In the heart of August, when air conditioners work for many hours every day to keep the house cool, their proper maintenance becomes even more important.
However, as important as it is to regulate the temperature correctly, it is just as important not to neglect the cleanliness of the filters.
Dust, lint, pet hair and other airborne particles gradually accumulate in the filters. The more dirt accumulates, the harder it is for air to pass through the system. For this reason, an expert in air conditioning technology recommends that filters be cleaned every 15 to 30 days during the summer.
In fact, in homes where the air conditioner runs for long hours or where there is more dust and pet hair, the check may be needed even more often.
What happens when filters get filled with dirt
The role of the filter is to retain a significant part of the particles carried by the air, before it returns to the room. But when its surface is saturated with dirt, air circulation is restricted.
The air conditioner then needs to make more effort to operate and may take longer to reach the set temperature. Thus, the impression may be created that the air conditioner is no longer cooling effectively, when in fact the problem may simply be due to dirty filters.
The expert warns, in fact, that a very dirty filter can reduce the efficiency of the air conditioner by even 50%.
The exact impact varies depending on the model of the device, the degree of dirt accumulation and the frequency of use, but the message is clear: negligence can cost efficiency and electricity consumption.
How often should filters be cleaned
There is no one period that applies to all homes. If the air conditioner runs daily for several hours, a check every 15 days is a good practice. In more limited use, one cleaning every month may be enough.
In homes with pets, multiple open windows, or increased dust concentration, filters may need checking even weekly.
There is, therefore, no need to wait until the device has a problem. A quick check of the filter can immediately show if it has begun to be covered by an obvious layer of dust.
How filters are properly cleaned
In most household air conditioners, filters are relatively easy to remove. Before taking any action, however, it is advisable to consult the manufacturer's instructions and turn off and disconnect the device from the mains.
Initially, dust can be vacuumed at low power. The filters can then be washed with water and, if necessary, with a small amount of mild, neutral detergent.
Strong cleaners or hard sponges are not recommended, as they can damage the fine surface of the filter.
Good drying is of particular importance. The filters should be completely dried, preferably in the shade, before being refitted. Placing them while they are still wet can cause unpleasant odours or promote mould growth.
What signs indicate that maintenance is needed
There are several indications that the air conditioner needs to be checked. If a room takes much longer to cool down, if dust or damp odours appear, if the appliance makes more noise than usual, or if water droplets are noticed from the indoor unit, filters are one of the first things to check.
Even an unexpected increase in electricity consumption can be a sign of reduced efficiency, although costs are of course also affected by operating hours and outside temperatures.
Cleaning the filters, however, does not fix every possible damage. If, after cleaning, the air conditioner still does not cool properly, drips or gives off an unpleasant smell, it needs to be checked by a professional. Internal components, such as the battery, drain system, and certain parts of the fan, require more comprehensive maintenance.
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