles or dust. Allow extremely filthy filters to soak for 15-20 minutes before brushing.
Rinse and Dry the Filter
After washing, wash the filter with cool water to remove any soap. Understanding how to put filters in AC correctly is crucial for avoiding air leaks and ensuring efficient performance. Ensure that the water flows in the opposite direction as the airflow removes any remaining dirt. Spin off any excess water carefully, then put the filter in a ventilated location to dry entirely. Avoid using a hair drier or putting the filter to direct sunlight, as both can bend or damage the material of the filters.
Reinstall the Filter
Once the filter has completely dried, you should carefully replace it in its location. To prevent air leaks, ensure that it fits tightly and securely. If you have difficulties inserting the filter, get expert advice.
Turn On the AC Unit
Reconnect the AC device to the power supply and turn it on. Check how it works for some time to ensure optimum ventilation and cooling. You will notice an increase in the effectiveness and reliability of your system.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your air conditioning filter is one of the most easy yet effective things you can do to improve the quality of your indoor air. If you have reusable, disposable, or HEPA filters, maintaining them clean will keep your home inviting and your AC unit running smoothly. If you need help with cleaning AC air filter systems, including specialized services like Daikin AC air filter cleaning, our team of HVAC professionals is here to help you. Our team provides thorough AC maintenance services to ensure your system runs properly all year. Contact us to set up a professional cleaning or for more information on our HVAC services!
