Regularly cleaning your air conditioning system is an important part of maintaining it properly. Not only does this help ensure that your home is comfortable throughout the summer, but it also helps to reduce your carbon footprint. When it comes to cleaning your air conditioning system, you have a few options. Depending on the type of system you have, there are different ways to clean it. For example, a ducted system has ductwork that leads directly into the air handler, meaning you can clean the ductwork. But if you have an outdoor system, you’ll need to clean the air filter instead. Let’s take a closer look at how you can clean your air conditioning filter:

What is an air conditioning filter?

An air conditioner filter is a device that traps debris, dust, and other contaminants in the air and prevents them from entering your home. These filters are usually made of a combination of different materials, including cotton and synthetic fibers. They’re designed to trap microscopic dust and particles, as well as larger objects like hair, pet dander, and mold spores.Air conditioning filters are an essential part of your HVAC system. They trap dirt and dust to help maintain a cleaner indoor air quality. They also help to reduce the amount of energy that your air conditioner uses by removing excess water from the air.

How often should you change your air conditioning filter?

Air conditioning filters should be changed every 1-3 months, depending on the type of system you have. Duct-based systems usually have a lifespan of 12-18 months, while outdoor units can last up to three years. The frequency of filter changes will vary depending on the type of dirt, dust, and debris that your air conditioner is exposed to. If you live in a heavily-wooded or dusty area, you’ll need to clean your filter more often.To determine how often your air conditioning filter needs to be changed, you should look at the quality of the air inside your home. If you notice that your home smells musty or has a musty smell, it might be time to change your filter. You can also look for other signs of dirty air, such as water droplets collecting on your windows, water stains on the ceilings, or condensation on your walls.

How to clean your air conditioning filter

When it comes to cleaning your air conditioning filter, there are two methods you can choose. The first method is to use a mesh bag and a vacuum cleaner. It’s important to note that this method is only suitable for duct-based systems. If you have an outdoor system, you’ll need to clean the filter by hand.The second method is to use a wet cleaning solution. While this method is suitable for both duct-based systems and outdoor units, it’s important to note that you should never use bleach, vinegar, or any other cleaning solution to clean your filter. Doing so can damage the filter and cause it to become ineffective.

Conclusion

Keeping your air conditioning filter clean is an important part of maintaining your system. By cleaning your filter regularly, you can extend the life of your system and reduce the amount of time that it needs to run. While there are two methods you can use to clean your filter, it’s important to note that you should never use cleaning solutions when cleaning your filter. Doing so can damage the filter and cause it to become ineffective.

Frequently Asked Question

Change your AC filter every 90 days. Most manufacturers recommend this, especially at the start of a new season. Make sure to replace them with the correct sizes and dimensions. If your AC manufacturer has a specific recommendation you may contact air filter manufacturers to customize one for you.
Once your Air Conditioning Unit is too hot, then it is a sign that you may need to replace your air filter because your unit is doing more work than usual, to reach its desired output. In the long run, it will damage your unit. Once the air is not cold enough, then you need to check your filters as well. Failure to frequently change your unit will increase your electricity bill since your unit is working double the usual. You get more allergy and respiratory attacks plus there is more dust on the air vents.
Changing your AC filter is part of your maintenance at home. The air you breathe depends on the quality or state of your air filter. How your unit performs also depends on your usage and how often you change your air filters. If you want your unit to stay longer, you ought to follow the recommended frequency of air filter replacement.
An air filter is responsible for cleaning or removing visible to microscopic pollution that is passing through your HVAC. It is important in keeping your air quality clean and breathable. It also keeps allergies away, especially to those sensitive to dust. It also protects your unit from further damage.
Once you have a dirty filter, expect your allergies to get triggered. You’ll soon get headaches, chest tightness and respiratory diseases. Despite your doctor’s treatment, without removing the culprit of your symptoms, it might get worse or will keep coming back again.