How to Wash Air Filter?
When we find something dirty or dusty at our home, we act instantly to remove it immediately. Sure everything is prone to dust and dirt but keeping them away from your surroundings can protect you from healthy diseases. But you might wonder how we can clean out the dust from the air? Well, many air filters are available that are specifically made to eliminate airborne particles and provide healthy and clean air. There are plenty of air purifiers in the market that claim to remove the tiniest dust particles but it is not true.
The most common and widely used air purifier is the HEPA air purifier which is a true HEPA air filter embedded in it and can capture the smallest microorganisms. Though many brands have their HEPA air filters and everyone is different from each other, you can analyze the difference by ascertaining a feature of the HEPA air filter that it can remove 0.3 microns particles from the air. We can’t even see them with a naked eye but these are harmful and are removed with the help of the HEPA air filter.
Since air filters are usually very important these days especially due to increasing pollution, replacing the air filter after every use can become expensive and difficult. Thus, knowing the proper technique of washing the air filters can reduce the expenses and also give you effective results. But how should you wash the air filter? Do not worry. We have explained everything related to washing the air filter carefully without damaging it.
Is it possible to clean an Air Filter?
The air filter is evident to accumulate dust or dirt particles in its fiber and can block the passage of air. At such times, the air filter loses its efficiency to work and give results. This is the time when you are clicked that the air filter needs washing and cleaning. But should you be washing it?
Well, some experts say that a person should always consider the instructions on the label of the filter about washing it at home as many air filters are non-washable. Even if you clean it with a vacuum, it can damage the fibres of the filter that are important for capturing air particles. In some cases, the air filter does not damage but still, some of the fibres get broken thereby decreasing the efficiency of the air filter.
If your air filter is labeled as washable, then you can easily clean or wash the dust off and it will still give you the best results. The best method adopted mostly to clean the air filter is either vacuuming or cleaning it with cold water. Both these techniques are easy but should be performed carefully to ensure that the filter does not damage.
A HEPA air filter can work 2-3 times after washing it and after that, a person should consider buying a new one. Cleaning the air filter will ensure its longevity and enhance the quality of air.
How can I clean Air Filter?
An air filter should generally be replaced rather than cleaning it. It ensures the safety and efficiency of the air filter as sometimes after washing the air filter, the dust particles remain intact and the fibres are broken from the inside. However, a person can still wash the air filter but it depends on the type or brand of HEPA air filter you are using. Manufacturers have not provided any standard methods for cleaning the air filter, but many users and professionals have discovered two ways by which one can wash the air filter.
The first method is by cleaning it under cold water. A washable air filter can be easily rinsed by using cold water. But make sure that only the water passes through the material inside the filter and there is no touching. Moreover, some filters come with labeled instructions related to cleaning them only from outside or cleaning the central part only. Thus, a person should take into consideration such important information.
Another method is to use a vacuum. Vacuum is generally used to clean dust and debris from hidden places. Thus, by using a vacuum gently you can remove the sucked dust or dirt from the filter. Make sure not to use water in this method as it can wet the dust and a vacuum won’t work in such a case.
Verdict
A person should not consider washing the air filter without having complete knowledge of cleaning the air filter. It is recommended to replace it once in a while, otherwise sort to methods of cleaning explained above, and carefully rinse off the dust from the filter. Moreover, there are numerous HEPA air filters that are washable and give expendable results afterward.