DIY: How To Clean Your Van's Air Conditioner Filter
Every van with appliances needs a bit of housekeeping just like a regular home. Here is how you can keep an air-conditioner filters clean.
Air-conditioners have simple filters built into them to improve air quality. The filters catch dust and other pollutants such as pollen while air passes through them. Filters need to be regularly cleaned otherwise they can become clogged, trap moisture and possibly encourage mould. A clogged filter also makes the air-conditioner have to work for longer to pass air through it using more energy.
Air-conditioners are mounted in three different ways. Roof mounted units are the most common and you will usually see them in hard top caravans. They draw air in and push air out directly from the unit. ‘Under bunk’ air-conditioners are located in a compartment inside the van. They are more often used in pop top vans to keep the weight off the roof. Under bunk air-conditioners use ducting to move air around. Some older style vans also feature wall mounted air conditioners.
Whatever type of air-conditioner you have the principles are the same. We recommend referring to your air-conditioner owner’s manual for cleaning instructions however, the following is a good general guide.
It is best to clean the filters every few weeks, but the frequency is driven by how often you use the air. Most units have two filters, and they can usually be removed without any tools. The filters may pull out directly or you may have to unclip some form of access cover. Once you have pulled out the filters take them outside and dust them off with a brush. A vacuum cleaner or air compressor is another good way to clean them. If they are particularly dirty, they can be washed with warm soapy water. Make sure you dry the filters thoroughly before reinserting them. It’s worth noting that most filters are reusable for many years, however, some older ones are made of foam which will fall apart over time. The filter may be available as a spare part. Failing that you can buy some foam from Clarke Rubber or similar and cut it to size. It is important to get something of a similar density to allow for proper airflow.
Roof Mount Example
Under Bunk Example
Wall Mount Example
IF IN DOUBT, CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL
Improper maintenance can lead to injury, death or property damage. Maintenance work of this nature should only be undertaken by people with suitable competence. Information provided is general in nature, not comprehensive and should only be taken as a guide. Individual discretion must be exercised and persons undertaking described tasks do so completely at their own risk. Publishers and creators of this content accept no responsibility for loss or damage.
Thanks to Andrew Phillips and the team from the RV Repair Centre for their assistance.