Phoenix AC Contractors Explain Air Filters

Air Filters Keep Your Air Clean

A properly-working air conditioning system is one of the most important things in your home – just ask anyone who has survived a hot Arizona summer. To ensure the system works effectively, and to prolong Phoenix AC replacement, it’s important to keep up on the necessary system maintenance. One of the easiest ways to maintain the system is to change the filter regularly – about once a month for disposable filters.

That fuzzy rectangle with the cardboard outline located inside the grills of your air conditioning system is the filter. The filter serves two purposes: to keep the air conditioning system clean and remove particles from the air. As the air conditioner brings air into your home, that air is cooled by blowing it over a set of cold pipes called an evaporator coil. The air goes from the evaporator coil to the filter, and the filter begins doing its job of catching airborne particles such as dust, pollen, mold, and bacteria. These particles would otherwise go into your home, leading to polluted air and problems for those with allergies.

Dirty Filter Dangers

Not only can a dirty filter become a source of poor air quality and pollution, it also decreases air conditioning and energy efficiency. To make sure you have clean air and an efficient system (and are not having to invest in Phoenix AC replacement too soon), it’s best to inspect, clean, or change your air filters once a month. Changing a filter is easy to do and disposable filters can be purchased at a reasonable price from a home improvement store, or from your favorite Phoenix AC contractors, Chas Roberts Air Conditioning & Plumbing.

Different Filters Do Different Things

Air filters are measured in MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) ratings. This rating tells you the ability of an air conditioning filter to remove dust from the air as it passes through the filter. Therefore, a higher MERV rating means fewer dust particles and other airborne contaminants pass through the filter. Most residential air filters have a MERV rating of one to four, while commercial cooling system filters have a five or more MERV rating.

• Fiberglass air filters capture large particles like lint and dust and are the least expensive type of disposable filter. These filters protect your HVAC unit but won’t improve indoor air quality much.
• According to some studies, pleated air filters remove up to 90 percent of mold spores and pet dander.
• Washable air filters usually have a low MERV rating and require more maintenance. They are more susceptible to fungus and bacteria, which can escape and circulate throughout your home.
• High-efficiency air filters remove the highest level of air pollutants and have the highest MERV ratings. They are most often used in commercial or industrial settings.

To purchase a disposable filter or to schedule an appointment with an experienced Phoenix AC contractor at Chas Roberts visit ChasRoberts.com or call (602) 943-3426 in Phoenix or (520) 292-6858 in Tucson.