If there’s one piece of advice you’ll hear from HVAC technicians over and over, it’s this: change your air filter regularly. While the air filter might seem like a rather flimsy and insignificant component of your HVAC system, it plays an essential role in keeping dust out of the machinery and out of the air circulating through your home.
When an air filter goes too long without being replaced (or cleaned if it’s reusable), the following problems can occur.
1. Your HVAC system will become less efficient.
Your air filter is meant to get dirty. After all, it needs to keep dust, hair, and other airborne particles from entering your HVAC system’s components. However, when the filter gets clogged with these particles, it prevents an adequate amount of airflow from circulating through your HVAC system. The reduced airflow is going to force your system to work harder and longer to reach the temperature set on your thermostat.
2. Your pocketbook will suffer in the short run and the long run.
When your HVAC system is struggling along due to restricted airflow, it’s going to cost you more to operate. That translates into higher monthly energy bills. Additionally, your HVAC system’s parts are going to wear out faster because:
they are operating under poor conditions;
they must work harder and for longer intervals to reach your desired temperature.
If you don’t replace your air filter before it gets clogged, you may find yourself replacing system parts a lot sooner in the future than you’d like. If the lack of airflow is severe enough, the evaporator coils of your air conditioner can freeze, and your furnace may break down altogether due to overheating.
3. Dust will circulate through your home.
If you start to get allergic symptoms at home or notice dust collecting more quickly than usual, a dirty air filter could be the culprit. As air tries to force its way through a clogged air filter, it dislodges the dust and other particles that the air filter initially trapped. These particles travel into your HVAC system, which then blows them with the treated air into all of your home's rooms.
Bottom Line
Replace your air filter regularly so that you can avoid HVAC system issues. Even though most manufacturers state that the average air filter is fine for up to 90 days, a good rule of thumb is to check on it once a month. How often you need to change your filter will depend on several factors, including how many people live with you, if you have any pets, and how much you’ve been using your HVAC system.
Turn to Rescue Air and Plumbing today for all of your Dallas HVAC service needs. Dial (972) 201-3253 or contact us online today to schedule a service!