Why Cleaning the AC Filter Matters?
Over time the filter in an air conditioner catches dust pet hair and other stuff floating in the air. That’s its job. But when too much dirt piles up it blocks the air flow and the AC has to work harder. That can cause poor cooling, weird noises, bad smells or sometimes even breakdowns.
Plus breathing in air from a dirty AC isn’t good for anyone. It can cause coughing, sneezing and trigger allergies too. So yeah cleaning the filter is more important than it seems at first.
First things first safety matters. Always turn off the air conditioner before starting. This may sound basic but sometimes in a rush it is easy to forget. Shutting it off keeps things safe and makes it easier to remove the filter without any issues.
Every AC is a little different but most filters are easy to spot. In a window unit the filter is usually right behind the front panel. For split ACs the panel is on the indoor unit at the top. It might need a bit of a pull or a gentle lift to open the cover.
Once the cover is open take out the filter carefully. Try not to shake it too much or all the dust might fly out right into the room.
Now give the filter a quick check. If it looks only slightly dusty then a quick rinse might do. But if it is really packed with dirt and grime or hasn’t been cleaned for months then a deeper clean is needed.
And if the filter looks torn or damaged it’s probably better to replace it. Most local shops have filters for popular brands or one can always get help from AC repair service Dubai like best in town repair services.
The easiest way to clean a washable filter is to rinse it under running water. Use lukewarm water. Not hot or freezing cold. Rinse both sides until the dust and dirt are washed away. It is okay to use a soft brush but do not scrub too hard or the mesh may tear.
Some folks use mild soap and that’s fine too but make sure to rinse all the soap out after. No one wants soap getting into the air vents later.
After washing don’t rush to put the filter back. Let it dry fully. Placing a wet or damp filter back in the AC can cause mold and that’s not something anyone wants in their home.
Let it air dry in a shaded spot. Avoid direct sunlight as it can make the filter brittle. Drying usually takes a few hours.
Once the filter is dry, place it back just the way it was taken out. Make sure it fits snug and sits right in place. Then close the panel and the AC is ready to go again.
Turn the AC back on and enjoy the fresh clean air. It should cool better and maybe even feel like a brand new unit.
How Often Should the AC Filter Be Cleaned?
This really depends on how much the AC is used. During summer or in hot climates like Dubai cleaning once every two weeks is a good idea. If the air has a lot of dust or there are pets around, even more often might be needed.
At the very least it should be cleaned once a month. Regular cleaning helps the AC run longer and saves on electricity too.
When to Call the Experts?
Sometimes just cleaning the filter isn’t enough. If the AC is still blowing warm air, making strange noises, or leaking water, then it may need more than just a simple filter wash.
In those cases calling a reliable AC repair service Dubai like best in town repair services is the smart move.
Final Thoughts
Keeping the AC filter clean is not a big task. It does not take long. No need for any special tools and saves money in the long run. Plus breathing cleaner air just feels better.
And of course if things get too tricky or something doesn’t seem right it’s okay to call for help. For anyone needing expert help or a full check-up, the best in town repair services has been a trusted name for AC repair service Dubai for a long time now.
So don’t wait for the AC to act up. A little care goes a long way.
FAQs
This also happens when the drain pipe is clogged. Water that should be going out gets blocked and starts to drip indoors. It can also happen if the coils freeze due to low gas or poor airflow. A fast cleaning may help but if the leak continues it is best to get help from an AC repair service Dubai professional.
The evaporator coil is the part inside the indoor unit that cools the air. Over time dust and moisture build up on it and reduce its ability to cool. A dirty coil can also cause bad smells and water leakage. Cleaning it once a year during full servicing is recommended.
Some signs include poor cooling warm air even when the temperature is set low, longer cooling cycles and sometimes a hissing sound. Low gas means the AC is under strain and can eventually stop cooling completely. This needs to be fixed by a technician, not just regular cleaning.
