How to Clean an Air Filter

How to clean an air filter can be can a more involved process than you may think, but this can vary from car to car. It’s as important to keep up to date on cleaning your air filter as it is checking your coolant levels or transmission fluid, and we have recommendations on how to clean an air filter. We’ll even go over air filter cleaner options that you can buy or make yourself at home and answer the question, “Does a cabin air filter affect AC output?”

How to Clean an Air Filter Step-by-Step 

1. Access Your Air Filter: You’ll find the air filter usually encased in a housing to help keep them clean and protected. You’ll notice that your air filter is usually located under the hood, behind the dash, or behind the glove box. Check your owner’s manual for more specific information about your make and model. You might need a screwdriver and/or wrench to access your air filter. Try not to shake any debris into the intake or airbox.
2. Remove Any Loose Dirt or Dust: Remove the air filter andhold the air filter over a trash can to shake off as much loose debris as possible before vacuuming.
3. Use a vacuum: Use a vacuum to remove the finer dirt and grime from your air filter. A handheld vacuum works best for this.
4. Apply an Air Filter Cleaner: You can find an air filter cleaner at an auto-parts store or online. Just follow what’s recommended on the specific package, and make sure it’s okay for your make and model. Benton drivers can also make their own air filter cleaner using a 2:1 ratio of water to detergent. Mix it well and spray it onto the filter, and let it sit for a couple of minutes.
5. Scrub the Air Filter with a Brush: After using an air filter cleaner, use a soft brush to gently clean the air filter. A toothbrush is a good tool for cleaning the crevices.
6. Rinse Thoroughly & Dry the Filter: Rinse off all cleaning solution completely and then give the filter a good shake. Hang your filter upside down somewhere it can drip dry. You don’t need heat, and we don’t recommend it here. Just let it drip and air dry before rehousing it properly.
7. Reassemble Your Filter: Put your filter back in its housing. If you removed the housing, be sure to reassemble it here. Always be sure to review your owner’s manual when removing and putting back your air filter.

Does a Cabin Air Filter Affect AC & Air Quality? 

Your AC and air quality can be affected by your air filter. These filters collect dust, bugs, leaves, and other bits that can negatively affect your air conditioner’s ability to cool down your cabin. These can cause problems over time to your air circulation system in some cases. We recommend just routine cleaning and replacing your filter as needed.

Choose the Superior Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram of Conway Service Enter for Air Filter Service

We offer plenty of tips at Superior Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram of Conway, including on how to remove your car battery. We’re equipped for a variety of services for your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram vehicle, and we offer service coupons. Do you need your air filter replaced or cleaned? Contact us today!