Reasons to Replace your Dirty Air Filter

A dirty air filter in your air conditioner can spell disaster for your comfort and your A/C system. Replacing the air filter is an essential maintenance task that can help keep your air conditioner operating efficiently and problem-free. Here are four wonderful things that happen when you replace your dirty air filter with a new, clean one.

Improved Air Quality
The air filter in your air conditioner traps harmful particles in your home's air. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, particles smaller than 10 micrometers in diameter can affect your heart, lungs, exacerbate allergies, asthma, and other respiratory conditions. Replacing a dirty filter ensures that particles like mold, pollen, dust, dead skin cells, and highly allergenic dust mites are trapped and stopped from polluting the air in your home.

Increased Air Flow
A dirty filter restricts air flow through your air conditioner and makes your system work harder to keep you comfortable, increasing your cooling bill. A clogged filter and the resulting restricted air flow can also cause your air conditioner to overheat and shut down. Optimal air flow is essential for system efficiency and personal comfort, and a clean air filter is central to proper air flow.

Dust Stays Out of your System
Dust buildup inside your air conditioner can lead to reduced efficiency and operating problems. Dust on the coils prevents them from properly absorbing heat, and dust on the moving components like the fan can cause breakdowns of these parts. Dust can clog the condensate drain, leading to water damage and mold growth. A clean filter keeps dust out of your air conditioner far better than a dirty filter does.

Improved Cooling Efficiency
The more efficient your air conditioner, the less money you'll spend on cooling your home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, replacing a dirty air filter with a clean one can reduce your system's energy consumption by up to 15 percent!

With all of that said, we hope you check your air filter each month, and replace it when it's coated with dust. Bonus Tip: For best results, choose a high quality, pleated air filter.

Please contact us with any questions and/or service needs that you may have. Take a deep breath of that indoor quality air, and remember we’re always in your corner!