There is a very good reason why your HVAC system has an air filter. Its job is to keep contaminants away from other core parts of the system and from spreading throughout your home. It should not come as a surprise to learn that dirty air filters are one of the main causes of cooling system issues. Having your air filter replaced regularly can go a long way to help prevent expensive breakdowns and to extend the system’s lifespan. Continue reading to find out what could happen if the air filter becomes too dirty.
A Dirty Air Filter Could Significantly Increase The Workload Of Your HVAC System
Once the air filter has become clogged with all sorts of debris and dirt, the HVAC system has to work a lot harder in an attempt to counteract the impact of the airflow that is partly blocked. Not only does it have to work harder, but it nearly inevitably becomes less efficient at cooling your home. Having the air filter replaced at least once in 3 months will help ensure the smooth functioning of the system and protect it against damage that could eventually lead to complete failure.
A Dirty Air Filter Increases The Amount Of Energy Your HVAC System Uses
Blocked air filters lead to higher energy consumption. This in turn leads to an increase in your energy bills. The reason is fairly simple: your HVAC system recirculates the air by using a blower fan. A clogged filter will use as much as 15% more energy. The dirtier the filter is, the more work the fan has to do to circulate cool air throughout your home. Once the air filter has been replaced, the system will immediately work more efficiently, resulting in a drop in energy usage and lower energy bills.
The Air Inside Your Home Could Become Contaminated
Many people might not be aware of this, but a dirty air filter might spread contaminants that could cause health issues such as eye irritations, headaches, rashes, asthma, sinus, and allergy symptoms. Having the air filter regularly changed will go a long way to help prevent this. If issues like the above continue even after the air filter has been replaced, ask a professional HVAC company to clean the ducts.
The Ductwork Can Become Very Dirty
Instead of removing them from the air, an air filter that has become clogged with dirt can actually become a source of contaminants such as pet dander, pollen, and dust. This will eventually restrict the airflow of your HVAC system, in the process making it work harder than it should and using more energy. Clogged air filters can also result in dirt buildup in the ductwork. This will eventually cause a significant amount of extra dust across your entire home. Something else to watch out for is a buildup of dirt and dust on the fan blades. In short, a dirty air filter will no longer be able to do what it is supposed to do: protect your home’s HVAC system.
Repulsive Smells
Another negative side effect of a dirty air filter is that it can cause your home to smell stale and musty – definitely not something you would want when your in-laws are visiting! This happens because the weakened airflow caused by a dirty filter can prevent fresh air from circulating to all parts of your home, in the process allowing bad smells from activities such as cooking to hang in the air much longer than they should.
The Bottom Line
An HVAC system is an expensive piece of equipment that plays an important role in keeping your home safe and comfortable. It makes no sense to skimp on regularly having the filters replaced. Worried there’s something else wrong with your system? Or perhaps you need help keeping it regularly maintained? Contact Hoot today!
