An air filter is an essential yet often overlooked component of a healthy HVAC system. This lightweight barrier traps dust, allergens, and other rubbish from entering the air you breathe.
How to Clean an Air Filter:
First things first, not all air conditioner filters can be cleaned. If your filter has a cardboard frame or contains some written indication of non-serviceability, you’ll need to replace it outright. You can find replacement air filters in most home hardware stores. Make sure you find the right size; bring your old filter along so you can compare.
What Happens if You Don’t Replace Your Air Filter?
High Energy Costs. A dirty air filter stifles air circulation, forcing your HVAC system to work overtime to heat or cool your home. This leads to higher electricity bills and can shorten the lifespan of your HVAC unit.
Inconsistent Air Temperature. Because the HVAC system is struggling to blow air, certain areas of your home may be hotter or cooler than you’d like. A dirty air filter can even interfere with the temperature sensors that signal your HVAC system to start or stop. The result is discomfort, inefficient operation, and repair costs due to high strain on the fan motor.
High Risk of System Failure. A worn out fan motor combined with difficulty in moving air inevitably leads to overheating or freezing up. The air that would move freely through a clean air filter becomes trapped behind a dirty one, placing high energy demand on your HVAC system.
Poor Air Quality. A dirty air filter traps not just air, but moisture. Under humid conditions, this promotes the growth of bacteria and mold, which further clog up the filter. Even worse, these microbes can spread into the HVAC system and into the air in your home, causing allergic reactions and other health issues. Left unchecked, this can cause long-term health problems, especially for young children and the elderly.
Dirty Air Ducts. A buildup of pollutants in your air ducts further reduces the efficiency of your HVAC system and increases pollutants in the air throughout your home. Changing your air filter is much quicker and easier than dealing with the fallout from polluted ducts.
Directions for Cleaning an Air Filter:
- Remove the filter. Take the air filter out, taking care to make sure no dirt or debris falls into the airbox or intake. If there’s any housing on the filter, remove the housing and the wing nut attaching the filter to remove the outer element.
- Apply cleaning solution. Spray the filter with Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner and let it soak.
- Rinse. Using a faucet or garden hose, rinse the filter from both sides, starting from the interior towards the exterior to prevent pushing dirt further into the fibers of the filter. Avoid wringing or stretching the filter – they can tear easily. Rinse until the water runs clear. Repeat the process if necessary.
- Dry. Shake the filter to get rid of any excess water, then set it down to air dry. Make sure the filter is completely dry before oiling (if you have an oiled filter) and replacing it.
