There are many factors that contribute to the quality of your home’s air. Unfiltered particles in the air can cause health problems as well as clogging up other systems.
In today’s world, clean air is a way of life. With so many devices placed in your living space and outside of your home, it can be difficult to keep the air fresh inside. If you live in an area where the air quality on a regular day is already bad (even before pollutants pour out of cars, smokestacks, construction sites, and other sources), it is important that you replace your filter-on an annual basis. Before you call for professional help with this task, though, answer some questions to find out if you need an HVAC service appointment.
Introduction
It’s important to know when it’s time to replace your air conditioner filter in order to keep your home cool and comfortable. When the filter becomes dirty or clogged, the air Conditioning unit can’t operate as efficiently as it should. If left undetected, this could lead to costly repairs or even a ruined AC unit. You can get a 20x23x1 air filter installed in your air conditioner to remove dust, pollen, and other airborne particles from the air.
Follow these easy steps to test your filter and determine when it’s time for a replacement:
1) Check the compressor belt for wear or damage – A worn or damaged belt can reduce the efficiency of the compressor, triggering premature replacement of your air conditioner filter.
2) Check for leaks – Leaks in the system can cause dirt and water build-up on the inside of the AC unit, eventually leading to a clogged filter. Look for water marks on ceilings and walls near vents; these signs indicate wet spots in your home that may be leaking CO2 refrigerant.
3) Listen for fans running unnecessarily – If you hear fans running unnecessarily, it’s likely that dirt, dust or other building materials has built up on the blower motor blades and is interfering with their operation. A qualified technician can take apart your AC unit and clean or replace certain parts if needed in order to restore proper cooling performance.
How often should your air conditioner filter be replaced?
Your air conditioner filter should be replaced every six months, or when the filter is significantly dirty or odor-producing. To determine when it’s time to replace your filter, take the following steps:
- Inspect the condition of the outside of the unit: Since the filter sits on top of the cooling unit, look for signs of dirt and debris building up on the outside. This indicates that the filter is not doing its job well and needs to be replaced. If you see black soot or flames coming out of any part of your A/C unit, then it’s time to get a new one installed!
- Check your filters inside and outside: Air conditioners use several different types of filters to remove dust, pollen, smoke, and other allergens from the indoor air. Make sure all three types of filters are present and in good shape. If one type is missing or severely degraded, your air conditioning will not operate as efficiently as it should and may produce an odor.
- Observe how often you have to turn your air conditioning off/on: The more frequently your air conditioning has to be turned on and off, the greater likelihood there is that something’s wrong with it – like a defective filter. When you notice that your AC is taking longer than normal to start up or stop cooling, it’s probably time for a new filter!
What are the signs that a dirty, clogged, or old filter needs to be replaced?
When it comes to your air conditioner, it’s important to keep your filter clean and working properly. If you notice any of the following signs, it may be time to replace your filter:
– Dirty air coming out of your vents or registers
– Clogged filters that caused reduced airflow
– Strong odors coming from your unit
How do you clean your air conditioner filter?
Air conditioners use a filter to clean the air that comes into the machine. This filter should be replaced every six months, or when it starts to show signs of wear. When you replace your air conditioner filter, clean the inside of the AC unit with a vacuum cleaner and hose. Then, pour a non-petroleum based cleaning agent into the AC unit’s indoor fan area. Run the AC until it’s cool to the touch and then turn it off. Finally, rinse all components with water.
Conclusion
If you live in an area with high ozone levels, it’s important to replace your air conditioner filter at least every six months. High ozone levels can cause irritation to your eyes and respiratory system, as well as a decrease in the quality of the indoor air you breathe. Here are some signs that it’s time for a new air conditioner filter: Your AC unit is starting to make unusual noises Air doesn’t cool or cool very slowly Incredibly strong odor coming from your AC unit To ensure that your health and comfort remain optimal while using your air conditioner, schedule an appointment with our team at Air Conditioning Repair & Services today!
