Summer is right around the corner, which means its time to start thinking about your air conditioner! During the hottest time of the year, you expect your air conditioner to keep you cool and comfortable, however, it is only going to perform its job well if it receives the attention it requires. Otherwise, you could be left dealing with a whole variety of unforeseen problems. One way that you can prepare for the season ahead is to change your AC’s air filter.
Many homeowners tend to minimize the importance of changing their air filters, so it may only get changed during an annual maintenance visit. However, it is recommended that your air filter is changed every 1-3 months. Here in Florida, we use our air conditioners a lot, so failure to change an air filter can definitely affect the overall function of your system. Below, we have outlined some of the reasons why you need to change your air filter regularly. Keep reading to learn more.
So, What Does an Air Filter Do?
There is a lot of dirt and debris that circulates throughout your home, ultimately finding its place in your ductwork system. If the debris enters the air conditioner itself, it has the potential to cause some significant damage. The air filter exists to prevent debris from entering the air conditioner itself. When air blows through the filter, the dirt is trapped.
Air filters are unable to rid themselves of the particles they collect, which is why it is important that you replace them regularly. When they become too clogged, airflow in and out of the system becomes restricted, causing serious problems.
What Happens if Your Air Filter Isn’t Changed?
Decreased Efficiency
A dirty air filter can leave you dealing with a wide range of issues, including decreased efficiency. A clogged air filter creates more airflow resistance than is normal, causing your system to struggle to circulate conditioned air throughout your home. When your system struggles, it requires more energy to do its job, creating a huge spike in monthly energy bills. By simply changing your air filter on a regular basis, you can ensure that your system is efficient, keeping monthly utility bills to a minimum.
Increased Need for Repairs
As we mentioned above, a clogged air filter makes it harder for your air conditioner to do its job. This increased risk of wear and tear can lead to various operational problems and even a full system breakdown if left unattended. So, if you have found yourself calling for repair services more than just a couple of times per year, it could be that you need to change your air filter much more frequently.
Decreased Indoor Air Quality
Although the air filter is ultimately put in place to protect your air conditioner, it does have some positive impacts on your health. When the air filter is clogged, polluted air may be forced around the filter and dumped directly into your home! Changing your filter regularly can significantly reduce the number of contaminants in your air, allowing for easier breathing and a much more enjoyable summer!
For all your Orlando HVAC services, trust the team at Bayonet Plumbing Cooling & Heating. Contact us today!
