Has anyone else noticed that it’s been pretty hot this summer? As such, your air conditioner is probably getting quite the workout. But it’s important to make sure you’re getting the most out of it as you can so it can do its very best to cool you down instead of just running up your electric bill. That goes for your dehumidifier as well. One easy way to optimize those appliances? Cleaning out your dirty filters.

Our elder, wiser siblings over at Consumer Reports know all about what you need to do during cooling season. For those with central air conditioning, get in touch with your contractor for a lesson on how to change filters. Energy Star recommends that filters be inspected, cleaned or changed every month during the cooling season, or when you feel your system is losing its touch.

Window air conditioners can be handled on your own, but some filters are easier than others to change. You might need to clean them every few weeks during the peak season as well. Remove debris with a vacuum and then wash the filter in warm, soapy water. Make sure they’re completely dry before reinstalling them.

While you have the filter out, check for damages and replace if needed. Then take a look at the surface of the evaporator coil, which you should be able to see with the filter removed. Gently remove dust or debris from it, being careful not to deform the soft fins while using an upholstery-brush attachment to vacuum the coils.

Dehumidifiers also suffer from dirty filters. Most of those can be removed easily and cleaned in just a few minutes — so don’t forget about them while they’re out of sight down in the basement. A clean filter will enhance your dehumidifier’s performance during the muggiest weather.

Dirty air conditioner filters can make you lose your cool [Consumer Reports]

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