As the temperatures start to rise, it’s important to make sure that your AC unit is in good shape. One of the most important, but often forgotten, maintenance tasks for your AC unit is replacing the filters.
AC filters play a crucial role in keeping your unit running efficiently and preventing costly repairs down the road. In this article, we will discuss the importance of replacing AC filters in the summer and provide some tips on how to do it correctly.
What Do AC Filters Do?
AC filters are responsible for trapping dust, dirt, and other airborne particles that can clog up your unit and reduce its efficiency. Over time, these trapped particles can build up and cause serious problems for your AC unit, including:
- Reduced airflow
- Frozen coils
- Short cycling
- Higher energy bills
What Happens if You Don’t Replace Your AC Filter?
If you don’t replace your AC filter regularly, you run the risk of damaging your unit and incurring expensive repairs. In some cases, neglecting to replace your filter can even void your manufacturer’s warranty.
How Often Should You Replace Your AC Filter?
The frequency with which you need to replace your AC filter depends on a few factors, including:
- The type of filter you’re using
- The size of your unit
- The amount of use it gets
- Your local climate conditions
As a general rule of thumb, most homeowners should plan on replacing their AC filters every one to three months during the summer. However, if you have pets or live in an area with a lot of dust and pollen, you may need to replace your filters more frequently.
Common Signs Your AC Filter Needs to Be Replaced
If you’re not sure whether it’s time to replace your AC filter, there are a few telltale signs you can look for, including:
- Reduced airflow from your vents
- An increase in dust and debris around your home
- Higher than normal energy bills
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to check your AC filter and see if it needs to be replaced.
How to Change Your AC Filter: Step-by-Step Process
Replacing your AC filter is a simple process that anyone can do. Just follow these steps:
- Turn off your AC unit and remove the front panel.
- Locate the old filter and remove it from the unit.
- Install the new filter in the same position as the old one.
- Replace the front panel and turn on your AC unit.
As you can see, replacing your AC filters is a quick and easy process that anyone can do. However, it’s important to remember that this is a crucial part of maintaining your AC unit and keeping it running properly. So be sure to add it to your summer maintenance checklist and replace your filters regularly.
Can Dirty Filters Damage Other Components of Your AC Unit?
While a dirty filter won’t necessarily damage other components of your AC unit, it can put unnecessary strain on the system as a whole, which can lead to problems down the road. In addition, a dirty filter can cause your AC unit to work harder than it needs to, which will increase your energy bills and shorten the lifespan of your unit.
Therefore, it’s important to keep your AC filters clean and replace them when necessary. By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your AC unit runs smoothly all summer long.
Need Help Replacing Your AC Filter?
If you’re not sure how to replace your AC filter or you need help with any other AC maintenance tasks, our team of experts at Access Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help.
We offer a wide range of AC services, including repairs, replacements, and tune-ups. Contact us today to schedule a service appointment. We’ll be happy to help you keep your AC unit in top shape all summer long.