If your home has a forced-air heating or cooling system, then you have an HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) air filter. You should check and clean this filter monthly, but it’s not uncommon for homeowners to forget about this maintenance task. Unfortunately, neglecting to change your HVAC air filter can lead to a number of problems.

dirty air filter is one of the most common problems with home HVAC systems. A clogged filter can reduce airflow, leading to decreased cooling and heating efficiency. This can cause the system to work harder and use more energy, costing you money. A dirty filter can also lead to increased wear and tear on the system, shortening its lifespan. Keep reading to learn more about the problems that dirty home HVAC air filters can cause.

Dirty filters can restrict airflow.

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Your home air filter is responsible for catching and trapping dirt, dust, pollen, and other airborne debris. If your filter is not changed, it can become dirty and clogged. Dirty filters can restrict airflow and cause your HVAC system to work harder than necessary, resulting in decreased efficiency and increased energy costs.

A clogged filter makes your HVAC system work twice as hard to push air through the filter and causes the unit to overheat. This can lead to premature failure of your system and increased energy costs as your unit runs longer to achieve the desired temperature. Without proper filter changes, your system will have decreased airflow, which could impact the health of your equipment and your overall energy usage.

A dirty filter can create poor indoor air quality.

As discussed, your air filter catches and traps airborne particles and allergens. If your filter becomes dirty and clogged, it can allow these contaminants and other debris to circulate in your home. Additionally, a dirty filter can also harbor dust, dirt, and other allergens that can aggravate asthma and other respiratory conditions. In fact, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, filters should be replaced every month for people with allergies and every three months for everyone else. Indoor air quality is important for everyone. However, it is essential for those with allergies and other respiratory conditions.

Dirty air filters can impact indoor comfort.

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If your air filter is clogged with dust and dirt, it can’t do its job correctly. This can lead to a decrease in airflow, which can cause the air conditioner or furnace to work harder than necessary. This can, in turn, lead to a decrease in the comfort of your home. Without proper airflow, your system will struggle to keep up with the demands of meeting your desired indoor temperature. As a result, you might notice hot and cold spots around your home. You might also find that you have to continually adjust the thermostat in order to get the temperature where you want it. Proper airflow is essential for your home to remain comfortable all year long. A dirty air filter will keep your system from getting enough air.

If you have a home HVAC system, it is important to keep the air filters clean. A dirty air filter can cause problems with your system, including decreased efficiency and increased energy costs. It can also cause the system to break down prematurely. Aside from these problems, dirty filters can also impact the comfort of your home by creating unhealthy air and altering indoor temperatures. It's imperative that you change your air filters at least every three months to ensure your system gets enough air. If you notice any signs of trouble with your HVAC system, don't hesitate to call a qualified technician for assistance.