About Air Conditioner Filters

Air conditioners and central heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems (HVAC) make our homes more comfortable. For the system to function properly, the air conditioning filter needs to be changed or cleaned regularly. Many people neglect this simple step, which is unfortunate. Properly maintaining your air conditioning filter makes your home healthier, protects the equipment and reduces energy costs.

Identification

The air conditioning filter is the part of a climate control system that removes airborne particles like pollen, dust and smoke. An air conditioning/heating system can keep the temperature comfortable, but it is the air condition filter that does the most to improve the quality of the air you breathe. It also helps protect the equipment by preventing dirt from getting into the system.

Types

Air conditioning filters are rated from 1 to 16 based on how efficient they are at removing small particles from the air. Inexpensive filters that use paper or cotton and fiberglass to trap particles are the most commonly used. High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are more expensive, but remove fine pollen and smoke. Some HAVA filters are chemically treated to kill airborne bacteria. Air conditioning filters can be either disposable or reusable. Disposable filters are easier to use, since you just throw them away when they get dirty. However, you will spend more buying replacements.

Function

A fan (or blower) draws air into the intake duct and forces it through the air conditioning filter. Particles are trapped by the filter material, cleaning the air. Over time dirt, dust and pollen accumulate, clogging the air conditioning filter. Depending on your climate, local air quality, and lifestyle, you'll need to replace or clean the air conditioning filter every 1 to 3 months. If you don't, it becomes less efficient at cleaning the air. A filter clogged with dirt also means the system uses more energy to force the air through, costing you money. In extreme cases, you can burn out the motor, which means an expensive repair.

Replacing

To replace the air conditioning filter or remove it for cleaning, locate and open the cover plate. If you don't know where the filter is and don't have the instructions, look on the intake side of the condenser before the blower. There should be a labeled cover plate (if you still can't find the filter, check under Resources below for more information). Before you pull the old filter out, make a note of how it is oriented so you install the new filter correctly. Once you have the new filter in place, make sure the cover is closed and you're done.

Considerations

Replacing your air conditioner filter regularly does more than just protect the equipment. Breathing clean air is simply healthier. If you or someone in your home has allergies or respiratory problems, a HEPA filter can make their life a lot more pleasant. A high-efficiency filter is also helpful at cleaning the air if someone in your household is a smoker.

Resources

• HEPA Filters (stanford.edu)
• Locating Air Condidioning Filters