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reasons to change the dirty air filter in your HVAC systemThe air filter is an extremely important component of your heating and cooling system. It works hard to clean the air circulating through the system, and consequently, into your home, trapping contaminants like dirt, dust, pollen, animal dander, mold spores and more, all which could be detrimental to you and your family’s health.

What Happens if You Don’t Replace Your Air Filter

Despite its importance, neglecting to replace the air filter regularly is one of the top causes of problems with HVAC systems. The sad thing is that the reason most homeowners don’t change their air filters? Simple forgetfulness! Save yourself costly repairs and stay healthier by setting a reminder, whether in your phone, on your computer, placing a sticky note on the fridge, or whatever method is effective for you, to change it on a monthly basis.

Here are the top five reasons to set this reminder to change your dirty air filter:

  1. Reduce energy consumption. Simply put, when the air filter is dirty and clogged, your HVAC system has to work harder to heat or cool your home. A unit with a dirty air filter has to run more often to keep the air at the ideal temperature, and this means it will consume more energy to do so. You’ll end up paying more in your monthly utility bills simply because you haven’t changed the air filter when you should.
  2. Improve indoor air quality. It’s important to keep the air in your home as clean as possible. This is especially true if anyone in your family suffers from allergies or asthma. A dirty air filter will cause allergens to quickly build up in the ductwork, where they can linger for months. This can in turn even cause mold to grow, getting released into the air when the system runs.
  3. Keep your HVAC system running effectively, longer. A new heating and air conditioning system is a major investment, and you can not only protect that investment but also allow the system to work so much better by keeping it properly maintained. Regularly swapping out the dirty air filter is a critical element in keeping the HVAC system working effectively for as long as possible.
  4. Increase airflow throughout the home. Restricted airflow isn’t good for the overall power of your HVAC system. You might notice spots in your home that are colder or warmer than others, and it will cost more to keep your home comfortable throughout the entire space.
  5. Decrease ice buildup. During the summer months when your air conditioner is working hard to cool your home, a dirty air filter restricts cold air from flowing within the system, causing it to build up inside. This eventually results in ice forming on the evaporator coils, which can shut down the entire system.

If you have any questions about keeping your HVAC system working effectively or how often to replace a dirty air filter, the team at Efficient Heating and Cooling is ready to help! If you’re in the greater Cleveland area, contact our team today! Or, give us a call at 216-663-6462.