The Consequences of Not Changing Your Air Filter

If there’s one piece of advice we wish every homeowner would listen to, it’s “change your air filter.” Your air filter is the first line of defense between you and indoor air contaminates. According to the EPA, your indoor air can be 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air. These pollutants can be from beauty products, cleaning products, candles, and cooking. Instead of contributing to that indoor air pollution, we want our clients to be happy, healthy, and safe in their homes. One of the best ways to do this is by keeping a watchful eye on your air filter. Because not enough people do this, we’re sharing the consequences of not changing your air filter.

Poor Indoor Air Quality is a Consequence of Not Changing Your Air Filter

Perhaps the biggest consequence of not changing your air filter is poor indoor air quality. Your air filter has a very important job, part of that is keeping your family safe from airborne contaminates. An air filter will catch, dust, dander, and other pollutants; but only when it’s working properly. If your air filter is too full or dirty it won’t be able to do its job, which will impact your indoor air quality.

Failing HVAC System is a Consequence of Not Changing Your Air Filter

Another consequence of not regularly changing your air filter is the potential of your system breaking down or failing. One of the biggest ways a dirty air filter affects your HVAC system is by restricting air flow. Any system needs proper air flow to perform at its peak level. Some other problems that could occur are:

• Frozen Evaporator Coils – The evaporator coil is an essential part of your cooling system. It removes heat from treated air, ensuring only cool air makes it into your home. This coil needs proper air flow to function. If your air filter is too dirty, too much cool air can build up around the evaporator coil, causing refrigerant to drop to a lower temperature. That cooler than usual refrigerant can cause a decent amount of condensation. Once that condensation freezes over, you’re stuck with a block of ice where the compressor used to be.
• Compressor Damage – During peak seasons, your furnace or air conditioner are constantly working to maintain the desired temperature in your home. If air flow is blocked by a full filter, your system is never able to fully cycle and take a break. If your system is forced to be constantly working, it can cause the compressor to overload and fail entirely.

Higher Than Usual Energy Bills is a Consequence of Not Changing Your Air Filter

It’s no secret that HVAC systems use a lot of energy. During peak AC and furnace seasons, it’s common to see your bills go up a little bit. If they go up an astronomical amount, that could indicate a problem with your air filter. When your air filter is too dirty, it forces your system to work twice as hard to push treated air through a clogged filter. Your system working double time will also increase your utility bills. To keep your bills on point and your system running efficiently, it’s best to change your air filter every 1 to 3 months. Different factors such as where you live, where your filter is located or if you have pets can impact how often you change your filter.

Have Questions About Your Air Filter? Call the Experts at Bell Brothers!

Are you worried about your indoor air quality or want to learn more about not changing your air filter? Our certified HVAC technicians are on hand and here to help our Sacramento, Vacaville, and Stockton homeowners. Simply call the number at the top of the screen or click here to book an appointment online.