To make sure your air conditioner works at optimal performance and lasts its expected lifetime, regular maintenance needs to be conducted on the unit. One of the simplest maintenance tasks that can be performed is changing the air filter within the A/C.
In addition to keeping the A/C performing as expected, regularly-changed air filters reduce the cost of operating the unit and ensure that the air in your home is the highest quality. The US Department of Energy estimates that changing a dirty filter with a clean one can decrease the energy consumption of your A/C by 5% to 15%. Below is a handy guide for scheduling air filter changes for different types of air conditioners, but more frequent changes are recommended for A/C units that are in constant use or in very dusty conditions. Homes that have fur-bearing pets may need a more frequent replacement schedule as well.
HEPA AIR FILTERS
HEPA air filters are noteworthy because they are manufactured to collect the highest amount of dust, dirt, and particles from the air, in comparison to other types of A/C filters. If a HEPA filter is clogged, air cannot pass through it easily. Because of this, HEPA filters should be checked monthly to see if they need to be replaced. If the HEPA filter is dirty, change it as soon as possible. This will allow the filter to keep allergens and other particles out of your home and maintain the coolest temperature with the least amount of energy.
ELECTROSTATIC AIR FILTERS
Electrostatic air filters employ an electrostatic charge to capture airborne particles within the filter so they do not pass into your home’s air. These types of filters should be checked every 90 days to see if they need maintenance. If the filter is dirty, it should be replaced or washed if your filter is reusable.
ELECTRONIC AIR FILTERS
Unlike HEPA filters, electronic filters can continue to allow air to pass through them even if they are dusty. However, a dirty electronic filter will produce lower air quality and take more energy to operate. To avoid this, electronic filters should be replaced or washed every six months or more frequently is high dust or pollen areas.
MAINTAINING YOUR AIR CONDITIONER IN BEAR, DELAWARE
If you live in Bear, DE, contact First Class HVAC for fast and friendly service for any of your air conditioner service needs. We have been providing professional HVAC services, including installation, maintenance, and repair, for over 40 years throughout Delaware and Eastern Maryland. Locally-owned and fully licensed, our service pros remain on the cutting edge of technology and can provide assistance with the newest advances in air conditioning systems as well as older models.