The Hidden Cost of Cleaning Air Filters

The environments you operate in are likely filled with dirt, dust and debris. Air filters help keep these contaminants from entering your equipment’s engine, while cabin air filters help protect your health. They block dust, pollen and pollutants like silica from entering the cab. And, under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) silica standard, these filters help protect the health and safety of operators.

Filters are a low-cost, high-impact preventive maintenance shield. When engine air filters aren’t working efficiently, your equipment risks reduced performance, shortened longevity and costly damage.

Think of it this way; the cost of replacing a filter is minimal compared to the price of repairing or replacing your engine — or dealing with health issues.

Avoid These Common Air Filter Cleaning Techniques

Contrary to popular belief, dirty filters help retain contaminants while still allowing airflow. Once the filter is overly full, airflow slows — and that’s your sign to replace the filter, not clean it.

Trying to clean air filters in heavy equipment can be a costly idea. Improper cleaning methods can actually damage the filter, which compromises its ability to protect the system it is designed to safeguard. 

This can cause irreparable damage, increase fuel consumption, cause expensive downtime that far outweighs the cost of a new filter, and even incur safety violations that could increase the risk of exposure to dust. Common ways of cleaning that can all cause damage:

• High-pressure air. This is one of the most common approaches to cleaning air filters with the common misconception that whatever is trapped in the filter media can be “blown out.” Using compressed air over 30 psi (as per the Operation and Maintenance Manual) can actually tear the media, creating tiny, unnoticeable holes. Also, the media could be damaged if there is accidental contact between the air pressure wand and the filter media. When reinstalled, the media can separate, allowing contaminants to bypass it and get into the system, potentially causing more critical expensive failures or downtime.

• Tapping out debris. Tapping the filter against a hard surface like a tire or workbench can create small, undetected tears and damage the internal seals.

• Scraping or brushing. Using a brush or tool to remove debris can break down the paper fibers and open up the filter to more contaminants and poor performance.

• Do not clean with water.

How Often Should You Change Your Filter?

While the initial filter replacement cost may seem high depending on your selection, it is a small price compared to the potential costs of engine damage.

Experts who know your equipment inside and out recommend you:

• Stick to recommended service intervals. Follow the recommended service intervals for filter replacement in your Operation and Maintenance Manual (OMM). This is the most reliable way to protect your equipment. Many Cat machines now feature extended service intervals and recommendations to monitor equipment performance data as well as use S•O•S℠ Services fluid analysis reports for added insights.

• Using restriction indicators. Some machines have a filter restriction indicator that signals exactly when a filter needs to be replaced. It can help you avoid premature replacement and maximize filter life.

• Talk to your Cat dealer. Even if you want to do replacements yourself, your dealer can be helpful. They can help you get the right filters and train you on proper installation and replacement. You can also explore working with your dealer through a CVA that covers regular filter and fluid maintenance.

Your Cat dealer is ready to help you make the most cost-effective decisions for your equipment and your business. If it's time to replace any filters, find the exact ones you need for your equipment.