How to Determine When to Replace the Air Conditioning Filter?
2 Answers
If there is an odor coming from the air conditioning, it needs to be replaced, or you can check the condition of the air conditioning filter yourself. If there is too much debris and it no longer functions effectively as a filter, it can be replaced. Below is relevant information about the air conditioning filter: 1. Reasons for replacement: If the air conditioning filter is not replaced for a long time, various impurities in the filter can rot and produce odors, eventually causing the air blown out by the air conditioning to have an unpleasant smell. 2. Function of the air conditioning filter: When the car's air conditioning is turned on, it draws in external air into the car's interior. This air contains many impurities, such as pollen, dust, and even sand and gravel. The role of the air conditioning filter is to filter the air drawn into the air conditioning system, ensuring that the air inside the cabin is not polluted, thereby protecting the respiratory health of the occupants.
As a father of a young child, I'm particularly concerned about the air quality inside the car. To determine whether the cabin air filter needs replacement, I first rely on the smell inside the vehicle—if there's a persistent musty or dusty odor when the AC is on, reminiscent of the earthy smell after rain, it's highly likely that the filter is clogged with dust and bacteria, posing health risks. Additionally, I check the airflow from the vents by feeling it with my hand. If the airflow feels significantly weaker than before, takes too long to cool down, or if I hear strange noises like a blocked pipe sound, these are clear signs that the filter is too dirty and needs replacing. I recommend inspecting it every 10,000 kilometers or every six months because the filter traps PM2.5 and pollen. Delaying replacement can lead to sneezing and allergies for children riding in the car. Since I started replacing the filter regularly, unpleasant odors have reduced significantly, making long drives much more comfortable and worry-free.
