Americans spend more than $22 billion annually on electricity to cool their homes with air conditioning. The additional monthly cost depends on what season it is because they need to run the air conditioner more.
Owning an air conditioner can be wonderful, but it comes with some responsibility. Filters should be replaced monthly, not just for the environment but for the health and wellbeing of your family.
Keep reading to learn more about the importance of an air conditioner filter and signs your filter needs replaced in the home.
The Signs
These seven key signs tell you it’s time to replace your air conditioner filter.
1. Your AC Unit Has a Strange Smell
Molds and mildew can form inside your unit, contributing to the peculiar smell. Old filters can also smell like something is burning.
2. Your AC Unit Doesn’t Blow Cold Air
Dusty air filters could stop the cold air from blowing out your unit.
3. Your Unit Gets Hot
Having dirty air filters will make your unit work harder; thus, it will also be hot to the touch.
4. Higher Energy Bills
Your unit working harder will lead to higher energy bills.
5. Visible Dirt Around and on Your Unit
Too much dirt and dust on your filters will force it out. That’s why your unit and surrounding area become dusty when your filter is dusty.
6. Your Unit Is Louder Than Usual
The increase in sound is also due to your unit working harder than expected.
7. You Can’t Remember the Last Time You Changed Filters
The average person doesn’t even change their filters regularly. So there’s a good chance that you haven’t changed yours.
The Process of Replacing Your Air Conditioner Filter
AC unit filters are typically replaced every 30 to 60 days. Dirty air conditioner filters can block airflow and reduce efficiency.
You can contact professionals to help with your HVAC maintenance, but replacing the filter can be quickly done. Replacing your filter typically removes the front “face” of your air conditioning unit, slides it out, and then replaces it with the newer filter.
You can buy replacement filters online depending on what size you need. You can find 16x20x1 AC filters if you click the link. There are also different filters so that you can choose depending on your needs.
The Consequences of Not Replacing Your Air Conditioner Filter
Not replacing your air conditioner filter will cause inconveniences and be dangerous for your household.
Dirty filters will make your unit work harder to circulate air, leading to higher energy costs. Dirty filters can also cause your air conditioner to freeze, leading to a breakdown.
The accumulated dust in your filters could also lead to allergic reactions and aggravate respiratory problems. Dusty filters are also a fire hazard. The heat your unit produces could create short circuits, and your dusty filter could serve as kindling for the sparks.
If you notice any of the signs listed in this article, you must replace your air conditioner filter as soon as possible.
Did this article help you with your AC unit filter problems? Our blog has other articles tackling different issues that our home appliances have. Read more to find out.
