Spring is here, and in our area, that means we can soon be using our air conditioners on a regular basis. During the warmer months, you expect your cooling system to keep you comfortable, and doing so efficiently. However, in order to do this effectively, it will require some care and attention. Otherwise, you might find yourself facing a broken-down system, or at least an air conditioner with operational problems. One way to properly care for your air conditioner is by changing its air filter.
Homeowners tend to minimize the importance of changing their HVAC air filters, thinking it’s there “just” for their indoor air quality, and nothing else, and that it can be changed during their annual air conditioning maintenance. While our professionals will certainly check the air filter for you, changing it every 1–3 months is essential to keeping it operating as effectively and efficiently as possible, for as long as possible. Read on to learn more!
The Purpose of the AC Air Filter
As we alluded to above, there’s a bit of a misconception about the AC air filter. Homeowners tend to think it’s in place to protect their indoor air quality when it is actually in place to protect the sensitive interior components of the HVAC system itself, from dust, dirt, and other debris that can get inside.
But this means that these air filters collect particles that they can’t get rid of, which is why it’s so important you replace them on a routine basis. After all, if they become too clogged, then airflow gets restricted, and this will cause serious operational problems. If you don’t replace the filter on a routine basis, then you can expect the following:
Decreased Efficiency
A clogged-up air filter can leave you dealing with a variety of different problems, including decreased equipment efficiency. When the air filter gets too dirty, it creates airflow resistance and this causes your system to struggle to circulate conditioned air throughout the home.
And when your system struggles, it requires more energy to do its job, creating an increase in your monthly energy bills. By simply changing the air filter on a regular basis, you’ll ensure that it remains efficient and doesn’t cost you an arm and a leg to run.
Frequent Repair Needs
A clogged-up air filter restricts airflow like we just mentioned, and this makes it harder for your air conditioner to actually do its job. This increases wear and tear, and as a result, you may experience repair needs more frequently. If you find yourself calling for AC repairs often, it’s time to ask your HVAC professional if you’re changing your air filter enough. We’re happy to help!
Reduced Air Quality
We said that the point of the air filter wasn’t to improve your indoor air quality. However, an air filter that is too clogged up can certainly hurt indoor air quality. This is because particles in your air—dust, pet dander, etc.—have nowhere to go if the air filter is too clogged up (and if you don’t have other indoor air quality products or solutions in place). Changing your air filter helps improve HVAC functionality and air quality.
Sierra Pacific Home & Comfort, Inc. is your trusted resource for professional air conditioning services in Sacramento and beyond. Contact us today and look for “The Guys in the Big Red Trucks!”