Dust and dirt that accumulate around air conditioner vents may be caused by a clogged air filter. The only way to be sure how often your air filter should be changed is to visually inspect the filter every month. After a few months, you'll get an idea of how quickly it gets dirty. You'll need to re-evaluate if you have a new pet or if the outdoor air quality has been poor.
In general, it is recommended that you replace your air filters every two months to ensure that they are operating at optimal efficiency. It takes longer to heat or cool the house when the filter is clogged with dust and dirt. This is because the air conditioner unit has to draw large amounts of air through its filter so that it can cool or heat your home. A clogged filter interferes with the normal air flow of the air conditioning system and also allows dirt to accumulate in the cooling coils, which impairs the system's ability to keep you cool. A clean filter increases efficiency and reduces energy consumption by up to 15 percent. It would be easier to change all air filters on a set schedule, but sadly, there are a lot of variables that influence how often a filter should be changed.
If you notice strange odors in your ventilation or heating vents, it might be time to change your filter. This will help ensure that you can proactively fix the problem before it causes poor air quality or other issues. When the air conditioning system is not working properly, the air it distributes throughout the house is drier than usual. To ensure that only clean air comes out of the air conditioning system, replace the air filter before it clogs so you can breathe better. Whether you have a fresh air system, a central heating and cooling unit, or an air conditioning unit with a window, here are some telltale signs that indicate it's time for a new filter:
- The filter looks dirty or clogged.
- It takes longer to heat or cool the house.
- You notice strange odors in your ventilation or heating vents.
- The air distributed throughout the house is drier than usual.
You'll find it easier to remember this important task if you learn how often you should change your air filter in the first place. If you have allergies, you can reduce symptoms by using a high-quality air filter and adopting a more frequent replacement program. Changing your AC filter regularly is essential for maintaining good indoor air quality and keeping your energy bills low. It's important to remember that different types of filters require different replacement schedules, so make sure you know what type of filter you have and how often it needs to be changed.
