Clogged and dirty air filters can cause more HVAC issues than you might expect. Believe it or not, there are some surprising and “scary” consequences of having a really clogged filter. Have you ever wondered what happens when your HVAC air filters go unchanged for too long? It might seem like a small thing, but consider what air filters do and why they’re essential to your HVAC system. Their function is definitely intentional!
Air filters are designed to protect your HVAC system. They catch dust, pollutants, and other airborne particles from your home, preventing them from causing bigger issues in your system. But that’s not all! When an air filter does its job well, it also stops those unwanted particles from circulating around your home, so you and your family can breathe easier.
It’s easy to see how dirty air filters can really impact your indoor air quality and health. So, join your Troy Furnace & Air Conditioning experts today as we uncover the “scary” truths about what happens when you don’t change your air filter often enough!
What Are the Horrific Consequences of Not Changing Your Dirty Air Filter?
- Indoor Air Quality Takes a Hit: A blocked air filter can really mess with your HVAC system’s ability to function properly, leading to a drop in your home’s indoor air quality (IAQ). Here’s how it can affect things:
- Circulation of Pollutants: When an air filter gets too clogged with dust and other particles, it lets harmful pollutants and contaminants roam freely in your home, which you and your family end up breathing in.
- Dust and Debris Build-Up: One immediate effect of a clogged air filter is that dust and debris start piling up in your home. You might notice dust settling on furniture and HVAC vents, making everything look dirty and meaning you’re inhaling more particles.
- Spread of Germs and Bacteria: A less obvious but serious issue with a congested air filter is the potential spread of germs and bacteria. A dirty filter can turn into a breeding ground for harmful microbes, which can then circulate throughout your home and worsen any existing respiratory problems.
- Increased Allergy Symptoms: Clogged air filters can lead to various health issues, ranging from minor annoyances like sore throats to more serious problems like respiratory infections. So, if you’re dealing with allergens, no matter what you try for relief, check your air filter! Symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes can get worse with poor indoor air quality.
- Unpleasant Odors: A blocked air filter can also lead to musty or bad smells in your home, depending on what’s trapped inside. This is why keeping up with filter changes is key to avoiding these odors.
- Higher Energy Costs: When your HVAC system has to work overtime to push air through a clogged filter, energy use goes up. Studies by the Department of Energy show that swapping a dirty filter for a clean one can lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5% to 15%. So, the numbers really tell the story!
- Greater Chance of System Failure: Last but not least, ignoring your air filter changes can lead to more than just poor air quality and higher energy bills. If you don’t change your filters, your HVAC system will overwork itself, putting unnecessary strain on the unit and leading to expensive repairs down the road. This is just a glimpse of what can go wrong with your HVAC system; plenty of other issues can arise from clogged air filters. So, take our advice and keep up with those air filter changes!
How Often Should Dirty Air Filters Be Replaced?
Now that you’re aware of what happens when your air filter gets clogged let’s chat about how often you should swap them out. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to change your air filters every 30 to 90 days. Here are a few other handy tips for changing your air filters.
- Seasonal Changes: A super easy way to remember to change your air filter is to do it at the start of each season. Many folks like to kick off the new season with a good deep cleaning of their home, so just add this little HVAC task to your cleaning routine, and you won’t have to worry about forgetting it.
- After Renovations: If you’re into home DIY projects or home renovations, keep in mind that all that dust and debris can really clog up your air filter. It’s a good idea to swap out your filters for a fresh set after each project.
- For Pet Owners: At Troy Furnace & Air Conditioning, we love our pets—they’re part of the family! Just remember, if you have multiple furry friends, you’ll want to change your air filters more often since pet dander and fur can build up faster than you think, which can impact your home’s indoor air quality.
Keeping your air filter clean is super important for your HVAC system and for good indoor air quality. If you can spot when your air filters are clogged or dirty and know how to deal with it, you’ll create a healthier environment for both your family and your HVAC system.
As always, Troy Furnace & Air Conditioning is here to help you out. We’d be glad to tackle any HVAC scares that dare threaten your system! Call today at (937) 230-5521, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
