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Keeping your air conditioner in the best possible condition for as long as possible requires performing basic maintenance tasks. Replacing your air conditioner filters when they get dirty is among the more important. If you’re not sure you know how to complete this task, one of our technicians will gladly walk you through the process the next time they stop by to perform repairs, make an inspection, or replace your AC system.
Why is a dirty AC filter such a problem? Why does it get so dirty so easily? The following points will help you better understand the topic, clarifying why you need to replace your filters regularly.
What You Need to Know About Dirty AC Filters
What do air conditioner air filters actually do?
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An AC system consists of many different components. All of these need to function properly for the entire system to work.
The problem is, at any given time, the surrounding air is filled with numerous contaminants and particulates. If these contaminants were to get inside your system, they could interfere with the operation of one or several components.
That’s why an AC filter is such a critical part of your AC. It protects the system from these contaminants. The result? Smooth and consistent operation.
What happens when I have a dirty filter for my AC?
AC filters protect the system by, as the name suggests, collecting contaminants in the air before they can cause damage. Which also means pollutants will accumulate on the filter over time.
This can result in numerous consequences if the filter isn’t replaced. Primarily, dirty filters force your air conditioner to work harder to cool your home. Using more energy leads to higher utility bills. It can also put too much strain on your system. The system may break down without warning as a result.
You, of course, want to avoid this. Even though we offer 24-hr emergency AC repair service, a sudden breakdown in the middle of a Florida heat wave isn’t something anyone wants to experience. Making the necessary repairs will also be more costly than simply replacing your filter when it gets dirty.
Over time, if your AC unit is being forced to use more energy than it normally will also reduce its potential lifespan. In other words, if you don’t replace your filters consistently, you may need to replace your entire system earlier than expected instead. Avoid this by establishing an AC maintenance schedule and sticking to it.
Why does the air conditioner air filter get dirty so easily?
It’s understandable if you are somewhat frustrated with how often you may need to replace your air conditioner filter. However, the fact that it gets dirty easily is a sign that it’s doing its job correctly.
Many different types of contaminants can be found in your indoor air, including dust, pet hair, dander, and much more.
When they’re floating through the air, it’s difficult to appreciate the actual volume of these contaminants and particulates. A dirty filter is a sign that it’s collected more particulates than you realized you would find in your indoor air. That also means it’s protecting your system effectively.
Another Important Dirty AC Filter Point to Remember
You already know that regularly changing your filters is key to avoiding high energy bills and ensuring your system works optimally. However, changing your filters often is also important from a health and comfort perspective.
Again, the types of contaminants that may accumulate on dirty filters are wide-ranging. Unfortunately, bacteria can also accumulate on your filters. At a certain point, your filter will no longer be able to collect everything in the air.
That means those contaminants may get distributed throughout your home. At the very least, the impact that has on your indoor air quality will significantly reduce your day-to-day comfort. Depending on what you’re inhaling, it could even put your health at risk. Yet another reason you shouldn’t procrastinate when a dirty AC filter needs to be replaced, particularly if you or anyone else in your home has allergies.
Factors to Consider if You Want a New Air Conditioner Filter
It’s not always necessary to upgrade to a different type of air conditioner filter. In many instances, the model your system’s manufacturer recommends will be ideal. We can review your current AC system to let you know if we agree with their recommendations.
That said, it is worth noting that there are different types of filters on the market that may be worth your money depending on your goals. Some are designed to filter out specific allergens. Others are designed to be used multiple times, making the process of replacing your dirty AC filters much easier. There are also filters designed to trap particulates that are much smaller than those a typical AC filter can trap. If you want to substantially boost your indoor air quality and thoroughly protect your system, these options may be of interest to you.
Just make sure you consult with an expert AC company before making a purchase if you’re not very familiar with AC filters and AC systems in general. Not all filters are compatible with all systems. You don’t want to waste your money on a new filter that’s incompatible with yours.
This is another reason you should feel free to ask our AC technicians questions the next time we’re performing work on your system. They’re always happy to help customers better understand the essentials of AC system maintenance and upgrades.
Of course, even if you select the ideal filter and change it regularly, there are still instances when your system may stop working properly for a variety of reasons. You can guard against them by scheduling regular inspections with Easy A/C, serving homeowners throughout the Tampa Bay area. If you ever find yourself without AC unexpectedly, we also provide 24-hour emergency AC repair service, ensuring you always have someone to call when your AC system needs professional attention. To learn more about what we can do for you, contact us online today.