Homeowners often overlook the importance of a clean AC filter. Not only will it allow your home to be more comfortable, but it can also save you money on utility bills. Here are the benefits of a clean aircon filter and some common FAQs about air conditioning filters.
What is an air conditioner filter?
Air conditioner filters are made to remove pollutants like pollen, grease, dust, and smoke. Studies have shown that there is a fair amount of indoor air pollution from chemicals used in the various goods and household furnishings.
Any filter is made up of a porous structure that does not allow large and coarse particles that can be harmful to pass through. The filter in an air conditioner part, prevent dangerous allergens and pollutants from getting into your indoor environment in a home. This has a marked effect on the well-being and health of its occupants.
Where is the AC filter located?
The filter for your AC unit is located on the indoor unit, near the evaporator coil. It helps to remove dust, pollen, and other airborne particles from the air before it enters the coil. A clean filter is essential for maintaining the efficient operation of your AC unit and preventing damage to the coil. If you are unsure how to locate or replace the filter, consult your AC unit’s owner’s manual or contact a qualified AC technician.
The Important of a Clean Aircon Filter
Once an AC filter gets dirty, the air in the home will be unfiltered and pass into the components of the AC, leading to a build-up of dirt in them. This is never good for an air conditioner and especially bad for its evaporator coils. Here are why a clean aircon filter is important.
Avoid poor quality air
Homeowners can face a whole host of problems because of dirty filters. To start with, there will be a build-up of allergens in the home. Because the filter is dirty, the allergens will not be trapped in it as they are meant to be. This causes them to build up in the ductwork. What then is the result? All the air that the air conditioner releases into your home will be full of pollen, dander, spores, all allergens, as well as bacteria. The poor quality of indoor air can cause you and your family to develop unpleasant physical symptoms, like itchy eyes, sneezing and stuffiness.
Prevent AC freeze problem
The result of this build-up caused by a dirty filter can also reduce the air flowing from the air conditioner. Cold air will then get trapped in the air conditioner and result in ice forming over its coils. The air conditioner will then freeze and stop working.
Work at optimal efficiency
With a dirty filter, the unit would not function as efficiently as it was. Dirty filters will also make it harder for an air cooling system to produce cooler air which it is supposed to be doing. This could be really frustrating, especially when the higher temperature hits Singapore.
Consume the lesser amount of energy
Additionally, clean filters consume a lesser amount of energy. This could mean a lower electricity bill. How is this possible? When filters are clogged, the unit is forced to consume more energy just to create and release cooler air.
Statistically speaking, it is believed that clean filters and even new filters cut down electric consumption from 5% to 15%. These figures mean a lot to many people. Finally, clean filters help in the overall maintenance of the unit’s health. This means lesser expenses on repair.
How often should you clean your aircon filters?
You should clean your aircon filter every 90 days in normal conditions. Depending on the type of filter you have and the environment in which your unit is located, you may need to clean the filters as often as every 90 days. However, if you live in a dusty area or have pets, you may need to clean the filters more frequently. Some air conditioners come with permanent filters that can be washed, while others have disposable filters that need to be replaced regularly.
How often must an air filter be changed?
If you or nobody in your family has allergies, this should be one every 6 months, but AC professionals suggest that your AC will work more efficiently if this is done every 3 months.
The air filter replacement must be of the right size and type. If your AC has been functioning correctly, remove the filter from it and buy one exactly like it. Media filters need to be replaced every 12 months. These are pleated filters that last longer.
Can an AC work without a filter?
Yes, an AC can work without a filter. But experts are of the opinion that this is not to be recommended, as doing so will lead to damage to the system and can lead to expensive repairs.
The absence of a filter will also result in the condensation drain not being able to function so that moisture remains in your unit. This can lead to the accumulation of moisture on Freon tubing. Water will then condense and start dripping from the pan, leading to water damage to the entire system.
Is no air filter better than a dirty one?
A dirty filter is preferable to having no filter, as even if it’s completely dirty, it will still protect your machinery all the time that it is in its correct place. Compared to having to overhaul your AC, it is better to buy a new filter. You must, therefore, never fall to the temptation of removing it, as, under normal conditions, a dirty filter can still filter a fair amount of air without in any way affecting the airflow.
Never run an air conditioner without a filter. If you do so, all pollen and dust will then cling to the coil. That can lead to expensive repairs. You cannot quantify the filtration you can get from clogged filters.
Can a dirty air conditioner filter make you sick?
You can get sick from dirty air conditioner filters, so you must clean them or replace them regularly. You will then have a healthier home. Studies have indicated that dirty filters cause allergic reactions, and congestion of the sinuses, especially in those who are allergic to animals, mould, or pollen. When an air conditioner is in use, the air filter collects all these allergens and causes them to circulate in a home.
Maintain records of when you clean or replace a filter and set yourself reminders on your laptop or phone so that you change the filter when it is due. The effects of dirty air are minimal if you change your air filter regularly. You can get sick from pollutants and contaminants if you do not keep your filter clean.
Related read: Top 18 FAQs On The Health Risks Associated With An Air Conditioner
Conclusion
Whether your air conditioner is a split-type or central AC, it’s essential to maintain the filter. A dirty filter can make you sick and keep your system from running efficiently. The good news? It’s easy to clean an air conditioning filter! Contact us today for help with this task; we’ll have you back up and running in no time!
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