A clogged air filter can lead to some scary and surprising results you might not even realize! We often talk about the importance of changing your air filters on time, but do you know WHY it matters so much? There are so many hidden reasons that aren’t obvious at first glance, which is why keeping up with your air filter changes is so important. Today, we at Fairfield-Hamilton Heating & Cooling want to highlight some of the “horrific” consequences of skipping those regular air filter changes.
What Happens When You Don’t Change Your Air Filters Regularly?
- Air Quality in Your Home – We know what you might be thinking, but changing your air filters regularly really does make a difference! Air filters are designed to keep dust and other airborne contaminants from entering your HVAC system. This also helps prevent these pollutants from being circulated throughout your home, where you and your family breathe them in. By staying on top of your air filter changes, you’re not just helping your HVAC system; you’re boosting your home’s indoor air quality (IAQ) too. On the flip side, neglecting to change your filters can seriously harm the air quality in your home.
- Energy Bills – Another area that can take a hit is your energy bills. When an air filter gets too clogged with dust and debris, it makes it harder for your HVAC system to push air through the vents. The harder your system has to work to get air through a clogged filter, the more energy it uses, leading to higher monthly bills. According to a study by the Department of Energy, regularly swapping out a dirty, clogged filter for a clean one can cut your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5% to 15%. That’s a win!
- HVAC System’s Efficiency – Ignoring air filter changes can lead to more than just poor air quality and rising energy bills. A clogged filter forces your HVAC system to work overtime, which can put a lot of extra strain on it. This added stress can ultimately lead to a system breakdown, resulting in costly repairs.
- Pollutants and Contaminants – If you let your air filters sit unchanged for too long, pollutants and contaminants can easily seep into the air in your home. This includes things like mold spores, pet dander, and even particles from tobacco smoke. Breathing in these airborne irritants can lead to various health issues and annoyances like sore throats—not exactly what you want!
- Dust and Debris Buildup – One of the most immediate downsides of a clogged air filter is the buildup of dust and debris around your home. If you’ve noticed your furniture getting dusty faster than usual or your HVAC vents collecting a layer of dust, it’s a sign you might be inhaling those tiny particles regularly.
- Germs and Bacteria – While it might not be obvious, clogged air filters can also become a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. This can be especially uncomfortable for anyone dealing with asthma or other respiratory issues.
When Should You Replace Your Air Filters?
- The Beginning of the Season or Every 30-90 Days – Living in Ohio, you know how unpredictable the seasons can be! Seasonal allergens are pretty common here, so a good rule of thumb is to check your air filters at the start of each season. This will help your HVAC system keep up with the changing needs throughout the year. Another handy tip is to change your air filters every 30-90 days, depending on how much you use your system, how many pets you have, and your lifestyle.
- After Renovations or Home Projects – If you love tackling DIY home projects, remember to replace your air filters even more often. Renovations can stir up a lot of dust and debris, clogging your filters quicker than normal.
Staying on top of changing your air filters is super important! As Ohioans, we know that the changing seasons can really impact air quality. So, make sure to regularly maintain your air filters by staying on top of your air filter changes. Doing so will keep both your HVAC system and your household happy and healthy!
Fairfield-Hamilton Heating & Cooling can help you tackle any scary HVAC disasters that come your way! Call us at (513) 540-1716, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
