How you clean your air con filter depends on the type of system that you have. There are two basic types:
1) ducted, and
2) split system.
We’ll explain how to clean the filter on each type in turn.
How to clean a ducted air conditioner filter
A ducted air conditioning system has ducts throughout the ceiling to circulate air at the desired temperature. Below are the steps to clean a ducted air conditioner filter.
Step 1: Turn off the power to the unit.
Step 2: Ducted air conditioning systems usually have a grilled front panel in the ceiling. Consult your unit’s print or online operating manual for instructions on how to remove the front panel to locate your filter.
Step 3: Take your filter outside and tap it against a wall to remove as much dirt and grime as possible.
If there is stubborn material that isn’t removed this way, you could try vacuuming or gently washing the filter in warm water using a mild detergent.
If you do wash your filter, make sure you rinse and dry it thoroughly before putting it back in your a/c unit.
Step 4: Spray your filter with an anti-bacterial spray to help prevent mould, mildew and bacteria from building up until your next clean.
Step 5: Place the filter back in the unit.
How to clean a split system air conditioner filter
A split system air conditioner has two units – one is inside and one is outside.
The indoor unit is usually rectangular and mounted on a wall. The outdoor unit is usually a large metal box. The two units are connected by pipes.
Cleaning the filter on both units is easy. Just follow the steps below.
Step 1: Turn off the power to each unit.
Step 2: Consult your unit’s operating manual to locate your air filter panel or panels (there may be one, two or three panels, depending on your air conditioner make and model).
If you haven’t kept the print copy of your manual, you should be able to access your model’s manual online.
Pop open the filter’s plastic cover to remove it.
Step 3: Take your filter outside and tap it against a wall to remove as much dirt and grime as possible.
If there is stubborn material that isn’t removed this way, you could try vacuuming or gently washing the filter in warm water using a mild detergent.
If you do wash your filter, make sure you rinse and dry it thoroughly before putting it back in your a/c unit.
Step 4: Spray your filter with an anti-bacterial spray to help prevent mould, mildew and bacteria from building up until your next clean.
Step 5: Place the filter back in the unit.
Step 6: Clean the louvres that direct the airflow of your unit by giving them a wipe down with a damp cloth, along with the rest of the exterior of the unit. Take special care to ensure that there is nothing blocking the airflow of the outside unit (like cobwebs or leaves).
How often should you clean your air conditioner filter?
Ideally, you should clean your air conditioning filter at least twice a year (and more often when you’re using it regularly).
You should also schedule a professional service of your air conditioner at least every year. You may need to schedule this check-up more frequently if:
- you have an older system (i.e. more than 10 years old).
- you use your system extensively.
The benefits of cleaning your air con filter
You should see three major benefits when you have a clean air conditioner filter:
1) improved air quality (in other words, clean air, not dusty air).
2) improved air flow and circulation.
3) reduced energy usage, because your unit won’t have to work as hard to achieve the temperature you want. This can also save you in the long run in terms of lower repair and maintenance costs.
If you don’t see those benefits after you clean your filter, it may be a sign that your air conditioner needs a professional service.
How we can help
At Airforce Air Conditioning, we provide a full range of services for both split and ducted system air conditioners, including:
- a clean of your a/c filters (if you haven’t done them yourself),
- a coil clean,
- a functionality test,
- an electrical connection test, and
- a temperature, gas pressure and controller check.
We also service evaporative, cassette and multi-head air conditioning systems.
Contact our Perth or Bunbury offices today to discuss your a/c servicing needs.
