Everything You Need to Know About Air Conditioner Filters

When it comes to air conditioners, it's important to know when and how to change the filter. According to ENERGY STAR, you should check and change your air conditioning filter every month during peak season. This is a job that you can probably take care of on your own if you decide to do it. To make sure you're doing it correctly, ask your HVAC service technician for help.

He can show you where the filter is located, how to remove the old filter and insert the new one, and how to get the right filters for your system. If you want to improve the air quality in your space by eliminating pollen, mold, and other harmful contaminants, you should invest in HEPA filters with a MERV rating of 10 or higher. When reinserting the filter into the housing, make sure that the arrow points away from the return and toward the air handler. Replacing the air filter is important because it can extend oven life, reduce energy bills, and improve indoor air quality.

Clean permanent filters or replace disposable filters in the forced air system every six months, unless they become clogged with dust first. You'll find the filter in the return air duct, which is usually on the same wall as the thermostat or, at least, nearby. Changing your air cleaner regularly can improve indoor air quality and help your HVAC system work more efficiently. With uncertainty about airborne transmission of the virus, some experts recommend the use of more efficient filters to trap virus particles.

The clogged filter also prevents enough air from flowing through the system to keep it working properly. Dirty air conditioner or oven filters are the number one problem when forced air heating and cooling systems don't work well. With a central forced air heating and cooling system, the heat pump, oven, or air conditioning filters remove dust and allergens from the air before heating or cooling the air and returning it to your rooms. From sizes to types, grades and more, here's everything you need to know about air conditioner filters.

Elisa Michocki
Elisa Michocki

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