What to Do When the Filter Symbol Lights up on Your Air Conditioner

Your aircon controller will periodically display messages.  One thing that may cause you concern when you see it is the filter symbol message.  An automated notification alerting you that standard maintenance is required to clean the return air filter.

There’s no reason to worry.  It isn’t showing an alert because there is something wrong with the filter or it is filthy; the signal is time-based and will come on no matter what.  Here’s how it works.  The controller records how long (in terms of hours) the system has been running.  When it reaches the allotted time set by the manufacturer, you will be reminded to clean your air conditioner’s filters.  So, the more you use your aircon, the more regularly you need to clean the filters.

If you are not working to the system’s automated schedule to have your air conditioner maintained or have recently cleaned the filters anyway, you can ignore the message.  Once you have observed the notification, you can reset the filter indicator to remove it.  Press the exit button for three seconds, and it will disappear.

Filter Symbol – How often do air filters need to be cleaned?

There is a reason that the system bases the filter cleaning schedule on hours the air conditioner has been in use and operating rather than by set weeks or months.  As discussed, it’s because the more you run the AC system, the more often the filters should be cleaned.

It is usually sufficient to clean your filters with seasonal changes at the beginning of Summer and the beginning of Winter.  Suppose you run your ducted air conditioning system more frequently or have pets.  In that case, you may need to clean the filters more regularly, usually every three months, because more debris will accumulate in a shorter period.  It’s always recommended a qualified technician clean your air filters.

Cleaning the air filter removes microscopic dust particles, allergens and odours, and other particles the air filter prevents from entering the system.  The system’s efficiency can be affected when the air filters become clogged.  Putting a clean air filter into your air conditioner will lower your energy consumption by up to 15%, so it’s worthwhile.  It will also put less strain on the system, improving lifespan.

Replacing the air filters

When our service technician inspects your system, they will let you know if the air filters can be cleaned or if they need to be replaced, which will likely be every three years.  This is one of our many tasks when servicing your air conditioner.

The cost of replacing an air filter will depend on the filter you use in your system.  It will likely range from $40 for a primary air filter to $100.  Specialised systems, such as HEPA filter Air Purifiers, are explicitly designed for people who suffer from allergies and will naturally cost more.  Those on the higher end are usually used in environments where hospital standards are required.

Filter Symbol – Need to clean your air filters?

When the air filter notification alert is present, call PenAir to replace or clean the air filters.  We recommend you chat with us about the benefits of regular maintenance, including cleaning the air filters and other system parts.  We’re here to help you with anything related to air conditioning service in Sydney, from keeping your aircon working efficiently to ensuring you get the comfort you expect in your home.

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