AC and Furnace Filters Explained
Air conditioners and heaters are designed to keep the home comfortable year-round. One function that people tend to overlook is that they also have to work hard to protect indoor air quality. Inside the home, the air can become stale and laden with dust, allergens, and other pollutants. The air filters in the heating and air conditioning system stand between these pollutants and the HVAC equipment. Here is a quick guide to help homeowners understand what air filters do, how often they should be replaced, and the benefits of changing them.
What Do Air Filters Do?
Since good indoor air quality is so essential for health, every air conditioner and furnace has an air filter. One of the reasons for furnace and AC filters is that they keep dust and grime from building up inside the units, allowing it to perform more efficiently and reliably. When these filters are allowed to collect dust and stay dirty, pollutants can make their way into the inner workings of the air conditioner or furnace and cause problems.
As a pleasant side effect, air filters also do an excellent job of cleaning up the air inside the home. AC and heating systems circulate air in the home across the air filter, pulling pollutants out of the air. This helps keep the home’s air cleaner and allows everyone to breathe easier.
When to Replace AC and Furnace Filters
Air filters can collect a lot of dust and allergens from the air. Once air filters are full of dust and grime, they must be replaced. Most air filters should be replaced at least every three months for maximum protection. Waiting longer than this interval can cause dust and allergens to build up in the home. The excess dust can also damage the air conditioner or heater and reduce efficiency by obstructing airflow.
However, if the filter gets dirty before then, it should be replaced. If people in the home suffer from allergies or health problems, more frequent air filter replacements may be needed. This can help keep dust and pollen to a minimum, which is better for their health.
Benefits of Regular Filter Replacement
Air filter replacement is a simple task that almost everyone can handle. However, when homeowners replace their air filters regularly, they can experience many benefits like:
- Improved energy efficiency
- Lower heating and cooling bills
- Improved indoor air quality
- Reduced symptoms of allergies and asthma
- Fewer problems with the heating and cooling system
About A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions
A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions aims to keep bills lower and improve air quality for homeowners. That’s why they offer great maintenance plans, and also provide flat rate pricing. Call today for filter replacement and services in Austin, TX.
