Why Does My AC Unit Need an Air Filter
There are many different types of ACs designed to enhance the comfort and safety needs of residential and commercial premises. They normally work by circulating air within the room to control temperatures. Unfortunately, the air circulating in your home may contain allergens, pollutants and insect debris.
An efficient system can uphold the comfort of your home by managing humidity and eliminating harmful particles. Vastola Heating & Cooling in Erie County, New York, has the expertise to develop the most effective configurations for your AC system. Here is why you need a filtration system in your AC unit.
To Improve Equipment Efficiency
There are many types of filters with varying capacities to sift out unwanted particles in the atmosphere. The kind of device you need depends on whether you are aiming to improve efficiency or indoor air quality.
The MERV rating system is what is used to grade your filtration system. The Minimum Efficiency Rating Values determine the capacity of the filter to capture microparticles. The higher the MERV rating, the more particles the device can remove from the air.
The primary function of the filter is to capture particles that can affect the efficiency of the system. When debris accumulates on critical components such as the evaporator coil, it affects its ability to absorb heat.
To Reduce Energy Consumption
Dust creates a layer of insulation that prevents the evaporator from adjusting to heat changes. It will force you to crank up the AC to meet your regular heating needs. To compensate, you’ll end up overworking the unit.
Vastola Heating & Cooling recommends having your AC unit tested when you notice changes in performance. If you do not address the problem on time, it could start a vicious cycle. As the unit overworks, it will pick up more debris. In turn, your equipment will require more power to deliver the same level of comfort in your home.
Indoor Air Quality
Virtually all AC systems have a filter, but their purpose is to improve the efficiency of the system. Residential ACs will often have a MERV rating of 8, which allows it to block:
- Dust mites
- Pollen
- Carpet fibers
- Cockroach droppings
- Sanding and painting dust
On the other hand, there are air Conditioners with the capacity to isolate even finer particles. Equipment with the highest MERV values is best suited for hospitals. They can capture bacteria and droplet nuclei, which is critical for that environment.
When you are looking to enhance indoor air quality, the highest rating may not always be the best choice. The equipment usually will have a thick filter that can cause pressure imbalances within the system. Your AC may overwork to cover for the loss in pressure.
For Home and Business Applications
However, there are still applications for higher-rated filters in residential and commercial premises. For example, a business dealing with chemicals may want to provide a safer environment free of pollutants. Manufacturing plants may also need extra filtration to remove molecules from the surrounding atmosphere.
At home, you may want a safer environment for your family, especially if they have respiratory issues. Elderly patients, children and the sick are more vulnerable to allergens and microbes. Also, the more people that frequent the property, the more pollutants there are likely to be.
For Longevity of Your Equipment
An AC unit will last longer if it has an efficient built-in filtration device. It blocks debris that can affect the performance of condensate lines and evaporator coils. Dust can prevent the swift movement of the fan blades and cause the motor to break.
You ought to keep in mind that the filter will need a replacement from time to time. Failure to replace the filter can compromise the quality of the air on your premises. When the membrane is blocked, the debris can be blown back into the room.
It is also important to ensure that your AC has proper configurations for your specific needs. Every space has unique requirements for heating, cooling and maintaining indoor air quality. The unit must be a suitable fit to clear the air and regulate temperatures effectively.
Call the Professionals
You can prevent stress as well as loss in time and resources by hiring a professional. A technician from Vastola Heating & Cooling in Erie County, New York, will analyze your system and determine your specific requirements. We have vast experience in the maintenance, installation and repair of AC systems. We can also service your heating system. Count on us for prompt and reliable services. Visit our website today for more information.
