It’s probably not news to you that you should change or clean your AC filters every 30 to 60 days — or more frequently than that if you have multiple pets or a family member who suffers from allergies. It’s easy to take this often-repeated advice for granted if you don’t know what you stand to lose by not following it. Here’s what happens when you don’t change your AC filters regularly.
Higher Energy Costs
The air filter prevents contaminants from reaching your HVAC system’s sensitive components. When you don’t change your air filter regularly, it clogs up with contaminants and particles. The buildup forms a barrier that reduces the airflow through your HVAC system. This causes your entire system to work harder and consume more power to distribute conditioned air. As a result, your energy bills increase.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
The evaporator coils help cool your home by removing heat from your indoor air. A clogged filter prevents air from flowing over the coils properly. When the coils don’t absorb heat over time, the refrigerant in them becomes too cold and causes the moisture on the coils to freeze. Frozen evaporator coils can cause problems like short-cycling and total system failure.
Temperature-Regulation Problems
By restricting airflow, clogged filters could prevent adequate conditioned air from flowing to some areas of your home. That may cause indoor-comfort challenges in some rooms.
Significant Repairs
HVAC components are more likely to break down when working their hardest. Therefore, a dirty filter may leave your HVAC system not only straining to keep your home comfortable but also needing major repairs.
Poor Air Quality
Modern air filters improve your home’s air quality by capturing pollen, animal fur, dust, lint, mold spores, and other particles. A clogged filter is less efficient at trapping airborne particles, allowing these contaminants to remain in your home’s air.
Keeping your AC filters clean helps you extend your HVAC system’s life span, save money, and get healthier indoor air. When purchasing new filters, make sure you choose the right size and filtration level for your system and your home. Contact the professionals at Mowery Heating, Cooling and Plumbing for help choosing the ideal AC filters for your Indianapolis-area home or for any other HVAC assistance.
