Summer has finally arrived, which means sunshine and warmer temperatures. It’s likely that you’re using your air conditioner more often to stay comfortable indoors. But you must consider that small component at work inside of your AC unit, which is the filter. Switching it out regularly, particularly during the dog days of summer, can actually have a big impact on your comfort, your health, and your bank account. We’ll get to the bottom of why tending to your AC filter is a must.

Breathing Easier: Clean Air at Home

Consider just some of what’s floating around in the air inside of your house. You may find dust, pollen, pet dander, and maybe even some bits of mold. Your AC filter acts like a net, capturing all that junk before it has a chance to be sucked into your cooling system and blown back out into the air that you breathe. When the filter fills up with this debris, it gets clogged and can’t do its job as effectively. If there are family members in your home with allergies or asthma, a dirty filter can make things worse for them, as their conditions can become exacerbated. Changing your old, dingy filter out for a nice, clean one helps your AC unit produce fresh, healthy air. The result is a much healthier home.

Keep Your AC Happy: More Performance

Your air conditioner has to work harder when the filter is filthy. Imagine trying to suck in air through a thick scarf. Of course, it takes much more effort. It’s the same for your AC unit. A clogged filter limits airflow, causing the appliance to work harder to suck air through. This added exertion can result in your air conditioner not cooling your house as efficiently. You may notice it takes longer to get to the temperature you want, or certain rooms may feel warmer than others. By installing a fresh filter, you’ll help your unit breathe easily. It can then more efficiently cool your home and facilitate better indoor comfort without being strained.

Saving Some Green: Lower Energy Bills

Not only does a blocked filter cause your AC unit to work harder, but it also consumes more energy. The longer your cooling system runs and the harder it works, the more electricity it uses. You’ll see that reflected on your electricity bill every month. Changing the AC filter consistently can save you money on your energy bills. The more efficient your air conditioner can work with a clean air filter, the less time it has to run to cool down your house, using less of your energy. When you add up those savings over the course of a summer, you’ll get some nice extra spending money for those summer treats you’ve been craving.

In addition to adhering to regular filter changes, you should schedule an air quality test. This will allow you to figure out how to improve the air in your home to facilitate better health for you and your family. For air quality testing in North Salt Lake, UT, call the team at Alta Air today.