Don’t we all enjoy that refreshing whoosh of chilled air on a sweltering day? But when’s the last time you thought about the unsung hero behind that cool breeze – your air conditioner’s filter?
In this article, we’ll teach you how to give your AC filter its well-deserved TLC, so stay tuned:
Years of Neglect Can Hit Your Pocket
We’re all busy with something, and there are times when cleaning our home appliances is the last thing on our list. But here are two reasons you should give your home appliances, especially your AC filters, some TLC:
The Hidden Costs of Ignoring Your AC Filters
While most people fret about power bills, the cost of not maintaining your AC system can hurt your budget in the long run. A clogged filter forces the air conditioner to work harder, consuming more energy than necessary and potentially shortening its lifespan.
The Risks to Your Health and Home Environment
Failing to regularly clean or replace your AC filter means that dust, allergens, and other harmful particles can end up circulating in the air you breathe. Doing so triggers a host of respiratory issues or allergic reactions. Moreover, excess humidity due to a clogged filter can provide the perfect breeding ground for mould – another threat to your home’s air quality.
Types of Air Conditioner Filters
Different air conditioner filter types require different cleaning techniques, so it’s crucial to identify your specific filter type.
1. High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) Filters
HEPA filters are the champions of snagging the tiny particles you wouldn’t even see – capturing a whopping 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. They’ve got a thick, mat-like structure as intricate as a spider’s web, efficiently grabbing particles through a combo of diffusion, interception, and impaction.
2. Pleated Filters
More surface, less air resistance – it’s like a sailboat running before the wind while picking up unwanted floating junk. They pack in more fabric to trap dust, pollen, and can even net some mould spores.
3. Electrostatic Filters
Made from layers of metal, airflow over these creates a static charge that snares particles. Even better, you can wash and reuse these – a win-win for your wallet and the environment.
4. Ultraviolet (UV) Filters
UV filters don’t just capture, but they zap mould, bacteria, and viruses, and wipe them out using UV light. However, UV filters need to be used alongside another filter, as they aren’t so good with non-organic stuff, like dust.
5. Activated Carbon Filters
Activated carbon filters not only trap pollutants, but also kick the stink out of common household odours.
Determining Cleaning Frequency
Like a reliable friend, your AC filter deserves some loving care, aka regular cleaning. Here’s how to know when it’s time to clean:
Your AC Filter Life Span
Before we jump into the frequency bit, it’s crucial to understand that multiple factors can affect the lifespan of your filters. How often you use your aircon, whether your feisty puppy leaves dander all around the house, and even the general air quality in your area are variables that influence how frequently your filters need cleaning.
Your AC Filter Cleaning Schedule
As a general rule, you should be checking and cleaning your filter at the start of each new season.
But wait! What about those factors we just spoke about? Yes, they do enter the equation here. If you use your AC more often than you should, you share your home with your furry friends, or if you live in apolluted area, you’ll need to clean your AC filter more regularly.
The Benefits of Professional Cleaning
When your AC filter needs its first deep clean in a while or faces stubborn dirt, it’s smart to call a professional. They will make sure your system operates efficiently, enhancing home comfort while safeguarding your investment.
Is Hiring a Pro Worth It?
If you’re considering professional help for cleaning your air conditioner filter, the crew at Metropolitan Air Conditioning has you covered. They handle all filter types and systems, making sure they’re in top working order while you enjoy your free time.
What to Look for in a Professional Cleaning Service
Choosing the right professional service can make a big difference in your aircon maintenance. Here are five factors to consider:
1. Experience
Look for a professional team with prior experience in cleaning various types of AC debris and filters. So, put your trust in a cleaning team that’s as familiar with filter dust as a kangaroo is with hopping.
2. Training and Certification
A reliable service provider will have their credentials ready for your perusal – evidence of their top-notch training and certifications in all aspects of aircon maintenance.
3. Testimonials
Dappling in real-world testimonials from mates who have used the service is as good as getting the info straight from the horse’s mouth. A quick online search can reveal a trove of reviews and ratings of potential service providers.
4. Fair Quotes
You want the best service for your aircon, but no one likes a bill heavier than a croc in a swamp. A solid professional service won’t shroud their pricing in mystery; they’ll instead provide you with an upfront, transparent quote.
5. Customer Service
Service providers who can promptly respond to queries and provide clear communication indicate they value you as a client.
Regular cleaning of your air conditioner filters is essential not only for maintaining cool, comfortable air but also for providing energy efficiency, cost savings, and system longevity. So, don’t leave your filters’ fate to chance. Keep them clean and enjoy the benefits they provide in your home.
