Can You Clean and Reuse Your HVAC Air Filter?

Handling a filter can damage its integrity. If you make a hole in the fibers or loosen the fiber density, air filters cannot work as well as before. Instead of cleaning a disposable air filter, it is best to discard it and replace it with a new one. On the other hand, if you have a reusable air filter, you can clean it every one to three months to remove accumulated dust, irritants, and contaminants.

Disposable air filters are not designed to be cleaned and attempting to do so could lead to AC efficiency problems or even mold. Reusable air filters are made of more durable materials and can be washed thoroughly. It is important to know which type of filter you are using in your HVAC system. When you have cleanable filters installed, the efficiency of the HVAC filter increases after washing them.

Air filters will require maintenance, and if you are not replacing the filter, you will need to wash it constantly. Poor air quality in your home can also cause irritants such as smoke and pet dander to build up. When you turn on your air conditioner or oven, particles such as pollen, dust and other allergens build up. Instead, these pollutants will create a kind of barrier that prevents air from passing through the filter, making your air conditioner less efficient or even damaging it.

Your air system will continue to consume energy and wear out its parts as you continue to push the airflow forward. Even if you're lucky and mold doesn't form, a moist air filter isn't exactly good at trapping contaminants. The air is free of harmful microscopic particles, but like normal HVAC filters, they will eventually need a replacement. Dry, stagnant air is unhealthy to inhale and can lead to respiratory problems if not handled promptly.

Cleanable oven filters are reusable tools capable of protecting a clean heating system for long periods of time. Contact Ellington & Heat air conditioner at (32) 248-4838 for a quick diagnosis and cleaner air solution. New air filters can be purchased at home improvement stores or your local HVAC contractor, and if you're the type of person who feels uncomfortable with home maintenance, you can even have your HVAC repair technician in Gilbert, Scottsdale, Chandler, Tempe, or Mesa do it safely for you. Keep in mind that you will have the same type of problems with a clogged reusable filter as with a dirty disposable one. Your home air filters are tools used to keep the flow of incoming air clean and comfortable to breathe. There are certain types of air conditioning filters that are specially designed to be reusable, but unless you are sure that the air filters in your cooling system are of this type, you should not assume that it is safe to clean and reuse them at the time of maintenance. Your oven will stop heating your home for safety reasons until you replace the air filter and reset the oven.