A dirty filter is the first sign of trouble for any type of HVAC system. For a furnace or air conditioner, a dirty filter can lead to serious problems like insufficient air flow or increased carbon monoxide emissions. The longer a filter sits between your HVAC system and the air it’s distributing, the more likely it is to become dirty and require replacement. Other signs your filter needs to be changed include increased noise from the fan during operation, foul smells from the exhaust, or a decrease in the amount of air being distributed by the HVAC unit. If any of these apply to your central air conditioning system, it’s time to replace your filter. If you’re not sure when your filter needs to be changed, these signs will help you identify when it’s time to clean or replace yours.

Noise Increase

If your HVAC system is working on a higher fan speed, it could be an indication that your filter needs to be changed. A dirty filter can cause the fan inside your HVAC system to run at higher speeds in order to push air through the system. This can be a sign that the filter is getting clogged and needs to be changed. If you notice that your HVAC system is running at a higher fan speed, it’s a good idea to replace your filter.

Foul Smell

If your HVAC system is emitting a foul smell, it could be an indication that your filter needs to be changed. A dirty filter can cause dust and other bacteria to build up inside the HVAC system. This can lead to a foul smell coming from the exhaust. If you notice a foul smell coming from your HVAC system, it’s a good idea to replace your filter.

Decreased Air Flow

If your filter is clogged, it can reduce the amount of air that’s being distributed by your HVAC system. This can cause a decrease in the amount of air that’s being distributed throughout your home. If you notice that the amount of air being distributed by your HVAC system is significantly lower, it’s a good idea to replace your filter.

Maintenance Schedule

If you have an annual maintenance plan with your HVAC system, you should be receiving regular maintenance checkups from your technician. During these appointments, they will check your furnace and air conditioner for any problems, and they may also change your filters. If you’re not receiving regular maintenance, you should contact a technician to come out and perform a maintenance checkup. During this appointment, the technician will check your HVAC system and recommend a change to your filter if needed.

Conclusion

A dirty filter can have a negative impact on your HVAC system. It can reduce the amount of air that’s being distributed by your system, which can cause a decrease in comfort levels. A dirty filter can also increase your system’s carbon monoxide emissions. A dirty filter can be cleaned and reused, but it’s important to change it regularly to avoid serious problems with your HVAC system. You can tell if it’s time to change your filter by checking for any of the signs listed above. If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to replace your filter.

Frequently Asked Question

The furnace filter needs to be replaced depending on your location. For colder zones, you might want to change it every 30 – 60 days because furnaces usually go on for many months and do not take a break. For warmer areas, you may only replace it twice during the winter or after 90 days. It also varies on the thickness of the furnace filters. The thinner your filter, the more frequent you get to replace it.
If you fail to change your furnace filter, this might affect the performance of your furnace. It will pressure your equipment to work harder because of a decrease in airflow. Worse, it might damage your equipment forcing you to have it repaired or replaced. The furnace will overheat once you turn it on without a new air filter.
Technically without a furnace filter, your furnace will still operate. However, you will risk your family’s health and your equipment’s performance as well. Furnace filters make sure that contaminants, dust, and microbes do not get inside your house so you will not breathe dirty air.
A dirty furnace filter looks darker than the first time you bought it. The air also smells funny. You get lower airflow and your equipment works hard causing your electric bills to soar. Soon you will get sick, and develop headaches and allergies.
The fibers can’t do their job when it is placed backward. The furnace will work harder to keep up with its desired output. This will increase your energy cost and damage your equipment. Smaller particles will accumulate causing build-up.