Air filters are the unsung heroes of your home’s HVAC system. They trap dirt, dust and other particles that could otherwise damage your HVAC system and pollute the air that you breathe. Air filters also protect your HVAC system from wear and tear. A dirty filter allows harmful contaminants inside the system that could cause it to break down more quickly. If your HVAC system isn't properly maintained, it won't be able to run as efficiently as it should, meaning it will use more energy and cost you more money each month. That's why it's important to change your HVAC air filter every two to three months. An air filter is a key component of your HVAC system that traps dust, dirt, debris and other harmful contaminants before they can damage your HVAC system’s motor or other components. They should be changed as often as they become dirty to ensure optimum performance and long service life for your HVAC system. Air filters trap microscopic dust, pollen, pet dander, bacteria and viruses, which can cause allergies, asthma and other breathing problems if they’re not removed regularly. Inadequate air flow can also increase your energy bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), HVAC systems account for about 5% of the nation’s energy consumption and 25% of the nation’s electricity load. That means improving the efficiency of your HVAC system could save you as much as $2,000 a year. It is estimated that improving the efficiency of your HVAC system could save you up to $800 in annual energy costs.
CHECK YOUR FILTER - BEFORE AND AFTER PICTURES
It is important to keep track of the filters that you change in your home HVAC system. You can either mark the filter with a piece of tape or keep a log in your computer or a notebook. It is also important to make sure that the right filter is being used in your HVAC system. Different filters are used for different parts of the system. You can identify the correct filter by its size. Generally, you should clean the filter every 2-3 months depending on the type of filter you use. You can use a duster or vacuum cleaner to clean the filter. You can also use a special filter cleaning solution to clean the filter. You can find out more about the different filter types and when to replace them here - air filter guide.
PROBLEMS CAUSED BY DIRTY HVAC FILTERS
The most common problem that dirty HVAC filters can cause is inadequate air flow. HVAC systems are designed to run at a specific rate of air flow. If the air filter is dirty, it can restrict the flow of air through the system, causing the HVAC unit to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. This can lead to higher energy bills and equipment breakdowns. Inadequate air flow can also increase your energy bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), HVAC systems account for about 5% of the nation’s energy consumption and 25% of the nation’s electricity load. This means improving the efficiency of your HVAC system could save you as much as $2,000 a year. It is estimated that improving the efficiency of your HVAC system could save you up to $800 in annual energy costs.
AIR QUALITY AND ALLERGIES
Air filters can trap dust, pet dander and other allergens and irritants that can cause or worsen allergies and asthma. Air filters can be easily and effectively cleaned to remove these pollutants, keeping them from circulating throughout your home and affecting the health of your family members. An unclean filter can also cause a number of other issues. An inadequate air flow through your HVAC system can reduce the cooling capacity of the system and increase the amount of energy it uses. This can lead to higher energy bills and higher operating cost. Dirty HVAC filters can also cause the buildup of mold and mildew in the ductwork. This can lead to poor indoor air quality, which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals and cause other health issues.
POOR INDOOR AIR QUALITY AND ASTHMA
Asthma is a chronic condition that affects around 5% of the American population. It is a condition that is triggered by a variety of environmental factors. One of the most common triggers is indoor air pollution. Indoor air pollution can be caused by poor indoor air quality due to inadequate filtration, high humidity levels and inadequate ventilation. Dirty filters that are not frequently changed can trap bacteria and dust mites, which can lead to poor indoor air quality and trigger frequent asthma attacks. The American Lung Association recommends changing your air filter every two to three months.
DIRTY HVAC FILTERS AND BAD ALLERGIES
Virus and bacteria are among the most common causes of indoor air pollution. When these contaminants become trapped in your HVAC system, they can cause unpleasant and unhealthy smells in your home. This can be a serious problem for people with allergies and asthma. If your HVAC filter is dirty, it can trap these contaminants and cause a bad smell indoors. This can irritate your eyes and nose and make you feel sick. The best way to avoid this problem is to change your HVAC filter regularly.
CONCLUSION
Air filters are an important part of your HVAC system. They trap dirt, dust and other particles that could otherwise damage your HVAC system and pollute the air that you breathe. Air filters also protect your HVAC system from wear and tear. A dirty filter allows harmful contaminants inside the system that could cause it to break down more quickly. If your HVAC system isn't properly maintained, it won't be able to run as efficiently as it should, meaning it will use more energy and cost you more money each month. That's why it's important to change your HVAC air filter every 2-3 months. It is estimated that improving the efficiency of your HVAC system could save you as much as $2,000 a year. You can either mark the filter with a piece of tape or keep a log in your computer or a notebook. It is also important to make sure that the right filter is being used in your HVAC system. Different filters are used for different parts of the system.