A new air filter will be white or off-white, but as dirt builds up on the filter, it will darken. If the filter looks dark, it's time to change it. Sometimes, the inner layers have dirt that is not easy to detect. One of the easiest ways to detect a filter that needs to be changed is to take a look at it.
A clean, fresh filter will be mostly white in color, but will darken as dust and dirt accumulates. If the filter looks very dark and dirty, it may be time to change it. If you're not sure about something, you can ask a technician to check your filters for you. The most obvious sign that you need a new air filter is if the one you have is gray and dirty.
Be sure to take out the air filter and check it out at least once every two months. If it looks dirty or dusty, change it. A clear sign that the air conditioner filter needs to be replaced is when the back of the unit is too hot. If the filter is heavily soiled, you may feel warm air coming out the back of the unit.
A clogged filter forces the air conditioner to work harder to keep the house cool. This will lead to more frequent air conditioning repairs and ultimately shorten the life of the unit. Reduce the load by simply changing the AC filter regularly. If you know where your air filter is located (you can refer to your owner's manual for where to look), you can do a visual inspection. If the air filter is clean, it should be white or off-white.
Over time, as dust and dirt build up, the air filter will darken and dirt will be noticeable. When it starts to look dark and dirty, you may need to look for a replacement. A clogged air filter will cause your HVAC system to work overtime because it has to use more force to push the same amount of air through the filter. However, beyond that, there are other compelling reasons why you need to replace a dirty air filter. Over time, the filter can get dirty and clogged, and this can have negative effects on the way the engine works, so it's important to change filters regularly.
If you notice that your air conditioner doesn't cool down as it normally does or blows hot air, the first thing to check is the air conditioner filter. If you live in a particularly dusty area, consider using a washable foam pre-filter, if applicable, to capture most of the dust, and you won't have to replace the air filter as often. The air conditioner filter isn't the most complicated part of an air conditioning system, but it can dramatically affect your efficiency and the air quality in your home. However, if you notice that the filter is gray or full of particles, it is certainly time to replace it. A new air cleaner may be white, off-white, yellow, or another color, but you should expect to see at least slight discoloration from a used air cleaner. Knowing some of the telltale signs of a dirty or clogged filter can prevent you from waiting too long to replace it.
When the engine air filter is dirty, air cannot pass through the filter to the engine, which affects the entire emission control system of the car. It would be easier to change all air filters on a set schedule, but unfortunately there are many variables that affect how often a filter needs to be changed. The engine air filter prevents these things from damaging the engine, and a dirty air filter is a sign that you are actually doing your job. If the surfaces closest to the vents are more dusty and others seem cleaner, it's a sure sign that the air filter needs to be replaced. If you see any of these signs mentioned above or if you have placed the same filter for a long time, it is advisable to visit your local dealer and replace the filter.
The location of the air filter varies by vehicle so refer to your owner's manual for exact location.
