What Is Affected When You Don’t Change Your Air Filters Regularly?

Air Quality in Your Home – You may be thinking that changing your air filters frequently seems trivial, but it is crucial. Air filters are specifically designed to trap dust and other airborne contaminants before they enter your HVAC system. This dual purpose also prevents these pollutants from circulating throughout your home, protecting you and your family from exposure. By keeping up with air filter changes, you enhance both your home’s environment and the efficiency of your HVAC system, ultimately improving the indoor air quality (IAQ). Conversely, failing to change your air filters as needed can significantly compromise your home’s air quality.

Energy Bills – In addition to air quality, your energy bills will also suffer. When an air filter becomes excessively clogged with dust and debris, your HVAC system struggles to push air through the vents effectively. This increased strain causes your system to consume more energy, resulting in higher monthly bills. According to a study by the Department of Energy, regularly replacing a dirty, clogged filter with a clean one can lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5% to 15%.

HVAC System Efficiency – Neglecting air filters can have consequences beyond poor air quality and elevated energy costs. Plus, a clogged air filter forces your HVAC system to work harder to circulate air. This constant strain can lead to system breakdowns, resulting in costly repairs.

Airborne Pollutants and Contaminants – Neglecting to replace your air filters for extended periods allows pollutants and contaminants to circulate freely throughout your home. These include, but are not limited to, mold spores, pet dander, and tobacco smoke particles. Such airborne contaminants can lead to various health issues and minor irritations, such as sore throats, which are certainly undesirable outcomes.

Accumulation of Dust and Debris in Your Home and HVAC System – One immediate negative effect of a clogged air filter is the buildup of dust and debris within your living space. For example, if you notice that your furniture is accumulating dust more quickly than usual and your HVAC vents are gathering dust, it signifies that you are repeatedly inhaling these tiny particles in your environment.

Presence of Germs and Bacteria – While less obvious, the presence of germs and bacteria is another concerning consequence of clogged air filters. Dirty air filters can quickly become breeding grounds for harmful microorganisms, posing discomfort, particularly for individuals with preexisting asthmatic or respiratory conditions.

When Should You Replace Your Air Filters?

At the Start of Each Season or Every 30-90 Days – As an Ohio resident, you are likely aware of the unpredictable nature of the seasons and the prevalence of seasonal allergens in our area. A practical guideline is to inspect your air filters at the beginning of each season to ensure your HVAC system is equipped to manage the varying demands throughout the year. Additionally, changing your air filters every 30-90 days is advisable, as this interval may vary based on usage, the number of pets in the home, and personal lifestyle needs.

Following Renovations or Home Projects – For those engaged in DIY home projects, keep in mind that it is particularly important to replace your air filters more frequently. Home improvement tasks often release significant dust and debris into the air, which can clog your air filters more rapidly than usual.

Regularly monitoring and replacing your air filters is crucial. Thus, diligent maintenance of your air filters is essential. By prioritizing this HVAC maintenance task, you can maintain a comfortable home environment and promote the health of your family.

Five Star Heating & Cooling Cincinnati can help you tackle any scary HVAC catastrophe that comes your way! Call us at (513) 216-5011, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!