When was the last time you checked your air filters? If it’s been a while, chances are, the filters are dirty and potentially clogged. This might not seem like a big deal, but surprisingly, air filters are one of the most common causes of heating and cooling system problems.
Your filters capture debris, pet dander, dirt, and other particles that try to make their way into the air you breathe. But, when the filter becomes clogged, your system has to work harder to do its job. That means, it compensates for the blocked air flow. Over time, this not only negatively impacts the system’s performance, but you’ll also see increased utility bills due to the more energy being used. Also, with restricted airflow, the heat exchanger commonly overheats or turns off too fast. This means your home can’t warm up how it’s intended. On a chilly fall day, this is a big bummer.
Not sure if your filter needs to be replaced or cleaned? Here are some things to keep an eye out for.
Unevenly heated rooms:
Are you noticing hot or cold spots in your home? Dirty air filters may be partly to blame. The blower fan on your system pushes the air through the filter and into your vents inside. But, if the filter is clogged, the fan works harder. This could lead to unevenly heated areas around various rooms.
Dirty air:
Dirty, clogged filters send dirty air into your home and into the air you breathe. Having that air circulated around your home means you may notice extra dust around the home. And, you may even experience greater asthma, allergies, or other respiratory issues. Not to mention, harmful bacteria and other airborne pathogens and viruses can make their way into your inside air, which compromises your health.
Rising utility rates:
Everything is more expensive right now, so many homeowners are doing what they can to spend less. Look no further than your home to save money! In fact, according to the Department of Energy, replacing a dirty, clogged filter with a clean one can lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5% to 15%. If you’ve noticed your energy bills are increasing, check your filters to see if they’re clogged. This helps lower utility bills.
With cooler temperatures coming, make sure your heating system is ready to keep you warm. Contact us today for information on cleaning or replacing your air filters, or to schedule your maintenance appointment. Or, if a new furnace is on the horizon this year, we can help find a new, reliable system that fits your budget.
