A dirty air filter may not seem like a big deal, but it is important to prevent this from happening as much as possible! An unseemly little clog can actually mess with your home’s air quality and your overall health. Today, we at Grove City Heating & Air want to chat about the not-so-fun side of a clogged air filter and why it’s super important for every Ohio homeowner to keep an eye on their air filters. Trust us, you don’t want to face the scary consequences that come with neglecting them!
Why are dirty air filters so horrific?
- Poor Air Quality – First off, if your air filter is clogged, your HVAC system can’t filter out all those pesky airborne contaminants like dust, pollen, and even germs. This can lead to bad indoor air quality, which isn’t great for anyone with respiratory issues like asthma or allergies. For homeowners in Ohio, where seasonal changes bring all sorts of allergens, keeping the air quality high is super important!
- Higher Energy Bills – When your HVAC has to work extra hard to push air through a dirty filter, it uses up more energy. In fact, a study by the Department of Energy found that swapping out a clogged filter for a clean one can reduce your air conditioner’s energy use by 5% to 15%. With Ohio’s ever-changing weather, don’t make your system work even harder!
- System Failures – Ignoring your air filter can lead to more problems than just poor air quality and sky-high energy bills. Over time, that extra strain can cause your HVAC system to break down completely, which means expensive repairs or even having to replace the whole system. For Ohio homeowners, where HVAC systems can be a big investment, regular maintenance can save you a lot of money in the long run!
- Pollutants and Contaminants – When your air filter is clogged, it lets harmful stuff like mold spores, pet dander, and even tobacco smoke particles float around your home. These can lead to all sorts of health issues, from annoying sore throats to more serious respiratory infections.
- Dust and Debris Build-up – One of the first things you’ll notice with a clogged air filter is how quickly dust and debris pile up in your home. Suddenly, your furniture seems to collect dust at lightning speed, and your HVAC vents might start gathering a visible layer of grime. Not only does this make your place look messy, but it also means you’re breathing in those particles all the time.
- Germs and Bacteria – Here’s a less obvious but still concerning consequence of a dirty air filter: it can turn into a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. A filthy filter is like an invitation for harmful microorganisms to thrive, and once they’re in there, they can spread throughout your home. This can be especially tough for anyone with asthma or other respiratory issues.
What are the telltale signs that it’s time to change your dirty air filters?
- Increased Allergy Symptoms: Are you or your family sneezing, coughing, or dealing with itchy eyes more than usual, even with medication? It could be a sign that your air filter needs a check-up. Poor indoor air quality can really make allergies flare up!
- Unusual Odors: Notice any funky smells hanging around your house? A clogged air filter can let musty or even pungent odors circulate. It’s definitely worth investigating what’s trapped in there!
- Higher Utility Bills: If your utility bills have suddenly shot up without any change in how you use your HVAC system, your clogged air filter might be the reason. When the system has to work harder, it uses more energy, and that hits your wallet!
How Often Should You Replace Your dirty Air Filters?
- Seasonal Changes: If you’re in Ohio, where the weather can be all over the place, it’s a good idea to check your air filter at the start of each season. This way, your HVAC system will be ready to tackle whatever the year throws at it! If you’re not keen on using the seasons as your guide, we usually recommend changing your air filters every 30-90 days, depending on how much you use your system and your lifestyle.
- After Renovations: Have you recently done some home renovations? Don’t forget to swap out your air filter! Construction can stir up a ton of dust and debris, which can quickly clog your filter.
- Pet Owners: If you have multiple furry friends at home, you’ll want to change your air filter more often. This is because pet dander and hair can clog things up pretty fast, which isn’t great for your indoor air quality.
You can’t underestimate how important a clean air filter is for keeping your HVAC system running smoothly and ensuring good indoor air quality. For homeowners in Ohio, where the seasons can really impact air quality, regular maintenance is key. If you know the signs of a clogged air filter and how to replace it, you can keep your home comfy and your family healthy. So, don’t wait until it’s too late! Make air filter maintenance a regular part of your home routine. No tricks here—just some handy tips to help you tackle any air filter issues that come up!
Grove City Heating & Air can help you tackle any HVAC scares that come your way! Call today at (614) 490-7540, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
