How to Clean an Air Filter

Even though it’s not visible, your car’s cabin air filter plays a major role in your HVAC system’s performance. Keeping a clean air filter means you and the people riding in your car with you will get cleaner air while you’re headed around Troy. If you’ve got allergies or someone you know does, you’ll want to know how to clean an air filter. Our service professionals at Cooley Mazda will help you.

Air Filter Cleaning: Step-by-Step Guide 

This is an air filter cleaner guide that will help you clean your air filter correctly:

• Access the air filter. Air filters are typically kept in a housing to keep them protected. You’ll probably need a screwdriver and/or wrench to access the air filter. Don’t get any debris into the intake or airbox; remove the filter as cleanly as possible.

• Remove loose dirt and dust. Hold the air filter above a trash can and shake off as much loose debris as you can.

• Vacuum the filter. Then, use a handheld vacuum cleaner to get the finer dirt out of the air filter.

• Apply air filter cleaner. After the air filter has been vacuumed, you can apply an air filter cleaner, following the given instructions. You can make your own cleaning solution using water and mild laundry detergent in a 2:1 ratio. Mix it well, then spray it onto the filter. Let it set for a couple of minutes.

• Scrub with a brush. Use a soft brush to gently clean out the filter. A toothbrush is a good tool for cleaning the crevices.

• Rinse thoroughly and dry. Rinse the cleaning solution out of the air filter completely then give the filter a good shake. Position the filter so it hangs upside down and is able to drip dry. Don’t apply heat, use a hair dryer, or throw it in the dryer.

• Reassemble the filter. Put the filter back where you got it. If you took the housing off, put it back the way you found it.

Does the Cabin Air Filter Affect AC & Air Quality? 

Yes, the cabin air filter affects your air conditioner and air quality. Cabin air filters in Albany and Latham collect dirt, dust, bugs, leaves, and more. If the air filter is dirty, it can negatively affect your air conditioner’s ability to cool down the cabin. This will negatively impact your enter air circulation system.

Get Your Car Fixed at Cooley Mazda 

Cleaning your air filter is easier than you might think, and most people can do it at home. However, if you’d rather have one of the pros take care of it or you need a replacement, schedule service with the team at Cooley Mazda. If you’re looking for more information, feel free to contact us.