It's essential to keep your air conditioner filter clean and replace it regularly in order to maintain the efficiency of your home's heating and cooling system. But how do you know when it's time to purchase a replacement filter? The most obvious indication that your filter needs to be changed is when it looks dirty or clogged. This can cause dust and dirt to accumulate around air conditioner vents, and it can also take longer to heat or cool the house. Generally, manufacturers suggest replacing air filters every 30 to 90 days, but this depends on the life of the filter and other environmental factors in the home. Switching out your air filter regularly is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve the efficiency of your home's heating and cooling system.
Dirty filters can also encourage the growth of bacteria, which can have a negative impact on indoor air quality. Whether you have a fresh air system, a central heating and cooling unit, or a window air conditioning unit, here are some telltale signs that you need to change the filter:
- You or a loved one suddenly start to have allergy symptoms, such as a sore throat, red eyes, or a runny nose.
- Numerous pollutants and debris, including excess dust, accumulate in the air filter.
According to air conditioning experts, the right size of an air conditioning system will leave a slight negative pressure in the cabinet, helping air to pass through the filter. After a renovation, such as a drywall project, pieces of drywall, dirt, and dust may accumulate in the air ducts, restricting air flow through the air filters. Replacing filters regularly can keep homeowners and their families healthy thanks to efficient air circulation. It's important to be aware of when it's time for a new filter so that you can keep your home's heating and cooling system running smoothly.
