Homeowners generally include tasks like cleaning gutters and trimming landscaping on their spring cleaning lists. Maintenance for an air cleaner is one task homeowners may overlook. If you’ve neglected to clean your electronic air cleaner in the past, take the time to do so this spring. You’ll be glad you did when the system can operate at peak capacity.
The proper operation of all types of brands and models of electronic air cleaners depends on proper maintenance of air filters and collector plates. Over time, these media fill up with dust, pollen, mold, bacteria and more. In order to continue operating at peak capacity and remove these allergens from the air in your home, your electronic medias must be thoroughly cleaned.
What is the best way to proceed with air cleaner maintenance? You should first look for the owner’s manual that came with the air cleaner. If you no longer have the manual, conduct an online search for the make and model of air cleaner, and see if you can find a downloadable copy of the owner’s manual or maintenance instructions.
If you can’t find the instructions, follow these general guidelines:
- Most experts recommend cleaning the system every three months or so, especially if it runs year-round.
- Turn off the power to the system.
- Open the access plate; identify and remove the collector plates.
- Some units will have a prefilter and a postfilter. Replace these filters with fresh ones, using the proper make and model for the unit.
- Use dishwashing detergent, and run the larger collector plates through the dishwasher. Don’t run the drying cycle, which may be too hot. Instead, air dry the plates.
- You can also wash the collector plates in the bathtub. Fill the tub up about a quarter of the way with hot water, and swish dishwashing detergent around. Place the plates in the tub, and let them soak. Rinse them thoroughly, and air dry them. Be very careful when choosing this option because many of these collector plates have sharp edges that make it easy for you to cut yourself.
Keeping your air cleaner in good operating condition is a smart move. If you’d like to schedule an expert evaluation or maintenance for the system, contact Aladdin Heating & Cooling. We’ve served Macomb, Rochester, and Washington Township since 1945.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Detroit, Michigan about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about air cleaners and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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