How often should the car air conditioning filter be cleaned?

[CharlotteFitz]

It is recommended to clean the car air conditioning filter once a month. Regular cleaning can extend its service life. Below are the specific steps for cleaning the car air conditioning filter: 1. Purchase an air conditioning cleaner and prepare a cloth. 2. Remove the air conditioning filter. 3. Clean the air conditioning filter. 4. Lower the car windows, turn on the air conditioning, and increase the airflow. 5. Activate the external circulation mode. 6. Turn on the AC switch and let the air conditioning system run for about 10 minutes. 7. Reinstall the air conditioning filter. Note: If the air conditioning is used infrequently and the usage environment is good, as long as the surface of the air filter does not show severe discoloration (grayish-brown), you can remove the air filter and expose it to sunlight for 2 hours.

[OCamille]

Having driven for over twenty years, I've found that cleaning the AC filter should be done as needed. Generally, it's recommended to check it every six months, but if you often drive on dusty roads or in cities with heavy smog, it's best to handle it every three months. A dirty filter can block the vents, preventing cold air from coming out, making it uncomfortable to use the AC in summer. You can open the glove compartment to check; if it's gray or black, it's time to clean or replace it. Not cleaning it can also lead to mold buildup, triggering allergy symptoms like sneezing. I usually ask the technician to handle it during oil changes—it's convenient and reassuring. Regular maintenance can extend the AC's lifespan and avoid major repairs.

[KevinAnn]

As a daily commuter who frequently uses the air conditioning, I set the filter cleaning interval at every 10,000 kilometers. If the car is parked in the garage with less usage or in areas with better suburban air quality, the interval can be extended to once a year. The key is to prevent unpleasant odors, especially on hot and humid days when turning on the AC immediately brings a foul smell, affecting mood. Simply purchasing a DIY cleaning kit makes the process easy, with convenient disassembly and low cost. Neglecting it for too long leads to dust and bacteria buildup, blowing harmful germs into the lungs and posing health risks. Handling it alongside regular maintenance is the most hassle-free approach.

[LeSimon]

The cleaning frequency of the air conditioning filter should follow the manufacturer's manual. Most models recommend cleaning or replacement every six months or 15,000 kilometers. A clogged filter can result in weak cooling and loud fan noise. You can remove and inspect it from behind the glove box, and rinse it if dirty. The cost is low, but neglecting it affects comfort.