Reasons to Change the Furnace Filter Each Season
An HVAC system pulls return air through the furnace filter and sends it back into the home as conditioned air.
An HVAC system is only as strong as its components. The filters are one of the most straightforward components to maintain and often one of the most overlooked. The filters prevent dirt, dust, and other particles from entering and obstructing the HVAC system and prevent these particles from blowing back into the air. To ensure the filters work correctly, they must be changed regularly. Consider the following reasons as to why HVAC filters should be changed every season.
Poor Indoor Air Quality
An HVAC system pulls return air through the furnace filter and sends it back into the home as conditioned air. A cheap filter does a minimal job of trapping larger dirt particles from this air and keeping them out of the system, but it won’t trap the smaller particles that are pulled in, including some of the worst pollutants of the indoor air. A good quality filter captures pollen, pet dander, dust mite parts, mold spores, etc. Breathing these particles can trigger allergic reactions and cause asthma attacks and other respiratory illnesses, so upgrading the filter benefits those living in the home.
Blocked Airflow
A dirty filter blocks airflow; when that happens, the HVAC system has to work harder to take in return air. That strains the system’s parts so that it works less efficiently, driving the operating costs up and possibly leading to a breakdown. Dirt and dust naturally accumulate, so the filters must be changed seasonally to prevent severe buildup.
Dirty Parts
When the air filter is dirty, there’s more of a chance dirt could be sucked into the system and clog up the parts. In the summer, the air conditioner coil can be affected, while the furnace’s heat exchanger and burners may be affected in the winter.
Ductwork
Dirty air filters may also result in dusty ductwork. Ordinarily, the ducts should stay clean as long as the segments remain connected and no holes or gaps allow dust or humidity inside. But when the air filters aren’t changed regularly, more dirt may end up inside the ducts.
Air filters are a simple yet crucial part of an HVAC system and can usually be maintained independently by homeowners. However, should any troubles or questions arise, contact a local HVAC company, as a technician can come to the house and offer specific advice and solutions for the home.
Just in Case Mechanical offers residential and commercial plumbing, sewer, water softener, electrical, lighting, and HVAC services Lancaster County. Call us today at (717) 696-1511.
