If your air conditioner has a filter, then you probably know that filters are an essential part of your air conditioning system. They trap dirt and other particles that could otherwise damage your compressor or other internal parts. If your filter gets dirty or becomes ineffective, then it must be replaced. However, filters don't last forever, so it's important to know when they need to be replaced. When should you replace your air conditioner filter? There is no one-size-fits-all answer because it depends on your climate, the size and quality of your filter, and even the type of air conditioner that you own. But there are some general rules that can help you determine when it’s time to replace your filter. Let’s take a look at how often you should change your air conditioner filter.

WHY SHOULD YOU REPLACE YOUR FILTER?

Air conditioner filters trap dirt and other particles in the air, so your system can run more efficiently and effectively. But over time, these particles can build up and clog the filter, which can dramatically reduce your system’s efficiency. If your filter is clogged, it won’t be able to trap as many particles as it should. This means that your system will have to work much harder. The more you use your air conditioner, the more your filter will have to work. Eventually, the filter will become so clogged that it will start to restrict air flow. At this point, your system will be less effective at cooling your home. A dirty filter can also increase your carbon footprint. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average American household throws away over $100 worth of natural resources each year in the form of wasted energy. Air conditioners account for a significant portion of that energy waste, especially when dirty filters are preventing the system from working as efficiently as it should. If you have a programmable thermostat, you might not even notice when your filter needs to be replaced, but it could still be impacting your energy usage.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU REPLACE YOUR AIR CONDITIONER FILTER?

To determine how often you should replace your air conditioner filter, you want to know the lifespan of your filter. The average lifespan of an AC filter is between three and six months, but this can vary depending on your climate and type of filter. Some filters are more effective at trapping dirt and dust, which means they might last longer than others. You also want to consider your home’s humidity levels. Drier climates like deserts or places that experience long periods of drought are generally low-humidity areas. Low humidity levels can damage your HVAC equipment and shorten the life of your filter. On the other hand, humid areas like Florida or the Deep South tend to have higher humidity levels. High humidity can damage your equipment and shorten the life of your filter, but it can also help to improve your indoor air quality, which is why some people prefer to keep their humidity levels high.

CONCLUSION

Now that you know when you should replace your filter, it’s time to pick one. There are a variety of different sizes and types of filters available. When considering which filter to purchase, you want to consider your home’s HVAC system, the size of your home, and your personal comfort preferences. The best way to determine which filter is right for you is to do your research and find out what is available in your area. Once you have a better idea of which filters are best for your system, it will be easy to change your filter on a regular basis. Now that you know how often you should replace your filter, you can create a maintenance routine that will make it easy to keep up with your HVAC system. With regular maintenance, you can avoid inconvenient and costly repairs, reduce your carbon footprint, and make the most of your HVAC system.