The most important filter maintenance task that will ensure the efficiency of your air conditioner to routinely replace or clean its filters. Clogged, dirty filters reduce the amount of airflow and significantly reduce a system’s efficiency. In addition, when airflow obstructed, air can bypass the filter and deposit dirt directly into the evaporator coil and  impair the coil’s heat-absorbing capacity. Replacing a dirty, clogged filter with a clean one can lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5% to 15%.

For central air conditioners, filters are generally located somewhere along the return duct’s length. Common filter locations are in walls, ceilings, or in the air conditioner

Filter Maintenance Tips

First, you will need to locate the filters. You may have one or several in your home depending on your specific HVAC system. Each filter usually located behind a vent called a return. You may need a ladder to reach the return and a screwdriver to open the vent. Make sure to turn off the system before removing the filters.

For cleaning, you will need a brush and vacuum to remove caked-on dust and debris and a hose to thoroughly wash it away. It important that you take your filters outside to clean them if possible, as the process can be messy. Use the brush first and get rid of as much dirt and dust as possible.

Next, vacuum the filter using a suction hose to remove any remaining loose material. After this, you can turn the filter over and use a low-pressure spray nozzle to run water through it. You want to run the water in the opposite direction of the airflow. Let this dry, then place the clean filter back in the return.

Why is Filter Maintenance Important?

If your filter is filthy then it’s not doing what it’s meant to and your drinking water could be at risk of contamination. For anyone who has suffered from water borne diseases, you will know that they can be a lot more severe than say food poisoning and certainly something you should try to avoid at all costs – especially for those who are vulnerable such as children or the elderly.

If your filters are clogged up it’s also going to reduce the flow in your system and your pump is going to be working overtime to try and get your water where it’s needed. If things get really bad, your pump will eventually stop working.

Every property and environment will differ slightly, for example, during certain times of the year pollen getting into the tank and blocking the filters can a major problem in some areas so filters need to be checked and replaced more frequently.