AC Running a Lot

[GeorgeT]

I have my AC set to 76 during the day. Yesterday the temperature was up to 78 inside the house. I changed the filter, it was dirty but not real dirty because I changed it about a month ago. It took 3 hours for the temp to drop back down to 76 in the early evening. I had the AC serviced 2 months ago and all was fine.

Filters are expensive. What type of filter do some of you use and how often do you change it?

[graciegirl]

We keep ours at 80. Everyone has their own comfort zone.

Yesterday our car thermometer showed 100 degrees.

But even more telling than that, my husband said it was awfully hot on the golf course. (That has NEVER happened before, it usually is JUST PERFECT on the golf course)

It really, REALLY was hot yesterday.

[2newyorkers]

We use the Natural Air filters. About 3 years ago we called in a AC repair man. He stated that the AC can not keep up when it is so hot out for so long. He added freon and we no longer had the problem. Was it because of the heat or because we needed freon? I am just happy the AC works.

[villagegolfer]

We keep ours at 80. Everyone has their own comfort zone.

Yesterday our car thermometer showed 100 degrees.

But even more telling than that, my husband said it was awfully hot on the golf course. (That has NEVER happened before, it usually is JUST PERFECT on the golf course)

It really, REALLY was hot yesterday.

Yes, it is all relative. When I come in the house 82 degrees feel mighty cool. We purchased a portable AC for the bedroom. It will be interesting to see our next electric bill.

[scrapple]

We keep ours at 80 as well. Either I read or learned or somehow discovered that you should keep the temp relatively constant, not turn it on and off or way up and way down. Yesterday when I was cleaning the house I turned it down to 78. 78 to 80 is a comfortable range for me. I also keep the ceiling fans on all the time. We bought mid-grade filters at Home Depot and change then monthly. But...Nothing beats a cold marggie by the pool!

[Skip]

You got to keep the outside unit clean, the inside filter clean (or changed) and the freon topped off. For $80, M&S does a great job every year for us on our annual maintenance. They even replaced the 9 year old compressor under warranty (another A/C service company wanted to charge me $$$$) by calling the manufacturer to check the warranty record, since I'm not the original homeowner. Don't have your thermostat set too low too (78 is a good number) and shut off vents in rooms you don't use much (spare bedroom) in the hot weather.

This is going to be an expensive electric month.

Skip

[downeaster]

A/C units are sized depending on area, insulation, windows, and climate. If it is over sized it will cool the house too quickly and not run long enough to bring the humidity down. That would result in a damp, cool house. A properly sized unit will tend to run a lot, sometimes almost constantly, during the hottest months here.

It also depends on the temp you desire. Most of us feel heat and cold differently. (My spouse and I have a one degree differential.) If you can tolerate a degree or two warmer your A/C will run less.

[Larry Wilson]

George,

We were using the 3M filters found in the stores in the area, but we noticed a great deal of dust in our home. The performance ratings of those filters were around 350 to 500. So I went on line to find a high performance filter. I found a 3M filter called Filtrete Elite Allergen, with a rating of 2200, advertised to capture 94% of airborne allergens. The site I used was
Filters4Life, and I think they were a reasonable price. We notice far less dust. We change them every 3 months, and they are full of dirt.

Hope this helps.

[villagegolfer]

George,

We were using the 3M filters found in the stores in the area, but we noticed a great deal of dust in our home. The performance ratings of those filters were around 350 to 500. So I went on line to find a high performance filter. I found a 3M filter called Filtrete Elite Allergen, with a rating of 2200, advertised to capture 94% of airborne allergens. The site I used was
Filters4Life, and I think they were a reasonable price. We notice far less dust. We change them every 3 months, and they are full of dirt.

Hope this helps.

Our filter looks different then what I'm used to up north. It is approximately 19X20 X 4 inches thick. Is that the size of your filter, Larry.

[TommyT]

It is approximately 19X20 X 4 inches thick. Is that the size of your filter, Larry.

