Your HVAC system is the heart and lungs of your home, keeping it functional, comfortable, and breathable. It regulates temperature, circulates air, and maintains indoor air quality.
Many homeowners, however, underestimate the importance of regularly changing air filters on their unit, often going several months between cleanings or replacements. And that’s anything but optimal, when these unassuming components play such a crucial role in not only the efficiency of the system, but the health of your family as well.
That’s why we’re about to explore the cascading consequences of neglecting to swap out your air filters:
Wear, Tear, and Decreased System Efficiency. Clogged air filters force your HVAC system to work harder to push air through the obstruction. This strain on the system results in decreased airflow and energy efficiency. As the system struggles to maintain the desired temperature, the motor, blower, and other parts are forced to operate under less-than-optimal conditions, potentially leading to breakdowns and substantial repairs. And that isn’t the only cost. On top of shortening your unit’s lifespan, this inefficient operation also results in the consumption of more energy, leading to higher utility bills.
Uneven Cooling and Heating. A system that’s struggling with restricted airflow due to dirty filters may also unable to distribute conditioned air evenly throughout your home. You might notice hot and cold spots, as well as rooms that never seem to reach the desired temperature. This inconsistency in comfort can be frustrating and might lead you to adjust your thermostat constantly, further taxing your HVAC system and raising your energy costs.
Ice Formation and System Freezing. In some cases, a clogged air filter can restrict airflow so significantly that the cooling coils within the system become too cold. This can lead to condensation freezing on the coils and impeding the system's cooling capacity. Not only does this impact your comfort, but it can also cause serious damage to the coils, again resulting in expensive repairs.
Reduced Indoor Air Quality. If all that wasn’t bad enough, a dirty filter and an inefficient system can also put your family in real, physical danger. See, the primary function of HVAC air filters is to trap airborne particles like dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores. Over time, these filters become clogged with debris, causing them to lose their effectiveness. When filters are dirty, they are unable to capture pollutants effectively, resulting in reduced indoor air quality. This can lead to aggravated allergies, respiratory issues, and even contribute to the development of chronic health conditions.
Regularly changing your HVAC air filters may seem like a minor chore, but its impact is far from insignificant, and the consequences of neglect extend beyond mere inconvenience. From increased wear and tear to reduced energy efficiency and air quality, the domino effect of dirty filters often snowballs into significant problems.
If you're unsure about the recommended frequency for changing your air filters, consult your HVAC system's manual. Or better yet, contact the team at Climate Care. We’re currently offering a free washable filter with every HVAC tune up (now just $59).
By giving your HVAC system the care it deserves, you're not only making a responsible choice for your wallet and the environment, you’re also safeguarding your family's health and comfort.