Most people don’t think about their air conditioner filters until they start to notice a decrease in cooling power. But did you know that there are ways to prevent that from happening? By changing your air conditioner filter on a regular basis, you can keep your unit running at peak efficiency and extend its lifespan.
So how often should you change your air conditioner filter? Various factors will affect how often you’ll need to replace your home’s air filter, such as what type it is, the climate where you live, and if you own pets. But as a general rule, most experts recommend changing your air conditioner filter every 3 months.
- What is an air conditioner filter and what does it do?
- How often should you change your air conditioner filter?
- What are the consequences of not changing your air conditioner filter regularly?
- How can you tell when your air conditioner filter needs to be replaced?
- Learn how to quickly change out your air conditioner's filter with these easy steps
What is an air conditioner filter and what does it do?
Air conditioner filters are an important part of any HVAC system. In short, air filters stop dust, pollen, and other foreign objects from building up on your HVAC system’s internal workings.
In addition, air conditioner filters can also help to reduce energy costs by making the system more efficient.
There are a variety of different types of air conditioner filters available on the market, so it is important to choose one that is right for your system. The most common type of air conditioner filters are:
- Spun Glass or Fiberglass Air Filters
- Pleated Filters
- HEPA Filters
- UV Light Filters
- Electrostatic Filters
- Washable Filters
- Media Filters
Ultimately, the best air conditioner filter for your home will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
How often should you change your air conditioner filter?
The answer to this question depends on a few factors, such as the type of air conditioner you have and the environment in which it is used. In general, it is recommended that you change your air conditioner filter every three months. However, if you have pets or live in an area with a lot of dust and pollen, you may need to change your filter more frequently.
Additionally, if your air conditioner is used constantly, it may require more frequent changes. Ultimately, it is best to consult your owner’s manual for specific guidance on how often to change your air conditioner filter. By following the manufacturer’s recommendations, you can help ensure that your air conditioner runs efficiently and effectively.
- The low-cost fiberglass filters should be changed every 30 days.
- The pleated more expensive filters can last up to 6 months.
- A good rule of thumb is to replace pleated filters every 90 days.
- If you have electrostatic or washable filters, they should be washed, dried, and re-installed once a month.
- The washable filters are more eco-friendly and, if cleaned and reused appropriately, can last 5 to 10 years.
What are the consequences of not changing your air conditioner filter regularly?
When it comes to your air conditioner, one of the most important maintenance tasks is changing the filter regularly. A clean filter helps to ensure that your AC unit is running efficiently, and it also helps to improve indoor air quality. Unfortunately, many people forget to change their filters on a regular basis. As a result, their AC units have to work harder to cool their homes, and they may also notice an increase in dust and other allergens circulating through the air. In extreme cases, a dirty air conditioner filter can even cause the unit to overheat and break down completely. To avoid these problems, be sure to change your AC filter at least once every three months.
How can you tell when your air conditioner filter needs to be replaced?
One of the most important maintenance tasks for any home air conditioner is regularly replacing the filter. A clean air conditioner filter helps to improve air quality and keep your AC unit running efficiently. But how can you tell when it’s time to replace the filter? There are a few easy ways to tell.
First, check the manufacturer’s recommendation. Most filters should be replaced every 1-3 months.
Second, take a look at the filter itself. If it’s visibly dirty or clogged, it needs to be replaced.
Finally, pay attention to your AC unit. If it seems like the unit is working harder than usual or if your energy bills have gone up, it’s probably time to replace the filter. By following these simple tips, you can help keep your AC unit running smoothly all summer long.
- The air quality in your home is poor.
- If you look closely, you can see a film of dust on surfaces around your home.
- Your energy costs have gone up.
- If you or someone in your household has been suffering from unexplained allergies or respiratory problems.
- There is a lot of dust around the air vents.
- Your home will take longer to heat and cool.
- The AC unit is too hot to touch.
- You can’t recall the last time you replaced your air filter.
Learn how to quickly change out your air conditioner’s filter with these easy steps
Many people do not think about their air conditioner until it breaks down. By changing dirty filters, you can improve the efficiency of your AC.
- Turn the unit off. Turning this off prevents the air from blowing dust and grit into your system. ( If you can’t figure out how to turn off the unit, turn off the breaker.)
- Determine the size and type of filter you need. Check your owner’s manual to identify the right number or size of your filter – it could also be printed on the side of your existing air filter. Or measure the filter yourself to get an accurate size.
- Check the airflow arrows and replace the filter. Make sure the airflow arrows are pointing toward the HVAC unit.
- Replace your panel.
- Last but not least, turn on the unit.
Regularly changing your air conditioner filter is an important part of keeping your AC unit running smoothly. By following the tips in this article, you can learn how to quickly and easily change your air filter yourself. Keep in mind that a dirty filter can cause your energy bills to increase and damage your AC unit, so be sure to replace your filter at least once every three months for optimal performance.