HVAC stands for heating, ventilating and air conditioning. The three functions are closely interrelated. All seek to provide comfort, acceptable indoor air quality and reasonable installation, operation and maintenance costs.

It’s possible to run an AC unit without an air filter, however, we do not recommend it. The air filter is in place so that you breathe clean air within your home. The air filter helps to stop dust and allergens from being blown around in your home. This is especially important for people with allergies. A clean air filter also helps keep your air conditioning clean. It keeps the dust and debris off the blower motor and evaporator coil, and keeps your system running efficiently.

There are a number of factors that weigh in on how often you should change your air filter. These include the type of air filter you use, the indoor air quality of your home, the number of people in your home and if they have allergies, the quality of air outside your home, and if you have any pets. You can check the packaging and the manufacturer will give you a recommendation on how often you should change it, usually 30-60 days.

However, if you are a single occupant who does not have pets or allergies, you can get away with changing your air filter every 6-12 months. The average family home with no pets should change their filter every 90 days, while a home with pets every 60 days. If you have multiple cats and/or dogs and allergies, your filter should be changed every 20-45 days.

This can depend on a number of factors, such as what type of AC system you are using. But, on average lifespan of today’s AC units are 10-15 years. While, furnaces and heat pumps tend to last longer with their average lifespan being 10-15 years.

Greener Solutions Heating & AC are fully knowledgeable and keep up-to-date on California’s energy efficiency incentives and rebates. You can receive up to $5,500 (max rebate amount is $2,500) in rebates for home energy improvements under the Energy Upgrade California® Home Upgrade Program. There are also many local rebates and incentives for improving your home’s heating and cooling systems and/or home’s energy efficiency rating. Please get in touch with our team for your in-home energy efficiency consultation.