Your air conditioner’s filter is more important to the performance of your air conditioner than you might guess. While many people know that it keeps your air a little cleaner, it may surprise you to learn that it also is vital in stopping particles from damaging the AC system itself. Without a filter, your air conditioning system would be vulnerable to a lot of wear and tear. But if the filter is dirty, just as many problems can occur.
Why Change the Filter
The filter is usually located somewhere in front of the blower fan, near the return vent where air is sucked into the system. The blower fan won’t be able to draw enough air into the AC system if it is too clogged. This means it also won’t be able to blow enough air out to your home, resulting in reduced temperatures. But this is the least of your problems, as this problem can also overwork components and make the coils freeze.
Locating and Changing the Filter
The filter may be behind a return vent in a central location in your home. There may actually be several return vents around your home with a different filter. Or you might find it on the AC unit itself. In any case, changing the filter is usually as easy as opening the vent and sliding it out. Then, slide in a new filter of the same size. You can choose a filter with a higher MERV rating for better air filtration, but we recommend speaking with an expert first.
Cleaning Reusable Filters
Only filters that are labeled as washable can be cleaned; all others must be thrown away. Usually, you can pull out the filter and vacuum the debris, then bring it outside and rinse it with a hose. Allow it several hours to dry before returning it to the vent. Read the manufacturer’s instructions for more information or ask a qualified HVAC technician.
Robbins Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. can help you find a new filter or help with other annual maintenance tasks for your AC system in Farmington, NM. Don’t waste your time with the run-around. Give us a call and let us do it right the first time!