A dirty air filter can be a major problem for your home's HVAC system. Not only does it reduce airflow, making the system work harder and use more energy, but it can also lead to a variety of health issues. Homeowners who ignore their air filters risk increasing energy costs, damaging expensive equipment, and decreasing indoor air quality and personal health. Here's what can happen if you don't change your air filter. When an air filter is not changed, it quickly becomes clogged with dust and particles, preventing proper air filtration.
This leads to a variety of problems for your HVAC system, including system inefficiency, higher energy bills, inadequate air quality, and ultimately failures. Because clogged air filters cause the system to struggle to create airflow, hot or cold air cannot properly go where it is needed. Immediate problems may include headaches, itchy eyes or throat, and dizziness. If the air filters are not changed and problems persist, the long-term effects could be respiratory disease, heart disease, or cancer. Not only that, but a clogged filter can also cause mold to build up in the ducts, leading to serious mold infestations. Air filters are generally made of spun fiberglass or pleated paper and are surrounded by a cardboard frame.
Filters with higher MERV ratings trap small particles more effectively than filters with lower MERV ratings. When an air filter is too clogged and dirty, debris ends up entering your HVAC system and circulating around your home. Now that we've covered the importance of changing your air filter on a regular basis, here are some tips to help you do that. Buying air filters online is not only convenient but bulk purchase discounts and auto-renew options can save you time and money. Keep in mind that getting the most value out of your home can be as easy as changing air filters.
