When summer temperatures are rising, an efficient air conditioner is a must. To keep your air conditioner in Memphis running efficiently, it’s critical to check and change the filter on a regular schedule.
The filter four your AC system isn’t important for your health (that’s an air filtration system which is actually different) although it certainly doesn’t hurt. The primary purpose of this filter is to help keep your HVAC system in working order. Let’s discuss how and why a clean air filter is a must this summer.
The Purpose of an HVAC System Filter
You might think the purpose of your HVAC’s air filter is to filter out bacteria, dust, pet dander, and other impurities. While this filter does provide a slight amount of protection against these particles, its main purpose is actually to protect your HVAC system rather than you.
AN HVAC filter protects the inside components of your system from airborne contaminants. And that’s critical to keep your system running efficiently. A clogged filter keeps air from flowing through the entire system the way it should and can cause mechanical issues.
How Often to Check and Change Your Filter
Changing your filter regularly is the most important maintenance you can do to keep your system running efficiently. In fact, it is the only maintenance task we actually encourage homeowners to do.
A good rule of thumb is to check your filter monthly. Remove the filter and hold it up to the light. You should be able to see the light through the filter. If you can’t, it needs to be replaced.
In general, it’s recommended to change the filter every three months unless you find it to be too dirty earlier. If you have pets that shed or live in an area with poor air quality, you may need to change it more often.
What Happens When a Filter Gets Too Dirty?
Here’s a rundown of what happens as an air filter grows too dirty to serve its purpose:
- Airflow through your system is reduced.
- Your system works harder to provide the same amount of cooling, which decreases efficiency and increases your cooling bill.
- Harder working mechanical parts wear out quicker.
- Dirt may collect on the evaporator coil more quickly, causing the coil to freeze and your system to cycle on and off too often (short cycling).
It may be tempting to skip monthly checks or try to save money by stretching out your filter life, but that may have the opposite effect. Running your system with a dirty filter can end up costing you more in repair costs in the long run.
Expert Repairs and Maintenance
Regular yearly maintenance on the air conditioner in your Memphis home is essential to keep your home and your family comfortable all summer. But filter changes need to happen more often than once a year! We recommend putting a reminder on your calendar or phone to check your filter monthly.
If your cooling bills are going up or you notice other problems with your AC – odors, noises, leaks, or poor cooling – call us for a checkup. Our NATE-certified technicians are experts in diagnosing and repairing AC problems. We also offer regular AC maintenance to keep your system running at its best to keep your home and family comfortable year-round.
Contact Automatic Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing today to schedule any AC services you need.
