Want to feel like an HVAC technician for the day? Great! We have a task for you! If you have not yet changed your furnace’s air filter, now is the perfect time to do so.
Your system’s air filter places an important role in its overall performance and your comfort, so you definitely don’t want to wait any longer! And in case you don’t believe us, below, we have explained exactly what an air filter does and what can happen if you don’t change it regularly below. All you have to do is keep reading to find out more! (Oh, and of course, remember to call our team when you need heating services in Hickory, NC!)
What Does an Air Filter Do?
There is a lot of debris that circulates throughout your home and ultimately ends up in your ductwork. If the debris enters your forced-air heater, it has the potential to cause some significant damage. The air filter exists to prevent dirt and debris from entering the heater itself.
The reason we change our filters is that they are unable to rid themselves of the particles they collect. If they become too clogged, airflow in and out of the heater is restricted, causing problems. Be sure to change your air filter every 1–3 months during the heating season.
Here’s What Happens When You Don’t Replace It
There are plenty of reasons to change your air filter. Here’s what happens when you don’t:
Decreased Efficiency
When your heater struggles to circulate air throughout your home, it becomes significantly less efficient. A dirty filter is going to create more airflow resistance than normal.
In addition, a dirty air filter can cause the system to short-cycle. This is an industry term that describes when your heater keeps turning itself on and off over and over throughout the day. Not only is short-cycling extremely inefficient, but it also places a ton of strain on the system, leading to sky-high energy bills and costly repairs.
Increased Repair Needs
When your system has to work harder than it normally does, there is an increased risk of wear and tear. This will lead to operational problems and eventually a breakdown. Obviously, you do not want to be stuck dealing with costly repairs and untimely replacements. Changing your air filter is simple and easy … dealing with a full system breakdown is not.
Decreased Indoor Air Quality
Although the air filter is ultimately put in place to protect your heater, it does have some positive impacts on your health. When the air filter is thickly congested, air may be forced around the filter, and when this happens, it will be distributed into your house! This, in turn, decreases your indoor air quality and can lead to some significant health issues for you and your family.
What are You Waiting For?
Your air filter needs to be replaced every 1-3 months to maintain optimal performance. If you have trouble changing it, any reputable HVAC provider will be happy to assist you!
For all your heating and cooling needs, contact the team at Ace Hardware Home Services