How to clean your AC filter – Saki Corporation

Regularly cleaning your air conditioner’s filter helps improve air quality, reduce electricity use, and prevent water leakage or weak airflow.
This guide explains how to clean your AC filter safely, when to request professional cleaning, and how to submit a maintenance request.

🧽 Why Cleaning Your AC Filter Is Important

Over time, dust and debris build up inside the air conditioner’s filter.
This causes:

Reduced cooling or heating power
Higher electricity bills
Bad odors or possible water leakage

💡 Tip: Clean your AC filter every 2–3 weeks during regular use — especially in Okinawa’s humid weather.

🧾 Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your AC Filter

Follow these basic steps, similar to those recommended in Japan Mobility’s Basic Aircon Functions Guide :

1. Turn Off the AC and Unplug It

For safety, always turn off the unit and unplug it before cleaning.

2. Open the Front Panel

Gently lift the front cover of your indoor unit. It usually clicks open easily.
You’ll see one or two mesh filters inside.

3. Remove the Filters

Carefully pull out the filters from both sides of the unit.
Avoid bending or forcing them — they are lightweight and fragile.

4. Vacuum or Rinse the Filters

Use a vacuum cleaner to remove surface dust, or
Rinse gently with lukewarm water only (no soap or chemicals).
Shake off excess water and let them dry completely in the shade.

⚠️ Do not dry filters under direct sunlight or with a hairdryer — it may cause them to deform.

5. Clean the Exterior Panel

Use a soft, slightly damp cloth to wipe the outer cover.
Avoid spraying cleaning products directly onto the unit.

6. Reinstall the Filters

Once fully dry, place the filters back into the unit and close the front cover securely.

🧰 Self-Cleaning vs. Professional AC Cleaning

Type	Description	Recommended Frequency	Who Performs It
Self-Cleaning (Filter Cleaning)	Regular dust removal from the mesh filter only. Keeps airflow smooth and prevents small issues.	Every 2–3 weeks	Tenant
Professional AC Cleaning	Deep internal cleaning of coils, fins, drain lines, and fan using specialized equipment and chemicals. Removes mold, odor, and bacteria.	Once or twice per year	Licensed Technician

💡 Even if you clean your filters regularly, professional cleaning is essential to maintain performance and prevent mold buildup inside the unit.

🧾 When to Request Professional Cleaning

Request a professional AC cleaning if you notice any of the following:

Weak airflow even after filter cleaning
Bad smell when the AC starts
Water dripping from the unit
Visible dust or black spots inside the vent

Professional cleaning includes:

Internal coil and fan cleaning
Drain line flushing
Full system check

📞 How to Request Professional AC Cleaning

You can submit a cleaning request directly through our Help Center.

🔗 Submit a request directly online: Submit an AC Deep Cleaning Request