Planning to keep your home cool this summer with a window air conditioner? Cleaning the AC air filter ensures the best possible performance.
Time 10 - 20 minutes
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$0 to $10
Introduction
If you've got a window air conditioner that's not cooling as well as it used to, it might have a dirty air filter.
I used my window AC unit for years before learning it had an air filter inside that needed regular cleaning. When I finally pulled out the filter to check it, I was astounded by the thick mass of gray dust clinging to the spun fiberglass mesh.
Air filters are just what they sound like — fiberglass or paper membranes that keep dust and debris from passing through your AC unit into your home. Like all filters, window AC air filters need regular cleaning to keep doing their job. Neglect them too long, and your AC unit will cool less while drawing more electricity.
If your AC unit has an air filter you haven't cleaned in a while (or ever), we've got you. Here's what to do. It's easy!
Tools Required
- Bucket
- Old toothbrush
- Shop vacuum or regular vacuum
Materials Required
- Dish soap
- Warm water
Watch How To Clean a Window AC Filter
Project step-by-step (5)
Step 1
Place air conditioner in a serviceable spot
- Retrieve your window air conditioner from storage. Depending on the size and weight, you may need someone to help you lift it.
- Place your AC on a flat, clean surface of convenient height for cleaning, like a deck. It’s also possible to clean the filter after installing the unit in a ground-level window, provided you can easily reach the window and the AC.
- Orient your AC unit so you can access the air filter. It’s usually on the side with the controls.
Step 2
Open cover and remove air filter
- Examine the front edges of your AC unit for notches that allow removal of the plastic cover.
- Remove the cover carefully and place it to one side. The air filter should now be visible.
- Slide the filter out of its housing notches, then place it to one side on your work surface.
Step 3
Vacuum air filter and AC unit
- Use a shop vaccuum to remove dust and lint from both sides of the air filter. I get better results using the vacuum hose without any brush attachments.
- Place the vacuumed filter down on your work surface. Then carefully vacuum all visible inside surfaces of the AC unit, including the slats of the outer plastic cover.
- Take care not to damage the fins or tubes inside your AC.
Step 4
Wash air filter
- Fill a bucket with warm, soapy water. (Dish soap works well.)
- Gently scrub all parts of the air filter, back and front, with an old toothbrush dipped in the soapy water.
- Go over the filter multiple times to remove all traces of dust and dirt.
- Rinse the filter with a hose or outside tap, then place in a sunny spot to dry.
Step 5
Replace air filter
- Once the air filter dries fully, slide it back into its housing notches inside your AC unit.
- Replace the outer plastic cover, double-checking to ensure it’s properly latched.
