How often should we change or clean the air conditioner air filter?

How often should we change or clean the air conditioner air filter?

Filters are an important component of the air conditioning system that you should clean/change regularly.

Consumers often overlook cleaning air conditioner filters. But this procedure is key to the performance of the air conditioning system. If these components are too dirty, the airflow will not flow freely, leading to air conditioner overload, worn out parts and high electricity bills.

It only takes a few minutes to change or clean your air filter, which will ensure quality air and good air conditioning. That's why it's important to know when and how to carry it out.

There is no definite answer to the question of how often to change the air conditioning filter because it depends on many factors. There are cases where once a month is enough, but there are also those where it needs to be more frequent.

When should you change the air filter on your air conditioner?

It is standard practice that the air conditioner filter should be changed or cleaned once a month. If you miss this deadline, even if you don't notice it externally, rest assured that it will affect the life of the system and its efficiency. However, this period can vary and it depends on several factors. Let's go through the most important ones:

Do you have pets?

If you have dogs or cats, this generates more hair and dust in your home. When animals move around the room and especially if they go outside, they carry dirt inside. This also worsens the quality of the air you breathe in your home. That's why you may need to clean or change your air conditioner filter more often than once a month.

Do you suffer from allergies?

If you don't have respiratory problems or sensitivity to particulate matter, it may be enough to comply with the standard cleaning or filter change. However, for people who have allergies, it's important to have access to clean air at all times, which means it's a good idea to check the condition of your filters more often.

Do you live in a densely populated area?

It's important how often you use your air conditioner and whether you clean your home well of dust, because the dirtier the air, the faster the filters will get dirty. It also matters what area you live in. Urban environments are much more polluted than villages, for example.

The air filter is the component through which the airflow passes and which determines how your air conditioner will work overall. The filter's main job is to provide clean, fresh air in your home and protect you from bacteria and allergic reactions. However, to perform its function to the fullest, you have a key role to play.

If the filter is dirty, it will make your air conditioner work harder. Over time, overworking the unit will cause wear and tear on its parts and high electricity costs. Expensive repairs are also something you will probably have to go through.

Additionally, a dirty filter will spread the dust particles and pollen it has trapped, and the effect will be dirtier and stale air.

All of this will prevent the air conditioner from working efficiently. It will make it much harder to cool or heat your home, and you won't be able to enjoy quality air conditioning. The appliance may not even be able to reach your desired temperature. That's why it's not worth neglecting regular filter maintenance.

How to change or clean your air conditioner filter?

As we mentioned at the beginning of the article, changing and cleaning the filter is an easy and quick process. All you need to do is spend 5 to 10 minutes. When you look at a light, and you can't see through the mesh, or you feel like you're breathing dirty air, these are symptoms of a clogged air filter, and it's time to act.

Follow these easy instructions to care for your filter properly:

Step 1

Check what filter your air conditioner is running. Is it disposable or reusable? If it's reusable, that means if it's in good condition (no tears or cracks on the frame), you can clean it and use it again.

If you need to buy a new filter, check what size you need to order the right model.

Step 2

Equip yourself with gloves and, if possible, a protective mask and goggles. Contaminants on the filter can cause an allergic reaction, so it's a good idea to protect yourself from them.

Step 3

Switch off the appliance while removing the filter from the air conditioner. This will protect you from dirt and dust. If the filter is replaceable, place it in a separate bag and dispose of it outside your home.

Step 4

If you only need to clean the filter, get a soft sponge and a gentle soap to dissolve in water. With a vacuum cleaner, you can gently remove the dust. Then place the filter in the soap solution and carefully clean again using the sponge or soft brush. Let the filter soak thoroughly for about 5-10 minutes, and then rinse it well. Allow it to dry completely before reinserting it into the unit.

Step 5

Put the new or already cleaned filter back in its place in the appliance. If you are not sure which way to place it, there should be arrows on the filter itself to guide you.

If it's time to replace your air conditioner with a new one, you can check out models from proven Japanese brand Fujitsu Airstage on our website. Contact us for more information and a consultation.