Why Should You Change HVAC Filters?
Filters may seem like a small component of your home's overall heating and cooling system, but they play a big part in helping a unit run efficiently. If you're dealing with air conditioner or furnace issues, the filter is one of the first pieces you should check before calling an HVAC services professional. This guide explains the importance of these screens and why regularly changing them should be a critical part of your maintenance routine.
A Guide to HVAC Filters
What Do They Do?
Your HVAC system constantly pulls in and recirculates air from your home. As air enters the system, it passes through a filter that catches and removes pollen, dirt, hair, dust, and pet dander. This screen stops large items from getting caught in the fan and prevents debris buildup inside other parts of the HVAC system. It also improves indoor air quality by removing pollen, mold spores, and other pollutants that can cause health and respiratory issues.
However, a filter gets dirty as it captures airborne particles from the surrounding environment. Regularly swapping it out for a new device helps maintain the system since dirt and dust accumulation can cause critical failures.
What Happens If Your Filter Is Dirty?
The consequences of a dirty air filter can be serious, so you shouldn't overlook this simple maintenance task. If the screen is clogged, you may notice a reduction in air quality since the part won't be as effective at eliminating airborne debris. Other parts of the system, such as the fan, might struggle as they're exposed to particles that are normally captured by the filter. This affects an HVAC system's efficiency, which often causes energy bills to skyrocket since the unit will likely work overtime to compensate for poor performance.
Dirty filters also pose a health hazard since moisture will cling to them. Mold or mildew growth is a common concern since these organisms thrive in high humidity. Clogged filters can be a fire risk since they block the movement of air through an HVAC system.
How Often Should You Change a Filter?
Change the filter every three months to keep your system fresh. You might consider swapping them out more often during wildfire season if your area is commonly affected, but you should wait until most of the smoke clears to get the most out of the new screen. If the AC or heat doesn't seem to be working as it should, an HVAC services professional may ask you to change the filter to see if it makes a difference before they come out to perform a full maintenance checkup.
If you need help with your HVAC system, turn to the professionals at Vashon Heating & Cooling. This contractor serves customers throughout King County and Vashon, WA. Their talented team has more than 40 years of experience in diagnosing and repairing issues with residential HVAC systems. View a list of their HVAC services online, or call
(206) 463-1777 to schedule an appointment.