Air Conditioner Filter

The most important maintenance task that will ensure the efficiency of your air conditioner is to routinely replace or clean your air conditioner filter.

Clogged, dirty air conditioner filter block normal air flow and reduce a system's efficiency significantly. With normal air flow obstructed, air that bypasses the filter may carry dirt directly into the evaporator coil and impair the coil's heat-absorbing capacity.

Air conditioner filters are located somewhere along the return duct's length. Common air conditioner filter locations are in walls, ceilings, furnaces, or in the air conditioner itself.

Some types of filters are reusable; others must be replaced. They are available in a variety of types and efficiencies. Clean or replace your air conditioning system's filter or filters every month or two during the cooling season.

Air conditioner filter may need more frequent attention if the air conditioner is in constant use, is subjected to dusty conditions, or you have fur-bearing pets in the house.

A clean air conditioner filter ensures that the motor in the furnance unit is operating efficiently and prevent premature breakdown.