Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is the local trusted HVAC contractor for residents in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties and the surrounding area. Because we’re locally owned and operated, we can provide more personalized service than what you get with other companies.
When you hire us, you get same-day service, fair prices, 24/7 emergency repairs, prompt technicians, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Call us today at (805) 928-5526 for an estimate or to book an appointment.
Santa Maria AC HVAC Filter Replacement
You may not realize it, but one of the best things you can do to keep your HVAC system running efficiently and extend its lifespan is to change the filter regularly. However, many people ignore this simple chore to their detriment. How often you change your filter depends on various factors, but virtually all experts agree this isn’t something you should skip.
Let’s look at why you should replace your HVAC filter regularly.
Improved Air Quality
The air in your home is often worse for your health than the air outside because of the number of indoor air pollutants we breathe in every day. Your HVAC filter traps many of these particles, but if it’s clogged, they spread throughout the house and can cause breathing problems and trigger allergies. Replacing your filter helps trap:
- Dirt
- Dust
- Pet Dander
- Pollen
- Smoke
- Microorganisms and Allergens
Energy Savings
When your HVAC filter is clogged, it impedes airflow, causing your system to work harder than necessary, drawing more power, causing your energy bills to rise, and putting more wear and tear on the system. Regular filter changes keep your system running efficiently and protect you against costly repairs.
Changing your HVAC filter is usually a simple process, but if you’re unsure how to do it or would rather have a professional, call Jerry’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning.
If the air quality in your home is making you ill, call us and ask about our indoor air quality services for healthier indoor air.
Choosing the Right Filter
If you’ve ever gone to your local home improvement store, you’ve probably seen a wide range of HVAC filters at different prices to choose from. So, how do you know which one is best?
The first thing to do is look for the correct size. Most HVAC systems use filters that are either 16″ x 20″, 20″ x 25″, or 16″ x 25″. Consult your user’s manual or the label on your HVAC unit to determine which size fits your system. Getting the correct size is essential; close enough won’t do it because a proper fit prevents the air from flowing around the edges, defeating the filter’s purpose.
The next thing to consider is the filter’s efficiency by its MERV rating. MERV is the industry standard rating system and is a number system that measures how effective the filter is at trapping debris. The higher the MERV rating, the more debris the filter can trap. However, don’t think you should just buy the filter with the highest rating and be done with it because if you install a filter that’s not rated for your system, you could damage your HVAC unit. Again, check your user’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines as to which filter is right for you. And, if you’re unsure or can’t find the information, a 10 MERV rating is typical for an average household.
Depending on your indoor air quality and how much you use your HVAC system, you should plan on replacing the filter one to three months. If you have pets or family members with allergies, plan on replacing them more often.