When you are a homeowner, you have to put a lot of thought into your property. You can’t purchase a home without gaining a boatload of new responsibilities. Unlike with a rental property, you can’t just call a landlord whenever something goes wrong. You are the landlord! You are now in charge of maintenance, both to get it done and pay for it. While this can seem stressful and overwhelming when you purchase your first home, regular maintenance is manageable when you take the time to educate yourself and create a schedule for tasks. One of the things that you are going to have to worry about is your HVAC system and AC filters. We are here to answer any questions you have about AC filters! Check out our list of FAQs below. 

1. How Often Should AC Filters Be Changed? 

“How often should AC filters be changed?” is the most common question we get asked. The answer may vary depending on the type of system you have and what your manufacturer recommends. The rule of thumb is that you should change your AC filter every three months minimum. However, some companies recommend changing your AC filter every 45 days for maximum efficiency. 

2. Where Do You Buy AC Filters? 

AC filters are available at any of your local home improvement stores, such as Ace Hardware and The Home Depot. If you are looking for something specific that is not available in home improvement stores near you, then you can order them online as well. Online retailers like Amazon always have a selection available. 

3. Do All AC Units Have Filters? 

Yes, all AC units have AC filters. These filters are important to protect your physical health. They catch mold spores, dust, pet hair, and other debris to prevent them from circulating through the air. This prevents you from breathing in harmful substances daily. Thus, AC filters are a crucial part of your HVAC system. 

4. How Many Filters Does an AC Unit Have? 

Usually, an AC unit has two filters. However, that can change based on what type of residence you own, how big it is, and what type of system you have. Some systems only need one air filter. Others need three or four. 

5. Do AC Filters Make a Difference? 

Absolutely! You would notice a difference in the quality of your air if you did not have an AC filter. When homeowners don’t clean their AC filters and HVAC systems, they often experience health issues, such as respiratory infections and allergy-like symptoms. These filters keep you and your family healthy, strong, and safe. 

6. What is the Best MERV Rating for Air Filters? 

Minimum efficiency reporting values (MERV) measure the effectiveness of an air filter and its ability to catch specific particles. A high MERV rating indicates that an air filter can catch particles like dust, pollen, bacteria, and mold. MERV ratings range from 1 to 20. Typically, you want to stay between 8 and 13. Anything past 13 is better suited for commercial use. You will most often find AC filters with a MERV rating of 14 and higher in pharmacies and hospitals. 

7. Can You Clean AC Filters? 

Yes, you can. It is a good idea to clean your AC filters in-between changes to ensure that your air quality is safe. Cleaning your AC filter is easy. Simply turn your system off, then pull the filters out and vacuum them. If vacuuming is not enough, you may soak your air filter in a mixture of white vinegar and water, then rinse it off using your hose’s gentlest setting. Allow it to dry, then replace it. Just remember that cleaning your AC filters doesn’t mean you don’t need to replace them. You should still replace your AC filters every three months. 

We Service AC Filters and More! 

We hope you found answers to your most burning questions about AC filters like “How often should air filters be changed?” “Do all AC units have filters?” “Do AC filters make a difference?” and more. We are always here to be your reliable source of information on all things AC. We also offer high-quality maintenance, repair, and installation services for HVAC systems. Contact the team at AC Repair Deer Park today for assistance!