Cleaning the filter is really simple. Just rinse it under running water to remove dirt, dust, or debris trapped in the filter. When necessary, turn the filter upside down to clean all sides. Reusable air filters are made of more durable materials and should be washed every one to three months.
This will help remove accumulated dust, irritants, and contaminants. It's important to know which type of filter you're using. In addition to disposable, there are washable electrostatic and electronic oven cleaners. These filters should be cleaned regularly. For electrostatic filters, it is recommended to clean them every 30-90 days.
It's a good idea to inspect the filter at least every 30 days to see if it's dirty. These polyester and cotton filters will trap fine particles such as dust and allergens, and you won't be able to clean them like you would with a disposable filter. Oven filters can be disposable (with cardboard frames) or permanent (with fiberglass or metal structure).If you submerged a disposable filter with water and washed it with a hose, it would ruin the filter, since they are not made to withstand such abuse. The air filter is designed to protect both the mechanical components of your oven and the indoor air quality of your home from airborne particles.
Washing your oven filter monthly or even weekly if desired is possible, depending on individual dust and dirt levels. You can go to an allergy or DIY supply site or you can go to typical online shopping networks and find washable oven filters. All you have to do is remove the filter from the oven, rinse off the dust and allow it to dry completely before putting it back in the oven. Reusable filters are commonly treated with an electrostatic coating so that fine dust particles are attracted to the filter. Clean the filter thoroughly with the garden hose and you will see a lot of dust and dirt fall from the filter. Most washable filters last at least ten years, so it should be OK to plan accordingly and gently care for your washable filter when you wash it. You can also contact customer service or your local HVAC contractor, and they will help you determine what filter size you should order for your specific oven.
Keep in mind that this is a one-time expense compared to replacing your oven filter on a monthly basis, so it's still a good deal, even if it seems a little high at first. Permanent filters are more expensive upfront, but they can save you money in the long run because you can clean them instead of replacing them.
