Are air conditioner filters recyclable?

Are air conditioner filters recyclable? Maybe or maybe not, the answer to this question depends on the type of air conditioner filter you use in your home. But before we look at the types of air conditioner filters let’s take a look at recycling and its benefits.

“Recycling is the process of collecting and processing materials that would otherwise be thrown away as trash and turning them into new products.” http://sawic.environment.gov.za/documents/232.pdf

Benefits of recycling

• Reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills and incinerators
• Conserves natural resources such as timber, water and minerals
• Increases economic security by tapping a domestic source of materials
• Prevents pollution by reducing the need to collect new raw materials
• Saves energy
• Supports manufacturing and conserves valuable resources
• Helps create jobs in the recycling and manufacturing industries in South Africa

Now that we have seen how recycling is beneficial to the community and environment let’s look at the air conditioner filter and why it should be recycled. Aside from the carbon footprint it releases outdoors, disposable air filters are another form of waste product. Sometimes their lifespan is cut short due to air conditioner negligence which prevents it from functioning at its maximum efficiency.

It is always a good idea to service and maintain your air conditioner to make it work smoothly and for this you need to hire a reputable air conditioner company like Isocool. At Isocool we do air conditioner supply, installation repair and service in Johannesburg and its surrounding areas. In case you need maintenance, services contact us.

Read on to learn about air filters and how to choose the correct one for your air conditioner.

Recyclable air filters for your air conditioner

If you are conscious of the ill effects of irresponsible waste disposal and practice recycling, then you should consider recycling your AC air filters. The big question is that is it even possible and if so how? In the introduction we highlighted that this might or might not be possible depending on the type of air conditioner filter.

Most homes use the disposable type made with woven fibers such as fiberglass or polyester, which cannot be recycled. Disposable filters get the job done by trapping dust, dirt, and other small particles that may be harmful to someone’s health. But once they get dirty, it’s not possible to just wash them off and reuse once again. It’s unhealthy and unsafe to use them again.

So instead of recycling, it’s best to throw them away in the garbage. This means disposing of the entire filter, including the cardboard frame, despite the fact that cardboards can be recycled or reused. So the best solution is to use recyclable air conditioner filters.

The big question most people ask is whether the efficiency of the air conditioner will be lowered if they switch to a recyclable air filter. The answer is no, in fact the opposite happens. The air conditioner efficiency improves because with a recyclable air filter you can service it at any time making it work as good as new increasing its efficiency by more than 20%. With this in mind let’s explore the recyclable air conditioners.

Washable Air Conditioner Filter

An eco-friendly approach is using reusable or washable filters. They are made of aluminum or plastic frame which makes washing and reusing possible. Plus it’s a permanent filter so you do not need to keep buying new ones every 3 to 6 months. Although you have to make sure that it is cleaned periodically to ensure that dirt and dust are removed and that it is kept clean for maximum efficiency.

A washable filter is pricier than the disposable type. However, in the long term it will save you more since it’s permanent and doesn’t need replacing lasting years. As bonus it is very easy to clean.  

 Proper Cleaning Steps

Cleaning the reusable filter is such an easy task and you can actually do it yourself. Here’s how:

• First, turn off the AC service system.
• Second, remove the filters.
• Third, either use a vacuum to thoroughly remove dust and dirt or wash it with water. Just make sure that the filter is completely dry before putting it back. This is a significantly important step since the slightest moisture can become a breeding ground for molds.
• And the final step is to place the filter back into the intake vent.

Once done, turn on the HVAC unit and let the newly cleaned filter to do its work.

If this is a task you do not want to take on for yourself or if you simply do not have the time, get a professional to do the work for you. At Isocool we have been in the heating and cooling services for more than two decades servicing Johannesburg and its surrounding areas. We work mostly with the following brands. We do Samsung air conditioning supply, LG air conditioning installation, Carrier air conditioner repair, Jet air conditioner service and IQ air conditioner maintenance.

Our expertise and experience ensure maximum comfort and a reliable HVAC system throughout every season. Learn more about our services here.