What is the Proper Way to Clean an Electrostatic Air Filter?

Dirty air filters can cause many problems with your heating and cooling systems, as well as your indoor air quality. That’s is why your HVAC contractor is so adamant about the importance of using clean filters and replacing filters on a regular basis.

While replacement filters can be costly and seem wasteful, electrostatic air filters are a reusable option. To get the most out of an electrostatic air filter, you’ll need to know how to properly clean them. Here’s more on these types of air filters and how to clean them…

What is an Electrostatic Air Filter?

An electrostatic air filter is a type of furnace filter. It is washable and reusable, unlike commonly used disposable replacement furnace filters.

Electrostatic air filters are composed of vented metal layers. As air flows through the layers:

• The metal material becomes charged with static electricity.
• The static electricity attracts contaminant particles, holding them within the filter until they are washed out.

10 Steps to Cleaning an Electrostatic Air Filter

Clean your electrostatic air filter by following these steps:

1. Carefully remove the electrostatic air filter from the filter chamber located near your system’s air handler.
2. Using a garden hose with a power spray nozzle, turn on the water to full pressure.
3. Spray the filter’s clean side, the side that is opposite of the filter’s air flow arrows. This backwashes the filter, forcing the contaminants out.
4. Continue to spray the filter with water until the entire surface area of the filter has been cleaned.
5. A few times a year, clean the electrostatic filter with a mild solution, made from water and dishwashing soap. Spray this solution over both sides of the filter. Allow it to stand for a few minutes, then repeat Step 2 to rinse the filter.
6. If necessary, spray the front side of the filter with water for a few additional minutes to remove any tough material.
7. Prop your air filter up so its drain holes are facing down.
8. Let water drain and the filter dry for 15 to 30 minutes (or as long as needed so that no more water is dripping off of the filter).
9. Once the filter is completely dry, reinstall it in the direction indicated by the air flow arrows.
10. Repeat this cleaning process on a monthly basis.