A clogged air filter can lead to more serious and “scary” problems than you might think. We often emphasize the importance of changing your air filters on time, but do you know why it’s so crucial? There are many hidden reasons that make it necessary to keep up with your air filter changes. Today, Gahanna Furnace & Air Conditioning aims to highlight the “horrific” consequences of neglecting regular air filter changes.
What Happens When You Don’t Change Your Air Filters Regularly?
- Air Quality in Your Home – You might think changing your air filters isn’t that important, but it really is. Think about it. Air filters are meant to trap dust and other airborne contaminants before they enter your HVAC system. This not only prevents these pollutants from circulating in your home—where you and your family breathe them in—but also helps maintain good indoor air quality (IAQ). As a result, when you stay on top of changing your air filters, you’re helping both your home and HVAC system perform better. In contrast, neglecting this task can significantly lower the indoor air quality in your home.
- Energy Bills – Another area that suffers when you don’t change your air filters is your energy bills. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, making your HVAC system work harder to push air through the vents. This increased effort leads to higher energy consumption and, ultimately, higher monthly bills. According to a study by the Department of Energy, regularly replacing a dirty filter with a clean one can reduce your air conditioner’s energy use by 5% to 15%.
- Efficiency of Your HVAC System – Your system’s efficiency can also be negatively affected. This is because ignoring air filter maintenance can result in more than just poor air quality and high energy costs. A clogged filter forces your HVAC system to work harder to push air through, putting extra strain on the system. This strain can lead to breakdowns and costly repairs––which, of course, is never ideal, especially since there can be proactive steps made to avoid this type of scenario as much as possible.
- Airborne Pollutants – This next point goes hand in hand with our point about indoor air quality. Think about all the airborne contaminants hanging out in the air throughout your home. Your home is your safe place where you reside and stay a large chunk of your time. So, if you leave your air filters unchanged for too long, pollutants and contaminants can easily enter the air in your home. This includes mold spores, pet dander, and tobacco smoke particles. These airborne irritants can lead to health issues and discomfort, such as sore throats, which are definitely not ideal.
- Dust Buildup in Your Home and HVAC System – On the same note, another one of the immediate effects of a clogged air filter is the accumulation of dust and debris. If you notice your furniture collecting dust faster than usual, it may indicate that your HVAC vents are also gathering dust. This again means you could be breathing in these tiny particles throughout your home.
- Germs and Bacteria – A less obvious but even more concerning result of dirty air filters is the growth of germs and bacteria. Clogged filters can become a breeding ground for harmful microorganisms, which can be particularly uncomfortable for those with asthma or respiratory conditions. By simply remaining proactive with this simple HVAC maintenance task, you can stay two steps ahead of germs and bacteria in your home, reducing the probability of them being able to thrive successfully in your home.
When Should You Replace Your Air Filters?
- At the Start of Each Season or Every 30-90 Days – If you live in Ohio, you’re probably aware of how unpredictable the seasons can be, especially with seasonal allergens. It’s a good idea to check your air filters at the start of each season to ensure your HVAC system can handle the changing demands. Additionally, a general guideline per industry standards is to replace them every 30-90 days, depending on usage, the number of pets, and your lifestyle.
- After Renovations or Home Projects – If you often tackle home DIY projects and have home renovations done, it would be prudent to replace your air filters more frequently. This is because home renovations can release a lot of dust and debris into the air, which can clog your filters faster than usual.
It’s crucial to stay on top of changing your air filters. Regular air filter maintenance is essential. By keeping up with this HVAC task, you can maintain a comfortable home and promote the health of your family.
We are only a phone call away! Gahanna Furnace & Air Conditioning can help you tackle any scary HVAC disasters that come your way! Call us at (614) 379-3602 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!