If you have a replaceable filter on your air conditioner, replace it at least every 3 months. [2] X Expert Source Victor BelavusAir Conditioning Specialist Expert Interview. 6 May 2020.
Do not use your air conditioner until you’ve replaced the filter.
Consult manufacturer directions for more information on how to access your air conditioner’s filter.
If you’ve taken good care of your air conditioner’s filter, you might not see a visible change in the filter when cleaning it. Rest assured, it is getting clean. On the other hand, you might not be able to get all the dust and grit out of the filter. Just use the vacuum to suck up as much as you can. [7] X Research source This method is best for giving your filter its regular cleaning. However, if you’re planning to wash your filter, you should still vacuum it first to remove any large particles. [8] X Expert Source Victor BelavusAir Conditioning Specialist Expert Interview. 6 May 2020.
Submerge your filter in the mixture for at least one hour. If it is exceptionally grimy, leave it in for two hours or more. Drain the water and vinegar solution and dry the filter on a rack. Replace it when dry. Instead of water and vinegar, you could mix a small amount of detergent or liquid dish soap into a volume of water that will cover your filter when it is submerged. [9] X Research source You could also soak the filter for about 15 minutes in 1 l (34 fl oz) of water mixed with 30g of citric acid. [10] X Expert Source Victor BelavusAir Conditioning Specialist Expert Interview. 6 May 2020.
You could also hose your filter down in your shower. Just prop the filter up in your shower and, using your shower’s detachable showerhead, spray the filter’s entire surface, front and back, in a zig-zag motion. After hosing your filter down, allow it to dry, then replace it. For added effect, you could sprinkle a few spoonfuls of baking soda over your filter before spraying it down.
Consult your manufacturer’s directions for information about how often you should clean your filter. You should clean your filter more frequently if you have pets or allergies, or if you’re using your air conditioner regularly.
You can buy an air conditioner filter at your local home appliances store or online.
Alternately, use a soft-bristled brush to scrub between the grating of the air conditioner’s intake. Be careful not to bend any of the coil fins. If you want to clean the condenser coils of your large central air conditioner unit outside, remove its outer case, then blow compressed air across its surface in short bursts. You could also choose to use an industrial-strength vacuum fitted with a soft-bristle brush attachment to suck the grime and dirt from where it has collected between the coils.
