Don't worry — it's easier than it looks. Choose your air conditioner type below and we'll walk you through it one simple step at a time.
You don't need to know the model number. Just choose the type that looks most like the air conditioner in your home.
Please turn your air conditioner OFF. If you need a ladder, make sure it is stable and someone is nearby. If the filter is too high, difficult to reach or you're not comfortable doing it yourself, please stop and contact us.
This is the easiest type to clean. In most wall-mounted systems, the filters sit directly behind the front cover.
Use your remote control and switch the air conditioner off. Wait until the indoor fan has completely stopped.
Stand in front of the indoor unit.
Place your fingers underneath the lower edge of the front panel, usually near the left and right sides.
Gently lift the panel upwards. It should open without much force.
Once the cover is open, you should see one or two large mesh screens.
These are your air filters.
Gently lift the bottom of each filter slightly and slide it towards you.
Take the filter outside if possible.
Use a vacuum cleaner on a low setting to gently remove dust, fluff and pet hair.
For lightly dusty filters, this may be all you need.
If your filter is a washable mesh filter, rinse it gently using cool or lukewarm water.
You normally don't need strong cleaning chemicals.
Shake off excess water and leave the filter somewhere shaded with good airflow.
Wait until it is completely dry.
Slide the clean, dry filters back into the same tracks they came from.
Make sure they sit flat and aren't bent.
Gently close the front panel.
Done! ✓
Don't clean every ceiling vent. The filter is normally located behind the large return-air grille.
Look at your ceiling.
You'll probably see several smaller air vents throughout your home. Leave those alone.
You're looking for the much larger grille, usually located in a hallway or central area of the home.
Before opening the return-air grille, turn your ducted air conditioner OFF at the wall controller.
Wait until the system has completely stopped before touching the filter or grille.
Look for the clips or catches along the edge of the large return-air grille.
Release them gently while supporting the grille with your other hand. The grille should slowly swing down.
If it is a washable mesh-style filter, vacuum the dust first and gently rinse it if required.
Let it dry completely before reinstalling.
Prefer to follow along? Watch our simple step-by-step video showing you how to remove, clean and reinstall your ducted air conditioning filter.
A clean filter helps maintain good airflow and keeps your system working efficiently — especially before summer.
Not sure if your filter is washable?
If your filter looks like thick paper, cardboard or pleated fabric,
do not wash it. Check the manufacturer's instructions or contact us first.
Not every air conditioning filter should be washed. This is important.
Disposable filters often look thicker than washable mesh filters and may have pleated paper or fabric material inside a frame.
Water can damage this type of filter. It should be replaced with the correct size and specification instead.
Have a quick look every few months and clean it when you can see a noticeable build-up of dust.
Check more frequently. Pet hair and dust can build up surprisingly quickly.
Check before and during periods when your air conditioner is being used frequently.
Your filter is only one part of the system. A professional service checks the parts you can't easily see or clean yourself.
Please contact us if you notice:
Cleaning your filter is great regular maintenance, but it doesn't replace a professional air conditioning service.
If your system is dirty inside, has poor airflow, smells unusual or isn't performing properly, it's time to have it professionally checked.
Take a clear photo of your air conditioner and filter and send it to our team. We'll help point you in the right direction.