Before cleaning the filter in the air conditioner, make sure that it is cleanable and reusable and does not need to be disposed of and replaced with a new one. Turn off the air conditioner and remove the filter. Use a vacuum cleaner with a cleaning attachment to remove dust and sand from the filter. If the filter is very dirty, rinse it with a hose or soak it gently in warm water.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Remove the filter
Step 1. Determine if the filter is cleanable
Filters in some air conditioners can be removed and cleaned. But besides them, there are other filters that must be disposed of after a certain time of operation. Check your air conditioner manual to determine if the filter in your air conditioner can be cleaned.
Step 2. Turn off the air conditioner
Do not try to clean the filter while the air conditioner is on. This will not only lead to an influx of unfiltered air into the house, but also to the accumulation of dirt and particulate matter on the coil and other internal parts of the air conditioner.
Do not turn on the air conditioner until you have changed the filter
Step 3. Get to the filter
In large AHUs, the filter is located along the return air duct. You will most likely have to unscrew a few screws to access it. In small window air conditioners, you just need to open the front panel with a spatula. Slide the front panel to access the filter in the wall-mounted air conditioner.
For more information on how to remove the filter, see the manufacturer's documentation
Method 2 of 3: Clean the filter
Step 1. Use a vacuum cleaner for regular cleaning
Remove or disconnect the filter (depending on the make and model of the air conditioner) and use the extension tube on the vacuum cleaner to remove all sand and dust from the filter. Replace the filter when finished.
- If you have kept the filter in good condition all this time, you may not notice any visible changes after cleaning it. Don't worry, it's definitely clearer.
- On the other hand, you may not be able to remove all dust and sand from the filter. Just vacuum the filter to remove as much dirt as possible.
- This method is best for regular filter cleaning.
Step 2. For deeper cleaning, rinse the filter with water
If there is still a lot of particulate matter on the filter after the initial cleaning, try flushing it. First, remove the filter from the air conditioner. Mix equal proportions of vinegar with water (for example, five glasses of water and five glasses of vinegar). Pour the mixture into a tub or sink that will hold the filter.
- Submerge the filter in the mixture for about an hour. If the filter is very dirty, leave it in the solution for two hours or longer.
- Pour out the vinegar solution and let the filter dry. When it's dry, put the filter back in place.
- Alternatively, dilute a small amount of detergent or liquid soap with enough water to completely submerge the filter.
Step 3. Flush the filter with the hose
If the weather is fine outside and the filter won't fit in the sink, take it outside and lean it against the wall. Spray the filter with a hose. Do not rinse the filter with water under pressure in order not to inadvertently tear or damage the fragile filter.
- The filter can also be washed in the shower. Simply place the filter on the shower wall and use a zigzag spray to rinse the entire filter surface on both sides.
- When the filter is dry, replace it.
- Sprinkle a few tablespoons of baking soda on the filter before cleaning. This will allow for more efficient cleaning.
Step 4. Use the automatic cleaning function
Some modern air conditioners have an automatic air filter cleaning function. These air conditioners are equipped with a cassette die and a brush to remove particles from the filter, which are then stored in a small chamber, from which they are then blown out. If your air conditioner has this feature, use it to regularly clean the filter.
Method 3 of 3: Keep your conditioner in good condition
Step 1. Clean the filter regularly
Different air conditioners have different filter cleaning requirements. Some filters need to be cleaned every two weeks. Some manufacturers recommend cleaning the filter every 30 days, while others recommend cleaning the filter once to four times a year.
- Check the manufacturer's manual for how often to clean the filter.
- Clean the filter often if you use the air conditioner regularly, have pets, or have allergies.
Step 2. Discard the filter when it's time to replace it
Despite careful and regular cleaning, the filter will still wear out. If the filter is damaged or cracked, replace it with a new one.
You can buy an air conditioner filter from your local hardware store or order it online
Step 3. Clean the coil
Cleaning the coil can improve the efficiency of the air conditioner and extend the life of the air conditioner. If you have a window air conditioner, blow out the back of the unit (the one that sticks out of the window) with compressed air in short bursts.
- Alternatively, use a soft bristled brush to clean the grill on the fabric softener. Work carefully so as not to bend any of the coil ribs.
- If you want to clean the outside coil of the AHU, remove the outer casing and then blow it out with compressed air. Instead, you can use an industrial vacuum cleaner fitted with a soft brush to remove dust and dirt that has accumulated between the coil fins.