Most technicians recommend changing an air filter once every month, or at most, every 2 or 3 months. You might assume that this is because you need to keep your air clean. And this is true—partly. A technician’s number one concern, though, when it comes to your air filter, is keeping your air conditioner from being damaged.
That’s what your air filter is there for in the first place: damage prevention. But the wrong air filter can do way more harm than good.
How your filter protects your AC system
The air filter in your AC system is primarily there to protect your air conditioning system, although today’s filters are also effective at reducing allergens. If there were no filter present, your indoor blower fan could suck in large particles of debris as it sucked in the air, which could, in turn, damage an air conditioner.
However, you do still need a sufficient amount of airflow to move through the system. That’s why you are supposed to change your air filter regularly. If it’s too dirty, it could stop air from flowing into the system, not just debris.
Thinking of upgrading your home’s air filter?
Just as a dirty air filter can inhibit airflow, so too can an air filter that is the wrong size and rating for your air conditioner. The fibres that are meant to trap particulate in the air may be so tightly woven that they stop air from moving into the HVAC system altogether.
The MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) of your air filter is a good indicator of how well it filters. Most air conditioners come with a filter of about 1-4 MERV, but may be able to hold a filter of up to MERV 8. However, if the filter is too strong, you put your air conditioner at risk. Consider a whole-house air purifier instead!
Air filters and your health
Getting the correct air filter is also incredibly important as your health can be affected by it. Air filters are the one that filter dirt, dust, moulds and other particles in the air making your indoor air as healthy as possible. That’s why it’s important to know;
Which Air Filter Fits Your Home?
There are different types of air filters and it’s very important to know which one best fits your home and your system. There are less expensive fibreglass filters which primarily functions to protect your system. They are economical but may not be good for homeowners with respiratory issues since they do not help improve the air quality of your home. If you are prone to allergies and breathing difficulties, high-efficiency filters will work best for you. They are more expensive but can protect your system and filter small particles better than low-priced air filters.
Your Air Conditioner is an important and expensive asset to your home, which is why taking the time to understand and learn about your appliance is so important. Always make sure to get the correct filter for your unit so that your unit stays as good as new and keeps you and your family stay healthy and cool during summer.