What should be done with a permanent air filter after it has been cleaned?

After cleaning a permanent air filter, the appropriate action is to reinstall it. This is because a permanent air filter is designed for repeated use, and after it has been cleaned, it can effectively continue to remove particles and contaminants from the air when placed back into the system.

Reinstalling ensures that the HVAC system operates at optimal efficiency, maintaining appropriate airflow and air quality. This is crucial, especially in environments where indoor air quality is a priority.

Other options do not align with the purpose and functionality of a permanent air filter. Retaining it for future cleaning or sealing it in a container would not be practical, as the filter is meant to be put back into service after cleaning. Replacing it immediately would undermine the value of having a permanent filter that can be reused multiple times. Thus, the best practice after cleaning is to reinstall the filter for continued use.