Changing the air filter is one of the most essential tasks for maintaining an AC system. The purpose of the filter is to create a barrier that traps dust and other airborne particles to prevent them from getting sucked into the AC air handler. Running an AC system without a filter would quickly create various issues as a result of dust and debris clogging the blower and collecting on the evaporator coil. Running the system with a dirty filter is also a concern, as it can lead to a substantial drop-off in both performance and energy efficiency.
Recommended Air Filter Change Intervals
HVAC manufacturers recommend changing the air filter in your home at least every 90 days. However, this is just a general recommendation that isn’t applicable to every situation or every home. For instance, people who live in dry, dusty climates or have indoor pets may need to change their air filter more frequently as a result of it getting dirtier more quickly. The more hours your air conditioning runs each day also has a direct impact on the amount of dust and debris that the filter traps and how quickly it starts to clog.
Whether your AC system uses a 1-inch filter or a thicker media filter makes a difference in how often it should be replaced as well. A 1-inch pleated filter can only hold so much debris before it begins getting clogged and restricting airflow. Media filters contain far more pleated material and usually last anywhere from six months to a year before needing to be replaced. Media filters are also far more effective at filtering the air, which is something to consider if you’re concerned about the indoor air quality in your house.
When it comes to 1-inch air filters, the filter rating can also impact how long it takes before the filter starts to clog. Filters with higher MERV ratings are more efficient and trap a larger percentage of airborne debris. As such, they typically get clogged faster than filters with lower MERV ratings. If you use a MERV 10 to MERV 12 filter to help combat air quality issues, you should usually plan on replacing it every six to eight weeks or possibly even monthly.
Quality reusable filters can work just as well as pleated disposable filters. That means you should wash a reusable filter just as often as you’d change a disposable filter. Buying a reusable filter will save you money in the long run. The drawback is that you need to shut your AC off while you’re washing the filter and waiting for it to dry. That’s part of the reason why most people opt to use disposable filters, as they are much easier and more convenient.
Why Changing the Air Filter Is So Important
Dirty filters are restrictive, meaning air can’t be drawn through them as easily. This is a concern in terms of air conditioning performance, as the reduced airflow decreases the amount of heat the system can absorb and remove from the house at any given time. The result is longer cooling cycles and higher energy costs.
If an AC system isn’t cooling effectively, it also puts added strain on some of the components like the blower and compressor. Longer cooling cycles also lead to more wear and tear. Both the added strain and increased wear and tear increase the chances of components wearing out and the system breaking down. They also commonly contribute to the system failing and needing to be replaced sooner.
A dirty air filter can lead to an AC system frequently freezing up as well. The evaporator coil is always extremely cold when the AC is running due to how cold the refrigerant flowing through it is. Nonetheless, the condensation that collects on the coil usually drips off before it can freeze because of the warm air flowing over it.
However, a dirty filter can restrict the airflow to the point where there isn’t enough warm air blowing across the evaporator coil to prevent the condensation on it from freezing. If the coil ever does freeze, the AC won’t be able to cool at all anymore until you shut the system off and wait for all of the ice to melt.
Contact Us Today
Since 2012, Cencal Mechanical Heating & Air, Inc. has been providing first-class cooling and heating solutions in Modesto and the surrounding areas. We’re a family-run business with a dedication to performing top-quality work and providing an unmatched level of customer service. From HVAC installation to maintenance and repairs, we’re ready to expertly manage your home comfort needs. To schedule service for your Modesto home, contact us today.
