Changing Your AC Filter

You might be thinking, “So I can breathe clean air.” And yes, from a comfort perspective, that’s correct.

But leaving in a dirty air filter has some costly consequences you may not be aware of.

Increased Electric Bills

A dirty air filter reduces your air conditioner’s energy efficiency tremendously. Why? Since a dirty air filter blocks airflow, your air conditioner is going to run much longer than it normally would to cool your home. This wastes energy and runs up your electricity bill.

According to Energy.gov, ”Keeping the filter clean can lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5% to 15%.”

Increased Chance of a Breakdown

A dirty filter can’t prevent dust and dirt from building up on your air conditioner’s parts — which in turn leads to expensive repairs or premature system failure. A few important parts that you don’t want to get dirt on are the air conditioner’s evaporator and condenser coils – easily avoidable with regular maintenance.

According to Energy Star, “Dirty coils reduce the system’s ability to cool your home and cause the system to run longer…reducing the life of the equipment.”

When Should I Change My Air Conditioner’s Filter?

On average, every 3 months. How quickly it gets dirty depends on the season you’re in, how clean you keep your house, whether or not you are a smoker, and other environmental issues.

During Florida’s intense summer, you should check it once a month–especially if you use a standard fiberglass air filter.

One Maintenance Task of Many

Changing your air conditioner air filter is an important maintenance task, but your air conditioner requires other maintenance tasks to keep it running efficiently.

Your air conditioner needs professional maintenance at least once a year, preferably during the time of the year when you’re using it the most.

To get quick, professional maintenance for your air conditioner in Cape Coral or anywhere in Southwest Florida, contact Avis Plumbing and Air Conditioning.