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How to Clean Your AC Filters

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Cleaning the filters in your air conditioner is a crucial part of your air conditioner general maintenance that should not be skipped. However, cleaning the filters doesn’t have to be a pesky or laborious task which is why we have created this simple 4 step guide.

In addition to regular cleaning of your filters, we recommend having your air conditioner professionally serviced and cleaned annually to ensure all parts of your unit are operating effectively. If you think it’s about time you had your unit serviced, head to our contact page.

How to clean your split system filters

1. Open your air conditioner’s front panel

Gently, but firmly pull up the air inlet panel (front) on your indoor unit. Lightly hold the knobs on both sides and lift a little to bring the panel forward.

Tip: If the panels are jammed or a bit difficult to open and close, use gentle force ensuring you don’t damage the unit. For instructions on how to properly remove the filters, refer to your user manual.

2. Identify and remove the air filters

The long rectangular pieces that rest at the front of the appliance are the air filters and your air conditioners primary line of defence against dust and bacteria. A typical split air conditioning unit has one or two inbuilt air filter panels however you may also find additional filters, such as an allergen (light orange) filter. Additional filters can be removed from their plastic casings.

3. Clean and dry

Begin by first shaking the filters outside to remove any obvious dust and dirt. Then, in a large sink or basin pour cool tap water over the filters. If your filters aren’t that dirty, rinsing might be enough to remove the dust. If running water doesn’t seem to do the trick, use a sponge or cleaning pad to gently rub in a mild cleaning detergent. Then, rinse and air dry.

4. Replace the filters

Once completely dry, replace any additional filters by sliding them back into place. Then replace your mesh air filters by sliding them into their appropriate position. Simply close the front panel in the same way you opened it.

How to clean your ducted system filters

1. Disconnect the return air grille

Disconnect the fixing holding the hinged return air grille to the frame. This will be a screw or sliding clip found to one side of the grille face.

Tip: Ensure you support the grille face while undoing the screws / clips to avoid it freely swinging downwards.

2. Remove the filter from the frame

Swing the filter frame open and slide out the filter.

3. Clean and dry

Begin by first shaking the filters outside to remove any obvious dust and dirt. Lay the filter flat and use the garden hose on a soft setting to pour cool tap water over the filters. If your filters aren’t that dirty, rinsing might be enough to remove the dust. If running water doesn’t seem to do the trick, use a sponge or cleaning pad to gently rub in a mild cleaning detergent. Then, rinse and air dry.

4. Replace the filter and return air grille

Once completely dry, slide the filter back into the return air frame and resecure the grille by fixing the screw or clips.

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  • Jadair put in a Daikin 12.5Kw ducted system for me (7 zones) and I couldn't be happier with the service and install. Getting a full quote and plan was easy and all my questions were answered fully, so I was confident in choosing the best set-up for for my family home. Installation was professional, on time, clean and without any incident. The boys arrived early and were fully done by mid afternoon, having fully cleaned up after themselves. I'm definitely happy to recommend Jadair.
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  • From start to finish the Jadair team were amazing. I received my quote quickly and they were prompt to answer any questions I had. The installation was done well and the guys who did it were super friendly. Would highly recommend Jadair to anyone thinking about ducted air con.
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  • Jadair installed our ducted air conditioning system several years ago, and have performed the annual maintenance ever since. The installation itself and subsequent performance have been problem free, efficient and effective. The technicians installing and servicing the unit are both knowledgeable and obliging. I heartily recommend Jaidair..
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