What is an Air Conditioner Filter and Why is it Important?

You may be surprised to learn that a lot of impurities can accumulate in your air conditioner in a short amount of time. An air filter is designed to remove dust, pet dander, bacteria, and other particles from the air that flows through the system. Not only does this improve the air quality inside your home, but it also helps protect your HVAC system from potential damage. Yes, the central air conditioner has a filter. Most central air conditioning units have two or more filters.

These filters clean the air and ensure good air quality as the unit circulates between indoor and outdoor air. Usually, the air cleaner is located close to your home thermostat, in a return duct, or right next to the air handler for your air conditioning system. In addition to providing fresh, clean air for your home, they can also filter out harmful particles to keep you safe from allergens and bacteria. However, if you don't change them regularly, they can be harmful to your HVAC system. Replacing your home's air filter can also help you save money on energy bills since your HVAC doesn't have to work as hard to push air through a clean filter. You can choose how much filter you need and get a replacement air filter that's perfect for your home.

If you have a large system with multiple air handlers and return ducts, finding the filters can be a challenge. It's important to note that there is no difference between an air conditioning and heating filter - they are one and the same. Thanks to today's smart home technology, you can even purchase smart filters such as 3M Filtrete smart air filters that use sensors to monitor airflow. Also known as whole-house air filters, these are designed to provide you and your family with the freshest possible air without problems during the winter months. While you should refer to the instructions for your HVAC system and your specific filter for maintenance guidelines, you should generally change filters at least every season, if not once a month. The good news is that replacing your air conditioner filter is a simple task once you know how to find it. The air filter prevents residues from entering your home and from being inhaled by you and your family.

When reinserting the filter into the housing, make sure that the arrow points away from the return and toward the air handler. If both heating and air conditioning systems share the same ducts, it is also possible that the air cleaner for both systems is located in or near the blower system of the furnace.

Doug Bundley
Doug Bundley

Professional coffee aficionado. General web specialist. Avid internet guru. Subtly charming beer nerd. Infuriatingly humble bacon specialist. Hardcore web evangelist.

Leave Message

All fileds with * are required