You’ve probably heard HVAC technicians mention the importance of changing the air filter in your forced-air heating or cooling system, but you might still be a little confused about why it’s so important. Frequent filter changes won’t only improve HVAC system efficiency, but it can also enhance performance, reduce breakdowns, ensure a longer system lifespan and improve indoor air quality. Here’s how each of these benefits can enhance your system:
HVAC System Efficiency
When your air filter is clean, the blower fan can force air through your system smoothly, so conditioned air arrives quickly to the rooms in your home, and then return to your HVAC system via the return ductwork. A blocked filter will force your blower motor to work harder and longer, slowing the heat-exchange process in your indoor and outdoor coils.
Performance
Performance is linked to system efficiency. HVAC systems with a smooth airflow can provide balanced heating and cooling for enhanced comfort. Dirty filters let dust and debris cover sensitive system components, which don’t function as well if they’re dirty.
Reduce Breakdowns and Extend System Life
If HVAC components are dirty, your system’s moving parts won’t work optimally. Also, if your system is working harder to force air through a dirty filter, this will lead to more frequent malfunctions and eventually shorten the life expectancy of your system.
Better Indoor Air Quality
A clean filter will have an easier time removing airborne contaminants, such as mold spores, pollen, bacteria, dust mites and pet dander. Once an air filter gets clogged, some of these particulates will likely get blown past the filter and into your indoor air. This can trigger or exacerbate allergies and respiratory ailments, threatening your family’s health.
Get in the habit of inspecting your air filter once a month, and change it when it looks clogged or dirty. For more information on improving HVAC system efficiency in your Indianapolis home, please contact Mowery Heating, Cooling and Plumbing.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Brownsburg, Indiana and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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