Maintaining the HVAC Air Filter and Why It’s Important

How long has it been since  you checked your air conditioner filter? As a rule of thumb, you should check it every month and take the appropriate steps when it gets dirty. We’ll share details about the different types of AC filters, why they work better with regular care and detailed instructions on how to wash reusable filters correctly.

Types of AC Filters

Your filter type affects indoor air quality, ventilation efficiency and whether you can wash or swap it out when it becomes dirty. Here’s a summary of some popular designs:

• Disposable filters are typically made from fiberglass and a paper frame. These filters are intended for short-term use and are best replaced every one to three months. They are usually affordable and quick to install but less environmentally friendly as they generate waste.
• Reusable filters have stronger frame materials such as aluminum or plastic. These filters can be cleaned and reused several times, and can last many years if maintenance is handled correctly. They are more environmentally friendly and affordable over time. On the other hand, cleaning them takes more time and effort than simply replacing a disposable filter.
• Electrostatic filters use static electricity to trap pollutants efficiently while maintaining airflow. These can be both disposable or reusable. Reusable electrostatic filters will need regular washing to maintain their effectiveness.
• HEPA filters, or high-efficiency particulate air filters, are the top filters of all, capturing 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns. The majority of HEPA filters are single use, but they last for up to 12 months before requiring replacement. While they offer high filtration, they are more expensive and aren’t compatible with all HVAC systems.

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

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

1. Better air quality: A clean filter captures dust, pollen, pet dander and other particles, keeping your indoor air purer and safer. This plus is especially important for people with allergies, asthma or other health issues.

• Less energy waste: If you never clean or swap out the filter, the dust and debris caught inside it causes the AC to work even harder. A new filter restores airflow, lowering the unit’s workload and helping to manage your energy bills.

• Longer 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: A fresh filter lowers extra expenses by cutting your energy bills, limiting damage and minimizing the risk of unexpected AC replacement.

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

Use these guidelines every one to three months to enjoy all the benefits of a fresh air filter:

Prepare: To start, shut off the AC system to avoid electrical fire or similar hazards. Then, access your AC filter. It might be in the return air duct, in the air handler cabinet or within the unit itself.

Remove the filter: Carefully remove the filter from the compartment. Check for holes or tears. If the filter is torn, go ahead and toss it.

Vacuum the filter: Get the brush accessory on your vacuum cleaner to get rid of dirt, hair, fibers and other particles.

Wash the filter: Take the filter outdoors and give it a thorough rinse with a garden hose. For a deeper clean, use a mild detergent.

Dry the filter: Place the filter out to dry on its own completely before placing it back. But before you do so, do not turn on your air conditioner or you risk getting more dust particles inside.

It’s important to note that disposable filters cannot be washed. They need to be swapped out once they become too dirty. The replacement filter should be the same size to make sure there’s compatibility with your AC unit.

Additional Components of an AC Unit to Clean

Along with the filter, other AC components need consistent upkeep for peak performance and longevity. Contact an HVAC technician for help servicing parts like:

• The evaporator coils inside the indoor unit absorb heat from the air. Over time, these coils collect a lot of dust, which lowers heat transfer efficiency. HVAC Experts apply a commercial-grade coil cleaning solution to remove dust and grime.
• The condenser coils within the outdoor system expel heat absorbed from your home. These coils are subjected to the worst weather and become dirty fast. Even though you can lightly rinse off dirt, leaves and other debris using a garden hose, leave more in-depth seasonal maintenance to a professional.
• The fan blades in your AC system’s blower will also gather dust and dirt. An HVAC technician will check the fan as part of an annual tune-up, cleaning and realigning the blades as necessary to return to normal performance.
• The condensate drain line in your AC system can become clogged up with algae, mold and debris. If this happens, call a qualified maintenance specialist to clean the drain line using a professional-grade cleaner or algaecide.

Receive AC Maintenance Service

Regularly maintaining your AC filter and other parts of your HVAC ensures optimal performance and healthy indoor air quality. Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is available to offer our support. Our ACE-certified technicians provide quick, reliable solutions to all your comfort problems. To schedule your next AC maintenance visit, please contact us today.