How To Clean Your AC Unit Filters Like the Pros in Hurricane, West Virginia

Cleaner indoor air begins with a fresh, debris-free air filter. If you don’t know how to clean an AC unit filter, you might miss some key steps in the upkeep process. 

Forge Heating and Cooling provides dependable AC services in Hurricane, West Virginia, including frequently cleaning or replacing filters for clients during routine tune-ups. What would our professionals recommend you do to freshen up your indoor air? Read through our precise steps below to achieve a thorough air conditioner filter cleaning.

What Type of HVAC Filter Do You Use in Your Home?

First, you need to know the filter to use in your return register. Many Hurricane homeowners depend on disposable filters. You don’t have to clean these products; you just throw away the old one and place a new one into the register.

Air conditioner maintenance routines for reusable filters are a bit more detailed. You can tell which one you have by checking the product packaging or the filter itself. Words like “disposable,” “washable,” or “reusable” will tip you off, as well as finding specific instructions for cleaning them.

How To Clean an AC Unit Air Filter Like HVAC Technicians in Hurricane, West Virginia

Let’s cover some general directions for how to clean an AC unit filter. Firstly, if you don’t want to end up with a soggy mess, make doubly sure that it’s a reusable filter. Ideally, you’ll have two reusable filters – a clean one to replace the dirty one during the filter cleaning process. 

You can’t run your HVAC without a filter. If you only have one, you could choose a day with mild, comfortable temperatures for the cleaning.

#1 Prepare for the Switch or Cleaning Session

Set time aside every quarter for your regular maintenance schedule. When the day arrives, turn off your HVAC system so that it doesn’t suck unfiltered air into the ductwork. If your return register is mounted on the ceiling, wear goggles or glasses to protect your eyes from falling debris.

The next step in learning how to clean your AC unit filter involves unlatching the return register. Set this vent grate aside for now. Gently pull the dirty filter from the duct opening. 

#2 Vacuum Your Air Filter

Grab a hand-held vacuum (or any vacuum with a hose attachment) for dust and debris removal. Suck up as much dry dirt as you can to limit the filth you have to wash off. 

#3 Wash Off the Medium

Run a gentle stream of warm water through a sink or bathtub faucet. Filter washing techniques vary depending on the product, but general instructions are as follows:

1. Position the filter with the airflow side down.
2. Rinse excess loose dirt from the filter into the fixture.
3. Prepare a soak of warm water infused with a splash of white vinegar. 
4. Let the filter soak in the solution for an hour. 
5. Give the filter one final rinse with clean water.

Drying the filter properly involves laying it out in the sun or a ventilated area. Flip the filter over once the first side fully dries. 

#4 Remove the Return Grate for Rinsing

This optional step isn’t required for learning how to clean an AC unit filter, but it helps with improving airflow efficiency. Grab the register grate that holds the filter in place. Wipe it off with a damp, soft cloth to eliminate any leftover dust. 

If the grate feels sticky or tacky to your touch, gently wash it with dish soap and warm water. Shake excess water from it before soaking the dampness with a clean, dry towel. 

#5 Replace the Filter and Grate

Is your return register grate and filter fully dry? You can put the filter back in place before fastening the grate to the opening again. 

Then, turn the HVAC system back on to enjoy cleaner, fresher air for the next few weeks!

Adding Professional Maintenance Into the Mix

When you clean or replace your air filters every quarter, you only scratch the surface of maintenance. Twice-annual tune-ups boost the system’s lifespan and efficiency even more. Your HVAC technician will help with filter cleanings, as well as testing, adjusting, and tidying various system components ahead of seasonal changes.