A dirty air filter can certainly have an effect on the cooling capacity of your car's air conditioner, and if left unchecked, it can cause strain on the entire system. It's not uncommon for a clogged cabin air filter to cause unpleasant odors when you turn on the AC, as well as a decrease in the quality of the air conditioner. When the air filter is dirty, the air conditioning unit has difficulty operating efficiently, leading to parts working harder than usual and breaking before their time. This can result in costly repairs and even having to replace the unit before its normal 10-15 year lifespan.
It's important to note that you should get your air filters from a factory authorized dealer, rather than one-size-fits-all filters from a hardware store. Additionally, it's recommended that you change your engine and cabin air filters once a year or every 15,000 miles. A dirty air filter restricts the flow of cold air, causing it to build up inside the air conditioner and lower the internal temperature. If your air conditioner uses a reusable air filter, you don't have to buy a new filter every time you maintain the air conditioner.
To clean the reusable air filter, you must remove it from the AC unit safely and rinse it in a tub or sink with warm water. The air filter is essential for keeping your car running smoothly, so if you don't replace it immediately, you may end up having to pay for costly repairs or even replacing your AC unit early. To keep your AC running efficiently for longer, there are many ways to maintain it properly. If your AC has a reusable filter, make sure to handle it with care so that it can keep your AC running at peak efficiency.
