Yes you can but, blow it out from the inside of the air filter all the way around and it will work for at least another six months under normal conditions. Next time you should replace it with a good quality filter.
Remove the reusable air filter from the unit. Rinse off the reusable air filter with plain, warm water. Since you are reusing the filter, using distilled water is the best option, but tap water can be used if you find that more convenient. Soap up the reusable air filter with a gentle household detergent.
Most filters are one time use consumables and not reusable unless ot specified by the manufacturer. Take a look at it. If it's visually dirty looking, greasy or any of that then get a new one.
Yes, some kinds of filters are washable! That means that instead of getting rid of your air filter when its three months are up, you can wash the dust and debris off and place the filter back into your HVAC system.
After rinsing, you will want to lightly shake the excess water out of your filter to allow it to dry quicker. While you can proceed to the next step after allowing the filter to dry for 30 minutes to an hour, for optimal results you should let your filter dry overnight if possible.
Paper Filters
Paper coffee filters can be reused multiple times, with some users reporting up to four or five uses before the filter loses its effectiveness. To reuse a paper filter, remove the used coffee grounds and rinse the filter thoroughly. Allow it to air dry before using it again in your next coffee brewing.
You can either wash the air filter, or perhaps vacuum clean it if you have one. To wash the filter, take it out and place it in a bucket with soapy water solution. Slide, swivel and swish it around in the bucket and pull it out. Shake the filament to get as much water out as possible.
Check to see if you have an electrostatic air filter and make sure it's washable. If not, you will need to replace it when it wears out. Many disposable air conditioner filters should be replaced rather than cleaned, as cleaning with water can lead to possible mold issues.
The filter looks dirty: This is simple but effective – look at your air filter. If it looks dirty, dusty, or has clumps of hair and dust, it's time to change it.
Immersion in Warm, Soapy Water – Where stubborn air-borne dirt is present, the filter may be dipped in a solution of warm water and mild detergent. Then simply rinse in clear water, let stand until completely dry and free of moisture, and return to service.
Washable filters generally fall very low on the scale, with MERV ratings between 1 and 4. That means they aren't very effective at capturing the microscopic particles that tend to decrease your home's indoor air quality. Disposable filters have a wide range of MERV ratings, typically ranging between 4 and 12.
Some air filters can lose their structural integrity and effectiveness if cut, especially if the person cutting it is inexperienced with air filters. Air filters that are cut improperly, or filters that will not withstand the structural change, can lead to improper performance and damage to the HVAC system.
Cabin air filters are designed for replacement rather than cleaning and reuse, as attempting to clean them may compromise their filtration efficiency.
Put it in the sun for a few hours if you have the time. If you have an air compressor in your garage dry it out with low pressure air. Use your wifes hair dryer.
The lifespan of a whole house filter system's components varies. Sediment pre-filters might require replacement every three to six months, while the main filter media, like carbon filters, can last from six months to a year, depending on usage and the level of contaminants. Specialized filters have their own timelines.
A good rule of thumb is to clean these filters every other time you replace your HVAC filters, or at the same time if they see a lot of use. Air filter maintenance varies with the manufacturer.
By stacking filters, you're likely to disrupt this balance, which can reduce the overall effectiveness of your HVAC system.
You can use a gentle brush and mild detergent to wash off sticky particles. Once that's done, shake the excess water so it drains out of the drain holes in the frame, and reinstall the air filter back into the system. The airflow from the system will dry the clean filter completely.
Why is my air filter dirty after one day? If there is a lot of dust, pet dander, or other particles inside your home, your air filter can get dirty very quickly.