When was the last time you cleaned your air conditioning filters?

If your answer is never or not sure, can’t remember then you may be about to get a little shock ... no pun intended!

When was the last time you cleaned your air conditioning filters?

If your answer is never, not sure or you can’t remember, then you may be about to get a little shock when you open your air conditioner! Over time, a significant volume of dust accumulates on the filters this is a result of air circulating to cool your home through the warner months or/and heat your home through the cooler months. 

How often should the filters be cleaned? 

This would depend on your usage, however, generally it is recommended to clean your filters at the beginning of each season, which is every 3 to 4 months.

Leaving your air-conditioner filters uncleaned can also lead to:

Poor indoor air quality. Built-up dirt and allergens can be pumped throughout your home and affect the quality of the air your family is breathing. This can cause health issues both short and long term such as headaches, trigger asthma symptoms, fatigue and breathing difficulties for those who are prone to respiratory problems.

Decreased comfort. Clogged up air filters can restrict the amount of air coming out of your system so less air is coming out to cool or heat your home.

Reduced energy efficiency. With your system working harder than it normally does to maintain comfort in your home it means it’s consuming more energy which will result in expensive or increased electricity bills.

Risk of circulating contaminated air. Dirty air filters can also affect dehumidifiers from functioning properly, allowing mould and mildew to grow in the back of the system and circulate in your home.

How to clean split systems filters? 

1. Make sure the power has been turned off.
2. Lift the cover on the front of the unit and carefully pull out the filters.
3. Check the filter for any signs of damage such as tears or gaps in the mesh. If there is excessive damage it will need to be replaced.
4. Fill a sink or tub up with warm water and submerge the filter. Move it around to dislodge any dust and debris caught in the mesh.
5. Take out the filter and drain the dirty water. Refill the sink or tub back up with warm water and this time at a splash of washing detergent or vinegar.
6. Submerge the filter and allow it to soak for 5 minutes. 
7. After 5 minutes, remove the filter and allow it to dry naturally before placing it back into the AC unit

Here are a few helpful tips to prolong the life of your air-conditioner:

1. Clean the dust on the filters using the above procedure to wash the filters. Allow to dry thoroughly before replacing.
2. Keep the outdoor unit free from debris and obstructions which restrict airflow and cause the compressor to work harder.
3. Use built in programs and features for efficient operation like energy saving mode or movement detection mode if your unit has it.
4. Don’t be tempted to set the temperature too low for long periods of time, this will cool the home much faster at first, but it will also use a great deal more electricity if left low. Focus on closing blinds and window coverings, eliminating sources of heat from the area and after the area is cool, bring the set temperature back up to around 22-24 degrees which is far more energy efficient.
   

DRC Electrical are your air-conditioning servicing experts across Brisbane, Ipswich, Springfield and beyond. Speak to our qualified team about air-conditioning servicing for split-systems and ducted air-conditioning systems. Servicing all brands.