All About Air Filters and Filter Replacement
Homeowners who have always felt safe, healthy, and comfortable breathing indoors have many different factors at home to thank for this, and air filters are one of them. Air filters are an essential part of the HVAC system and work quietly and out of sight to improve a home’s indoor air quality and protect the heating and air conditioning system.
Without it, a home’s residents may experience respiratory problems such as difficulty breathing, worsened allergic reactions, and other health issues related to poor indoor air quality. But how exactly does an air filter function, when do they need replacement, and what other benefits do they provide? Keep reading to learn the answers to this question about AC filters.
How an AC Filter Works
A home’s HVAC system works by drawing in the air indoors and heating or cooling it before returning it to the space. In the process, any airborne pollutants and contaminants get drawn in through the system. However, the air gets passed through a filter, which then traps these particles to ensure that these contaminants are not recirculated or stuck in the HVAC system.
Air filters are, therefore, responsible for cleaning dirty air by removing particulate matter such as dust, dirt, pet dander, pollen, and allergens from the air that people breathe indoors. Some filters can even remove smaller particles, such as bacteria and viruses, from the air to make it even cleaner.
When Air Filter Replacement Is Needed
Because air constantly moves through the AC filter, it doesn’t take long to become dirty and clogged, and a dirty air filter cannot clean the air as efficiently because it is already full of unwanted particulate matter. Therefore, a dirty AC filter must be replaced with a new, clean one or cleaned if the filter is reusable.
Typically, air filters should be replaced at least once every three months, depending on the type of filter. However, replacement should be done sooner if homeowners notice their air filters get dirty sooner than that, so checking air filters every month is recommended.
Benefits of Timely AC Filter Replacement
Replacing the AC filter when dirty has many advantages. Replacing air filters when recommended will help improve indoor air quality and, subsequently, the health of a home’s residents. Being proactive about replacing air filters will do wonders for those who suffer from allergies, especially to airborne pollutants, and help relieve symptoms of respiratory issues that plague home residents.
A clean air filter will also help the HVAC system run more efficiently as air passes more freely through a clean filter than one that is dirty and clogged. Energy-efficient systems help homeowners save on energy bills, making timely AC filter replacement beneficial. Additionally, changing the air filter protects the HVAC system, reducing necessary repairs and extending the system's life expectancy.
About RupCoe Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning
RupCoe Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is a family-owned and operated company serving South Plainfield and the surrounding areas since 1985. They offer upfront pricing, fast turnarounds, and meticulous attention to detail. Call them today for air filter replacement in South Plainfield, NJ.
