Air filters have an important role in every air conditioning system. They filter the incoming air and remove the dust, molds, dirt, allergens, and animal and human hair from it.
Are you wondering if air conditioner filters are recyclable or not? If yes, keep reading.
In this article, we will tell you if air conditioner filters are recyclable or not & how can you recycle air conditioner filters. You’ll get all your answers here.
What are recyclable air conditioner filters?
There are two types of air conditioner filters out there; recyclable air conditioner filters and disposable air conditioner filters.
Recyclable air conditioner filters are those which can be either recycled or reused again and again. For example, some air conditioner filters are washable. You can wash them and place them back in the air conditioner.
Disposable air conditioner filters are meant for single use only. Once you have used them, you cannot use them again. You will have to dispose of them.
That’s the difference between both. Is ac filter same as cabin filter?
Can you recycle air conditioner filters?
It depends upon the type of air conditioner filters that you are using. Let’s find it out.
Can you recycle a disposable air conditioner filter?
No, you cannot.
Disposable air conditioner filters are made of polyesters, woven fibers, fiberglass, etc. These materials are very difficult to recycle. So, the recycling centers will probably not accept air conditioner filters made from such materials.
Moreover, a disposable air conditioner filter has absorbed a lot of toxic particles and chemicals present in the air. Thus, it is unsafe to recycle such an object. It will put the health of people at risk.
Therefore, you are always recommended to throw disposable air conditioner filters in the garbage.
Can you recycle washable air conditioner filters?
Yes, washable air conditioner filters can be recycled and reused.
Washable air conditioner filters are made from solid aluminum or plastic. You can remove these filters from the air conditioner and wash them with soap and water. Once they are clean & dry, you can place them back in the AC. That’s how you can reuse them for several years.
How to recycle air conditioner filters?
Here are some top ideas on how to recycle air conditioner filters:
1. Call a local HVAC supplier or company
Gather the contact details of all the local HVAC companies or suppliers in your area.
Call them and ask if they will accept used air conditioner filters from you. The used filters might be useful for them.
They can recycle the material to make new air conditioner filters.
2. Call your local recycling centers
You can also contact your local recycling centers, tell them about the type of air conditioner filter you have, and inquire if they are willing to accept it from you.
3. Purchase washable air conditioner filters
Disposable air conditioner filters are not recyclable because they are made from material that is difficult to recycle. Plus, they are toxic and unsafe for health.
You should purchase washable air conditioner filters instead. They are made from solid plastic or aluminum.
Those filters can be washed again and again. You can clean them at any time and place them back in the air conditioner. They might be a bit expensive but they have good efficiency and can be used for many years.
What to do with old air conditioner filters?
If the old air conditioner filter is disposable, then the best solution is to place it in the garbage.
The reason is that the air filter has absorbed a lot of toxic particles and chemicals from the air. Recycling such toxic objects would put the health of other people at risk.
Moreover, disposable air conditioner filters are difficult to recycle because they are made from unrecyclable materials like woven fibers, polyesters, and fiberglass.
But if the old air conditioner filter is washable, you can wash and reuse it as long as it is in a working conditioner. After that, you will have to dispose of it off.
How do I dispose of a dirty air conditioner filter?
If your air conditioner filter is not recyclable, the last solution is to dispose of it.
However, you cannot just throw the filter in the garbage. There’s a process you need to follow.
Here’s what you need to do:
1. Remove the air conditioner filters
Read the instructions given on the user manual guide of your AC and carefully remove the air conditioner filters.
Do not shake the filters or you will spread the dust and other harmful particles in your house.
2. Place them in a plastic bag
Take a plastic bag equal to the size of the air conditioner filters.
Now gently place the air conditioner filters inside the plastic bag.
Avoid shaking the filters while putting them in the plastic bag because you spread the toxic chemicals and particles in your house.
Containing the air conditioner filters in a plastic bag will ensure that the contaminated particles do not spread around.
3. Tape the plastic bag
Take some sticky tape and apply it to the plastic bag containing your air conditioner filters.
It will help you completely seal the plastic bag so all the debris is confined inside the bag.
4. Place in the trash can
In the end, pick up the plastic bag containing air filters and place it in the trash can outside.
Your job is done!
Can AC filters be reused?
Yes, there are washable AC filters that can be reused.
Washable air conditioner filters are made from plastic or aluminum. They can be washed and used again and again for several years.
Washable air conditioner filters might be a bit expensive. But they are easy to clean, offer great efficiency, and have a longer life as compared to the disposable air filters.
Is it good to recycle the air conditioner filters?
If the air conditioner filters are disposable, it is not a good idea to recycle them. Here’s why:
1. They are toxic
Air filters trap and absorb tons of toxic particles and chemicals present in the air. They become toxic.
Therefore, recycling such toxic material won’t be safe for the health of other people.
2. Difficult to recycle
Disposable AC filters are difficult to recycle because they are made from unrecyclable materials like woven fibers, fiberglass, and polyesters.
Recycle centers will not accept these materials.
