How Will Dirty Air Filters Impact My HVAC System?

It is no secret that many cities have poor air quality. According to the World Health Organization, air pollution is a leading global risk factor for premature death. Fortunately, you can take steps to protect yourself from dirty air, such as avoiding strenuous outdoor activity on high-smog days and using an air purifier. But what about your HVAC system? How will dirty air filters affect it?

1. Consume More Energy

As air filters become clogged, they restrict more and more airflow. This makes the fan motor work harder to push air through the filter. Because of the increased workload, the fan motor consumes more energy, impacting the performance of your HVAC system.

Additionally, a clogged filter can cause the system to run for longer than necessary, resulting in higher energy costs. You can help prevent expensive repairs and keep your HVAC system running smoothly by keeping your air filter clean.

2. Unnecessary Break-Downs

The accumulation of dirt and debris on an air filter will eventually impair its ability to function properly. When your filters become clogged with dirt and dust, it is more difficult for the fan to draw air through them. This can cause the fan to work harder than it should, resulting in premature wear and tear. Additionally, dirty air filters can impair the performance of your HVAC system, resulting in inefficient heating and cooling.

If you want to keep your HVAC system running smoothly and avoid costly repairs, you should regularly change or clean your air filters. A good rule of thumb is to replace them every three months, depending on the usage level and the type of filter. If you have pets or suffer from allergies, you may need to replace them more frequently. By following these simple steps, you can extend the life of your HVAC system and improve its performance.

3. Poor Indoor Air Quality

Dirty air filters are one of the main causes of poor indoor air quality. Less air can flow when filters get clogged with dust and other debris. Additionally, dirty filters can cause unhealthy air to circulate through the home, allowing dust, pollen, and other allergens to pass through. This can trigger respiratory problems, such as asthma attacks, and exacerbate other health conditions.

Dirty air filters can also cause several issues with your HVAC system. When the air filter gets clogged, it can restrict airflow and reduce the efficiency of your furnace or air conditioner. This means that your unit will work harder to maintain the desired temperature or humidity in your home, leading to increased energy costs and wear and tear on your system.

4. Frozen AC

Dirty air filters reduce the overall performance of your HVAC system, but they can also cause your unit to freeze. This is because a dirty air filter restricts airflow, which can cause the coils in your air conditioner to freeze. You will most likely need to hire a professional to thaw out your unit and clean your air filter if this happens.

Meanwhile, you will be without air conditioning, which can be quite uncomfortable during the hot summer months. To avoid this situation, check and clean your air filter regularly to ensure optimal airflow and keep your unit from freezing over.

5. Short Cycling

Dirty air filters are frequently the cause of short cycling, which occurs when your HVAC system turns on and off repeatedly in a short period. When the filter gets clogged, it restricts the airflow; thus, the furnace must work harder to heat your home. This can cause the furnace to short cycle, turning on and off more frequently than usual.

Additionally, short cycling puts a lot of strain on your system, which is one of the most serious issues. This can cause parts to wear out faster and, in severe cases, cause your system to overheat and fail. Finally, short cycling can also reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system, ultimately costing you more money.

6. Uncomfortable Home

Dirty air filters reduce home comfort, which affects your HVAC system. When your filters are dirty, they can’t do their job of trapping dust and other particles in the air. This means that those particles are circulated throughout your home, where they can cause problems such as allergies and asthma attacks. It can also result in poor air quality, which can cause headaches, coughing, and other symptoms.

7. Moisture Accumulation

Dirty air filters reduce the quality of the air in your home, but they can also lead to moisture buildup. The moist air can cause the coils on your air conditioner to freeze, resulting in a break-down. The buildup of moisture in your home can also lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can be harmful to your health and your family’s health. It is critical to clean or replace your air filters regularly to avoid these issues.
How Can You Tell If My Air Filter Is Dirty and Needs To Get Replaced?

Checking the airflow coming from your vents is best to tell if your air filter is dirty. If the airflow is poor, it’s time to replace the air filter. You can also inspect the filter for dirt or dust buildup. If you notice that your air filter has become clogged or discolored, it’s time to replace it. If you’re not sure how often you should replace your air filter, you should speak with a technician or HVAC professional.

Why Do You Need To Contact an Expert?

It is critical to keep your air filters clean to maintain a healthy indoor environment and extend the life of your HVAC system. However, if you’re unsure how to clean or replace them, call Eagle Heating and Cooling; they can advise you on the best air filters for your needs and demonstrate how to clean and replace them properly.

They can also inspect your system for potential problems caused by dirty or clogged filters, such as reduced airflow and increased energy costs. You can protect your home from poor indoor air quality and ensure the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment by investing in regular maintenance and cleaning services from an HVAC professional.