Did you know that there’s a component in your air conditioner that works hard to filter the air you breathe? It’s not necessarily designed for your personal comfort, but it surely helps with indoor air quality.
The air filter is important to the functionality of your air conditioning system, and it’s the only component that we actually encourage customers to address and swap out on their own. That’s right, you don’t need the help of a professional for this kind of AC repair in Centralia, WA–you can do it all on your own!
Today, we’re going to talk about why the air filter in your AC is so important, how easy it is to change out, and why you can always call us for support if you need help with this component.
How the Filter Works
The filter works hard to keep dust, debris, and other contaminants out of the air conditioner’s more sensitive components. It keeps the coils clean for a longer period of time, which results in a longer system lifespan and better energy efficiency.
The trick with a filter is that it gets clogged up over a period of time. It’s not designed to sit in there forever. Eventually, it’s going to actually inhibit the job of your air conditioner by stopping the airflow and stifling the interior components. This is not good.
Basically, the air filter is designed to be changed every 1-3 months, so that it can allow for maximum airflow while stopping the contaminants in their tracks.
Changing the Filter
How do you change the filter? It’s simple!
- First, turn your system off. A filter shouldn’t be changed while the system is running.
- Locate the air filter in the return air duct. This can usually be found in the manual of your air conditioner, or by following the return air duct as it leads into your AC. You’ll see a little flap, sometimes even with an arrow on it.
- Remove the air filter and evaluate the type. If the air filter is a disposable one, you’ll want to replace it with a brand-new one. If it’s reusable, you’ll need to wipe it down with a damp cloth.
- Put the new air filter in and turn the system on. Voila! That’s basically it. Sure, every air conditioner will be a little bit different, so you might encounter some hiccups on your air filter journey. But it’s usually this simple, and does a lot to help your system.
What Next
Sometimes, replacing the air filter can do a lot for the efficiency and power of your air conditioner. It can help stop a system from overheating, short cycling, or even growing ice on the coils. But it’s not the only component in the system that sometimes needs attention.
If you change your air filter out but you still are seeing some problems with your AC, then we urge you to schedule repairs at your earliest convenience. This might be a problem that requires a professional.
Contact Americool Heating & Air Conditioning. Your comfort is our business.