If your air filter is dirty or clogged, it can impact how the rest of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit functions. Because of this, it’s important to do routine maintenance on your HVAC system. With proper care, a central air conditioner can last 15 to 20 years. Meanwhile, a typical furnace can last 15 to 30 years.
How Air Filters Work
An air filter’s job is to keep dust and other contaminants out of the rest of your HVAC unit. It is made out of filter mediums, like pleated paper, mesh, or foam. Once the air is filtered, it can safely continue its journey through the HVAC system and into your rooms.
The air filter’s job is to filter out dust, dirt, mold, and allergens. Some air filters can even remove viruses and bacteria. However, performing this job each day can make your air filter dirty over time. Eventually, it will become clogged and need to be changed.
Types of Air Filters
There are many different types of air filters. You should check your manufacturer’s guide to see which of the following filter types you need for your HVAC unit.
Electrostatic Air Filters
Electrostatic air filters work to trap airborne particles through static electricity. As air passes through the filter, the particles get an electric charge. They end up sticking to the filter’s fibers, which have the opposite charge.
This kind of filter is particularly good if you have pet dander and smoke you want to remove from the air. Electrostatic filters are extremely good at removing small particles.
Pleated Filters
Pleated filters are the most common type of filter used in residential homes. These filters are typically made out of synthetic, cotton, or polyester fibers. They are created in a zig-zag pattern that can capture large particles. Because the pleats increase the filter’s total surface area, the filter is able to trap more particles.
High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) Filters
HEPA filters are a popular option because of how effective they are at filtering the air. They can remove up to 99.97% of particles that are 0.3 microns or larger.
These filters are made of fiberglass fibers that are organized in a random arrangement. Because of how tightly woven these fibers are, they are able to trap many small and large airborne particles. Because of this, they can capture mold spores, dust, pet dander, and smoke.
Media Filters
Media filters are good at filtering bacteria and small particles from the air. Designed to be extremely sturdy, these filters are quite cost-effective. They generally need to be changed only once or twice a year.
What Are the Results of Never Changing Your Air Filter?
Air filters provide a layer of protection for your HVAC system. By filtering the air, they keep harmful contaminants out of the rest of your HVAC system. Each manufacturer has different instructions, but you will generally need to change your filter every 30 to 90 days. If you don’t ever change your air filter, you’ll run into the following issues.
Worse Air Quality
While the filter’s main job is to filter air to protect your HVAC system, the filtered air is also healthier for your family to breathe. If the air filter is clogged, it won’t be able to remove dust, allergens, and other contaminants. As a result, family members may suffer from worse allergies and respiratory symptoms.
Weakened HVAC Performance
Over time, a clogged filter will make your HVAC filter work harder to do its job. The dirty filter reduces airflow, so your HVAC system has to use more energy to heat and cool your home. This means it takes longer to achieve the same temperature.
Higher Energy Bills
A byproduct of the last problem is higher energy bills. If your HVAC system has to work harder, it will use more electricity.
Broken Parts and Higher Repair Costs
Eventually, the dirty air filter can cause costly repairs. If it isn’t preventing dirt and contaminants from getting into your HVAC system, these particles can end up clogging the rest of your system. For example, clogged filters often lead to dirty and frozen evaporator coils.
The rest of your system may also need more frequent repairs. When your HVAC unit has to work harder to do the same job, it increases the wear and tear on other components. As a result, you are more likely to require expensive repairs in the future.
More Health Problems
Some people are more sensitive to airborne contaminants than others. They may experience itchy eyes, dizziness, headaches, or respiratory symptoms.
How to Properly Maintain Your HVAC System
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to make sure your HVAC system stays in working order. The following maintenance tips should be done on a regular basis.
Change Your Filter
One of the most important things you can do for your HVAC system is to change your filter. To do this, turn off your HVAC system and remove the filter. Then, replace it with a clean one. Once the filter has been changed, you can turn your HVAC system back on.
Clean Around Your Air Conditioning Unit
Throughout the year, you should remove weeds, dirt, and debris from around your outdoor air conditioning unit. This debris can end up clogging the unit if they aren’t removed. Ideally, you should clear away anything that is within 2 to 3 feet of the unit.
Clear the Condensate Drain Line
The condensate drain line is supposed to remove moisture from your air conditioner and take it outside your home. Sometimes, this line can become clogged. With a wet or dry vacuum, you can clean the drain line so that your system works properly.
Clean Vents
Dust and dirt can settle in the vents over time. To fix this problem, you can remove the vents and clean them with soapy water. Then, vacuum the inside of the duct. Once the vent is fully dry, you can replace it.
Schedule Biannual HVAC Inspections
If you want to protect your HVAC system, Loves Air can help. We can perform a spring and fall inspection of your unit. During the HVAC appointment, we will inspect, clean, and lubricate your system. This helps it stay in working order and prevents future breakdowns.
Check Your Thermostat
Thermostats are responsible for monitoring the temperature in your home and signaling your HVAC unit to switch on. If the thermostat isn’t functioning properly, your home will struggle to reach the appropriate temperature.
To check your thermostat, use a reliable thermometer to see if it is measuring the temperature appropriately. You should make sure the temperature settings are accurate, and it shouldn’t be in fan mode. Additionally, you can try cleaning the sensor so that it can get an accurate reading.
Learn More About HVAC Maintenance
Proper maintenance is important because it prevents costly repairs and ensures your HVAC system is operating efficiently. If you need assistance with your HVAC system in Modesto, Loves Air can help. We offer support with furnace repairs, air conditioning replacements, tune-ups, and thermostat replacements.
To learn more about how we can help, reach out to Loves Air today.
