What Happens When You Don't Change Your Air Filter?
August 04, 2020
Are you wondering what happens if you don’t change your air conditioner or furnace air filter? Does it really matter?
Summer and winter typically bring some of the hottest and coldest days of the year here in New Jersey, so it is important to ensure that your HVAC unit is running properly. Read on to learn more about air filters and what can happen when they are not changed regularly.
What Happens When You Don’t Change Your Air Filter?
When air filters are not regularly changed, they become clogged as particles within the HVAC unit build up and stick to the filter. As a result, air cannot completely flow through the filter, which can lead to a variety of problems for your system.
Effects of Not Changing the Air Filter in Your Home’s HVAC
- Increased energy bills / reduced efficiency: When air cannot easily flow through your HVAC system due to a clogged filter, the entire system must work harder to dispense air in your home. This unnecessarily increases your utility bills and stresses out your HVAC system.
- Poor temperature regulation: When the airflow is strained by a clogged filter, cool air cannot adequately reach where it is needed in your home. This means less cool air on hot summer days, less heat on cold winter days, and decreased comfort for you and your family.
- Poor indoor air quality: If an air filter is clogged, it can no longer successfully trap pollutants. These particles end up being pushed back into your home and into the air you breathe. Poor air quality can lead to health issues, including dizziness, headaches, and itchy eyes or throat.
- Broken HVAC system: A clogged air filter makes it difficult for your A/C unit to function properly because your system’s motors must work harder than they were designed to. Eventually, this can cause your unit to break down.
One of the most common HVAC problems found in home inspections is a dirty filter, which is completely avoidable. Just as you maintain your HVAC system by clearing leaves around your outdoor unit or cleaning HVAC ducts, changing your air filter should be part of your normal maintenance routine. Air filters usually cost less than $40, so they are easy to replace frequently, especially compared with the lofty price of replacing your entire system!
Need some help? Call us at 732-733-2541 or schedule service today!
How Do Air Filters Work?
Air filters are typically made of pleated paper or spun fiberglass material enclosed in a cardboard frame. They clean the air that circulates through your HVAC unit and prevent pollutants from circulating in your home. Air filters block bacteria, dust, hair, lint, mold, pollen, and more.
How Long Can You Go Without Changing the Air Filter?
Most manufacturers recommend that air filters be changed every 30 to 60 days. However, this may vary slightly depending on the type of air filter you are using. How often to change your filter also depends on your home situation. If you have pets or someone in your home prone to allergies or asthma, you may need to change your air filter more frequently.
Protecting Your HVAC System
Protect your wallet and your HVAC system by replacing the air filter every 30 to 60 days. If you are experiencing any issues as a result of a clogged filter, it’s time to contact a professional.
If you are a New Jersey homeowner in need of help with your A/C unit, give us a call at 732-733-2541. From routine maintenance to emergency repairs, you can depend on A.J. Perri to provide quality work and skilled technicians who will give you the satisfying service experience you desire.