How to put in an air conditioner filter

Your air conditioner’s air filter isn’t just there to help keep the air that comes out clean. In fact, it plays an essential role in the proper operation of your system. Changing or cleaning the air filter is one of the most important steps you can take to maintain your air conditioner, as it heads off all these potential issues, improves energy efficiency and helps you avoid spending money on air conditioning repairs.

Six Potential Problems

Here’s what can happen if you let air filter replacements fall by the wayside.

Short-Cycling: Your air conditioner is supposed to cycle on and off occasionally throughout the day, but a dirty air filter can cause those cycles to become more frequent than they need to be. Besides the noise pollution that comes with cycling, that means wasted energy and uncomfortable temperature changes.

Freezing Up: A good, clean air filter allows air to flow freely out of your unit. A dirty air filter restricts the flow of cold air, causing it to build up inside the air conditioner and lower the internal temperature. Given enough time, that buildup of cold air can eventually cause ice to form on the coils.

Uneven Cooling: Even if it’s not enough to cause freezing, that restricted airflow isn’t good for your air conditioner’s cooling power. You’ll notice uneven cooling with hot and cold spots, and that means lower comfort levels at a higher cost.

Allergen Buildup: If anyone in your home suffers from asthma or respiratory allergies, it’s especially important to keep the air filters clean. A dirty filter can cause allergens to build up in your duct system, and they’ll linger there for months. Whenever you have a forced-air system running, those allergens will be released into the air you breathe. You might even end up with a mold problem in the ducts.

General Wear and Tear: Air conditioners just last longer if they’re maintained properly. A good air filter helps to stop dust and dirt from building up on all of the unit’s internal components; a bad one will cause additional wear and tear that can lead to serious maintenance issues down the road. You may end up having to replace your air conditioner a year or two sooner, and you’ll likely be paying for expensive air conditioning repairs in the meantime.

Reduced System Efficiency: If you’re holding off on getting a replacement filter because of the cost, know that you’re only hurting your finances in the long run. An A/C unit with a dirty filter will use much more power to cool your home, and you’ll end up paying more on your utility bills.

Keeping Your A/C Maintained

Fortunately, the solution to all of these issues is simple. Depending on the type of filter, you’ll just need to replace or clean it monthly.

If your air conditioner has a reusable filter, you’ll need to handle it carefully to ensure that it keeps your air conditioner running at peak efficiency. Remove it from the unit, rinse it off with water and allow it to air dry completely before putting it back in. Sliding a wet filter back into your air conditioner is just asking for ice formation and other issues, and trying to wipe the filter dry is likely to damage its delicate surface.

If your unit uses disposable filters, it’s critical to get replacements that are designed specifically for your system. That means you’ll need to go to a local factory authorized dealer for models directly from your air conditioner’s manufacturer, not one-size-fits-all air filters from a hardware store. The cost may be a little higher, but you’ll more than make that back in increased system efficiency and performance.

In general, we recommend monthly air filter replacement a month, but that frequency depends somewhat on the type of filter you use. Advanced filters can last a little longer between cleanings and replacements, so consult the manufacturer for a recommended schedule. When in doubt, though, err on the side of more frequent replacement, not less.

A final tip: Never let your air conditioner run without a filter! Without having that filter in place, your unit will allow dust and debris to pile up on internal components, and that’s just asking for maintenance issues down the road. This generally isn’t a problem with disposable filters, but do make sure you’ve bought your replacement before you pull out the existing filter. Try to clean your reusable filter at a time when the air conditioner doesn’t need to be on anyway, such as a cool night.

HVAC Maintenance is a huge part of our business here at Coastal Heating & Air, as we’re always happy to help our friends and neighbors keep their heating and cooling systems in good working order. Give us a call to learn more about ways to maintain your air conditioner.

We count on our air con to keep us comfortable all year round. Much like a car that gets used regularly, air conditioners need regular maintenance to make sure they keep running effectively and efficiently.

One of the simplest and most important things you should do to look after your AC is to change or clean the air filter.

In this article, we provide a step by step guide on how to change your AC filter, plus helpful information about how often you should do so and what types of filters are right for you. 

For more information about maintaining your ducted or split system air conditioning, get in touch with the friendly team at iBreeze.

What happens if you don't change your AC filter?

The filter inside an air conditioning unit is responsible for cleaning the air and removing things such as air pollutants, dust particles, pet dander and pollen. 

