The Benefits of Cleaning or Replacing Your AC Filter

Air conditioning filters are an essential part of keeping your air conditioner running efficiently. Dirty, clogged filters reduce the amount of airflow and significantly reduce system efficiency. It is important to clean or replace the air conditioner filter once or twice a month during the cooling season, and once every three months if your air conditioner works as a heat pump. In dusty or polluted environments, you should clean filters more regularly.

As a general rule, you should clean the air conditioner filters inside the indoor unit every two weeks. The more you use your air conditioner, the more often you will need to clean the filters. At a minimum, try to clean them a couple of times a year. Cleaning or replacing the air filter in your air conditioner can make a big difference to the performance of your air conditioner.

A dirty air filter will make it difficult for the air conditioner to handle the air, while a clean filter can help keep the ducts in your home clean by trapping dust and dirt that might otherwise build up inside. A disposable filter lasts approximately three months, after which you should replace it with a new filter. For a more thorough cleaning, fill the sink with one part water and one part white vinegar, then allow the HVAC filter to soak in the solution for one hour. Different types of air filters are available, and while many are disposable and cannot be cleaned, washable air filters are becoming increasingly common.

It is important to remember that running an air conditioner without a filter for an extended period of time can cause serious damage to the unit while reducing the air quality in your home. In addition, an air conditioning unit that works harder due to a clogged filter will consume more electricity, causing your utility bill to skyrocket. Learning how to clean an air conditioner filter can help you save energy and manage your air conditioner workload. Cleaning or replacing your AC filter regularly is essential for keeping your unit running efficiently and extending its life.