I get it – cleaning the AC air filter is probably not top of mind when you think about RVing. I’ve chatted with quite a few fellow travelers and was surprised to learn that many didn’t know they were supposed to clean it or that it was so easy to do. So today, I’m here to walk you through the process. Trust me, it’s quick, simple, and will make a big difference in your comfort on the road.
Why Clean Your AC Filter?
Your AC filter catches all the dust, pollen, and other airborne particles, keeping the air inside your RV clean and fresh. Over time, it gets clogged, reducing the efficiency of your air conditioner and potentially leading to unpleasant smells. Regular cleaning not only prolongs the life of your AC but also ensures a healthier environment for you and your travel companions.
We have an Rpod192 and it comes standard with the Dometic Universal Distribution Box, but the principals are the same for most RV air conditioning units.
If you’re more of a visual person, here’s a video of me cleaning our RV AC filter:
What You’ll Need:
- A screwdriver (if your AC unit requires it)
- A soft brush or cloth
- Mild soap or dish detergent
- Your sink/running water, or a bucket of warm water
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Turn Off the Air Conditioner: Yes, I know. It’s tough to turn off the AC when it’s blazing hot outside (and, in my case, six months pregnant). But safety first! Make sure your AC unit is turned off.
2. Access the Filter: Depending on your AC model, you might need a screwdriver to remove the cover. In most cases, you’ll find the filter right behind the grille. Carefully remove it and take a moment to inspect the condition. If it’s looking particularly grimy, a good cleaning is definitely in order.
3. Remove Loose Dust and Debris: Using a soft brush, or a wipe, gently remove any loose dust and debris from the filter. This initial step will make the washing process much easier.
4. Clean the Filter Housing: Before washing the filter, I like to take a Clorox wipe and give the inside of the housing a nice wipe down. If you’re living in your RV full-time, do this maybe once a month, or more often if you’re in a dusty area. It’s amazing how much dirt, dust, and even hair (both mine and my husband’s!) can accumulate.
5. Wash the Filter: Rinse the filter in the sink or bucket, and use mild soap or dish detergent. Gently submerge the filter and use your hands to swish it around, making sure all the dirt is removed. Avoid using harsh chemicals or scrubbing too hard, as this could damage the filter.
6. Rinse and Dry: Once you’re satisfied that the filter is clean, rinse it thoroughly with fresh water to remove any soap residue. I like to use our sink sprayer for a good rinse. Make sure your sink drain is plugged to catch all the dust and dirt (you don’t want that in your pipes!). Let it dry for a bit.
7. Reinstall the Filter: Once the filter is completely dry, place it back in the air conditioner and secure the cover. Double-check that everything is properly in place.
8. Turn On the Air Conditioner: Enjoy the cool, fresh air flowing through your RV, knowing that you’ve done a great job maintaining your system.
Cleaning your RV air conditioner indoor filter might not be the most exciting task, but it’s a simple and essential part of RV maintenance. Plus, there’s a certain satisfaction in knowing that you’re taking good care of your mobile home. If you’re in a hot area, this task becomes even more critical. I noticed that once we clean this out, we get way less condensation, which is a huge plus.
Now, if your AC still has a lot of condensation or isn’t working well after a good filter clean – there may be an issue up top on the roof, and that’s for another blog post — which hopefully I’ll get to when it’s not so hot outside!
Do you have any RV maintenance tips? I’d love to hear them! Drop a comment below and share your own experiences.
