Introduction
Dirty and clogged air filters create a mess on your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. A dirty air filter is the most frequent cause in HVAC systems that fail to function as expected or are inefficient in their energy use. Commercial HVACfilters and residential HVAC filters often face such kinds of problems.
A dirty filter may have an adverse effect on the quality of the air you breathe and the expected lifespan of your HVAC system. Air filters are a crucial component of your home’s heating and cooling systems. You can avoid expensive repairs by keeping the filter clean which also saves you money in the long run.
Why Do You Need an Air Filter in Your HVAC System?
The HVAC system utilizes an air filter to remove contaminants from the air before releasing them into the indoor areas to prevent indoor air pollution, with this 12x12x1 air filter being an example of what would typically be used. The filter also protects the system from being damaged by debris.
An HVAC system can operate without a filter, although this is not recommended. Without one, the system will pull in polluted air and release it into your home, increasing the risk of getting sick. Therefore, the presence of an air filter inside your HVAC system is of the utmost significance.
Effects of Dirty Air Filter on Your HVAC System’s Performance
This air filter’s priority is to keep the internal components of your heater or air conditioner safe from dust and other particles. However, if it begins acting in the other way, you should know that it is time to either replace it or clean it. Filters that are dirty and clogged with dirt might give you difficulties.
If you want to get the most out of your HVAC system, including the highest level of performance and the most value for your money, you need to make sure that any unclean parts are either replaced or cleaned. Let’s take a look at some of the major problems that may arise from utilizing dirty filters, as well as the ways in which a dirty or clogged air filter might affect your HVAC system:
Reduction in Airflow
The most common cause of an HVAC system breaking down is a clogged air filter. Dirty filters reduce the amount of air that can enter your heating and cooling system, which in turn increases the strain on the equipment. This might lead to early failure of your system due to overheating and the fan motor burning out sooner than expected. Keeping on top of the issue is the best way to avoid this outcome, booking in an annual filter and duct cleaning in Maryland (or elsewhere more relevant for you) would be a stress free option to ensure your system keeps running its best for years to come.
Lower Air Quality
If you have an air filter that is dirty, it will let dust and other debris enter your air duct system. Eventually, the filth that builds in your ducts will spread throughout your house and then into the air you inhale. You’ll notice a decrease in air quality as you continue using it. Moreover, it is possible for particles of dust and debris to build up on crucial components, which will drive down the performance of your system.
Increased Humidity
A blocked air filter can have a negative influence on the capacity of your system to handle the humidity within, which can lead to discomfort. Additionally, excessive humidity can drive your system to operate harder than it normally would, which places a strain on your heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning system and contributes to its poor performance.
System Failure
When the filter in an HVAC system becomes clogged, the system needs to work much harder to move air through it. This constant stress on the unit has the potential to cause it to fail. When the filter becomes clogged, a lot of different things have the potential to go wrong. When an air filter is dirty or clogged, it forces the air handler to work harder than normal. This can result in the air compressor overheating, which can then cause problems with the system.
High Energy Consumption
Air flow is reduced, which means your HVAC system needs to work harder to make up for the loss. In order to maintain a suitable temperature, more energy is required; consequently, the amount of energy used increases. This ultimately leads to large consumption of power, which causes a significant amount of money to be spent on maintenance.
How to Change Your Dirty Air Filter?
Attempting to change the air filter in your home should ideally be done every three months; nevertheless, there are several factors that you should bear in mind when changing the air filter. When it’s time to get a new air filter, here’s how to change out the old one on your device.
- Proper Fitting: You may determine the size of your filters by looking at the one it replaces. The size should be printed on one of the sides of the old filter. Make sure to get the right size for the perfect setup.
- Remove Cover for Air Filter: You will need to open the access panel in the air handler of the system if the air filter is positioned there. To remove the several tiny screws that are holding it in place, you might need a screwdriver. Before installing one, make sure to enter your safety detail.
- Remove Previous Filter: Remove the previous filter from where it was resting, being sure to thoroughly examine how it was positioned within the cover or grille. Remove the old filter and replace it with the new one, making sure that the airflow arrows on the new filter point into the unit.
Final Verdict
Cleaning a dirty air filter is one of those tasks that can be performed by the average person. Filters should be cleaned every 1 to 2 weeks, according to the manufacturer. Regular air filter cleaning keeps your heating system operating at peak efficiency, which translates to decreased power bills. Cleaning your HVAC air filter should be a high priority for anyone using filters. You will be easily able to find a reliable residential air filter supplier, like Custom Filters Direct, who provides these amazing machines.
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