Most air conditioners have a filter of some sort within the system. Located in various places, it may be in the return grille or even in the duct system.

What is the purpose of the air filter?

• Remove particles from the air.
• Keep the system clean.

Over time, the filter gets plugged with more and more particles. This increases resistance and reduces airflow. That’s when you’re supposed to change the filter. How often you change the filter depends on how dirty the air is to begin with and how big the filter is.

What happens if I don’t change the filter?

• The air flow decreases
• The system will not perform efficiently.
• The filter can become a source of air pollution itself.

Can’t I just take the filter out completely?

• Particles will build up on the system’s evaporator coil.
• Eventually the system would fail.

Replacing the filter on a regular basis is better for your air conditioning system both short-term and in the long run. It helps your system run efficiently, which gives you more “cool” for your buck. It also keeps your AC unit running as many years as possible. Figure out a reminder system and put it on the calendar. Hmm…maybe there should be a “Time to Change Your Filter” app for your smartphone!