Maintaining a Healthy Climate Control: Cleaning Air Conditioner Filters

June 21, 2023

To ensure optimal performance, it's important to clean your air conditioner filters regularly. The specific instructions for your system can be found in the manufacturer's instruction manual. If you no longer have the manual, you can visit the manufacturer's website to access a copy.

Here's what you'll need for the cleaning process:

Vacuum cleaner

Gloves

Face mask

Safety glasses

Cleaning cloth

Soap/detergent

Warm water

Step ladder (if necessary)

Before you begin, make sure to switch off the power at the wall!

Step 1: Removing the Filters

The process of accessing the air filters may vary depending on the type of system, but the cleaning method remains the same.

For split systems and window air conditioners, lift the front panel from the bottom and slide out the filters.

In the case of ducted air conditioning, the filters are usually located at the return vent, which can be found within a wall or the roof. You might need a step ladder to reach them. Unscrew or slide open the panel and lift the filter out. Be cautious of falling dust and wear a mask and goggles for protection.

Step 2: Vacuuming Dust Buildup

Cleaning the clogged air filters can be done in various ways, but using a vacuum is the easiest and least messy option. Gently run the vacuum over the filter, ensuring that you suction all the surface material. Remember to handle the reusable filters delicately to avoid any damage.

Alternatively, you can take the filters outside and brush off the dust over a waste bin.

Step 3: Rinsing in Warm Soapy Water

Fill a sink or tub with warm, soapy water and wash the filters. A mild detergent will suffice for this task.

Since filters can be fragile, it's recommended to use a cleaning cloth instead of a coarse brush or scouring pad. Once cleaned, allow the filters to dry completely in a safe area.

Replacement air filters can be obtained from the manufacturer when needed.

Step 4: Cleaning the AC Unit

Gently vacuum around the filter area to remove any residual dust. Wipe the surroundings with a damp cloth as necessary. After ensuring that both the filters and AC unit are completely dry, slide the filters back in, close the cover, and switch the power back on.

Cleaning the Outdoor Unit

The outdoor unit also requires attention. Begin by sweeping or blowing away any leaves or debris surrounding it, as they can obstruct airflow around the internal coils. Next, wipe down the unit to remove dirt buildup and excessive grime.

Using a vacuum or dustbuster, clear any dust that may have entered through the air intake. However, it's important to note that removing the covers yourself is not advised, as it could potentially damage the unit and void the warranty. Instead, it's best to leave the cleaning of the internal components to a professional during an annual service.

By following these steps, you'll be able to maintain your air conditioning unit and extend its lifespan while ensuring a constant supply of fresh, clean air for healthier breathing. Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential for both your comfort and energy savings in the long run.

If you’re in need of service or a new system, contact Alpine Heating & Cooling. Our team has more than 25 years of experience servicing all makes and models. We offer timely, convenient service and provide thorough inspections to catch any potential issues. Visit our website to see a full list of HVAC services, or call (330) 263-0013 for an appointment.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Clearing the Air about Air Filters

March 17, 2026

Understand the importance of air filters and how they impact HVAC efficiency and indoor air quality with insights from Alpine Heating & Cooling.

Furnace in the Morning and the AC by Afternoon

March 11, 2026

Ohio spring weather can shift from cold to warm quickly. Learn why servicing both your furnace and air conditioner helps keep your home comfortable.

Tuesdays with the Tech- Bobby Schmitt

February 23, 2026

TUESDAYS WITH THE TECH FINALE This week Bobby Schmitt from Apple Creek brings an end to our Tuesday's with the Tech Series. Thanks to everyone for taking the time to intereact each week and we hope to do this again in the future! 1. What’s one thing homeowners might not realize about heating & cooling? A: Home comfort is more about humidity than temperature, in the summer a whole home dehumidifier will keep your home comfortable without having to keep the temperature as low, and in the winter a humidifier will cause the home to still be comfortable at a lower temperature 2. Favorite State you’ve visited other than Ohio? A: North Carolina 3. Would you rather be chased by one angry goose or ten aggressive squirrels? A: One angry goose, having ten small things running around is hard to manage, one larger thing is more controllable. 4. What’s one piece of advice you’d give a homeowner to avoid breakdowns? A: Have maintenance done. Keep filters and the outdoor unit clean. 5. Remove One for the rest of your life… 1. Pizza 2. Cheeseburgers 3. Pasta A: Pasta. I’ve never been a big fan of Italian food. . . . #tuesdayswiththetech #alpine #heating #winter

