When you live in an area that gets as hot as ours does during the summer season, you really need to know that your air conditioning system is in prime working condition. Scheduling routine air conditioning maintenance will help ensure this. However, there is one very important maintenance task that you must complete on your own: changing your air filter as needed. It may sound like a minor consideration, but it can do wonders for your air conditioner.
Is a Clean Air Filter Really That Important?
Absolutely. A dirty air filter in your air conditioning system can negatively affect your cooling experience in a number of ways, and can even lead to system damage. This is a real shame, considering how simple it is to change out your air filter every 1–3 months.
The first issue to consider is increased airflow resistance. When your air conditioner is faced with greater airflow resistance than normal, it is going to have to work harder than it should in order to distribute conditioned air throughout your home. This drives down energy efficiency, leaving you to pay more for what will likely be a lesser cooling performance. Plus, it puts unnecessary wear and tear on your system, which can lead to operational issues in the long run.
When airflow is reduced, it can also cause problems with the evaporator coil. This is the coil in which refrigerant is evaporated, removing heat from the air passing over it. If there is not enough air passing over the coil, it can actually start to freeze up, with condensation icing over the coil and impeding heat absorption further.
As you can see, keeping your air filter clean and fresh significantly benefits you and your air conditioning system.
Contact Polar Bear Air Conditioning & Heating Inc. to schedule any AC services that you may need in Washington, DC and the surrounding areas.