Signs That You Need to Change Your AC Filter

In the warm Colorado summers, an air conditioner is helpful to keep your house cool and comfortable for you and your family. As an air conditioner works over time, it can accumulate dirt and debris that can make it work harder and less effectively to cool your home. Your AC filter is an important part of this, as it contributes to indoor air quality. Dirty filters will cause your system to work harder, which in turn will cause system stress and increase energy bills. Learn the signs that your air conditioner’s filter needs to be replaced with a clean air filter right away.

Dirty Air Vents

If there is a lot of dust and dirt in the air vents, it is very likely that the air filter is dirty and needs replacing right away. A sure way to determine if the air filter needs changing is to employ the “white sheet test.” This involves putting a white sheet near one of the air vents. The faster the white sheet turns gray, the dirtier your air conditioner is and the faster you need to change the air filter. Other common signs can be allergy symptoms or a runny nose and congestion, caused by irritants, airborne allergens, and other harmful contaminants being scattered throughout the home through the faulty, insufficient filter.

Large Electric Bills

The buildup of dust, dirt, and debris that accumulate in the air filter can result in dirty ducts and add stress to the system and work it into overdrive. As a result of clogged air filters, your system has compromised energy efficiency, and higher energy consumption. Your air conditioner has to work harder to cool your home, leading to a spike in electricity used and higher electric bills.

Condition of the Air Filter

If the air filter is dirty, it definitely needs to be replaced right away. If the air filter has any holes or looks worn in any way, that is another indicator that it needs to be replaced right away.

More Cases of Allergies

If someone in your home suffers from allergies, is he or she experiencing more cases of them? If this is the case, this is a sure sign your air conditioning unit is not working as well as it should because the filter is not removing the pollen and allergens as it should.

Circulated Air is Warmer Than Usual

If the air coming out of the vent seems warmer than usual, it could be because the air filter in your unit is dirty and not allowing cool air to pass.

Air Conditioner is Overheating

A clogged or dirty air filter can lead to the air conditioner working harder than it should to cool your home. When this happens, hot air is expelled from the back of the unit, and over time, this can lead to breakdowns requiring costly repairs.

By monitoring your air conditioner’s performance throughout the summer, you can help us to ensure your HVAC system is running in peak condition throughout the season. If you think you may be in need of a replacement air filter, call 1-719-374-1776 to schedule a professional air conditioner maintenance with Comfort By Design’s experienced technician or contact us via our email form with any questions and we’ll call you back shortly with answers.