Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are an essential part of modern life. It regulates indoor temperatures to provide a comfortable environment for living and working.
Regular maintenance is necessary to ensure that your HVAC system performs at its best and maintains a healthy indoor climate. Cleaning or replacing your air filters will keep your HVAC system running smoothly and circulate clean air.
What is the purpose of an air filter?
It is important to understand the purpose of an air filter before you can appreciate its importance in a HVAC system. The air filter is the HVAC’s first line of defense against airborne particles. The air filter acts as a sieve for airborne pollutants or particles, capturing pollen, pet hair, mold spores, and other contaminants. The air filter improves the quality and quantity of indoor air by removing these particles.
Why you need clean air filters
A clean HVAC air filter is essential for two reasons. It’s important for your health and safety. The air filter, as mentioned above, ensures the air in a particular area is as clean and fresh as possible. It is particularly important for those with asthma, allergies, and other diseases. Inhaling clean air keeps your lungs healthy and reduces the likelihood of respiratory problems.
Second, a clean air filter ensures proper airflow. A dirty or clogged air filter will reduce the efficiency of the HVAC system because the air cannot pass as easily through it as it should. This can lead to premature wear and tear of the HVAC components. In worst-case scenarios, it may even cause your system to be damaged.
You can hire a professional cleaner who has the tools and experience to maintain the HVAC system in your office or home.
What are the types of air filters?
Not all air filters are washable. Only washable air filters are usually reusable. They are typically made of plastic or aluminum and can be cleaned multiple times.
Other common air filters, such as fiberglass and pleated, are disposable. A fiberglass filter can last up to a month, depending on the conditions. A pleated air filter can last much longer because it has a large surface area to trap particles.
How to clean air filters properly
You can see that having clean HVAC filters is important for your health, safety, and cost-efficiency. You should use the right cleaning method to extend the life of the filter.
Washable air filters
Be sure to first turn off your HVAC system before removing any washable filters. Rinse the filter with water and a soft toothbrush if necessary to remove any stubborn dirt.
If your filter is very dirty, you can soak it for a couple of minutes in warm soapy water. Rinse the filter thoroughly with clean water, removing any soap residue. Let the filter air dry before installing it back into the system.
Disposable air filters
Fibreglass and pleated filters cannot be cleaned and are therefore disposed of. It is important to check your HVAC filter regularly (at least every month) for dirt and debris.
The average lifespan of fiberglass filters is 28 days. If you see that the filter has become significantly dirty or clogged, it should be replaced even if the recommended interval for replacement is not reached. This will ensure optimal airflow.
Assure that the new filter fits snugly and responsibly dispose of old filters.
Other HVAC System Cleaning Tips
You need to thoroughly clean your HVAC system in order for it to work optimally. Check the outdoor unit of the HVAC system for leaves and grass clippings. Keep the area surrounding the outdoor unit free of obstructions and clean.
Air ducts must also be cleaned on a regular basis. Hire a professional cleaner to do this every few years or annually, depending on the conditions. It would be best if you also had your HVAC system inspected by a licensed technician to ensure its efficiency and identify any potential problems early.
It is important to maintain your HVAC system properly, and this includes cleaning the air filters on a regular basis. This will ensure that it runs smoothly and lasts a long time. Clean air filters also contribute to a better indoor air environment, which promotes a healthier lifestyle for all.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and clean your filter according to the type. You can have a healthy and comfortable home or office all year long by investing in HVAC maintenance.