Where did you buy these filters ?? I tried to find them the last time we were down and had no luck..

[villagegolfer]

Where did you buy these filters ?? I tried to find them the last time we were down and had no luck..

LOL Are you talking to me? My home is only a few months old and I haven't replaced mine yet. I was told it will be pricey because of the massive size. 4 inches thick.

[TommyT]

LOL Are you talking to me?

Yes and no... Our home comes up on the one year mark in September and wanted to change the filter the last time down, but couldn't find the 19 X 20 X 4 filter anywhere. Sun Cool wanted $55.00 for one... :22yikes: :cryin2:

At least the current filter wasn't real dirty. Still looked pretty good.

Just looking for somewhere to get these filters.

[villagegolfer]

Yes and no... Our home comes up on the one year mark in September and wanted to change the filter the last time down, but couldn't find the 19 X 20 X 4 filter anywhere. Sun Cool wanted $55.00 for one... :22yikes: :cryin2:

At least the current filter wasn't real dirty. Still looked pretty good.

Just looking for somewhere to get these filters.

I hear you. I think I better get off my butt and start looking too. I think that it is supposed to be changed once a year. High Efficiency Air Filter. I'll post when and if I can find one at reasonable price.

[GeorgeT]

Thanks to everyone that responded. I'm going to try the filters that Larry recommended and I guess the bottom line is it's freakin' hot out!
We keep a window unit in the bedroom so we're always cool at night. We just moved here from VT in January so I guess we need to get acclimated.

[villagegolfer]

Update, cheapest so far is a 2-pack for $55 plus $8 shipping. That makes it $31.50. Source: Shorty's HVAC Supplies.

[ilovetv]

Thanks to everyone that responded. I'm going to try the filters that Larry recommended and I guess the bottom line is it's freakin' hot out!
We keep a window unit in the bedroom so we're always cool at night. We just moved here from VT in January so I guess we need to get acclimated.

It's good to get a heating/cooling seasonal tune-up/check-up and get onto the HVAC company's service plan. Munn's is good and thorough for about $120 (can't remember the exact amount). Maybe your freon is low.

Also, it does take awhile for us northerners to get acclimated to the heat, but it happens eventually. If you would go back to VT this coming September, you'd probably think it feels "arctic" there with 72 degrees and low humidity!

[logdog]

I bought mine on ebay for less than $25 each with free shipping. Usually, you have to buy 2 at a time to get the free shipping. If you buy them local, they will charge at least twice that.

My home inspector recommends ushomefilter.com where you can buy them for less than $20 each if you buy 3 at a time. Not sure what they charge for shipping.

These filters are changed only once a year.

[Larry Wilson]

Tommy,

I found the 1" filters on the website Filters4Life.

Villagegolfer,

I went to Filters4Life and they have the 4" filters listed by specific air conditioners, but these other guys on this post seem to have found sources that are cheaper.

Good question, and good responses.

[laryb]

I've been looking for 2 days for filters. We've probably had the same inspector, because I was told about ushomefilter.com too. I couldn't find my filter on their site, or any other site. I will call them Monday and post how I make out. A friend of mine said that he found someone who will custom make filters, so I will contact him when I get the # and post those results also. The actual dimensions of my filter are 19 1/8" x 19 13/16" x 4 5/16" (19.125" x 19.8125" x 4.3125") and is a merv 8.The model # on the filter is FILXXFNC0021 The merv 11 model #is FILXXFNC0121

[rosehillman]

I have my AC set to 76 during the day. Yesterday the temperature was up to 78 inside the house. I changed the filter, it was dirty but not real dirty because I changed it about a month ago. It took 3 hours for the temp to drop back down to 76 in the early evening. I had the AC serviced 2 months ago and all was fine.

Filters are expensive. What type of filter do some of you use and how often do you change it?

I would change it once a month. If it does not looked clogged or dirty possibly the unit is in need of repair.

