One of the best ways to keep your indoor air quality high, and your heating and cooling system running efficiently, is to regularly change your A/C filter.
Not sure how often to do it or what type of filter to buy? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
Did you know that the air inside your home is more polluted than the air outside? It’s true! The EPA estimates that indoor air can be up to 70 times more polluted than outdoor air. Yikes! One of the main culprits of indoor air pollution is your heating and cooling system. Your system circulates air throughout your home, and if it isn’t properly maintained, it can spread pollutants like dust, pollen, mold spores, and pet dander.
Read on for everything you need to know about A/C filters, including how often to change them, what types of filters are available, and more.
Types of A/C filters
The most common type of A/C filter is a fiberglass filter. Fiberglass filters are relatively inexpensive and do a decent job of removing large particles from the air. However, they are not very effective at removing smaller particles, like dust mites and pollen.
If you are looking for a filter that will do a better job of removing smaller particles from the air, you may want to consider a pleated paper filter. Pleated paper filters are more expensive than fiberglass filters, but they are more effective at trapping small particles.
For the ultimate in air filtration, you may want to consider a HEPA filter. HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters are designed to remove 99.97% of all particles that are 0.3 microns or larger from the air.
HEPA filters are very effective at removing allergens, like dust mites and pollen, from the air. However, they are also more expensive than other types of filters and can put additional strain on your system if your system isn’t efficient and “strong” enough to force air through such a fine filter.
How often should I change my filter?
The frequency with which you need to change your filter depends on a few factors, including the type of filter you have, the size of your home, and whether you have pets.
For homes without pets, the general rule of thumb is to change your A/C filter every three months. However, if you have pets, you need to consider the dander and other extra dirt generated by pets, which means you will likely need to replace your filter more frequently. Therefore, it is recommended that you change your filter every month or two if you have pets.
What if I don’t change my filter?
If you don’t regularly change your A/C filter, a few things can happen. First, the efficiency of your system will decrease, which means your energy bills will go up. Additionally, the air quality in your home will suffer as dust, pollen, mold spores, and pet dander circulate through your system and are then circulated back into your living space.
Finally, not changing your A/C filter can lead to bigger problems down the road. Replacing your A/C filter regularly is a simple and effective way to help keep your system running smoothly and efficiently and to ensure that the air in your home is clean and healthy.
If you have any questions about A/C filters or need help choosing the right filter for your Raleigh area home, contact us today! We would be happy to help you find the perfect solution for your needs, and perform any A/C repairs you need this summer. Schedule an appointment online or call now: (919) 853-7910