Cleaning an HVAC Air Filter
Plan to clean your home’s air filters once a month and replace them every six months for the optimum benefits. Follow the manufacturer’s directions to clean your air conditioner or furnace filter. However, the techniques below will work for most reusable filters.
Turn the power off and look for the filter.
Turn off your HVAC unit before cleaning to avoid unfiltered air circulating around your home. Locate the vent and open the unit with a screwdriver. Some systems may have many vents, each with its filter, so clean them all. Remove the filter and look for any damage. If necessary, replace the filter; otherwise, continue vacuuming.
Clean the air filter.
If feasible, take the filter outside to avoid bringing dust into your home. To clean the filter, use a vacuum with a gentle brush attachment. Brush the filter lightly to dislodge any stuck-on deposits.
With vinegar and water, clean the filter.
If your air filter requires thorough cleaning, fill your sink or a large bucket with hot water and distilled white vinegar. Allow the filter to soak for roughly one hour before rinsing with clean water. If the filter is too large to fit inside a sink or bucket, wash it with a garden hose, allowing the water to flow through the filter in the opposite direction as the airflow. To avoid harming the filter, use a low-pressure setting.
Allow to dry before replacing.
Allow the filter to dry completely before replacing it. This aids in the prevention of mold formation in your HVAC system. Reload the filter within the device, ensuring it’s facing the correct way for proper airflow. Most filters have arrow marks indicating where they should be placed; these arrows should normally point toward the furnace and in the airflow direction. Replace the vents and restart the unit.
