What Will Happen If You Don't Change Your Air Conditioner Filter?
Posted on: 9 March 2016
Your air conditioner filter cleans the air every time your HVAC system is in use. Knowing what the filter does, how it impacts your HVAC system and how often the filter needs to be changed can help you take care of your HVAC system all year round.
What will happen if you don't change your air conditioner filter?
If you don't change your air conditioner filter, your HVAC system will begin to circulate dirty air through the vents. This dirty air can become caught in the parts of the air conditioner and furnace, depending on which appliance is being run at the time. This is a particular problem for your air conditioner because dirt in the air can cling to your air conditioner coils and make it difficult for your air conditioner to release heat. This makes your air conditioner work harder than necessary and can make the unit less efficient over time, eventually leading to necessary air conditioner repair.
How often should you change your air filter?
You should change your air filter every 3 months, or as needed. If your filter gets dirty well before the 3-month mark, you may change it early. If you have pets in your house, or if members of your household have allergies, it's a good idea to change your air conditioner filter more frequently. If you have a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter, this may need to be changed on a monthly basis because HEPA filters catch more dust get and can get dirty more quickly.
How can you change your air filter?
To change your air filter, turn off your HVAC system. In many HVAC systems, the air filter will be located in a slot between the return air duct and the blower. Remove the air filter and take it to a hardware store or home improvement center. At the store, you can find an exact replacement for your old filter, or you can make the change between a standard filter and a HEPA filter, if you desire. Once you've purchased your new filter and have taken it home, you can throw away your old filter and insert the new one into the slot. Finally, turn back on the HVAC system.
If you have trouble replacing your HVAC's filter or would like more information, contact a local air conditioning repair person. He or she can answer your questions and show you what to do.
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