How Often Should You Change Your AC Filter?
Stop Stressing Your HVAC: The Dangers of a Clogged AC Filter
Homeownership is a part of the American dream. However, homeownership also includes several regular maintenance tasks, that, if neglected, can result in disagreeable results. Gutters without guards need to be cleaned regularly to prevent clogged downspouts. Battery-powered devices (such as smoke detectors and thermostats) need the batteries replaced to make sure they function properly when called upon. One such simple maintenance task that should not be neglected is changing the air filter on the heating/cooling system.
How Dirty is Indoor Air?
The air inside our home seems so very clean. You do not realize how many airborne particles are floating around inside until the late afternoon light shines through the window and illuminates the dust particles. The sources of most particles are quite simple and unavoidable:
- Most indoor dust particles are skin cells from human and animal inhabitants that naturally flake off.
- Wind and motion stir up fine dirt particles that find a way indoors.
- Pollen follows us indoors or is generated by household plants.
- Exhaust from various sources brings both gas and particulate matter also collect indoors. That includes exhaust from outdoor sources (internal combustion engines and industrial activities) and indoor activities (candles and tobacco smoke).
It seems that indoor air is not as clean as it seems. Air filters provide a vital service to ensure our homes are healthy spaces to live.
Why Change the AC Filter?
Air filters are very efficient, removing most airborne particles. Since the entire volume of air passes through an air filter several times per heating or cooling cycle, the airborne particles quickly coat the filter surface. When the collection builds up, the clogged air filter reduces the amount of air that can pass through the filter. Both heating and cooling functions require vast amounts of air movement through the air handler cabinet. Restricting airflow creates tremendous stress on the blower motor and the electrical control mechanisms that direct the comfort cycles. The result of ignoring a clogged filter is similar to driving a car with the emergency brake on.
How Often Should the AC Filter Be Changed?
Each home is unique, and each family is unique.
- Some homes are located near pollution sources with exponentially more airborne particles than most homes, like dirt roads or active construction sites.
- Some family members have asthma, allergies, or breathing difficulties and need more frequent filter changes.
A very general rule of thumb is to change the filter every three months/four times per year, but your home might require more frequent changes. Purchase adequate filters for a year and schedule prompts on a family calendar or phone app. Use whatever makes sense to you:
- The official change of seasons
- Birthdays or holidays, or
- Any other pneumatic device that will remind you of this important maintenance task.
Beyond the AC Filter: Schedule Maintenance to Check for Hidden HVAC Damage
You can handle the AC filter replacement, but don’t ignore the hidden damage a clogged filter may have already caused your system. Protect your expensive HVAC equipment from premature failure by scheduling a professional maintenance appointment today. Our expert technicians will inspect your unit for stress and ensure all components are running smoothly and efficiently. Call us now to book the vital service your system needs for long-term health.
Schedule your next AC maintenance appointment with All Cool AC & Heating today to take advantage the long-term rewards of a well-maintained system.