From the team at Direct Point Heating & Cooling – Melbourne

Your air conditioner might look like it’s working fine, but if the filters haven’t been cleaned lately, you could be losing up to 30% of your system’s cooling power without realising it.

Dirty filters are one of the most common reasons for reduced airflow, higher energy bills, and poor indoor air quality. And while it might seem like a basic job, there’s a right and wrong way to do it.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the proper way to clean your filters, why regular maintenance matters, and when it’s time to bring in a professional for a full system clean.

Why Filter Cleaning Is So Important

Air conditioner filters are designed to catch dust, allergens, and other particles before they reach the air you breathe. But over time, they get clogged — and that puts pressure on your system, reduces airflow, and can even cause mould to build up inside.

Regular cleaning helps to:

• Improve system efficiency
• Reduce energy consumption
• Extend the life of your air conditioner
• Maintain better indoor air quality

Ignoring it could mean higher running costs, more breakdowns, and air that’s not as healthy for your family.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Aircon Filter

Step 1: Turn Off and Unplug the Unit

Always turn off the power before you begin. For wall-mounted split systems, switch off at the wall and unplug the unit. If your system is hardwired, turn off the dedicated circuit at your switchboard.

Step 2: Carefully Remove the Filter

Open the front panel of your indoor unit. Gently slide out the filter, being careful not to bend it or damage the mesh. Some units have clips or latches that need to be released first.

Step 3: Wash the Filter with Mild Soap

Fill a tub or sink with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild detergent. Let the filter soak, then use a soft brush to gently remove any built-up dust or grime. Avoid harsh chemicals or scrubbing too hard.

Step 4: Dry the Filter Completely

Shake off excess water and allow the filter to air dry in a well-ventilated area, out of direct sunlight. Do not reinstall a damp filter, as this can cause mould and bacteria to grow.

Step 5: Reinstall and Test the System

Once the filter is dry, slide it back into place, close the panel, and turn your system back on. Check that the airflow feels strong and consistent.

Is DIY Enough?

While regular filter cleaning is essential, it only addresses the surface. Your air conditioner also needs professional attention to remove:

• Dust and mould build-up inside the fan and coils
• Blockages in drain trays and internal components
• Efficiency loss caused by dirty or damaged parts

At Direct Point Heating & Cooling, we offer full system cleans and servicing that go beyond the basics.
Our technicians service both indoor and outdoor units, ensuring every part of your system is working as it should.

How Often Should You Clean Your Filters?

Here’s a general guide:

• Standard household use: Every 2–3 months
• Allergy-sensitive households or pets: Monthly
• Commercial spaces or high-usage systems: Monthly or more

We also recommend professional servicing at least once a year to keep your system running efficiently and prevent costly breakdowns.

Why Book a Professional Aircon Clean?

A full service includes:

• Thorough cleaning of filters, fans, coils, and drain trays
• Checking refrigerant levels and system performance
• Inspecting and cleaning the outdoor compressor
• Identifying any wear or potential failures early

Most people only clean the filters — but the real performance issues usually sit deeper in the system. That’s where we come in.

Book Your Air Conditioner Clean with Direct Point

Cleaning your filters is a great first step. But for long-term performance, energy savings, and peace of mind, regular professional maintenance is the key.

We service all major brands: Daikin, Fujitsu

And all cooling systems across Melbourne, including:

• Wall-mounted split systems
• Multi-head units
• Ducted refrigerated systems
• Evaporative cooling systems

Call Direct Point Heating & Cooling on 1300 170 961 or email us at info@directpointheatingandcooling.com.au