Top 7 Signs It's Time to Change Your AC Filter

To keep your air conditioner running efficiently there are certain preventive maintenance steps you can take. The most important is cleaning and changing out the AC filters.

Depending on the type and size of your AC unit, you can have multiple filters. The furnace filter must be replaced and is easily accessible via a wall vent. Once you open the vent, the AC filter is usually attached to the grate.

The AC wall filter should be changed at least every 90 days. If not, your unit can lose its efficiency. The filters are inexpensive and can be purchased at your local home improvement store or in the hardware department at places like Walmart.

There are signs that your filter needs to be replaced. Keep reading to see what to look for.

The Unit is Taking Longer to Cool the Room

Have you noticed that it’s taking longer for the cool air to start circulating in your room? This could be due to dirty air filters. If the furnace vent filter doesn’t need to be replaced, it could be one of the internal filters.

If you know where the filters are located you can check them for build-up. Otherwise, call in your AC repairman to do a preventive maintenance check-up.

Your Utility Bill is Higher than Usual

Dirty and clogged air filters that go unattended can lead to high utility bills. Summer months are hard on HVAC units and in hot climates bills can soar. If you feel your bills are higher than normal check the air conditioning filters.

Replace or clean them as necessary.

You Have Poor Air Quality

Poor air quality and increased dust particles in the air are a sign your air filters need to be changed out. There are devices you can but to test the air quality in your home.

If you find that your filters need to be replaced frequently it could be because you’re using cheap air filters.

The Filters Haven’t Been Changed in Years

Let’s be honest, changing your AC filter probably never cross your mind until the AC guy shows-up for a repair and points out how dirty they are. Even then you still may not remember to change them every 90 days.

A sure sign your air filter needs to be replaced is the fact that it is no longer white. Air conditioning filters turn gray from all of the dust and particles the unit accumulates. When this happens, change the filter immediately.

Keep a supply of filters on hand and whenever the thought crosses your mind, stop what you’re doing and replace it.

Do Your Filters Need to be Changed?

Changing your AC filter takes less than a minute. With today’s apps, you can set a reminder on your smartphone. Instead of buying single filters pay the extra money for the three or four-pack.

When it comes to the filters inside your unit call in the pros. If you are in the Newark, Delaware, area, contact us for your HVAC needs.