As the temperatures rise, many of us rely on air conditioning to stay comfortable indoors. However, it’s important to remember that air conditioning systems require regular maintenance to keep them functioning properly. One critical aspect of maintenance is changing out the air filters regularly. In this blog, we will discuss how often you should change your air conditioning filters, why it’s important, and what the different ratings mean.
How often should you change your air conditioning filters?
The frequency at which you should change your air conditioning filters depends on a variety of factors, such as the type of filter you use, the number of people in your home, and whether you have pets. As a general rule, it’s recommended that you change your air filters every 1-3 months. However, if you have pets or allergies, you may need to change them more frequently.
Why is it important to change your air conditioning filters?
Air filters serve an important role in your air conditioning system by trapping dust, dirt, and other particles in the air. When filters become clogged, they can no longer effectively capture these particles, leading to poor indoor air quality and reduced efficiency of your air conditioning system. Additionally, dirty filters can cause your system to work harder, resulting in higher energy bills and potentially leading to premature system failure.
What do the different filter ratings mean?
When selecting air filters, you may come across different ratings such as MERV, HEPA, and FPR. Here is what each rating means:
- MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) – This rating measures the effectiveness of a filter at capturing particles of different sizes. The higher the MERV rating, the more efficient the filter is at trapping smaller particles. MERV ratings typically range from 1-20.
- HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) – This rating is used to indicate that a filter meets certain standards for air filtration, such as capturing 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. HEPA filters are commonly used in hospitals and other settings that require high air quality.
- FPR (Filter Performance Rating) – This rating was created by Home Depot to simplify filter selection for consumers. FPR ratings range from 4-10 and are based on a combination of factors, such as filter efficiency, airflow resistance, and dust holding capacity.
In summary, changing your air conditioning filters regularly is critical for maintaining good indoor air quality and efficient system performance. When selecting filters, consider factors such as the type of filter and the MERV, HEPA, or FPR rating. If you need assistance with air conditioning service, maintenance, repairs, or installation in San Antonio, Comfort Techs is proud to offer expert services. Contact us today at 210-920-4645 to schedule an appointment.