When should I change my pollen filter? What is the purpose of the pollen filter? What is the importance cabin air filter Is the pollen filter installed where?
Air-conditioned vehicles have a pollen filter. Also known as cabin filter. It removes pollen, dirt and dust from the air that comes in from the outside. It helps maintain the cleanliness of the air conditioner evaporator. It prevents bacteria from forming that could cause musty odors and provides high efficiency cooling.
Many cabin air filters can also be “combination” filters, which remove odors, carbon and other particles. Combination filters usually have a layer activated carbon, which reacts with chemicals and traps them before entering the cabinet. This filter is also known as the Activated Carbon Pollenfilter. Electrostatically charged fibers can be used to attract dirt and contaminants and make them more effective.
In mid-1980s, Audi and other European luxury vehicles were the first to use cabin air filters. It can be found in more than 80% of new cars today. You can refer to your owner’s manual if you have an air conditioning system to locate the cabin filter.
Replacing the Pollen Filter
The pollen filter may be clogged if you notice a decrease of airflow through the ventilation fans and an increase in noise from them. Other reasons include persistent bad odors.
Some vehicles come with two pollen filters. To make it easier to install and remove filters in tight places, many filters can be folded in their middle.
The HVAC assembly is located behind the glove box. Many cabin air filters can be found in the HVAC unit. For some vehicles, it may be necessary to remove the glove box cover in order to change the filter. This mechanism is available in newer models. It has a slide that allows you to pull the pollen filter.
It is possible to not easily access some pollen filters located under the instrument cluster. It can be found under many vehicles at the base or passenger compartment of the windshield. This is where fresh air enters your air conditioning system. Open the hood to find a removable cover or grill that will allow you to access the filter. You might see “Cabin Filter” written on the cover.
Vehicles that are easily accessible to the filter only take 10 minutes. For other vehicles, the situation may be different. The assembly and disassembly processes can make the process take longer. To access the filter, it may be necessary for the console or glove box to be removed. No special tools are usually required. You must place the filter correctly and seal the housing.
How often should the pollen filter be replaced?
A simple pollen filter will last for two to three years, or 50,000 km depending on the operating conditions. Dusty areas will require more frequent filter replacements.
You should change the combination filters that trap odors every year, or every 25,000km. 12.000 – 15.000 km. Some manufacturers recommend replacing it. Refer to the owner’s manual of your vehicle for recommendations on service intervals.
The pollen filter surfaces can be covered with dirt, leaves, bugs, soot, and branches depending on how long they work.
The pollen filter can be cleaned by you. Once you’ve completed the cleaning, allow the filter to dry. Hot air from a hair dryer can cause damage. After cleaning it, allow it to dry naturally and then put it back into your car. It is better to replace a pollen filter than to clean it.
