A few days ago, I noticed my aircon was leaking again. At first, I thought it was a clogged drain line, but after inspecting it, I realized my air filter was completely covered in dust! A dirty or clogged air filter can cause your aircon to freeze up, leading to leaks when the ice melts. So, I decided to clean and replace my air filter. If you’re dealing with the same issue, here’s exactly what I did to fix it.
Why a Dirty Air Filter Can Cause Leaks
The air filter traps dust, dirt, and debris to keep the aircon running efficiently. But if the filter gets clogged, it restricts airflow, causing the evaporator coil to get too cold and freeze over. When the ice melts, excess water can drip down, making it look like your aircon is leaking.
What I Used (And Where to Get It)
Before starting, I made sure I had everything I needed. Here’s what I used and where I found them:
- New air filter (if replacement is needed) – Bought from my local appliance store (also available online on Amazon and Home Depot).
- Soft brush or vacuum cleaner – Already had at home.
- Mild detergent and warm water – Easily available at home.
- Microfiber cloth or paper towels – Found at a grocery store.
- Rubber gloves – Picked up from a pharmacy to keep my hands clean.
Step-by-Step Guide: How I Cleaned and Replaced My Air Filter
Step 1: Turn Off the Aircon
Before touching anything, I turned off my aircon and unplugged it for safety.
Step 2: Remove the Air Filter
For my window-type aircon, I opened the front panel and gently slid out the filter. If you have a split-type aircon, the air filter is usually located behind the front cover—just lift it up, and you should see it.
Step 3: Inspect the Air Filter
I checked the filter for dust buildup and damage. If your filter looks torn or extremely dirty after cleaning, it’s best to replace it with a new one.
Step 4: Clean the Air Filter
Since my filter was reusable, I followed these steps:
- For light dust: I used a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove the dust.
- For heavy dirt buildup: I mixed warm water with a little mild detergent and gently washed the filter.
- For stubborn grime: I used a soft brush to scrub the filter lightly.
Step 5: Dry the Filter Completely
After washing, I let the filter air-dry completely before putting it back. Using a wet filter can cause mold growth and airflow problems.
Step 6: Reinstall the Air Filter
Once dry, I placed the filter back into its slot and made sure it fit snugly before closing the panel.
Step 7: Turn the Aircon Back On and Test It
I turned my aircon back on and monitored it for leaks. With a clean filter, the airflow was much better, and after a few hours of running, there were no more water drips!
What I Learned (and How to Prevent Future Issues)
After fixing my aircon, I picked up a few useful maintenance tips:
- Clean the air filter every two weeks if you use the aircon frequently.
- Replace the filter every 3–6 months if it’s a disposable type.
- Check airflow regularly—if your aircon isn’t cooling properly, the filter might be clogged.
I was surprised at how such a simple fix made such a big difference. Instead of calling a technician, I saved money and improved my aircon’s efficiency. If your aircon is leaking, check your air filter first—it might be the quick fix you need!
Have you ever cleaned or replaced your aircon filter yourself? Share your experience in the comments!
