Air filters are essential parts of your HVAC system. They are responsible for filtering the air that circulates in both the cooling and heating systems to ensure optimal air quality.
These filters work by trapping any dust, dirt, mold, animal fur, microorganisms, and any other contaminants that might harm your system or your health. With continuous use, these filters become contaminated and clogged. This is why it’s vital that you inspect air filters regularly to determine the right time for replacing them.
To help you with this task, we have collected some telltale signs that indicate your air filters need to be changed.
How to Change Air Filters?
In the current situation, since the Coronavirus outbreak, the importance of air filters has taken another dimension. The internet might be filled with information on how and when you should change your air filters, however, your filters’ manual guide still shouldn’t be ignored. It has important information like concerning the longevity of the filter in addition to other essential maintenance recommendations. The filter manufacturers stated in https://filterbuy.com/ believes that the first step to picking suitable filters for your system is by specifying the right size you are looking for. After you have read the manual and purchased the right filters’ size, you need to make sure that you have cleaned around them to eradicate any impurities and debris. This step shouldn’t be ignored to make sure that you prevent any contaminants from entering the system.
The Filter’s Life Span
Every filter you buy comes with a manual that has important tips you have to take into account. It will state the exact lifespan of the new filter and when you should replace it. However, it’s not always wise to wait until the said date. Usually, air filters should be changed every two to three months. The recommended period can still vary due to several factors. This is why it’s better to be safe than sorry and consider this period as the absolute maximum life span. In order to avoid any issues that might be caused by clogged filters, be sure to change the filters before this period ends.
Higher Energy Bills
It’s not surprising that the energy used for cooling or heating our houses takes a big toll on our monthly power bills. If all of a sudden, you are surprised with higher bills than usual without any changes in your usage pattern, then your HVAC system might be the reason behind this sudden spike. When air filters are contaminated or clogged with a lot of dirt and pet hair, the whole HVAC system’s efficiency takes a hit. This is because the system will require more energy and power to do the same work, and more power equals more money; which might be the reason behind higher bills. If you are not sure, you can inspect the filters closely to look for any accumulated debris and dirt. It will not only save you more money, but this energy-efficient solution will also help you minimize your carbon footprint.
Accumulated Dirt
Regardless of the filters’ expiry date, you still need to pay attention to how they look. The recommended period for filters might vary depending on your use, your system efficiency, and how polluted the air they are working with. This is why it’s important to regularly inspect air filters to make sure that they are not clogged to prevent them from expelling contaminants through the vents. However, accumulated dirt around your system vents might not always be an indicator that your filters need changing; sometimes, it might be a sign of clogged ducts.
Allergy Flare-Ups
While some allergies might be triggered during certain seasons and specific times, sometimes the reason behind your unjustified allergy might be insufficient air filters. Without clean air filters, the air quality in your home will be affected. Reduced air quality can lead to various health complications such as allergy, compromised lung functions, frequent headaches, tiredness, and weakened immunity. These signs shouldn’t be ignored or taken lightly as the long exposure to dirt and clogged air filters can only add fuel to the fire.
Air filters play a vital role in our HVAC system by ensuring that the air circulating in our houses is of optimal quality. Ignoring the obvious signs that your filters need to be replaced or leaving the filters for more than 3 months will not only affect the efficiency of your HVAC system, but it will also result in several health issues. Contaminated air filters can negatively impact lung functions, especially for seniors and people who already struggle with allergies and asthma.
