Typically, air conditioner manufacturers recommend changing the air filters in your system at least once every three months. However, you should change the filter more often if you are a happy dog or cat owner, have family members with allergies, or if your home is on a farm or ranch or near active construction work.
Not changing the filter on time will lead to health problems and air conditioner breakdowns, hence costly treatments and repairs. Changing the filter is necessary to improve indoor air quality, extend the air conditioning system's life, and protect it from damage.
Signs that it is time to replace the filter:
1. The dust has accumulated near the vents.
2. Unpleasant odor from the air conditioner. This indicates that dirt, mold, or fungus has accumulated in the air conditioner.
3. Poor cooling of the room. The cause may not be a breakdown of the air conditioner but a dirty filter that does not allow air to pass through nicely.
4. Overheating of the AC unit. If the back of the air conditioner is hot, it could mean that the system is trying too hard to push air through a clog in the filter, which can lead to higher electric bills.
The above signs indicate that the filter needs to be cleaned or replaced. Yes, there are disposable air filters that are usually surrounded by a cardboard frame. There are also reusable, washable filters in plastic frames. Before replacing a disposable filter, measure its width, length, and thickness so that the new filter fits your air conditioner perfectly.
How to change the air filter at home with your own hands:
1. Please turn off the air conditioner and disconnect it from the electric network.
2. Find the location of the air conditioner filter. Open and remove the cover. The filter is inside the air conditioner unit.
3. Remove the old filter and replace it with a new one in the same position. Ensure the arrows indicate the airflow direction pointing away from you and toward the air conditioner.
4. Install the cover and turn on the power.
If changing the filter is difficult, we recommend signing up for annual air conditioner maintenance from FUSE Service Palm Beach.
It should be noted that using the air conditioner without an air filter is strictly not recommended because the system will not be protected from mechanical damage and your breath from dust.