In order to maintain your RV Air Conditioner in good working order, there is some necessary maintenance. Filter cleaning is the most important step.

You can learn How to clean your RV Air Conditioner Filter in just five easy stages, along with basic maintenance advice and answers to the most often asked problems.

We can begin now, shall we?

An RV Air Conditioner Filter Must Be Cleaned Regularly

In order to cool a room, an air conditioning machine draws warm air from the outside in via an intake port.

Dust, pollution, allergies, and other particulates are all carried in by the outside air. Even in the purest alpine air, dust and pollen may still be found.

A camper’s air conditioner filters are designed to keep the most unwelcome items from entering the vehicle with the chilly air. These micro-particles accumulate in the filter while it performs its function. Inevitably, there will be a breaking point for the screen.

If the filter is never cleaned, it might lead to one of two outcomes.

  1. Air cannot get through the screen because it is so jammed. Weak and inefficient air conditioner flow is the result.
  2. It’s also possible that the filter isn’t completely blocked but has grown saturated to the point where it can no longer keep out the undesired items. Your RV Air Conditioner is still working, but it’s pumping dirty air into it.

Neither of these options is good for your health or the ductwork or the air conditioner in your RV when you don’t maintain your air conditioner filter.

It is possible to expect an accumulation of particles in your ductwork.

At the very worst, it might cause the AC unit to break down or worsen health conditions such as allergies or asthma.

Read more: Solar Power for RV Air Conditioner: Is It Possible?

RV Air Conditioner Filter Cleaning Steps

Note that only washable filters may be used with these instructions.

If you’re using one-time-use filters, make sure to review the information in the FAQs section below.

If you decide to take these measures, please disregard them.

#1. Set Up The Air Conditioning Unit

Begin by turning off the air conditioner and unplugging its power supply. Remove the filter’s cover to reveal it. Avoid injury and damage by being cautious while removing the screen.

Removing the filter is different depending on the type of your RV, so make sure you check your owner’s handbook first.

While the air filter is out, avoid turning on the air conditioning. This may cause serious harm to your air conditioner and lead to a buildup of dirt in your vehicle.

#2. Clean the filter using a vacuum.

Suction is used in a vacuum cleaner to loosen and remove the filter’s particles. Avoid damaging the screen with excessive suction. Find the screen’s “sweet spot” of force that accomplishes the task without causing any more issues. ‘

A vacuum cleaner may be all that is needed to clean your air filter at times. Remove it if there isn’t much of a buildup on your screen following this procedure.

A more comprehensive method may be necessary for unclean filters and those that haven’t had regular maintenance. Please continue the subsequent steps if that’s your filter.

#3. The Filter Must Be Soaked And Scrubbed

Warm water and a light detergent should be used to clean your RV’s Air Conditioner Filter. Submerge the screen for at least 10-15 minutes for optimal effects. Use your RV’s shower or a huge bucket as a substitute.

In certain cases, cleaning dirty filters is a need. They’ll be able to stay in the solution for a longer period of time, maybe for a few hours. You may use a soft brush, such as a toothbrush, to remove the dirt and grime from the filter, but be careful not to damage the fibers of the screen.

Rinse the filter after you are pleased with its cleanliness. In order to thoroughly clean your RV’s detachable showerhead (or a hose) and remove any leftover debris, use your RV’s showerhead.

#4. Prevent Bacterial Growth With A Vinegar Solution

Natural antibacterial cleaner that doesn’t harm the fresh air supply of your RV may be made with this mixture.

Directions

  1. Fill a spray bottle halfway with vinegar and the rest with water, then shake to combine.
  2. Wait around 15 minutes after spraying the vinegar solution on both sides of the filter.
  3. To avoid the scent of vinegar when you power on your RV again, rinse the screen a second time.

#5. Finally, reinstall the filter after it is completely dry.

There are large, dense fibers in Air Conditioner Filters. As a consequence, drying the filter might take several hours.

Allowing the filter to dry in the sun can help destroy germs and speed up the drying process..

As soon as you’ve cleaned and dried the filter, gently put it back into place. The electricity should be reconnected once you replace the Air Conditioner Cover. Then it’s time to switch on your Air Conditioning again!

Read more: 8 Best RV Air Conditioners (Review and Buying Guide)

How to clean RV Air Conditioner coils and filters – National RV Training Academy

Maintenance of the Air Conditioner Filter in Your RV on a Regular Basis

RV Air Conditioner repairs may be avoided with regular A/C filter cleaning, which is why it is important to do so.

Cleaning your air conditioner filter every two weeks is generally recommended by the manufacturers.

This would require cleaning the screen every other month for those who only travel on weekends. The air filter must be cleaned on a regular basis if you want to travel for an extended period of time or reside in a motor home.

Asthma sufferers and those with other health concerns can want further cleaning. Instead of dreading your trip, spend some time cleaning the vent screen.

Read more: Top 5 RV Air Conditioner Issues and How to Fix Them

RV Air Conditioner Filter Replacement

Replace the filter if it exhibits indications of wear and tear. ‘ As you would assume, a clogged filter does nothing to keep contaminants out of your home’s air supply.

Replace the screen as soon as you observe any signs of deterioration, such as peeling paint.

RV Air Conditioner Filter Cleaning FAQs

Is it possible to clean a disposable filter?

No. Filters intended for single usage are called single-use filters. Do not try to clean them and put them back into use.

Once it’s been washed, a disposable filter will lose its efficiency and may not function properly when it’s replaced.

Spend no time or put your family’s health at danger. Instead, replace the filter on your car.

Is There a Way to Prevent My Air Conditioner’s Filter from Accumulating Dirt?

The filter of your air conditioner will get more clogged the more you use it. Reduce the airflow across the screen to avoid excessive accumulation.

Do not use your air conditioner until you absolutely must if you are worried about the cleanliness of your filter.

You may reduce the amount of debris in your air filter by running your cooling system at a lower pressure.

Even if you only use the filter a few times a year, it will accumulate particles and need regular cleaning.

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Written by Bob Matsuoka
Bob Matsuoka is a blogger and founder of RVing Beginner blog. He has been blogging for over five years, writing about his own family’s RV adventures, tips for people who are interested in buying an RV or taking their family on an adventure by RV.