Can Air Filters Be Cleaned and Reused?

Reusable air filters are designed for long-term use but must be cleaned regularly in order to maintain their efficiency. Learn how to keep your home's air clean by cleaning reusable air filters.

Can Air Filters Be Cleaned and Reused?

Handling a filter can damage its integrity, making it unable to work as effectively as before. Instead of attempting to clean a disposable air filter, it is best to discard it and replace it with a new one. Reusable air filters, on the other hand, are made of more durable materials and can be washed every one to three months to remove accumulated dust, irritants, and contaminants. It is important to know which type of filter you are using.

Cleaning and reusing a car's air filter is an acceptable practice, while standard air filters should be replaced at the next service. High-performance air filters are designed to be reused and can be cleaned and replaced in the air conditioner. However, homeowners should note that both reusable and disposable air filters are available. When cleaning a reusable air filter, it is essential to ensure that it is an air filter designed to be reused.

Disposable air filters cannot be cleaned enough, and attempting to clean them could lead to AC efficiency problems or even mold. Cleanable oven filters are also reusable tools capable of protecting a clean heating system for long periods of time. The oven air system works by pumping air from the outside to heat the inside. This warm air passes through the washable filter before distributing it to your home, free of harmful microscopic particles.

However, like normal HVAC filters, they will eventually need a replacement. Air filters are especially tight in areas with large amounts of airborne irritants, such as smoke, dust, or pet dander. Fresh air is healthy for your lungs and helps your home feel comfortable and safe, especially when the air is clean. If your air filter is announced to be washable or permanent, you can clean and reuse it. After about three months, you'll need to change it to a new one for single-use filters.

Careful and thorough cleaning of these filters is a must in order to keep your reusable air filter clean. When a filter becomes so clogged that it is difficult for air to pass through it, hot air can cause the heat exchanger to overheat. Washable filters and reusable oven filters provide filtration benefits that keep contaminants out and fresh air in. Standard pleated paper filters should not be washed with soap and water as this will affect the way air flows through the filter. When not cleaned frequently, all the particles extracted from the indoor air slowly begin to clog the filter and reduce its efficiency, which means that the longer the time between cleanings, the less efficient the air conditioner will be. Permanent air filters can save time and money by providing a washable alternative to disposable filters.

Your permanent air filters will become clogged with particles and will need to be cleaned regularly in order to avoid any incidents with air quality or flow in your home.

Leanne Legorreta
Leanne Legorreta

Professional bacon aficionado. Passionate tv practitioner. Proud internet guru. Twitter evangelist. Devoted music guru.