How to Clean Air Conditioner Filter

If your room is not cooling properly in extreme heat, then a dirty air filter may be responsible for this. It is called the lungs of the air conditioner's cooling system. We will discuss the process of cleaning the air conditioner filter step by step, from which you can easily know whether you are a new or professional user. So let's learn about the steps of cleaning the air conditioner filter.

Why is it necessary to Clean the Air Conditioner Filter?

Before knowing how to clean the air conditioner filter, let's know why cleaning your air conditioner filter is very important -

• Quality Air: Dirt, dust and allergens are trapped in the AC filter, which then spread throughout your home or office room, creating the possibility of getting sick. Regularly cleaning the filter improves the air quality, reducing the chances of respiratory diseases.
• Efficiency: A clean filter allows air to flow freely, due to which the air conditioner can cool or heat your room properly. When the filter is dirty, the AC uses more power, which results in higher electricity bills.
• Unit Durability: If you clean the filter regularly, your air conditioner will last longer. This helps reduce the stress on the components inside the AC.
• Preventing Fungus Growth: If moisture gets trapped in a dirty filter, there is a greater chance of fungus growing. And if you clean the filter, there will be no health risk.

How often should you clean the AC filter?

Cleaning mainly depends on how often you use the air conditioner and what type of filter your unit has.

• Light use (1-2 hours per day) - Clean the filter every 3 months.
• Medium use (3-5 hours per day) - Clean the filter every 1-2 months.
• Heavy use (6+ hours per day or in dusty environments) - Clean the filter once a month.

If you have pets or live in a particularly dusty area, you may need to clean your air conditioner filter more frequently.

What type of Filter is in an Air Conditioner?

Before cleaning the filter, you need to identify what type of filter is used in the AC. Two types of filters are generally used in ACs used in residential areas-

• Disposable Filter: It is usually made of cardboard and fiberglass. You cannot clean this type of filter - you have to change it directly.
• Washable Filter: This type of filter is usually made of durable materials like plastic or metal mesh. It is designed to be cleaned and reused multiple times, which is known as an eco-friendly and cost-effective option.

We will mainly discuss how to clean a washable AC filter. However, if your air conditioner has a disposable filter, you will first buy a new one and then change it.

Tools needed to clean the AC Filter

• A vacuum cleaner with a brush (optional but effective)
• Bucket or sink
• Mild soap or detergent
• Water
• Soft brush (like a bristled paint brush or old toothbrush)
• A clean cloth or towel for drying
• Screwdriver (if you need to remove the filter)

Air Conditioner Filter Cleaning Process

Step-1: Turn Off and Unplug the AC

Before you start cleaning the filter, turn off and unplug your air conditioner. This will prevent electrical accidents or damage to the AC unit.

Step-2: Identify the Filter

Depending on the model of your air conditioner, the filter may be found behind the front panel or inside the unit. For window units, you will usually find it on the side or behind the grille. For central air systems, it may be near the return air vent or inside the unit itself.

Step-3: Remove the Filter

Carefully remove the filter from the AC unit. In some AC units, you may need to pry the filter open with a screwdriver. Be sure to note how it fits so that you can reinstall it later.

Step 4: Vacuum the filter (optional)

If your filter is not very dirty but needs a light cleaning, you can use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove dust and fungus. This is especially helpful for washable filters like foam or mesh.

Step 5: Rinse the filter

For a thorough cleaning, fill a bucket with water and add a few drops of mild soap or detergent. However, do not use chemicals or bleach, as this can damage the filter. Gently scrub the filter with a soft brush to remove dust and dirt. If there is stubborn dirt, soak the filter for 10-15 minutes before cleaning.

Step 6: Wash and dry the filter

Once the filter is clean, rinse it thoroughly with water. If there is excess water, shake the filter gently. Then, air dry it completely, which is important to prevent mold growth. Do not use a hair dryer or any other heat to speed up the drying process, as it can damage the filter.

Step-7: Re-install the filter

Once the filter is completely dry, reinstall it in the air conditioner. However, make sure that the air direction is correct and set it exactly as before.

Step-8: Restart the AC

Once your filter is properly cleaned, plug the AC back into the electrical socket and turn it on. You will then notice improved airflow and cooler temperatures. Also, you will be able to breathe fresh, clean air.

Some additional tips for AC Filter Maintenance

• Even if you do not need to clean your AC filter, check your filter once a month for dirt.
• If your filter is very old or damaged, replace it. Because the filter loses its effectiveness over time. And even if it is cleaned many times, you will still need to change it. To know about new AC units and latest AC price in BD, please visit our AC price list page. AC is available with advanced air filters to better capture allergens and dust. If you live in a dusty area or suffer from allergies, consider a high-quality filter.
• In addition to cleaning the filter, keep the area around your AC unit free of dust, dirt, and pet dander to maintain good airflow.

By following the above steps, you can easily clean your AC filter. As a result, your AC will perform better, save on your electricity bill, and enjoy quality air. For estimating the AC bill, you can refer to our AC Bill Calculator page.