Air filters are essential components of any HVAC system, as they help keep out dust, pollen, and other debris from accumulating on the internal components. Not only do they keep out typical contaminants, but they also prevent larger particles from entering the air conditioning unit and causing potential damage. An air filter will pick up dirt and dust over time, so it's important to clean it regularly. The EPA recommends inspecting the air conditioning filter at least every three months. If you live in a dusty area or have pets or children in the house, you should consider inspecting the filter every month.
Doing so will ensure that a clogged filter won't cause any damage to the unit. Although it's possible to run an air conditioner without a filter, it's never recommended. We understand that you may not always have a new replacement filter on hand when you want to replace your current one, but it's best to wait until you have a replacement filter. Running the air conditioner without a filter is worse than running it with a dirty one. Instead, go to the store as soon as possible for a replacement or call an HVAC professional to have it replaced.
Without a filter, your air conditioner risks serious and costly problems. Most central air conditioning units have two or more filters. These filters clean the air and ensure good air quality as the unit circulates between indoor and outdoor air. If both heating and air conditioning systems share the same ducts, it is also possible that the air cleaner for both systems is located in or near the blower system of the furnace. Some air conditioning systems are large and complicated, and even finding the filter can be difficult. If you want to improve the air quality in your space by eliminating pollen, mold, and other harmful contaminants, you should invest in HEPA filters with a MERV rating of 10 or higher.
An air cleaner that is completely clogged by dirt and dust can completely obstruct the flow of air to your home, making your air conditioner work much more. When reinserting the filter into the housing, make sure the arrow points away from the return and toward the air handler. Some of these factors are the type of filter you have, the size of the house, the quality of the air, the number of pets in the house, how often you use your unit, and if you or someone in your family has allergies or certain medical conditions. Once again, professionals can make sure you have the right type of air purifier (such as a UV air purifier) combined with the filters. It can be distressing to know that the air you breathe inside your home can be worse than the air outside. This filter removes some larger particles from circulating through the air in a home, but it is not significant enough to improve overall air quality.
One of the main culprits for decreased efficiency is a dirty and clogged air filter, as this means that the air conditioner has to work harder to cool your home, burning more energy as it does. Every time you turn on the oven with a dirty air filter in place, you're basically causing dust and dirt to enter the air in your home.
