Which Way Does the Air Filter Go on My AC Unit?
Every Floridian has been there before – which way is the arrow on the AC filter supposed to point?
Properly installing a new filter in your air conditioning unit is an easy task to overlook, but in Tampa – where our cooling systems are pushed to the limits 24/7/365 – it’s absolutely vital and will add to your AC unit’s lifespan.
In short: the arrow is supposed to point towards your unit when you replace the air filter for your AC unit.
The Arrow Points Towards Your AC Unit
To keep your HVAC system operating at peak efficiency and to ensure the best air quality in your home, we recommend first making sure your air filter has the air flowing in the right direction and second, changing your air filter every month when it’s on more (looking at you, Summer). Be sure to go no longer than three months during the seasons when your AC unit isn’t running as frequently.
Here in the Greater Tampa Bay area it’s important to do what you can to take care of your HVAC unit. A simple step to help prolong the life of your AC unit is to change your air filter regularly. Dirty filters make it harder for your air conditioner to work, which means more energy use, more wear-and-tear, and more money out of your pocket on your monthly bills.
Get More Life Out of Your AC Unit
Simply changing your air filter regularly – and making sure the arrows on the filter are pointing towards the AC unit – will provide better airflow to your AC, which in turn makes your AC cool your home more effectively, which means it won’t need to be on as frequently…which extends its useful life.
In Florida, ACs already don’t last as long as they do in the rest of the country – outside of Florida it’s common to see a HVAC unit last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. But in Florida, 8-14 years is more realistic – as long as you do the regular maintenance such as by regularly replacing your air filters.
If you have any questions about AC maintenance or how to squeeze a few more years out of your system, feel free to give our team at Mario’s AC a call. If it’s not something we can help you with over the phone, we’re happy to stop by.
