What if my Electronic Air Cleaner is making a snapping noise?

Yes. The occasional snapping occurs when larger particles are caught by the ionizer wires. However, continuous snapping is not normal and the Electronic Air Cleaner should be cleaned. Note that the metal electronic cells may have sharp edges. Wear gloves to protect your hands and use care when handling the cells.

To clean your Electronic Air Cleaner:
1. Remove both electronic cells. Make sure that there is no debris on the bottom inside of the Electronic Air Cleaner. If there is, use your hand or a vacuum attachment to remove loose debris. Do not vacuum the pre-filter or post-filter as this may damage the filters. Close the access door, then turn on the Electronic Air Cleaner and system fan.

2. If the snapping does not continue, make sure the electronic cells are clean, dry and properly installed. Inspect the electronic cells for bent collector plates, broken wires between the plates, dirt on the insulators, and damaged collector contact tabs located on the top of the cells. Check that the pre-filters are in good condition and are in the cabinet slot farthest from the furnace. The order of the Electronic Air Cleaner Filters from the return duct to the furnace is:1) pre-filter, 2)electronic cell, and 3) post-filter (if your Electronic Air Cleaner has one).

If the snapping persists and you are unable to locate any physical cause, turn off the power to the Electronic Air Cleaner and contact your heating and cooling professional for service on the unit.