While driving, the road conditions, fuel levels, and engine performance play important roles in a smooth and comfortable ride. These are not the only things that matter for a comfortable ride; the air quality inside the car is also important. Imagine driving through an industrial area or city and breathing the air full of toxins, harmful pollutants, and contaminants. But don’t worry, a cabin air filter, a small but important part of your vehicle, ensures your comfort and health by providing the air you breathe is fresh, clean, and free from harmful contaminants. So, what is a cabin air filter, how does it work and why should you care about it? In this blog, you’ll learn about everything that you need to know about cabin air filters.
What Is A Cabin Air Filter?
A cabin air filter is a small pleated filter that is designed to trap the contaminants to prevent them from entering into the vehicle’s HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system). While most drivers are aware of the importance of engine air filters, they often overlook the cabin air filters despite their critical function. The cabin air filters are responsible for filtering out the air that circulates inside the vehicle’s cabin. It acts as a shield between the inside of the car and the outside environment and traps dirt, dust pollens, and other harmful contaminants. This way, they ensure a healthy and comfortable environment inside the car. Also, it protects the passengers from respiratory health issues.
There are two different types of cabin air filters-
- Particulate cabin air filters: These types of filters can only filter out physical particles such as dust, pollen, and other airborne debris.
- Activated carbon filters: Such filters can filter out physical particles, as well as absorb harmful gases like carbon monoxide and ozone.
Apart from cabin air filters, there are other car filters in the vehicle such as engine air filters and car oil filters. Their primary role is the same as cabin air filters which is to trap the contaminants. But the engine air filter purifies the air entering the engine. A car oil filter, on the other hand, purifies the oil entering the engine.
How Does A Cabin Air Filter Work?
The cabin air filters are located behind the glovebox and are a part of the HVAC system. The filters are made from different types of materials such as pleated paper, engineered cotton, or a blend of fiber materials. Based on the type of cabin air filter, some might contain activated carbon to improve the filtering. It works the same as the filter in the air conditioning system in your home. When the air is drawn into the vehicle through the HVAC system, first it passes through the cabin air filter. The filter captures the contaminants and airborne particles to prevent them from entering the cabin.
Also Read: What Do Air Filters Do In A Car?
Pros And Cons With Scented Air Filters
In recent years, the scented cabin air filters have gained popularity. The function of these filters is not limited to cleaning the air but also to releasing fragrances to make the cabin’s environment more enjoyable. They have both pros and cons-
Pros:
- You don’t have to hang or spray air fresheners in your car, as scented air filters have built-in air fresheners.
- They improve the overall atmosphere of the car’s cabin by releasing a continuous flow of fresh fragrance.
Cons:
- Scented air filters might not be as effective as unscented ones thus air filtration can be compromised.
- The scents might smell unpleasant to those sensitive to strong smells.
While these filters create a refreshing ambiance, it is important to prioritize air quality. Before switching to the scented filters make sure they don’t compromise air quality.
Importance Of Regular Cabin Air Filter Maintenance
To keep breathing in the fresh and clean air inside the car, it is important to regularly take care of a cabin air filter. It is important for the following reasons-
- In a smoggy environment and heavy traffic, there is a high probability that the air inside the vehicle is five times more polluted than the air outside. By properly maintaining the cabin air filter, the likelihood of being exposed to pollutants and bacteria is reduced.
- Due to the clogging in air filters, the strain on the HVAC system to draw air inside increases. This further leads to reduced performance and increased fuel consumption. Clean air filters allow the HVAC system to work more efficiently, thus reducing fuel consumption.
- The clean cabin air filter extends the life span of the HVAC system and saves you from costly repairs.
Also Read: Car Engine Air Filters: Function, Types & Importance
Signs Your Cabin Air Filter Needs Replacement
Over time, the cabin air filters get clogged due to dirt, dust, debris, and contaminants. Thus, they need replacement after some time. Here are a few signs that you can take note to find when cabin air filters need replacement-
- A foul or musty smell, when you turn on the air conditioner, can be a sign that cabin air filters need replacement.
- If you notice a reduction in the airflow, the clogged cabin air filters might be the reason.
- Experiencing more allergy symptoms or respiratory issues can be due to poor air quality caused by dirty or clogged filters.
If you notice any of these signs, then it might be time to replace cabin air filters to ensure that you are always breathing fresh air while driving.
Also Read: Types Of Oil Filters And Their Functions
How To Change Your Cabin Air Filter: A DIY Guide
For changing cabin air filters, you don’t have to go to the mechanical shop. It is a quick and easy task that you can do by yourself. Here is a step-by-step guide that you can follow to change your cabin air filters-
- The first thing to do is to locate the filter. Usually, it is located behind the glove box. But if you can’t find it you can refer to the vehicle’s manual.
- Empty your glove box. In some cars, you have to unscrew the fasteners to fully lower the glove box and access the filter apartment.
- Now carefully slide out the filer from the apartment. While taking it out, take note of the orientation of the filter so that you can insert the new filter easily without inconvenience.
- Insert the new filter in the compartment. Make sure it is facing in the right direction.
- Lastly, reattach the glove box and secure it back in place.
Conclusion
The cabin air filter plays an important role in purifying the air inside the vehicle. It traps contaminants, harmful pollutants, etc, so that you can breathe clean and fresh air. Through regular maintenance, you can ensure a comfortable and healthy environment within your car. Don’t neglect it and change it regularly to keep breathing clean air and comfortable rides.
Are you looking for cabin air filters for replacement? Your search is over. At JCBL India, we manufacture and supply premium quality cabin air filters and auto spare parts to fulfill your needs. Visit our website to check out the products.
FAQ’s
What happens if I don’t change cabin air filters on time?
The air filters get clogged due to dirt and debris, thus they need to be changed over time. If these are not changed over time, you might experience bad odor due to poor air quality. Also, the performance of the HVAC system degrades as they have to work harder to draw air inside.
Can I clean the air filter rather than replace it?
Yes, some filters can be cleaned and reused. But it is best to replace them after some time for optimal performance.
How often do the cabin air filters need to be replaced?
The cabin air filters need replacement once a year or after 15,000 miles. The lifespan of air filters also depends on the conditions in which you are driving your vehicle.
