Characteristics of Car AC Filter That Must Be Replaced & How to Clean It

Installing an AC filter is essential for owners of four-wheeled vehicles. The AC filter in a car functions as a cooler as well as a filter for dust or dirty air inside the vehicle.

However, many car owners underestimate the function of this AC filter. In fact, this AC filter should be replaced after the car has traveled more than 10,000 km.

So, what are the signs that a car's AC filter needs to be replaced? When and how often should it be replaced? And how do you clean it? Check out the information below.

Signs That a Car AC Filter Needs to Be Replaced

Previously, we discussed the signs that a car's AC freon needs to be replaced. In addition to the AC freon, four-wheeled vehicle owners should also check the AC filter.

This is very important to determine whether the AC filter is still good or needs to be replaced.

The benefits of replacing the car's AC filter include healthier and cleaner air inside the car; here are the signs and characteristics that the AC filter in a four-wheeled vehicle needs to be replaced.

1. A Lot of Dust Accumulated on the Interior

The first sign you can recognize is the presence of a lot of dust sticking to the car's interior and AC.

Even though the AC inside the car is always turned on with the car doors closed, it doesn't mean that dust or dirty air cannot accumulate inside the car's interior. You should always monitor the condition of your AC filter.

If the air filter can no longer hold a lot of dust in between the filters, then it's a sign that you need to replace the AC filter immediately. Another way is to pay attention to the color of the AC filter.

On average, AC filters are white. If the AC filter has changed color to dark or brownish black, then it's time for you to replace the filter.

2. The Car Emits Unpleasant Odors When the AC is Turned On

You have probably experienced smelling unpleasant odors while driving the car even though the car's AC is already turned on.

If you experience this condition, then you need to be cautious that your AC filter is dirty and needs to be replaced immediately.

A dirty filter will not be able to absorb dust or dirty air properly because the filter channels have become clogged due to the accumulation of airborne dirt or dust stuck between the filters.

As a result, bacteria arise that cause the car to emit an unpleasant aroma when the AC is turned on. This certainly reduces your comfort while driving inside the car.

3. AC is Not Cold Enough

The AC evaporator works as a cooler in the car. However, often the air inside the car feels less cold or even stuffy even though the car's AC is set to a cooler temperature.

This happens due to blockages caused by the accumulation of dust on the filter, resulting in less optimal airflow from the AC.

If you experience this, it is advisable to wash the AC filter with detergent until clean or replace it with a new filter.

How to Clean a Car AC Filter

After recognizing the signs of when the AC filter needs to be replaced, here are some ways you can apply to clean the AC filter as early maintenance steps for the AC filter.

1. Open the Car Dashboard Drawer

The first step is to open the car dashboard drawer and make sure to do it carefully so that the drawer does not break or get damaged.

2. Open the AC Filter Box

Next, press the lock button on the box, then slowly remove the filter from its place to prevent dust from falling all over the car.

3. Clean the AC Filter

You can wash the AC filter with detergent, but first check the type of filter because not all AC filters can be washed.

You can also use other methods such as using a brush, vacuum cleaner, or compressor to clean it.

4. Reinstall the Filter as Before

After cleaning the filter, you can reinstall it in its original position. You can also add a fragrance to make the air inside the car fresher.

It's very easy, isn't it? Make sure to clean the car's AC filter regularly and replace the filter if its condition is no longer suitable so that the air inside the car remains cool and fresh.

If you do not have the time or find it difficult to clean the AC filter on the vehicle regularly, you can take it to the nearest Daihatsu dealer to be handled by experienced technicians.

Tips Sahabat