Where Can You Legally Dispose of an Air Filter?

Where Can You Legally Dispose of an Air Filter?

The air filter used in your AC unit is one of the most important parts of its system.

Typically made from spun fiberglass, the air filter cleans the air that enters into the AC before circulating it through both your heating and cooling system. When dirty, you’ll be glad to know that your AC air filters can be disposed of with your regular trash, although we suggest a specific way to do this (below).

Why Is The AC Air Filter So Important?

The main reason the AC unit’s air filter is so important is that it traps a wide variety of particulates and contaminants that are bad for your health, including:

  • Pollen
  • Mold and mold spores
  • Fibers and lin
  • Bacteria
  • Microorganisms
  • Hair and animal fur
  • Pet Dander
  • Dust mites
  • Mildew
  • Fine dirt and particulates

AC Air Filters Can’t Be Recycled or Reused

As we mentioned, AC air filters are usually made with fiberglass, which can’t be processed at a recycling plant.

Also, there aren’t any exchange programs for AC filters and, once they’re contaminated (dirty), they can’t be reused. That, unfortunately, leaves you with only one choice: throwing your air filter in the garbage.

How To Throw Away You AC Air Filter

Although it’s not exactly great for the environment, it’s perfectly legal to throw your AC air filter in with your regular garbage. We suggest that you do it in a specific manner, however:

  1. First, you’ll need a plastic bag large enough to fit your air filter completely. Make sure that there are no holes in the bag before you start. (You can use a paper bag, but they tend to puncture easily. Plus, air filters are quite large and usually won’t fit in a regular paper bag from the grocery store.)
  2. Next, place your air filter into the plastic bag and either tie it tightly or tape it shut to keep dust and other gunk from coming out.
  3. We suggest you then put your used, bagged AC air filter into your large garbage can outside. The last thing you want is for the plastic bag to puncture inside your home. You can also store it in your garage until trash day if you like.

About Texas Air Repair

Changing your old, dirty AC air filter and replacing it with a new one is straightforward and easy. Other types of problems aren’t so easy, however.

If you believe your AC unit is having mechanical problems, you should call the AC experts, Texas Air Repair. They can diagnose the issue, tell you precisely what’s wrong, and advise you on what needs to be repaired or replaced.

Don’t let your AC struggle while your energy bills double. Call the AC repair experts at Texas Air Repair today, or leave your name and contact info below. One of our friendly reps will get back to you right away.

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Texas Air Repair offers air conditioning, heating, and indoor air quality services to residential and commercial customers in San Antonio, TX & the surrounding areas with their 25+ years of experience.

 

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About Us

Texas Air Repair offers air conditioning, heating, and indoor air quality services to residential and commercial customers in San Antonio, TX & the surrounding areas with their 25+ years of experience.