If your AC isn't cooling your space as effectively as it once did, or if the airflow seems weaker, a dirty filter could be the culprit. Cleaning it could bring back your AC's cooling power.
Consistent Cooling Performance
A clean filter directly impacts the cooling performance of your AC system. When airflow is unrestricted, the unit can maintain a consistent temperature throughout your home. On the contrary, a clogged filter results in uneven cooling, with some rooms feeling warmer than others.
When the air filter becomes clogged with dust, dirt, and debris, it restricts the airflow passing through the system. This restriction causes the AC unit to work harder, leading to decreased efficiency and reduced cooling capacity. Restricted airflow can even cause the coils to freeze in your outdoor or window unit.
Changing your air filter will keep you cool during the summer, warm during the winter, and ensure your system is running as efficiently as possible – reducing overconsumption of energy.
After replacing the filter, you should wait at least 12 hours before running the system. If the AC is still not blowing cold air, it could signify that you have a refrigerant leak, a damaged condenser, or your entire mechanical system needs maintenance.
If your AC isn't cooling your space as effectively as it once did, or if the airflow seems weaker, a dirty filter could be the culprit. Cleaning it could bring back your AC's cooling power.
There are a number of reasons why your air conditioner might be running but not cooling. It could be an issue with the thermostat, the compressor, or the evaporator coils. Or, it could simply be clogged with dust and debris, which is preventing it from working properly.
First, check your filters and coils for dirt and debris that may be impeding airflow. Once you've cleaned the filters and coils, run the air conditioner with just the fan so that the ice accumulation can melt off. If the AC still doesn't blow cold air, it could be that refrigerant levels are too low.
So, while a new cabin air filter might not make your AC 'colder,' it certainly contributes to a cooler and more comfortable cabin experience. Here are the key highlights: Improving your AC's performance is not always about making the air 'colder. '
No, you should never run your AC without a filter!
The purpose of your air filter is to clean your home's air and to keep your AC system dust- and dirt-free, which is why it's important to only run your AC with a filter installed.
When you leave an AC unit's air filter clogged for too long, you can experience a failure of the entire system. This is because the unit can only work for so long at twice the power before it finally breaks down.
While there are a number of commercially available coil cleaning solutions on the market, air conditioner coils can be cleaned with a solution of a mild household detergent and water. The detergent and water mix is applied to the coil using a low-pressure sprayer.
While a dirty AC filter can indeed hinder cooling performance, it's just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. Regular filter maintenance, along with professional HVAC inspections and maintenance, is key to ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
As a general rule, you should clean your air conditioner filters within the indoor unit every two weeks. In more dusty or polluted environments you should clean your filters more regularly. Cleaning your filters is the most important maintenance task you can do to care for your air conditioner.
A product like Air Conditioning Coil Cleaner removes counterproductive dirt and oxidation on air conditioning coils. When fins and coils are clean, air circulates more fully and AC systems operate and cool more efficiently, reducing the unit's power consumption.
How Often Do I Need to Change Out My Air Filter? Generally, most air filter manufacturers and HVAC companies recommend changing your air filter every 90 days, or 3 months. That can change based on where your home is located (ex. dusty, dry climates), if you have any pets, and the age of your system and equipment.
One of the ways is to make sure the air filter is clean. If you find it clogged with debris, clean it with a brush. A popular cause behind an AC that is not cooling is the deficiency of refrigerant or Freon. When refrigerant circulates together with the air, your room will be filled with cool air.
Your AC might be stuck at 75 due to various reasons like clogged filters, refrigerant leaks, or the wrong unit size. It's best to have a professional diagnose and fix the issue.
A clogged filter disrupts the airflow and is the primary reason behind the accumulation of dirt, dust, and other particles on sensitive components of the unit. Frost buildup on fans, coils, and other parts starts to prevent the unit from providing the expected comfort level.
Filters with a MERV rating of 1 to 7 typically cost between $5 and $20. Filters with ratings of 8 to 13 can cost anywhere from $20 to $150. HVAC systems in residential homes usually don't need (and often cannot handle) filters with a MERV rating of more than 13.
Turning off your AC when it's not cooling is more than a precaution; it's a necessary first step in troubleshooting and protecting your system from further damage. By understanding when to perform simple checks and when to call in the experts, you ensure your air conditioner remains a reliable refuge from the heat.