You may not give much thought to your AC’s air filters. As long as you’re getting cool air out of your unit, everything is fine, right? Not quite. Air filters play a big role in the overall performance and function of your air conditioning unit, as well as the quality of the air you breathe. Whether your AC unit is running around the clock during a heat wave, or just as needed to relieve humidity, your AC filter is hard at work all summer long to maintain indoor comfort.
It has a big job to do: trap dust, allergens, and other airborne particles. Today we’ll talk about how air filters work, why they need to be kept clean to maintain airflow and optimal indoor air quality, and how often they should be replaced by a professional HVAC company.
The Role of AC Air Filters
Located in the return air duct or blower compartment of the HVAC system, the main responsibility of your air filters is to remove contaminants from the air before it is cooled and circulated throughout your home. Contaminants may include:
- Dust and dirt
- Pet dander
- Pollen
- Mold spores
- Lint and fibers
- Bacteria and viruses
When air filters can easily trap these contaminants, this protects both your indoor air quality and internal AC unit components.
Why Do Clean Filters Matter?
Your AC can’t run efficiently without proper airflow. Clean filters allow air to pass through freely so your system can do its job of cooling your home effectively. Over time, though, the filter can get clogged with debris, which restricts airflow. In turn, your AC unit has to work harder to draw air through the filter. This can result in:
- Reduced cooling efficiency: It will take a lot longer for your home to reach the desired temperature.
- Higher energy bills: An AC system that is forced to work harder will consume more energy and cost you more in utility bills.
- Increased wear and tear: Added strain can cause components such as the blower motor and compressor to fail prematurely.
- System shutdown: It’s rare, but in severe cases, dirty filters can restrict airflow so much that the evaporator coil freezes and results in system shutdown.
The Impact on Indoor Air Quality
Dirty filters don’t just affect system performance. They affect the quality of air you breathe as well. This can become an issue especially in homes where occupants suffer from allergies, asthma, or other respiratory issues.
Clean filters capture harmful particles that would otherwise circulate through your home. But when clogged with contaminants, filters can lose their effectiveness, and even release previously captured particles back into the air.
Frequency of Air Filter Changes
Wondering how often you should be changing your AC filters? This will depend on factors such as:
- Filter type: Basic fiberglass filters should be changed once a month; higher-efficiency pleated filters should be changed every three months.
- Household factors: You will have to change your filters more frequently if you have pets, live in a dusty area, or have a family member who has allergies.
- Usage: You should check and change your filters more frequently during peak AC usage months.
It’s wise to inspect your filter each month and replace it when it looks dirty.
Clean filters not only ensure efficient airflow, they promote healthier indoor air. By keeping up with filter maintenance, you can boost your home’s comfort and air quality while extending the life of your AC system.
Contact Warm or Breezy Heating and Air Conditioning
Not sure what type of filter your AC needs or when to change it? Our air conditioning experts in Roseville can help you breathe easier with the right advice, guidance, and maintenance plans. Contact us to set up your appointment today.