How Often Should Your Air Conditioner Filters Be Changed?

It’s easy to forget that your air conditioner unit does much more than just cooling your house. You may notice that nice refreshing indoor breeze it provides, but have you ever thought of its filters?

One crucial part of air conditioner health relies on its air conditioner filters, but knowing when to change them can be a bit tricky.

Air Conditioner Filters 101

Air filters work tirelessly to protect the air quality in your house. These items are the unsung heroes of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. They help keep dust, dirt, pollen, allergens, and other unwanted particles at bay, preventing respiratory problems like allergies and asthma.

Vital yet pure, air filters require adequate attention to keep them performing at their best. You spend money on an air conditioner for your comfort and health, and air filters’ effectiveness plays a significant role.

But, when was the last time you replaced your air conditioner filter?

The simple answer to how often you should change your air conditioner filters is: “It depends.”

Factors like the air conditioner’s usage, dust levels in your house, or even owning pets can influence the frequency of changing air filters. But let’s get a little deeper into these elements.

Why Should You Change Your Air Conditioner Filter?

Essentially, filters are barriers. They trap dirt, dust, and particles, which if left unchecked can clog the air flow and reduce air quality. Over time, as more particles get trapped, the air filter becomes dirty, forcing your air conditioning unit to work harder, using more power, and even still, providing sub-par results.

This extra work doesn’t just affect your air conditioner’s efficiency, it also affects your wallet. Dirty air filters cause your air conditioning system to consume more power, making your electricity bill needlessly higher. Moreover, allowing filters to become too clogged can result in serious damage to the air conditioning unit, costing even more money in repair or replacement fees.

Not to forget, your health can also take a hit if you breathe air filled with dirt, smoke, and allergens. It can trigger allergies, asthma, or other respiratory problems, especially for the more sensitive folks.

When Do You Change Air Conditioner Filters?

Generally, it is advisable to check your air conditioner filters at least once a month. If they’re dirty, wash or replace them, depending on the type of filters you have. According to most manufacturer’s instructions, basic air conditioner filters should be changed every 60 to 90 days.

But that’s a general rule. As said before, certain factors can force you to change your air conditioner filters more frequently. Have pets that shed fur? You might want to consider replacing the filter monthly.

Same goes if someone in the house has allergies or asthma. Air conditioner filters can trap particles causing these conditions, so frequent changing can prevent unnecessary health issues.

If nobody in your house fits the above descriptions, and your air conditioner unit is running smoothly, you can extend the air conditioner filter replacement period to 90 days. Just remember to check the filter regularly and clean it if any significant amount of dust builds up.

How Do You Replace Air Conditioner Filters?

While the steps to replace an air conditioner filter may seem straightforward on paper, the process can be more complex than expected. Improper handling can result in unintended damage, making the task best left in the hands of professionals.

1. Turn off power: Safety first! Before you start, make sure the unit is turned off.
2. Locate the filter: Filters are usually found behind the front panel. Consult your manual if you’re not sure.
3. Remove: Once found, remove the dirty filter.
4. Measure: Not all filters are standard size. Note down the measurements of your old filter or check your manual before purchasing a new one.
5. Purchase: Buy the replacement filter from a trusted vendor.
6. Install: Slide the new filter into the unit, making sure it fits snugly.
7. Turn on power: Last but not least, turn the power back on and enjoy the cool, clean air.

You may be tempted to follow these steps on your own, it’s highly recommended to trust this responsibility to a professional, who can safely and correctly perform each step according to your unit’s specifications.

DIY vs Professional Repair: Making the Choice

When it comes to changing your air conditioner filter, you might be tempted to handle the task yourself. However, the complexity of the task and the potential for missteps often indicate that this job is best left to the professionals.

Even if your AC unit or filter is easily accessible, the potential for inadvertent damage and the costs associated with improper installation are risks not worth taking. In most circumstances, entrusting this task to a professional is the safest and most reliable option.

Finding a Trusted Technician

When professional help is needed, it’s crucial to find a reliable technician.

1. Word of mouth: Ask family, friends, or neighbours for recommendations. Their experiences can lead you in the right direction.
2. Online search: Using search terms like “Air Con Repair Near Me” will bring up local businesses.
3. Read reviews: Check what other customers are saying about their experiences.
4. Check licences: Make sure any potential technician is licensed and insured.

Why Consider Professional Help?

While it can be tempting to fix everything yourself, professional help comes with benefits. Trained technicians, like those from Air Con Repair Near Me, know what to look for and can handle any unexpected issues.

They can efficiently and safely replace your filter, ensuring your AC unit runs smoothly. So, consider scheduling regular maintenance, and let the professionals keep your air cool and clean.

Healthy Reasons to Change Filters

Now you have it; the whys, whens and hows of changing your air conditioner filter have been unpacked.

Doing this simple task regularly will not only save you money but also protect your health and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning system. Don’t leave it too late. When was the last time you checked your air conditioner filters?

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.