Avoid AC Repair By Replacing Your Air Filter
One of the biggest reasons Cape Coral and Fort Myers’ homeowners experience AC problems is a result of a dirty air filter. Unfortunately, this is a very common occurrence. When your AC is working properly, it’s human nature to sit back, enjoy the cool air, and not think about maintaining your HVAC equipment.
Sadly, dirty or clogged air filters can lead to AC Repair. Here’s why:
Avoid AC Issues And Repair
A dirty filter restricts the amount of airflow through the evaporator coil. When this happens, the coil gets too cold causing the system to potentially freeze up, leaving you with an inoperable AC unit.
A dirty or clogged air filter can impact your health, as well. Once the filter is visibly filled with debris, the entire system beyond it may also be dirty. As a result, your system becomes overworked causing allergy-like symptoms for you and your family.
Outdoor condenser coils can collect dirt if the outdoor environment is dusty or if there is foliage within reach. Check your condenser coil fins for dirt and debris. Then, remove any potential blockage nearby.
A dirty filter adds stress to the air handler. When the fan motor works harder, it could burn out sooner than you thought, causing your system to fail.
All these issues can affect your wallet, time, and overall well-being.
What is the best line of defense to avoid major AC repairs? Change your air filter. In the tropics of SW Florida, we recommend changing your air filter once a month.
Pro Tip: Set a reminder on your phone every month to change your air filter.
How To Replace Your Air Filter
Changing your home’s air filter can be an unexpectedly challenging task. You think you have everything ready to go until you notice that bold, yet surprisingly small arrow on the box.
The arrow indicates to point in the direction of “Air Flow”; but what exactly does that mean?
Here’s the scoop:
Air Flow is the direction the air is going. If you are unsure, place a plastic grocery bag on the air return vent and notice which way it is pulling. If it pulls up into the air return vent, place your air filter in with the arrow pointing up.
If your air conditioning unit is on the wall, the arrow should be facing the wall.
If your air conditioning unit is on the ceiling, the arrow should be facing the ceiling.
Be sure to turn off your AC unit first. Then, simply flip the latch and remove the vent. Next, pull your old filter out. Install your new filter, then re-latch the screen, and turn your AC back on.
Keep in mind, the most expensive filter is not always the right answer. A one-size-fits-all air filter does not exist. If you are unsure which air filter is right for your system, give us a call.
Pro Tip: Never let your air conditioner run without a filter. This can cause dust and debris to collect on internal components, resulting in potential AC repairs down the road.
Properly changing your air filter keeps you from unnecessary AC repairs, saves you money, and keeps everyone happy and cool! Need assistance? Give us a call.
Contact Us For AC Repair
For more than 25 years, we have been serving SW Florida residents just like you with top-notch service and guidance, ensuring you and your family are safe and comfortable. Count on us to serve you with honesty and integrity, every time. Contact us, (239) 693-9005
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