Open 24 Hours for Emergencies

Blog

How Important Is Changing The Filter In Your Air Conditioner?

Most people never think too much about their air conditioning until it stops working. We become very accustomed to living in climate-controlled comfort. And until that comfort disappears, we don’t give a thought or the care and maintenance an AC system deserves. Even something as simple as changing the filter can make a significant difference in the unit’s function. And cost just a few dollars, but we don’t invest the time and money to do it regularly.

How Do Air Filters Work?

AC air filters are often made of pleated paper or spun fiberglass surrounded by a cardboard frame. They are inserted into the AC system to prevent contaminants and particles from circulating in the air and damaging the system’s sensitive parts. Unfortunately, many consumers think that the air filter is designed to improve the air quality in their homes rather than protect the AC unit’s delicate inner workings. If they knew the purpose of these filters, they might be inclined to replace them more regularly.  

How Often Should Filters Be Changed?

The packaging for most air filters provides a recommended replacement timeframe. Most average models recommend changing the filter every 30 to 60 days. Some of the more expensive models are rated to last an average of 90 days. But the deciding factor should be the conditions in your home. When the filter’s appearance changes from clean and dust free to a mostly dusty, grey look, it is time to replace it. A few general rules will help you determine when you need to inspect your air filter to see if it needs to be replaced.

  • A filter in a non-dusty environment and with no pets should be changed every 90 days or as needed upon visual inspection
  • If you have a single pet, change the filter every 60 days or as required upon visual inspection
  • If you have multiple pets in your home or suffer from allergies, you will want to replace your air filter every 20 to 45 days or as needed upon visual inspection
  • A single resident with no pets could find that the air filter will only require replacement every 6 to 12 months
  • Vacation homes and homes with little use can also expect to need a new air filter every 6 to 12 month

What To Expect If You Don’t Change Your Air Filter

When an air filter is not changed regularly, it becomes covered with dust and debris because that is what an air filter is designed to do. When the surface area is completely covered, the dust creates a barrier that reduces and eventually stops the airflow into your home’s air conditioner. The longer you leave the clogged air filter in place, the harder the unit must work to circulate air. This added work causes all of the air conditioner components to wear out more rapidly than expected. A clogged air filter can reduce the life expectancy of an AC unit by many years.

Other Consequences Of A Dirty Air Filter

Once the air filter is clogged, the motor on your AC will run more frequently to circulate air adequately. This frequent operation will use more power and will increase your electric bill. And at the same time, the clogged air filter will hamper the unit’s ability to cool air as efficiently as it once did. So you will be paying more for power to operate the AC, but your home will be warmer and less comfortable. In addition, you will find that even when you dust and clean your home regularly, there will always be a fine coat of dust coving everything because it is blowing through the AC system rather than being removed by a clean filter.

Changing the filter in your AC is a simple task that will only cost a few dollars. And you will find that the benefits far outweigh the time and money involved in this simple maintenance project. If you have questions about changing your AC filter, call (512) 910-8123 to speak to a Parobek Plumbing & Air Conditioning professional. Your small investment now will prolong the life of your AC and save you a great deal of money in the future.

Get in touch with your local professionals today to schedule plumbing and HVAC service: 512-910-8123!

Schedule Service

Fill out the form below to be contacted by one of our friendly team members about your plumbing or A/C project.

Reviews

Sean Fuentes
Sean Fuentes
Read More
As a real estate agent I need trades that can respond fast with detailed estimates. Parobek exceeded both of the expectations I had for detail response time and estimates. I will use them again and will refer them to future clients.
Patti Boteler
Patti Boteler
Read More
I called Parobek Plumbing and Air Conditioning late this morning because my clogged toilet wasn't unclogging with the methods that normally work. It was important because I only have one toilet and work from home. It's 3 o'clock and Daniel left about 20 minutes ago and I have my unclogged toilet working perfectly now.
Nora Sue Vinson
Nora Sue Vinson
Read More
The worker looked for a plumbing leak and was very thorough, patient, and kind. He did not stop until I found the problem and took the time to explain it to me in detail. I would hire him again. Very good.
Jamie Jonston
Jamie Jonston
Read More
Parobek was amazing! we woke up to low water pressure and bubbling water right outside the house. i called parobek and they squeezed me in same day! our technician was Phillip and his service was excellent. he was super professional and knowledgeable. he put us at ease and answered all of our questions. we were so impressed!
Kathy Svodoba
Kathy Svodoba
Read More
Today's service was just a switch-out of a faucet. I'm very satisfied. Within the last week, I had a number of of jobs done, including installation of a reverse osmosis system. I have been exceedingly pleased. The service was prompt, professional and everyone was courteous and knowledgeable. Thanks.