Negative Effects of Dirty Air Filters
The air filter is one of the key components of every HVAC system. It is designed for two purposes: to improve and maintain the air quality and to protect the entire system from potential malfunctions. That is why a clean air filter brings a twofold benefit: it keeps your environment healthy and your HVAC operational. However, the negative impact of unclean or clogged air filters is still a little-known fact to the vast majority of people. Therefore, we present you with several reasons for regular maintenance of your HVAC’s air filters.
As mentioned above, air filters play a great part in keeping your HVAC functional and in preventing various possible defects. At the same time, blocked and dirty air filters could be the main cause of the HVAC deterioration. Not getting your air filters cleaned could lead to the accumulation of particles such as dust, animal hair, or debris. Continuous dirt accumulation could have a serious impact on your HVAC, as it could cause overheating or freezing of coils. These problems eventually lead to the total breakdown of the HVAC system. In order to prevent this from happening, clean air filters need to become your top priority.
Except from leading to mechanical issues, the building up of particles and microorganisms in air filters is a potential health hazard. Dirty and clogged air filters unavoidably create an unhealthy environment for your family and/or your employees. When the filter is blocked, the fan begins to blow out all of the accumulated dirt, which, in turn, substantially decreases air quality. Along with dust, there are various allergens and germs that could get in the air and induce infections and breathing problems.
Finally, you should be aware that dirty air filters lead to the reduction of airflow which causes the growth of mold and mildew that could seriously endanger your health.
Besides being a health risk, reduced airflow has another fatal effect – it could increase the energy consumption of your HVAC system. When blocked, air filters restrict airflow and, therefore, cause your HVAC to use more energy than it usually needs. Of course, this anomaly is going to reflect on your energy bill. If you add to that the cost of HVAC repair and the health risks that dirty air filters impose, you should easily see why the regular maintenance of your HVAC should be one of your main concerns.
