The Importance of Air Filters

Your air conditioner works because of the cooperation of many different components, and one of the most important of those is the air filter. What does it do, though? Find out below.

Traps Pollutants

Air filters are located in the return vents of a ducted AC and capture various pollutants before they enter the air handler. What it filters out will depend on the material it is made from. Cheap fiberglass filters, which last but 30 days, only capture the largest dust and dirt particles. Pleated filters, which last 60 to 90 days and work well for most homes, can capture more particles. These include:

• Finer dust and dirt particles
• Pollen
• Mold spores
• Dust mite feces
• Pet hair and dander

Rigid cell filters are even more efficient than pleated filters and trap cigarette smoke and bacteria like Legionella. As you can see, then, air filters are essential for good indoor air quality.

Keeps the Air Handler Clean

Filters keep the air handler and, in particular, the evaporator coil clean. You can recognize the importance of this when you consider what the evaporator coil does, which is absorb heat from the circulated air, allowing cool air to enter your home. A dirty, grimy coil will cause lukewarm air to circulate throughout your house and put a strain on your AC.

Allows for Smooth Airflow

If dust and dirt are allowed to collect on the evaporator coil and in the ducts, it could restrict the flow of air, which can force the AC system to work harder. Filters prevent this, though.

Maintenance Agreements Available

At Savannah Air Factory, we offer maintenance plans to homeowners in Savannah, GA. You will be pleased to hear that our tune-ups cover basic tasks like filter replacement and evaporator coil cleaning. Our technicians work on heating units, too. Give us a call today for an appointment.