A clogged air filter can lead to more serious issues than you might think. We often emphasize the importance of changing your air filters on time, but do you know why it matters? There are many unseen reasons that highlight the necessity of keeping up with your air filter changes. Today, Five Star Heating & Cooling Dayton aims to explain the troubling consequences of neglecting regular air filter maintenance.
What Happens When You Neglect Your Air Filters?
- Air Quality in Your Home – You might be thinking that changing your air filters frequently isn’t that important, but it really is. Air filters are designed to trap dust and other airborne pollutants from entering your HVAC system. This not only prevents these contaminants from circulating in your home but also helps maintain a healthy environment for you and your family. By keeping up with your air filter changes, you’re setting both your home and HVAC system up for success, improving your indoor air quality. On the other hand, failing to change your filters can significantly harm your home’s air quality.
- Energy Bills – Your energy bills will also take a hit. When an air filter is clogged with dust and debris, air cannot flow effectively through your HVAC system. This means your system has to work harder, consuming more energy and leading to higher monthly bills. According to a study by the Department of Energy, regularly replacing a dirty filter with a clean one can cut your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5% to 15%.
- HVAC System Efficiency – Neglecting air filters can lead to more than just poor air quality and rising energy bills. A clogged filter forces your HVAC system to work harder to push air out. This extra strain can cause your system to break down, resulting in costly repairs.
- Pollutants and Contaminants in the Air – Keeping your air filters unchanged for too long allows pollutants and contaminants to circulate freely in your home. This includes mold spores, pet dander, and tobacco smoke particles, which can lead to health issues and irritations like sore throats—definitely not ideal.
- Dust and Debris Buildup in Your Home & HVAC System – One immediate effect of a clogged air filter is the accumulation of dust and debris in your home. If your furniture seems to gather dust more quickly than usual or if your HVAC vents are dusty, it means you’re breathing in these particles regularly.
- Germs and Bacteria in the Home – A less obvious but concerning result of clogged air filters is the growth of germs and bacteria. Dirty filters can become breeding grounds for harmful microorganisms, which can be particularly uncomfortable for those with asthma or other respiratory conditions.
When Should You Replace Your Air Filters?
- At the Start of Each Season or Every 30-90 Days – If you live in Ohio, you know how unpredictable the seasons can be, and seasonal allergens are prevalent. A good practice is to check your air filters at the beginning of each season to prepare your HVAC system for changing demands. Alternatively, aim to replace your air filters every 30-90 days, depending on usage, the number of pets, and your lifestyle.
- After Renovations or Home Projects – If you enjoy DIY home projects, it’s especially important to replace your air filters afterward. Construction work can release a lot of dust and debris into the air, causing your filters to clog more quickly.
Staying on top of your air filter changes is crucial. For Ohioans, seasonal shifts can greatly impact air quality, so regular air filter maintenance is key. By keeping up with this HVAC task, you can help ensure your home stays comfortable and your family remains healthy.
Five Star Heating & Cooling Dayton can help you tackle any scary HVAC disasters that come your way! Call us at (937) 708-8278, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
