Don't rinse it with water, that can ruin it. Here's the right way to clean the foam or felt filter most of these saws use.
- Remove the filter cover. It's usually held by one or two screws or a snap latch near the rear of the saw.
- Take out the air filter. Note how it sits so you can reinstall it correctly.
- Tap it gently on a hard surface to dislodge the bulk of the dry sawdust. Don't brush it, as this can force dirt deeper into the foam.
- For a deeper clean, wash it in warm, soapy water. Rinse it thoroughly until the water runs clear.
- Squeeze out the excess water—don't wring it—and let it air dry completely. It must be 100% dry before you put it back.
- Once dry, you can apply a few drops of specific filter oil designed for foam filters. Work it in evenly. This helps trap fine dust.
- Reinstall the filter and replace the cover securely.
IF THAT DIDN'T WORK: If the filter is torn, heavily stained with oil, or the foam is breaking down, replace it. A damaged filter lets abrasive dust into the engine.
HEADS UP: Clean the air filter regularly, especially in dusty conditions. A clogged filter is the number one reason for hard starting and poor performance.