How often should the car air conditioning filter be replaced?
2 Answers
The replacement cycle for a car air conditioning filter is 10,000 kilometers, and it is generally recommended to replace it in the spring. After being used throughout the previous summer and winter, the effectiveness of the air conditioning filter will decline if continued to be used. The car air conditioning filter serves the following purposes: 1. Separating solid impurities such as pollen and PM2.5 from the air; 2. Absorbing moisture, carbon dioxide, car exhaust, and odors from the air; 3. Ensuring clean air in the passenger compartment and preventing bacterial growth. A high-quality air filter can absorb fine particles, reduce respiratory discomfort, minimize irritation for allergy sufferers, enhance driving comfort, and protect the air conditioning cooling system. There are two types of air conditioning filters: one without activated carbon and another with activated carbon. The activated carbon air conditioning filter not only performs the above functions but also has the added benefit of absorbing a significant amount of odors.
I've done specialized research before and found that there's no fixed replacement interval for cabin air filters - it depends on actual conditions. If you frequently drive in dusty areas or during smoggy weather, you should check it every six months. For normal city driving, replacing it once a year is generally sufficient. When I last changed mine myself, I noticed that when the filter gets severely clogged, the AC airflow becomes noticeably weaker and carries a musty earthy smell. The safest approach is to have the mechanic inspect it during routine maintenance - replace it if it appears blackened. By the way, replacing it before the rainy season is particularly important, otherwise mold growth can make the air blowing out smell foul. Long-term neglect may also cause dust accumulation in the blower motor leading to damage.
