Summer heat is here. Is your air conditioner ready to keep you cool and comfortable? To keep it operating reliably, professional maintenance is key. But there is another simple task that you as a home or business owner can do, too: clean or replace your air filters. Air filters do affect your air conditioner’s performance in the heat. Here’s how.

Air filters are not easily seen, so they are often forgotten about or neglected. Unfortunately, this translates to poor indoor air quality and an air conditioning system that works harder during the summer. Your air filters capture debris, dirt, and other buildup that tries to make its way into the air you breathe. Over time, that buildup accumulates. If you don’t clean or replace the filter, it starts collecting around the internal components of the machine. This can cause premature system breakdowns or an expensive repair. Clogged filters can also cause the machine to short cycle, which could create a larger problem that requires professional attention.

Dirty or clogged filters also cause the machine to use more energy. This increases your energy bills and makes the system work harder to filter the air and move it into your home or business. If this goes on for a long time, the AC system undergoes greater wear and tear. This is avoidable with professional AC maintenance once a year, in addition to regular air filter changes/cleaning. We recommend replacing or cleaning your air filters every month or every other month depending on what type of filter and how you live in your home.

Do you have questions on your air filter? Maybe you can’t remember the last time your system has had a professional tune-up. Or, perhaps you need a quote for a new air conditioner this year. For 37 years, our team at Specialty Heating and Cooling has helped residential and commercial customers get the cooling system they need to stay comfortable during our beautiful Pacific Northwest summers. Call us today to get your appointment scheduled!