How do you clean an electronic furnace filter?

Question

The furnace is making a constant crackling sound when it runs. On the electronic furnace filter box it says it will arc occasionally but if it arcs continuously then the filter needs cleaning. My dad used to clean it by soaking it in something but he has passed away so now I don't know what to do about it or what chemical if any to use. Please help.

Answer 1

I have no idea what he "soaked it in" it shouldn't need "soaking" only a wipe with a soft wet cloth like a terry cloth . The arc you hear is an electric arc from static electricity shorting through the filter. Make sure up turn anything off first, then try wiping. If this doesn't work, call the company that makes it. There should be a name somewhere on it.
This is a type of 'Osmosis system" which is an static electric system. Easy wiping is what they're noted for.

Answer 2

You need to remove the grime that has accumulated. A dilute detergent solution will do it, followed by a thorough rinsing. Use a detergent that doesn't have any additives, like Free Clear All. Or you can buy a solution made especially for this purpose if you'd rather spend a little more money:

http://www.natlallergy.com/prod/1289/nu-stat-cleaner-for-permanent-furnace-filters.html

Answer 3

We had some large commercial type ones that we use to take to the carwash. I also had some that were small enough to fit in the dishwasher. Be careful of the fine wires that are woven into the apparatus.

Answer 4

best thing is spray house hold cleaner and rinse off. light film on plates dont bother operation. most likely cracking is high voltage arking, if plates on cells get bent too close together. look for burnt or arking spot . maybe contacts are worn. Honeywell cells wear on bars that touch metal plates. a repair kit is available or new cells

Answer 5

Take it out into the yard and wash it with the garden hose. Electrostatic filters don't require anything else. Let it dry and then re-install.