How to Clean an Air Conditioner Filter: A Step-by-Step Guide

Air conditioning units don't require much maintenance, but it's essential to clean or replace the unit's air filters regularly to reduce the likelihood of airborne mold and common allergens being transmitted through forced air systems. Manufacturers usually recommend that you clean your dust filters every few weeks, but it really depends on how often you use the air conditioner. Generally, the more you use it, the more often you need to clean the filters. At a minimum, try to clean them a couple of times a year. For instance, if you mainly use the unit in summer, clean the filters in spring so that it is ready for the high season and again when the hot season ends.

Air filters are an integral part of every air conditioner and require regular cleaning. While some are disposable, many energy efficient units use washable air filters. Fortunately, cleaning is a straightforward procedure that you can do yourself. However, if you're not comfortable cleaning your filter, our HVAC technicians at McGowan's Heating & Air Conditioning in Jacksonville, FL can do it for you. As a rule of thumb, you should clean the air conditioner filters inside the indoor unit every two weeks.

In dusty or more polluted environments, you should clean filters more frequently. You should do a more thorough cleaning every season (or even several times during the summer months, when air conditioners are the most used).Others say that, as long as you follow the instructions and regularly clean the filters and units, you'll only need to repair the air conditioner if a breakdown occurs. Whenever you perform any type of maintenance on your air conditioner, it's a good idea to turn off the unit. As always, read the air conditioner's instruction manual to make sure the water doesn't damage the filter.

The filters inside air conditioners are designed to trap dust (and sometimes other contaminants, such as pollen and bacteria), but if not cleaned regularly, they can clog up and build up moisture and even mold. Replacing a clogged filter with a clean one can reduce air conditioner energy consumption by 5% to 15%. Your air conditioning system should be checked by a professional regularly; the service person will check the refrigerant gas levels, test the thermostat, and ensure that all internal components are in good condition. The following advice is based on split system air conditioners (the most common type in Australian homes), but it also applies broadly to models with wall ducts and windows. Take some time to study each unit and follow the instruction manual to remove and clean the air filter. Cleaning filters is one of the most important maintenance tasks you can do to take care of your air conditioner.

Neglected air conditioning not only increases your monthly bills as the unit has difficulty operating, but you also end up breathing dirty air all day long because the air filter is responsible for removing dirt, microbes and other particles from the air. A specialized Daikin dealer will evaluate, plan and install the right air conditioning solution for you, creatively and sensitively to the needs of your family or business. This is an especially important step for window air conditioners, since you'll be working very close to the moving parts of the air conditioner, while the types of units discussed above are quite far from where the filter is located. As mentioned earlier, turning off the air conditioner while cleaning the filter can help you avoid damage.