Common Malfunctions and Cleaning Instructions for Air Filters

Air filter Common Fault Symptoms Caused by Blockage

① Poor cooling and heating performance of the air conditioner: The filter is clogged, resulting in low air outlet temperature from the indoor unit during cooling, but the airflow does not extend far; indoor air circulation is slow, the area around the indoor unit remains cool while the room temperature stays high—similar to the effect of a fan running at a low speed.
② Clogging of the drip tray (for cabinet and wall-mounted units): When the filter is clogged, dust accumulates on the evaporator surface through the gaps and is carried by the condensate into the drip tray. Over time, the drip tray becomes blocked, leading to water leakage from the indoor unit.
③ Evaporator blockage (cabinet-type units): For example, in a barbershop that uses a cabinet-type unit, if the air filter becomes clogged, hair strands can be drawn in by the fan and blown onto the back of the evaporator, leading to blockage. Even after cleaning the air filter, the evaporator itself will still need to be cleaned. Similarly, when cabinet-type units are used in public spaces during winter, dust is easily sucked in by the fan and deposited on the back of the evaporator, causing blockage as well.
④ Blockage of fan blades (in cabinets and wall-mounted units): Dust clogs the filter, causing the fan motor to run while dust adheres to the blades, reducing the blade spacing. This results in decreased airflow, increased noise, and unstable air output at the outlet.
⑤ Heating overload, no defrosting: The air filter is clogged, causing the evaporator surface temperature to rise excessively during heating. After detection by the main board, the heating duration is extended, leading to severe frost buildup on the condenser and eventual shutdown of the outdoor fan.
⑥ Freezing and ice formation: The filter is clogged, causing the evaporator temperature to drop during freezing. After a motherboard diagnostic, the system activates freeze-protection mode, halting operation and stopping the freezing process.
⑦ Indoor unit water leakage: The filter is clogged, causing the evaporator temperature to drop during cooling. If the control board lacks refrigerant-flow and freeze protection, the evaporator will ice up, resulting in water leakage from the indoor unit.

Daily Cleaning

After a period of use, the air conditioner’s air filter, evaporator, and air distribution system accumulate substantial amounts of dust and dirt, fostering the growth of numerous bacteria and viruses. As indoor air circulates, these harmful contaminants can pollute the air, facilitate the spread of disease, and pose serious risks to human health. Moreover, accumulated grime reduces the air conditioner’s cooling efficiency, increases energy consumption, and shortens its service life. Therefore, it is essential to clean the air conditioner after a certain period of operation or when it is shut down for seasonal changes. This practice will help ensure a healthy, fresh indoor air environment.

1. First, remove the air filter according to the instructions. When disassembling, be careful not to touch the metal parts of the indoor unit to avoid scratches.
2. After removing the air filter screen, gently tap it or use an electric vacuum cleaner to remove dust. If the filter screen is heavily soiled, it may be rinsed with water or cleaned with a soft brush dipped in a neutral detergent; however, the water temperature must not exceed 50°C, and detergents such as laundry powder, dishwashing liquid, gasoline, or turpentine must not be used to prevent deformation of the air filter. In addition, do not use a sponge for cleaning, as this may damage the surface of the filter screen.
3. After rinsing thoroughly with clean water, wipe dry with a soft cloth or allow to air-dry in a cool, shaded area. Do not expose the air filter to direct sunlight or dry it over an open flame, such as a stove, to prevent deformation.
4. When cleaning the panel, gently wipe it with a soft cloth dampened with warm water or a neutral detergent, then dry it thoroughly with a dry, soft cloth.