Over time particles, dirt and grime will build up on the filter. If the filter isn't cleaned or replaced, it can lead to a number of issues.

What happens if you don't change your air conditioner filter?

• Reduced effectiveness. A clogged filter won't let as much airflow through the system which can reduce the performance of your air conditioner. You might experience less airflow or find that your air-con has to work much harder to cool or heat the room.


• Increased wear and tear. When the system has to work harder it puts strain on the different parts in the system. This increased wear and tear can reduce the lifespan of your AC and lead to costly breakdowns.


• Poor indoor air quality. Filters collect all sorts of dirt, bacteria and air pollutants. A dirty filter won't be able to filter out these elements effectively which can reduce the indoor air quality of your home.

How do I know if my air filter needs changing?

Keep an eye out for these warning signs that your air filter needs changing:

• There is excessive dust on the filter


• The filter is a grey colour


• Your AC is ineffective or working very hard


• It's been a long time since you changed the filter


• You've noticed a spike in your energy bills

How to change an AC filter

In many cases, you can change or clean a home air conditioning filter yourself. If you're not sure how to do so and would like a demonstration, ask your air conditioning specialist next time you call them in to service your system and they’ll be able to show you what to do.

Step 1. Turn off the power

It's important to switch off the mains power when servicing your air conditioner. Firstly, it's a safety measure that will protect you from any electric shocks. Secondly, switching off the power will prevent any dust and dirt from being sucked up into the system where you don't want it.

Step 2. Locate the filter

For a split system air conditioner, the filter will be located in the indoor unit. Press the button on the cover to open the grill. You should be able to see the filters clearly inside.

For ducted air conditioning systems, the filter is usually located in the return air duct. You should find this installed in the ceiling in a central area of your home, such as a hallway or living room.

Step 3. Remove the old filter

This step is usually as simple as sliding out the filter. Once you've got it out, inspect the filter to see if it needs replacing or cleaning. If it has been a few months since you last replaced the filter, chances are it's ready for another replacement.

Step 4. Clean the filter (if reusable)

Some air filters are reusable and can be cleaned instead of thrown out and replaced. Reusable filters are typically made of a more sturdy material and may have a metal or plastic frame. Disposable filters tend to have a cardboard frame.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning. Usually, that will involve vacuuming up the dust or rinsing with warm clean water.

Step 5. Insert the cleaned or new air filter

Simply slot the clean or new filter into place. Most filters will have an arrow or some marking to help you figure out the right direction. Write down the date when you replaced the filter and set up a reminder in your phone for the next replacement.

Choosing the right type of filter for your AC

Air conditioner filters come with Australian Standard ratings which tell you how effective they are at cleaning the air. The higher the rating, the more expensive and effective the filter will be.

You should also choose the right size filter for your air conditioning system. Some systems may be designed to take disposable filters, while others may come with a reusable filter that can be cleaned and reinserted. Check out the manufacturer's guidelines for more specific information.

How often do air conditioner filters need to be changed?

Air conditioner filters should be changed every season, as a rule of thumb. It's especially important to inspect the filter during high use periods such as summer and winter.

If you live in a dusty environment or use your air conditioner frequently, it's a good idea to change the filter more regularly. 

Check the manufacturer's guidelines for how often to clean or change the filters and set a reminder in your phone so that you don't forget. Running your air con with a clogged filter can lead to bigger problems with your system.

Can I run my AC without a filter temporarily?

Your air con will technically run without an air filter, but you shouldn't do so. Not having an air filter inserted will leave your air con vulnerable to dust, debris and other particles which may damage the working parts. The air quality inside your home will decrease and may cause health problems for you.

Be sure to have spare air filters on hand that you can use to replace if needed. You can also call an air con technician if you have issues with your AC filter.

Keep your AC in top shape with iBreeze

In general, you can follow this guide on "how to change your AC filter" to improve the performance of your air conditioner and the air quality inside your home. However, in some cases, your AC might need a bit more TLC.

The best way to efficiently run air conditioning in your home is through regular upkeep and calling your local air conditioning service provider for a professional service. 

iBreeze provides air conditioning maintenance services to Mandurah, Rockingham and surrounds. We can help you change your filter, fix performance issues and catch problems before they become too costly. We also offer ducted and split system air conditioning installation services.

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