Indoor Air Pollutants

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air pollutants can come from a number of outdoor or indoor sources. Cleaning chemicals, anything that burns (fireplace, oil, tobacco), wet carpet and central heating and cooling systems are all sources of pollutants.

Air Conditioning System Pollutants

Your air conditioning system can be a major cause of indoor air pollutants. Trapped dust and moisture can breed mold and mildew and then blow it throughout your home.

Role of Filters

Air conditioner filters catch particulate pollutants, removing them from the air you breathe. While they don't remove all indoor pollutants, they are a vital part of the overall strategy for ensuring good indoor air quality.

Types of Filters

The question we should ask isn't why do we need the filters, but which kind should we get. The least effective fiberglass filters only remove 10 percent of pollutants, while HEPA filters can eliminate up to 99.97 percent.

How Often to Change Filters

Manufacturers recommend that filters be changed every three months. If it has been more than three months since you've changed yours, go look at them and you'll probably see the reason behind this recommendation.

Source:

EPA Introduction to Indoor Air Quality