[villagegolfer]

I would change it once a month. If it does not looked clogged or dirty possibly the unit is in need of repair.

These are High Efficiency Filters and need to be changed only once a year.

[villagegolfer]

I've been looking for 2 days for filters. We've probably had the same inspector, because I was told about ushomefilter.com too. I couldn't find my filter on their site, or any other site. I will call them Monday and post how I make out. A friend of mine said that he found someone who will custom make filters, so I will contact him when I get the # and post those results also. The actual dimensions of my filter are 19 1/8" x 19 13/16" x 4 5/16" (19.125" x 19.8125" x 4.3125") and is a merv 8.The model # on the filter is ]FILXXFNC0121[/B]

Are you sure about the number? Mine is FILXXFNC0021.

[laryb]

Are you sure about the number? Mine is FILXXFNC0021.
Thanks for catching that. The # I quoted was for a merv 11. I have corrected my original post. Probably a senior moment!

[logdog]

Try this: http://www.ushomefilter.com/filters/model/FILBBFNC0021-.html or this: http://www.iaqsource.com/search.php?keywords=filbbfnc0021&submit_continue=Find

[villagegolfer]

Try this: http://www.ushomefilter.com/filters/model/FILBBFNC0021-.html or this: http://www.iaqsource.com/search.php?keywords=filbbfnc0021&submit_continue=Find

Good link logdog. I didn't pull the trigger yesterday but decided to use your 1st link and I got 2 filters for $62. Thanks

[rjm1cc]

I have my AC set to 76 during the day. Yesterday the temperature was up to 78 inside the house. I changed the filter, it was dirty but not real dirty because I changed it about a month ago. It took 3 hours for the temp to drop back down to 76 in the early evening. I had the AC serviced 2 months ago and all was fine.

Filters are expensive. What type of filter do some of you use and how often do you change it?

My guess is that you might only be able to cool your house to 20 degrees less than the outside. (Of course depending on insulation, window tinting, etc.) and your unit could be working properly even though the temp got to 78 inside.
You should be able to find your manual on line and see what the specs are.

[GeorgeT]

These are High Efficiency Filters and need to be changed only once a year.

After 45 days my $12 Sweet Bay filter gets very dirty. I don't understand how I could leave any type of filter in the system for a whole year. What is different about high energy filters? Don't they get just as dirty?

[GeorgeT]

After 45 days my $12 Sweet Bay filter gets very dirty. I don't understand how I could leave any type of filter in the system for a whole year. What is different about high energy filters? Don't they get just as dirty?

Bueller, Bueller.....Anyone?

[ducati1974]

GeorgeT- the filter you are buying from Sweetbay is probably only a one inch thick filter while the true high efficiency filters are 4-5" thick. They are made in an accordian style so you get a helluva lot more area of filter- thus they'll last a lot longer than the 1". I don't recommend buying the 1" thick "high efficiency" filters to my customers unless they're prepared to replace them once a month. There just isn't enough filter area in them and they're too restrictive.

[GeorgeT]

GeorgeT- the filter you are buying from Sweetbay is probably only a one inch thick filter while the true high efficiency filters are 4-5" thick. They are made in an accordian style so you get a helluva lot more area of filter- thus they'll last a lot longer than the 1". I don't recommend buying the 1" thick "high efficiency" filters to my customers unless they're prepared to replace them once a month. There just isn't enough filter area in them and they're too restrictive.

Thanks ducati1974. That makes perfect sense. The brackets that hold my 1 inch filter would would have to be replaced if I went with a 4-5 inch filter, right? Or is the perimeter of the 4-5 inch filter 1 inch as to fit under the brackets?

[elevatorman]

Are you sure about the number? Mine is FILXXFNC0021.

