How Often Should AC Filters Be Cleaned?

Clean or replace the filter(s) in your air conditioning system every month or two during the cooling season.

Filters

may need more frequent attention if the air conditioner is in constant use, if it is subject to dusty conditions, or if you have pets with fur in the house. It's a general recommendation to change your home's air filter every 30 days when using less expensive fiberglass filters. As a general rule, you'll want to replace your home's pleated air filters and heating filters every 90 days.

If your air conditioner works as a heat pump, you should clean or replace the filter once every three months throughout the year. When you remove the air filter from the air handling unit, if you hold it close to a light source, you can see if the filter is dirty or clogged; if you can't see the light through the filter, it's definitely time to change it. If your dirty air filter is completely covered with dust and dirt, it's a good idea to change the filter even if it hasn't reached the end of its recommended life. However, the smaller the appliance used for cooling, the small space usually comes with smaller filters, so you may need to change the filter as often as a filter in a larger home.

For a more thorough cleaning, fill the sink with one part water and one part white vinegar, and then allow the HVAC filter to soak in the solution for one hour. Air filters and oven filters should be checked at least once a month. If they are dirty, they should be replaced with a clean, clean air filter. The ideal is to change your air filter every three months, however, there are certain factors to consider when determining when to change an old filter.

While these factors affect the frequency of air filter replacement, you should visually inspect the filter every month for excessive particulate buildup. But how often do you need to change the air filter? How often do you need to change the oven filter? Well, it depends. A disposable filter lasts approximately three months, after which you should replace it with a new filter. The disadvantage of these filters is that they have a recurring cost, which can be expensive depending on the number of returns in your home and the quality of the filter you use.

First and foremost, the filter protects the air conditioning unit by filtering dirt and dust that would otherwise clog the air controller and force the air conditioning unit to work harder to cool the air. So, it is important to keep up with regular maintenance and cleaning of your AC filters in order to ensure that your system runs efficiently and effectively. Clean or replace your AC filters every month or two during cooling season for optimal performance.