The U.S. Department of Energy recommends changing your AC filters every three months. Some homes, such as those with multiple pets that produce a lot of dander, may have to change them more frequently.
Why Is Changing Your AC Filter Important?
The focus of the DOE is on saving you money and reducing energy consumption nationwide. At Big Builders in Bakersfield, we advise our customers that there are several core reasons why they should not allow their AC filters to become visibly dirty. This practice reduces both energy efficiency and indoor air quality. It also increases wear and tears on the equipment.
Energy Efficiency
Energy Star has determined that a dirty AC filter can increase energy consumption by at least five percent and as much as three times that. This is a significant amount in a small home with just one filter. Consider a larger home that is expensive to cool and that may have multiple AC filters.
Indoor Air Quality
A dirty filter is far less efficient. Its purpose is to block dust from entering the system. As dust accumulates, it can actually be drawn through the filter media and into the ducts. Did you know that dust often traps pollutants when it forms? It then settles in your air ducts where it continues to emit the pollution into the atmosphere you breathe. This can have a significant impact on your indoor air quality.
Wear and Tear
As your filter clogs, your air conditioning system becomes less efficient. It works much harder as pressure increases. Those moving parts are subjected to a lot more wear and tear, and that means they\’ll require repairs sooner than they would have otherwise.
Cool and Comfortable
Big Builders can help keep you cool and comfortable. In addition to cooling, we offer a broad range of services related to heating, roofing, doors, windows, and indoor air quality. Call us today to learn about our spring AC tune-ups and the other ways in which we can help you save.