There are 3 different sizes in Duval. The ez way to find a good place to find them is type your number (FILXXFNC0021) into Google. This will give you the OEM filters. There are also non OEM filters available for less with the same MERV rating. You may also want to search MERV to see what that means. MERV 8 is what I use. Some may want to go to the Merv 11. I got mine from Shortys. http://www.shortyspumps.com/index.php?main_page=advanced_search_result&search_in_description=1&zenid=pae4efp2d4d8elgjmvmdb90p83&keyword=FILXXFNC0021

[BlueHeronFan]

It's NOT the filters. I was standing near one of the vents the other day, and it was blowing hot air. All the ventilation is in the ceiling, and the air in the "tubes" gets hot, and must clear before the cooling starts thru them. Then it cooled just fine.

At least that is what is happening in this home.

[ducati1974]

GeorgeT- Installation of 5" high efficiency filters usually requires modification of the return air ductwork.

[LivingLarge]

Could someone more knowledgable than I please explain why larger is better? In filters that is:)

I was once told by an AC guy that my HVAC system would be better served by the cheap (i mean cheapest) Home Depot air filter. And just change them monthly. No real cost since they were <$1 each. Is it for the system or the person (allergy?)? Those better filters really need a large force of air to pull it through the dense filter? No?

[villagegolfer]

Could someone more knowledgable than I please explain why larger is better? In filters that is:)

I was once told by an AC guy that my HVAC system would be better served by the cheap (i mean cheapest) Home Depot air filter. And just change them monthly. No real cost since they were <$1 each. Is it for the system or the person (allergy?)? Those better filters really need a large force of air to pull it through the dense filter? No?
It would depend on your system. My system has a cavity that receives a 4" thick filter. High efficiency filter which requires yearly changing.

[mrfixit]

GeorgeT- Installation of 5" high efficiency filters usually requires modification of the return air ductwork.

I am willing to wager up to $63.87 (which is my entire cash on hand) that you are involved in the HVAC industry. I agree 1000% with your statement.:highfive:

[ducati1974]

I am willing to wager up to $63.87 (which is my entire cash on hand) that you are involved in the HVAC industry. I agree 1000% with your statement.:highfive:

Mrfixit- Your intuition is correct- 37 years as an HVAC man and counting down to retirement in TV! (next year?) What were you doing prior to retirement? I can't imagine parting with all my tools but I can't take them all with me- that's going to be tough. We'll have to meet!

[ducati1974]

Could someone more knowledgable than I please explain why larger is better? In filters that is:)

I was once told by an AC guy that my HVAC system would be better served by the cheap (i mean cheapest) Home Depot air filter. And just change them monthly. No real cost since they were <$1 each. Is it for the system or the person (allergy?)? Those better filters really need a large force of air to pull it through the dense filter? No?

The 4 & 5 inch filters are often the equivalent of a HEPA filter and protect the AC coil, heat exchanger, and blower motor & wheel from dust along with helping people with allergies and keeping the dust down in the house. Yes they are very dense, however their depth and accordian style makes for a lot more filter area to overcome this density. I would rather see someone use the cheapo filters then see them use the 1" "high efficiency" filters because these filters are very dense but without the extra area necessary to overcome the static pressure.

[mrfixit]

MRFIXIT. Your intuition is correct- 37 years as an HVAC man and counting down to retirement in TV! (next year?) WHAT WERE YOU DOING PRIOR TO RETIREMENT? I can't imagine parting with all my tools but I can't take them all with me- that's going to be tough. We'll have to meet!

Never could keep a job..so I went in business for myself...... I mostly cleaned the floors and:D swept the toilets. (got so good at it that my wife still lets me do all the:( cleaning at home).......BUT.... did have the good fortune to be surronded by people a heck of a lot smarter than me. SPECIALITIES involve losing Golf Balls ..AND...:beer3:...AND...feeding bait to the fish. My "PASSION" involves utilizing "my:1rotfl: skills" to help those less fortunate in our surronding communities. I brought along just enough tools to be considered dangerous......................................... .................................................. ....................... Thank you ducati1974 for your insight on HVAC. I appreciate people like you who are willing to share their knowledge. I would like to meet you,also.