As they say in the real estate world, “location, location, location!” But in the HVAC world, it’s all about “airflow, airflow, airflow!” And they mean it. You may be asking, “how often should I change my home air filter? And how important is airflow?”
Your HVAC professional will tell you that a good rule of thumb is to inspect your home’s air filter every three months and replace it every 60 days.
Believe it or not, your air filter plays a crucial role in the smooth operation of your system. Changing (or cleaning) the air filter is one of the most important steps you can take to maintain the health of your air conditioner. This simple step will prevent many potential issues, improve energy efficiency, and save you money on air conditioning repairs.
What happens if you let your air filter replacement fall by the wayside? Just how often do you need to change the air filter? You’re asking for a multitude of HVAC issues.
Six Potential Problems
Reduced System Efficiency
If you’re holding off on getting a replacement filter because of the cost, you should know that an A/C unit with a dirty filter will use much more power to cool your home, and you’ll end up paying more on your utility bills.
A dirty filter can also lead to the failure of several components of your HVAC system.
A Failed Compressor
A dirty air filter will send liquid to the compressor, which is designed to receive vapor. This can cause the compressor to fail, requiring an expensive replacement.
A Failed Blower Motor
This means a replacement by your HVAC professional.
Similarly, the Blower Motor Relay
The relay on the control board could fail.
The Furnace Can Overheat
This often requires a service technician to come out and reset the high limit switch.
Allergen Buildup
No one wants to breathe pollen, cat dander, or dust! But if you or someone in your home suffers from asthma or allergies, it’s essential to keep the air filters clean. A dirty filter can cause allergens to build up in your duct system, where they’ll linger for months.
Keeping Your A/C Maintained
We hope this information will save you money and keep your system running at its best for years to come. You can learn more about maintaining your system here. If it’s time for a tune-up or if you have issues with your system, HVAC maintenance is what we do best here at Absolute Comfort Heating & Air! We’re ready to lend a hand. Contact us to schedule maintenance service today.
