Your HVAC filter is the key to a functioning HVAC system. Experts have stated that the most important thing you can do to maintain your HVAC system is to change your air filter regularly.
Energy Star suggests changing your air filter every month, especially during the winter and summer months, when your HVAC unit gets the most use. At the bare minimum, don’t let three months go by without swapping your dirty filter out for a new one. Our experts at American Comfort Experts have four main reasons why you should be changing your air filter.
A Clogged HVAC Filter Creates Inefficiency & Higher Costs
No other factor affects the performance and efficiency of your air conditioning system as much as a dirty filter will. A dirty filter can also block the air flow of your system. When the air filter is clogged with dust and dirt, your furnace and air conditioner must work twice as hard to move air through your home. This will cause your energy bill to skyrocket!
The efficiency of your system relies heavily on the airflow. When the filter gets dirty, it severely blocks the airflow to the furnace, forcing your system to work harder to heat or cool the room. This will leave your system worn down and your energy bill more expensive than ever!
A Dirty HVAC Filter Pollutes the Air in Your Home
A dirty and contaminated air filter means that the blower is spreading dirty, airborne particles throughout your home. These particles could include lint, dust, dirt, pollen, and even tiny microorganisms that aren’t visible to the regular eye. So, what does that mean? This means that your family could be constantly inhaling polluted air. Breathing in polluted air can have quite the impact on your health by causing allergies and making asthma symptoms worse.
As a result, a filter needs to be changed or cleaned at least once a month when your system is being used on a regular basis.
Extending the Life of Your HVAC Unit
Did you know the most common reason a heating and air conditioning system breaks down is because of a dirty filter? When the dirt starts to build up it causes the air to not pass, or it can even cause the system to overheat. The motor then has to work harder.
In a best-case scenario, your unit will need to be repaired. In the worst case, if your unit is older, not replacing filters could put it over the edge and require you to invest in a completely new unit. Replacing the filter is an easy way to prevent you from replacing or repairing your unit, and it can ultimately lengthen the life of your heating system.
Reduce Dust in Your Space
Here’s a little but very convenient benefit of changing your HVAC filters: less cleaning!
When your HVAC filters get clogged, more dust can end up in your air ducts. As air pushes through the ducts and into your space, that extra dust is blown around as well.
With clean filters doing their job, you have less dust collecting on the surfaces of your home which means less cleaning for you!
