Do It Yourself - Air Filters

Most homeowners know that they are supposed to change their air filters, but let's face it - people either forget, or don't realize how often they should be changed.

Ideally, filters should be changed monthly. The ones that do the best job at filtration (and allow maximum air flow in the process) get blocked up quickly so regularly changing them is key (mark your calendars)!

Let's back it up a little - we're talking about air filters. If you don't know what I mean, then you definitely need to change them right away because they're undoubtedly overdue. They are the rectangular mesh heavy duty "sheets" that filter the air that your air conditioning unit proceeds to cool, then redistribute it throughout your house. I have included a photo below to make sure we're on the same page:

These simple filters are more important than many people realize. First off, they filter contaminants out of the air. Without going into too much detail, there are many things floating around in the air in our homes we don't notice with the naked eye like pollen and dust.

Below is a real picture taken by CHORE Masters' very own CEO Jeff Jackson. Real air filters. They had been in for 30 days. The filter in the center is a fresh one for comparison.

Second, having a dirty filter puts a constant and significant strain on your air conditioning unit. These units are not cheap and it's worth your time to do everything you can to extend their lives. Changing the filters regularly helps make sure they live to their full potential.

So I hope that I have convinced you that you should get this taken care of. I'll even pause for a minute and let you write yourself a note to do it right now. Don't worry, I'll wait. 

In many homes in Texas these filters are placed in the ceiling behind a metal grate painted to match the ceiling. Look for these grates and you are sure to find the air filter behind them.

Of course, this is one of the many items that CHORE Masters' technicians are more than happy to take care of for you (as part of the Home Maintenance visit), but in case you don't want them out there every single month, this is something you can do on your own and will save you money in the short-term and long-term.

So enjoy that fresh air!