How to Change the Filter on a Window Air Conditioner

How about some very detailed steps and pictures for changing the filter in your window air conditioner? Learn by watching Mom.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A smallish broom for Mom's "Type A" re-usable screen filters
• A whole new sheet filter for Mom's "Type B" disposable filters that use a gray sponge sheet. Available in places such as Walmart, in the aisle with the fans and air conditioners usually

1. 

   First, turn off the air conditioner. Then, unplug the air conditioner power cord from its outlet. That way when you plug it back in, it won't try to come on instantly.
   
   OK, now we will discuss "Type A" filters first, and then "Type B." The picture in the top of this article shows one kind of Type A, which is a slide-up. There is also another Type A, which is shown in the next step.

2. 

   Type A here - see steps below for Type B. Look over the front of your air conditioner. There is a panel which hides the filter. The panel may be hinged, or just pressed on from the front and can be pulled off completely by just pulling toward you. You may have to squeeze some tabs - look around. In other cases, the filter is a rigid sheet that slides up and down from the top, and all you have to do is just lift it out. Newer A/Cs tend to have this kind.

3. 

   Still on Type A here - take the filter outside and sweep it off with your smallish broom. Paper towels also sometimes work but may take longer. Be prepared for some dust - wear a mask if dust doesn't agree with you. Some people prefer to vacuum these, but I think I get about 90% this way, and it's just going to pick up more dust anyhow. Put the filter back in its housing when clean.

4. 

   Now for Type B, which is a gray sponge type filter found in older model air conditioners. Pop off the front cover (probably will have to squeeze the sides of the front panel toward the center, or the top of the panel may need to be squeezed downward). In some cases, you may actually have to unscrew a couple of small screws to get the front panel off. Now you will see the old dirty foam filter.

5. 

   Still on Type B - Carefully remove the old dirty filter from the little metal tabs that are poking through the sponge.

6. 

   Still on Type B - Using the old filter as a template, cut a new filter from the sheet of new sponge. Work it onto the little metal tabs. Replace the front cover. Throw the old filter away.

7. 

   Sweep or wipe off the front cover. You'd be surprised how much dirt accumulates.
   
   Now, you can plug the unit back in and turn the A/C back on. Ahhh, coolness! Can you tell how much more air is flowing? This is good to do about once every month or so in summer. If your Mom has window air conditioners, be helpful and change hers too. Such a good kid!

[femwriter]

on 9/23/2009 What a helpful article on how to change the filter on a window air conditioner. Thanks for sharing this information, 5* plus recommendation.