Air filters are an essential component of any air conditioning system, helping to keep the air in Rockledge, Florida, healthy and clean. However, it is important to know whether the filter is designed to be reused or is a disposable one. Disposable air filters cannot be cleaned enough and trying to do so can cause air conditioner efficiency problems or even mold. If you have a disposable filter, it should be replaced after about a month.
On the other hand, reusable filters can be washed and reused. Reusable air filters are made of more durable materials and should be cleaned every one to three months. To clean them thoroughly, remove the filter and wash it to remove accumulated dust, irritants and contaminants. It is essential to clean these filters carefully as improper cleaning can cause damage to the filter.
In terms of maintenance, you should clean washable filters once a month as dirt can accumulate inside the filter and restrict air flow. High-performance air filters are durable and designed to be reused. Standard air filters can also be cleaned but they are not as durable and will need to be replaced at the next service. When it comes to cleaning air filters, thoroughness is key.
Hitting the filter against a hard surface to remove dirt and visible debris can cause damage on its own. From one maintenance period to the next, air conditioner filters trap many types of contaminants and other debris, which are often trapped deep below the surface in the filter fibers. It is not recommended to vacuum the air filter or put it in the sink and wash it as these actions may cause damage to the filter. Allowing large amounts of air to enter the engine would cause the sensor and the PCM to perform erratic calculations, which would not be useful for smooth operation.
Even if you're lucky and mold doesn't form, a moist air filter isn't exactly good at trapping contaminants. Replacing a dirty filter with a clean, free-flowing filter will make a difference in its performance and fuel consumption.
