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How To Change an Air Conditioning Filter

HVAC professionals recommend changing the filter in your air conditioner at least once a month. Dirty air filters not only cause your AC to work inefficiently, but they send tainted, unclean air back into your home, filling your home with all sorts of dust and toxins. Changing your air filter is simple, and it only takes a few minutes.

Below are the steps to take to change an air conditioning filter when the time comes.

1. The filter is usually located within your ductwork. If you are not sure where your AC filter is located, consult the owner’s manual for your unit or contact an AC professional.
2. Remove the filter and measure it if you don’t know what size you need.
3. Look for a filter that has a minimum efficiency reporting the value of at least 8 (most range from 1-12 for home AC units). Make sure you take a look at what types of filters are recommended for your specific AC model.
4. After purchasing a filter, insert it correctly, making sure the correct side is facing out (see the directions on the package).
5. Replace the filter cover. Make sure you correctly and tightly screw back any screws you may have loosened to remove the filter.

What Type of Filter to Use?

There are many types of air filters for residential systems. Finding the right one for your needs will maximize your comfort. Residential air filters have a MERV rating of between 1-12; those filters rated between 9 to 12 offer the most significant protection.

Filters with a MERV rating of between 1-4 will remove less than 20% of particulates from the airflow, while filters rated between 5 to 8 will remove anywhere between 20% to 35%. For filters rated between 9 to 12, they can remove between 50% to 90% of particulates from the air. If you have allergies or breathing conditions such as asthma, COPD, etc., the greater the filtration, the easier you will breathe.

Before purchasing a filter, we recommend speaking with a certified HVAC specialist at Penguin Air to confirm the quality and reliability of your chosen filter. It’s a simple step and one that’s well worth picking up the phone and calling us at (480) 747-6800.

What Happens if I Don’t Change My Air Filter?

Air filters are essential for prolonging the life of your HVAC systems. They trap the dirt and debris that can damage components and diminish performance. Moreover, they remove the particulate matter from the air that makes it harder to breathe. If you don’t change your filter, you will find that the frequency of repairs for your HVAC system will increase, and you will also notice more flare-ups of asthma and other breathing conditions. It is a simple task that takes just a few minutes to complete, but it can save you hours of frustration.

How Frequently Should I Change My Filter?

Most professionals recommend changing the air filter every one to three months. However, what works for other AC systems may not work for your family. Thus, you should change the filters when it’s most advantageous for your needs. If you have pets, lots of people in the home, or suffer from asthma, allergies, or breathing conditions, then you may need to change it more frequently. Regularly checking your filter and changing it when the air just “doesn’t feel right” can help you feel more comfortable.

We are happy to answer your questions about air filters and the filters we recommend to our clients in Phoenix and surrounding communities. We encourage you to contact Penguin Air at (480) 747-6800 to speak with a certified HVAC specialist about your needs.