Need to schedule air conditioning maintenance? Call the SM Mechanical Services team at (860) 530-2792 today!
Filters are one of the most important parts of your air conditioner. That’s why it’s essential to regularly clean and replace them to ensure your AC unit functions at maximum efficiency year-round. However, many Manchester, CT, residents don’t know how to clean AC filters correctly, making their air conditioning systems susceptible to numerous issues while significantly depleting their performance.
Fortunately, our team at SM Mechanical Services can teach you everything you need to know about cleaning air filters within your AC unit.
SM Mechanical Services is Manchester, CT’s go-to choice for heating and cooling services. We’ve serviced our wonderful Manchester community for over 15 years, giving us the experience we need to handle any HVAC repair or replacement project. If you want first-class HVAC services in Manchester, CT, contact our experts at SM Mechanical Services.
How to Clean an AC Filter
Dirty air filters are more detrimental to your AC unit than you might think. Overly contaminated air filters put immense stress on your air conditioner and cause it to work harder to maintain your home’s indoor temperature.
An overworked air conditioner is more prone to breaking down prematurely and can significantly increase your monthly energy payments. Dirty air filters also decrease your home’s indoor air quality, worsening allergy symptoms.
However, cleaning and replacing your air conditioner’s filter helps preserve the system’s efficiency and longevity while reducing your monthly energy bills. A clean air filter can also prevent the system from overheating, protecting it from numerous issues that often cause a small fortune to replace.
Follow the steps below to learn how to clean AC filters and keep your air conditioner in immaculate condition year-round.
Step 1: Turn Off the Air Conditioning System and Remove the Filter
Before you clean or replace the filter, you must turn off the air conditioning unit. Leaving your air conditioner on while cleaning the filter causes the system to blow unfiltered air into your home, significantly reducing indoor air quality. Use your thermostat to turn off your air conditioner before starting the process.
Once you turn it off, use a screwdriver to remove your AC unit’s panel and remove the air filter. Some air conditioners contain several filters, so ensure you remove all the necessary screens.
It’s important to note that some air filters aren’t cleanable and require a replacement every month or so. It’s best to check your air conditioner’s owner’s manual to check your model’s air filter requirements. If you don’t have an owner’s manual, look up your AC unit’s model online for more information about its air filter.
Step Two: Vacuum the Air Filter
After removing the air filter, use a small vacuum cleaner to remove dust, dirt, and other debris from its surface. Handheld vacuum cleaners remove contaminants from air filters without requiring you to get your hands dirty. If you don’t have a handheld vacuum cleaner, use a hose attachment to remove the debris.
Step Three: Wash the Air Filter
Sometimes vacuum cleaners can’t remove all the stubborn dirt, dust, and debris from your AC system’s air filter. If the air filter is still dirty after vacuuming, fill a sink with equal parts water and white vinegar and soak the filter in the solution for at least an hour. After an hour or more, remove the filter from the solution and rinse it with fresh water.
If the filter is too big to fit in a sink, use a garden hose to remove the pollutants. Always use low pressure to wash the filter if you clean it with a garden hose. High water pressure could damage the filter and make it unusable.
Once the filter looks contaminant-free, allow it to dry before placing it back into the air conditioner.
How to Replace an AC Unit’s Air Filter
Some air conditioners use uncleanable filters that require a monthly or bi-monthly replacement. Even cleanable filters sometimes need a replacement for the unit to remain efficient. It’s best to check your AC system’s air filter once a month to preserve air quality.
However, many people don’t know how to replace their air conditioner’s filter. Follow the steps below to learn how to correctly replace your AC unit’s air filter.
Step One: Turn Off the Air Conditioner and Remove the Air Filter
Start by turning off the air conditioner and removing the filter from the unit. Use a screwdriver to remove the filter once the power shuts down. You can wear gloves to keep your hands clean from excess dirt and grime.
Step Two: Evaluate the Air Filter’s Condition
Next, examine the air filter for damage and pollution. Although dirty air filters are easy to spot, excessive grime sometimes covers holes and tears within its surface. Remove the dirt and debris to thoroughly evaluate the filter.
If the air filter is dirty or damaged, replace it with a new one.
Step Three: Install the New Air Filter
Finally, throw away the dirty or damaged air filter and replace it. Gently slide or screw in the new air filter without creating tears or holes within its surface.
Also, read the filter’s instruction label to determine when to replace it next. The instructions should tell you the filter’s life expectancy, allowing you to write down the replacement date. However, continue checking the filter monthly to ensure everything is up to par.
Contact SM Mechanical Services for All Your Heating and Cooling Needs in Manchester, CT
If you need help changing your air conditioner’s filter, contact SM Mechanical Services. Our team can ensure your AC unit functions better than ever without stressing your financial means. We can teach you how to clean AC filters while providing impeccable customer service along the way.
Whether you’re having trouble cleaning your air conditioner or want to learn how to deal with refrigerant leaks in your AC, contact SM Mechanical Services.
Call us at (860) 530-2792 and schedule your appointment today!