← Blog · By SK AC Service · 2026-09-28

How to Clean an AC Filter at Home in 5 Simple Steps

A dirty filter is the easiest thing to fix and one of the biggest reasons an AC cools badly. You can clean it yourself in about 10 minutes. Do it every 2 to 4 weeks when the AC is used daily.

What you need

• Soft brush or old toothbrush
• Mild detergent and clean water
• Soft cloth

Steps

1. Switch off the AC and the wall switch.
2. Open the front panel and slide out the filters gently.
3. Shake off loose dust outside, not inside the room.
4. Wash with lukewarm water and a little mild detergent. Brush lightly. Do not use hot water or a hard scrub, which can damage the mesh.
5. Dry fully in shade before fitting it back. Never fit a wet filter.

What not to do

• Do not spray water inside the AC body.
• Do not run the AC without the filter.
• Do not touch the coil with a brush; the fins bend easily.

When to call a technician

If the AC still smells, leaks water or cools poorly after cleaning the filter, the coil and drain probably need a deep wash. That is when AC jet cleaning is the right step.

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