The Energy Price Guarantee came to an end in the United Kingdom in June 2023. The Ofgem cap is now back to regulate how much British households pay for their heating and air conditioning bills.
As a result, the annual household bill increased to €1,928. This was a 5% increase and went into effect in January.
Changing your HVAC unit’s air filter is one way you can save money on energy. HVACs are inefficient when the air filter is clogged and consumes more energy.
Read on to learn how often your HVAC unit needs an AC filter change. Explore technical topics such as MERV ratings and how to improve air conditioner efficiency.
What Is a MERV Rating?
MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. The MERV rating tracks the particle size that an air filter can capture.
The higher the rating, the better the air filter does its job. The best MERV-rated air filters improve air quality in your home by capturing more dust, pollen, and airborne contaminants. The ratings also empower consumers to compare air filters and select the best one for their needs.
MERV ratings start at 1-4. Here, the air filter captures particle sizes 3 to 10 microns less than 20% of the time.
The highest numerical MERV rating is 16. This air filter captures particles as small as 0.3 microns more than 95% of the time.
Lastly, there is a high-efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA). This filter does not have a numeric rating but is tested to capture 0.3-micron particles 99.7% of the time.
Why Should You Change Air Filters Routinely?
Air filters are your home’s best defence against airborne contaminants. Your air conditioning system’s filter collects dust, dirt, mould spores, pollen, pet dander, and more. Your family cannot breathe clean air without an unobstructed filter.
While indoor air quality is essential, filters also have a monetary purpose. When an air filter is clogged, it inhibits the flow of hot or cold air to your home.
Your HVAC unit must work harder to help the home reach its desired temperature. This means the HVAC runs longer and consumes more energy, contributing to a higher bill.
This added stress to the HVAC unit also shortens its shelf life. You may end up paying for a costly repair or replacement earlier than expected.
How Often Should You Change the Air Filter?
The air filter manufacturer instructs you how often to swap it out. The typical timeframe ranges from 1 to 3 months.
Higher-quality air filters last longer than their cheaper alternatives. You should also change the air filter before peak energy-use seasons. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, you should consider swapping the air filter more frequently.
Your Guide to AC Filter Changes
Air conditioner efficiency relies on a clean air filter. This maintenance task can be taken on by any homeowner regardless of handyman skills.
Bradgate Climate Control has been helping homeowners maintain their HVAC units for more than a decade. If you require assistance with AC filter changes and other maintenance, contact us at Bradgate Climate Control to schedule a service appointment.