Tuesdays with the Tech- Cole Woods

February 17, 2026

TUESDAYS WITH THE TECH As we roll on near the end of Winter we also are nearing the end of our Tuesdays with the Techs Series. Next week will be our final week, but first, this week's Featured Tech is West Holmes Alum Cole Woods 1. What’s one thing homeowners might not realize about heating & cooling? A: How important preventive maintenance is. 2. Favorite State you’ve visited other than Ohio? A: Pennsylvania 3. Would you rather be chased by one angry goose or ten aggressive squirrels? A: Probably one angry goose. I stand a better chance then trying to fight 10 squirrels 4. What’s one piece of advice you’d give a homeowner to avoid breakdowns? A: Change your filter regularly. You’d be very surprised how much that little filter can affect the system. 5. Remove One for the rest of your life… 1. Pizza 2. Cheeseburgers 3. Pasta A: Probably pasta

Tuesdays with the Tech- Chris Jones

February 10, 2026

TUESDAYS WITH THE TECH Today we continue learning more about the Service Techs of Alpine while getting a few insider tips. Checking in this week from Wooster is Chris Jones. Chris has been a service tech at Alpine for almost 7 years. 1. What’s one thing homeowners might not realize about heating & cooling? A: Systems can be oversized. Just because the system is larger doesn't mean it's "better" 2. Favorite State you’ve visited other than Ohio? A: Wyoming 3. Would you rather be chased by one angry goose or ten aggressive squirrels? A: Angry goose. I can grab it by the neck 4. What’s one piece of advice you’d give a homeowner to avoid breakdowns? A: Keep up with regular filter changes 5. Remove One for the rest of your life… 1. Pizza 2. Cheeseburgers 3. Pasta A: Cheeseburgers

Tuesdays with the Tech- Jeremy Kaufman

February 3, 2026

TUESDAYS WITH THE TECH This week’s edition of Tuesdays with the tech is the Service Manager here at Alpine, Jeremy Kaufman. 1. What’s one thing homeowners might not realize about heating & cooling? A: 50% of HVAC breakdowns are due to lack of maintenance 2. Favorite State you’ve visited other than Ohio? A: Montana 3. Would you rather be chased by one angry goose or ten aggressive squirrels? A: I’ll go with the squirrels. I was chased by a goose as a child 4. What’s one piece of advice you’d give a homeowner to avoid breakdowns? A: HVAC maintenance 5. Remove One for the rest of your life… 1. Pizza 2. Cheeseburgers 3. Pasta A: Pasta

Tuesday with the Tech-Trey Bright

By Tom Markley • January 27, 2026

TUESDAYS WITH THE TECH This week we continue learning more about the Service Techs of Alpine and the Industry as a whole. This week is Ashland Native Trey Bright. 1. What’s one thing homeowners might not realize about heating & cooling? A: Systems are more complex than they may realize 2. Favorite State you’ve visited other than Ohio?. A: Tennessee 3. Would you rather be chased by one angry goose or ten aggressive squirrels? A: 1 angry goose! Bigger target to kick! 4. What’s one piece of advice you’d give a homeowner to avoid breakdowns? A: Maintaining there units is key to keeping them running longer 5. Remove One for the rest of your life… 1. Pizza 2. Cheeseburgers 3. Pasta A: Pasta . . . #tuesdayswiththetech #alpine #heating #winter

Tuesdays with the Tech-Nick Cutright

January 21, 2026

TUESDAYS WITH THE TECH Join us over the next few weeks in meeting the Service Techs of Alpine and learning more about them and the Industry as a whole. This Week's Tech of the Week: Nick Cutright 1. What’s one thing homeowners might not realize about heating & cooling? A: Your Thermostat is just an on and off switch 2. Favorite State you’ve visited other than Ohio? A: South Carolina 3. Would you rather be chased by one angry goose or ten aggressive squirrels? A: Goose 4. What’s one piece of advice you’d give a homeowner to avoid breakdowns? A: Maintaining units is key to keeping them lasting longer 5. Remove One for the rest of your life… 1. Pizza 2. Cheeseburgers 3. Pasta A: Pasta If you’re ready to make your home warmer, more efficient, and more dependable this year, now is the time to consider a new heating system . Serving Wooster, OH, and surrounding communities since 1993, we are a locally owned and operated HVAC contractor working with a variety of heating and cooling systems. Call (330) 263-0013 to schedule an furnace repair or inspection and visit our website to learn more about our qualifications.