Share:

Your air conditioning equipment has an air filter to keep dust out of the interior of the system and to improve your air quality. On wall units, this filter resembles a small reusable screen inside the air intake. In central air conditioning systems, the filter is larger. It accumulates debris over time which can block the path of incoming air, so here’s what you need to know about changing it.

What Are the AC Filter Basics?

air conditioning

In most homes, the air conditioning filter needs to be replaced or cleaned once every one to three months. For reusable filters, lift or slide the filter out of the unit according to its design, rinse the screen with clean water, then let the filter dry completely before replacing it. If you use disposable filters, choose a new filter of the correct size to fit your AC’s slot. 

There are several styles and materials available; fiberglass is usually the least effective, while an accordion-style filter is an effective all-around choice. If someone in your home suffers from allergies, you may want to use a HEPA filter to remove dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores from the air. However, these filters are not compatible with every system, so check with your air conditioning contractor.

What Are Factors That Affect Your Filter's Timeline?

One to three months is a wide range, and where you fall in that range depends on your home. If you have pets or live in a dusty area, the filter will become clogged more quickly. It also accumulates debris faster the more you use the AC. Different types of filters have different requirements — for example, accordion filters have a greater surface area than flat ones and operate effectively for longer periods of time. However, you may need to adjust which filter you use depending on the time of year, the weather, and changes in your lifestyle.

When Should You Change the Filter?

To check your air filter, remove it from your HVAC system and then hold it up toward the sun or a bright light source. If you can see light through the filter, air can also pass through it. However, if you can’t see light, the filter is sufficiently clogged and needs to be cleaned or replaced.

 

For air conditioning maintenance on the island of Oahu, call Cornerstone Air Conditioning. Based in Honolulu, HI, these licensed technicians are on call 24/7 to provide cost-effective, energy-efficient AC solutions to keep your home comfortable. For a free estimate, call (808) 847-3639 or reach out online to view their services.

tracking