One of the easiest things to do for your home and its appliances to function properly is to clean the air filters. When we think of air filters, most of us think of the HVAC filter in general. As we begin, there are a few more that need to be added to the maintenance plan.
Air filter of the heating and cooling system
REEIS Air Conditioning, a Rosie certified partner, recommends changing air filters once a month, year round.
Filters are often located in ceilings or walls along the duct that returns air to the air conditioner. Look for a removable metal cover in the ceiling or low on a wall.
1. Open the metal cover, remove the old filter and measure it.
2. Buy a replacement filter the same size as the old one (as long as the old one fits). A good filter should cost around $ 4.
3. There is an arrow on the side of the filter that tells you in which direction the airflow should be directed through the filter. Install the new filter according to this airflow arrow.
4. Replace the metal cover.
5. Remove dust bunnies from the ventilation opening with a vacuum cleaner or a slightly damp cloth.
6. Discard the old filter.
7. Repeat the process every month as our dusty Arizona air makes the filters extra dirty. Therefore, they have to be changed more frequently.
8. Clean the ventilation slots to remove adhering dust.
In the case of a window or wall-mounted air conditioner, the filter is located inside the device.
1. Turn off the air conditioner.
2. Remove the cover from the front of the air conditioner; it may pop off or you may have to unscrew it. Behind this is the filter.
3. Remove the filter. You may be able to push it out, but some models screw in.
4. Most window and wall mount A / C filters are reusable. Instead of replacing the filter, clean it. Shake or vacuum the dust and rinse with soapy water.
5. After the filter is completely dry, put it back into the device.
6. Replace the front cover.
7. Wipe the front of the product.
Mini-split: Check the mini-split filters every two weeks and see if they need cleaning. Dirt, debris, and mold can build up quickly.
To clean mini split filters, switch off the entire system. Let everything cool down. When it has cooled down, remove the cover from the device. Wipe off dust with a cloth.
Then remove the filter. Clean both sides of the filter with warm water and washing-up liquid. Rinse off any soap residue and place the filter in the shade to air dry. When it is completely dry, put it back in the device.
Bathroom fans
To keep your bathroom fans working efficiently, you should clean them thoroughly every six months. Make sure that power to the fan is turned off before removing the cover. Clean the cover and fan. A dirty fan cannot remove moisture, which eventually leads to mold and mildew.
Dryer filter
Always clean the lint filter between each load of laundry. Make a habit of removing lint from the screen either before or after each batch. Many new dryers automatically remind you to check the lint filter before use.
Vacuum filter
If your vacuum cleaner stops vacuuming as usual or smells when you turn it on, it’s time to clean or replace the air filter. Bagless vacuum cleaners require more frequent filter changes and cleaning. Unless the manufacturer says otherwise, replace the filters on bagless vacuums every three months.
Bissell advises that washable foam vacuum filters should be carefully hand cleaned with warm water and a drop or two of mild detergent. Make sure the vacuum filter is completely dry before you put it back into the vacuum. If a vacuum cleaner is even a little damp, mold and mold stains can grow and your vacuum cleaner will smell the next time you use it.
Don’t just empty the dirt bin and skip the filters. Clogged filters result in an overloaded engine which eventually burns out. Save yourself the cost of replacing the motor (about $ 100) and cleaning the filter.
Instead of tapping the filter against the inside of a trash can, clean the pleated filter with a shop vacuum cleaner. Some pleated filters have a special coating that you can damage, so be careful with the workshop vacuum nozzle. Clean the pre-filter and post-filter in the same way.
If it’s not already in the vacuum, use a certified True High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter to remove invisible particles and allergens. Make sure the word “True” is on the label.
Buy high quality vacuum bags such as cotton-lined paper bags or HEPA bags made of synthetic cotton. The pocket capacity is important. Higher capacity bags trap more tiny particles.
Bidet filter
The carbon air filters should last a few years or more on most devices, depending on the frequency of use. Some filters are designed to last the life of the device. Contact the manufacturer of the bidet for recommendations or let your nose tell you the replacement time. For instructions on cleaning or changing the filter, see the bidet user guide.
Air purifier filter
Some models are equipped with washable or permanent filters. These filters still need to be cleaned to be effective.
In general, air purifier filters should be changed:
• HEPA filter: every 12 to 18 months
• Carbon filter: three to six months
• Pre-filter: cleaned every 30 days and replaced when worn
• Permanent filter: cleaned every three months and replaced if damaged
Some air purifiers are equipped with filter check indicators that either display an LED or beep to alert the user that the filter needs to be replaced or cleaned.
Hair dryer filter
Avoid bad hair days. Hairdryers can overheat or shut down if lint builds up in the filter. If the dryer gets too hot or the airflow is weak, it is time to clean the filter.
Pull off the filter and remove it. Rotate the filter to remove it or pry it open with a screwdriver.
Flush the water from the inside of the filter to the outside.
After cleaning the filter, you will likely find that the inner screen is still dirty. Use a small brush or toothpick and gently remove dirt from the screen. A handheld vacuum cleaner works well too.
When the filter is dry, put it back in place. Plug in the dryer and turn it on on high speed. Wait a few minutes for the dryer to push any debris out before using it.
Cat lofilter
If your cat uses a hooded box, Chewy.com recommends changing the carbon filters every three to four months, depending on how often the litter box is used.
However, it is really a personal preference. If you notice a strong odor coming from the device, it may be time to change the carbon filter.
Auto filter
Edmunds.com recommends checking the manufacturer’s recommended intervals in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. A good rule of thumb is to replace the air filter every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. Replace the fuel filter every two years or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Also remember to change the cabin filter. This filter cleans the air that enters the interior via the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system. When clogged, it can cause the car to smell unpleasant.
Check the maintenance schedule in your operating manual to see when the cabin filter should be changed. If you live in an area with poor air quality and lots of dust, it may need to be replaced annually or more often.
Water filter
Many homeowners say they can notice a change in the taste of the water if they don’t change the filter regularly.
Information on a reverse osmosis system can be found in the owner’s manual. Some filters and membranes can last up to two years, but some must be replaced beforehand.
The same goes for refrigerator filters, but in general, most of them can last around six months.
Refrigerator filters contaminants by forcing water through activated carbon filters. But once that carbon is covered with impurities, the water flows through untreated.
Filters in jugs or carafes often need to be changed every two to five months.
Visit Rosie on the House every Saturday morning from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on KTAR News 92.3 FM. If you want to send us any questions or comments, send an email to mailto: [email protected]. Follow us on Twitter and “like” us on Facebook. For more do-it-yourself tips, visit rosieonthehouse.com. Rosie Romero has been a home construction and remodeling expert in Arizona since 1988 and hosts the Saturday morning radio show Rosie on the House. Call 888-767-4348 with questions and comments.
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