Filters are a necessary part of your home's heating and air system; however, we find they are often neglected. We find many filters long overdue for replacement. The trick is knowing when to replace it, and what are the signs you need to replace your home air filter. Per the US Department of Energy, "Replacing a dirty, clogged filter with a clean one can lower your air conditioner's energy consumption by 5% to 15%."
This picture is from a customer's system we serviced for the first time. Nasty, but not unusual. Clearly, they had not been replacing the filters themselves. As a general rule, you should be changing your air filters regularly, once every few months. If you are running your HVAC system constantly, and the windows are closed, like in the dead of winter or heat of summer, you should change your filters more regularly.
4 Signs You Need To Change Your Home Air Filter
You should change your air filter regularly no matter what, but there are also some signs you need to change your home air filter.
Your HVAC system isn't producing enough heating and cooling. Your HVAC system may be just fine, but the air isn't flowing properly because of a clogged filter.
There is lots of dirt and dust around your vents. This is coming from the ducts, which deliver air from your HVAC system.
You hear a whistling sound coming from your HVAC system. This could be air trying to get through a clogged filter. If you replace the filter and still hear the sound, call in a professional.
You haven't replaced the filter in over 3 months. This is pretty basic, but if you haven't changed the filter in over 3 months, it's almost certainly time for a replacement!
Changing your air filter is simple, and something you can do on your own. Every time a contractor services your HVAC system, you can also ask them to replace the filter, but it's not something you should depend on a contractor to do every month or so.
What Happens If You Don't Change Your Air Filter?
If you don't change your air filter, it could lead to several problems.
Your HVAC system could get backed up and stop producing hot/cold air. If the air can't flow properly into and out of your system, it won't work properly, and cause the system to produce comfort less efficiently.
The air quality in your home will deteriorate. If there is more debris, dirt, and bacteria in the air, it's going to be less healthy to breathe.
The energy bills will rise because the HVAC system is working harder than it should.
Blue Ridge Heating and Air is now a Filter Fetch dealer. You can have the filters drop-shipped to your home, and set up reminders to change your filters. Follow the link on the image below to get your filter deliveries arranged today!
FAQs:
What happens if you never change your air filter?
If you never change your air filter, the HVAC system will get backed up, the air will become dirtier, and the home won't be as comfortable. This could also lead to breakdowns and repairs to the HVAC system.
How long can you go without changing an air filter?
In the offseason when you aren't using your HVAC systems, it can go about 2-3 months. If you are using your HVAC system more often, like in the winter and summer, we recommend changing your filter every 1-2 months.
Does not changing the air filter affect the AC?
Yes, if you do not change the air filter, it will affect your AC. You begin to feel less cooling around the home, and run the electric bill up as well. You could also cause problems that result in breakdowns and repairs being needed.