Your air conditioner’s air filter is responsible for removing all the dirt, dust, and impurities from the air before it’s circulated into your space, but it can only do its job properly when it’s being regularly cleaned and maintained. Many people underestimate the importance of cleaning their air filters, but it shouldn’t be overlooked, as a dirty filter can severely affect the efficiency and operation of your air conditioner. Here’s how to clean your air conditioner’s air filter!
Page Contents:
How to Clean Air Conditioner Air Filter
Step 1: Remove the Air Filter
After turning off and unplugging your air conditioning unit, carefully remove the cover of your AC and remove the air filter. Take note that some units come with multiple air filters, so make sure that you consult your user’s manual to locate all the air filters and remove them.
Step 2: Vacuum the Air Filter
After removing your air filter, use a vacuum cleaner to remove all the loose dirt and debris that may have clung to the filter. This will make the cleaning process much easier later on. You can also use a microfiber cloth to clean off any impurities that may have clung onto the filter’s frame.
Step 3: Wash the Air Filter
Once you’ve removed everything that you can, carefully rinse the air filter under some clean water before filling your sink or basin with enough water to submerge the filter. Then, add in a bit of mild detergent or dish soap to create some soapy water. Fully submerge the air filter into the soapy water and leave it to soak for around 10 to 15 minutes. If there is still some stubborn debris left behind, carefully scrub it off with a sponge until your filter is completely clean.
If you’re looking to give your air filter a deep disinfection, then you can submerge it in equal parts water and white vinegar for an hour before rinsing everything off with some clean water.
Step 4: Dry and Reinstall
When your air filter is completely clean, let it air dry completely before reinstalling it back in your unit.
Additional Cleaning Tips
Here are some additional cleaning tips that can help you keep your air filters clean:
- Regularly Clean Your Air Filter: Make sure that you regularly check your unit’s air filter and clean it when necessary. Establishing a regular cleaning routine will prevent impurities from building up, which can compromise the performance of your air conditioner, reduce its efficiency, and push it to work much harder to maintain your preferred temperature, among other things.
- Let Your Air Filter Dry Completely: After washing your air filter, make sure that you let it air dry fully before placing it back inside your unit. Failure to do so can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can compromise the indoor air quality of your space.
- Clean Air Filters Carefully: When it comes to cleaning your air filter, it’s crucial that you do so carefully, as you really don’t want to damage your filter. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, which can cause tears and holes in your air filter, and don’t use any high-pressure water streams as these can damage the filter and reduce its effectiveness.
- Have Your Unit Professionally Cleaned: You may not always have the time or energy to clean your air filter, as well as your air conditioner in general, regularly. Luckily, some well-skilled professionals can take care of the job for you and make your overall air conditioning cleaning and maintenance experience much more sustainable. If you are planning to get one, visit https://www.luce.sg/services/aircon-servicing.