Being able to keep your home interior at a comfortable and livable temperature all throughout the year is vital. It can even be essential for your safety. This issue is why most homes have either a central or mini-split HVAC system installed. Keeping this unit in good working order and understanding the requirements for routine maintenance is critical. Following are several things that you need to know about your HVAC air filter.
This unit is designed to remove particulates from the indoor air. This filtering process is its primary function. As such, it does not directly have an impact on how your heater works. However, if you do not tend to it in a timely and regular fashion, the overall efficiency of your system is guaranteed to decline.
Over time, the particulates that are collected gradually begin to accumulate. This process leaves a grey, dusty build-up that can look a lot like dryer lint. If not removed, it will make your unit overheat by forcing it to work longer and harder to make the home feel comfortable.
Some filters can be taken out and washed clean. Use a small amount of mild dishwashing detergent to remove some of the more stubborn deposits. More commonly, these filters are built to be removed and replaced. If you have a temporary or replaceable filter, you should not try to wash and reuse it. Always follow the recommendations of the product manufacturer concerning proper care.
One thing that a lot of homeowners overlook is the need to account for the level of use that a heating and cooling system ultimately receives. General guidelines for changing filters state that this should be done once every three to six months. If, however, you use your unit regularly and every day, then you may want to make this change every 30 to 60 days depending upon how dusty your local environment is.
For more information about HVAC air filters contact Good Deals Heating and Cooling at 215-947-1166.
Greater Philadelphia HVAC 