Changing your air filters frequently doesn’t sound like a huge issue, but there are a lot of horrifying consequences that can happens a result of postponing these filter changes. But don’t underestimate it! A clogged air filter can seriously mess with your home’s indoor air quality (IAQ) and your overall health. Today, Greater Columbus Furnace & Air Conditioning wants to highlight the not-so-fun side of clogged air filters and why every Ohio homeowner should keep an eye on their air filters to avoid some pretty unpleasant (or scary) HVAC problems.
Why Is Changing Your Air Filters a Big Deal?
- Reduced Air Quality – First off, a clogged air filter means your HVAC system can’t properly filter out airborne stuff like dust, pollen, and even germs. This can lead to poor indoor air quality, which can make respiratory issues like asthma and allergies worse. For Ohio homeowners, where seasonal changes bring a mix of allergens, keeping your indoor air quality high is super important.
- Increased Energy Bills – When your HVAC system has to struggle to push air through a clogged filter, it ends up using more energy. A study by the Department of Energy shows that swapping out a dirty, clogged filter for a clean one can cut your air conditioner’s energy use by 5% to 15%. With Ohio’s ever-changing weather, your HVAC is already working hard—don’t make it work even harder!
- System Breakdown – Ignoring your air filter can lead to more than just bad air quality and higher bills. Over time, the extra strain on your HVAC system can cause it to completely break down, leading to expensive repairs or even a total system replacement. For Ohio homeowners, where HVAC systems are a big investment, regular maintenance can save you a ton of cash down the road.
What Should You Watch Out For?
- Pollutants and Contaminants – A clogged air filter lets harmful stuff like mold spores, pet dander, and even tobacco smoke particles float around your home. These can lead to all sorts of health issues, from annoying sore throats to serious respiratory infections.
- Dust and Debris Build-up – One of the first signs of a clogged air filter is dust and debris piling up in your home. You might notice your furniture getting dusty a lot faster, and your HVAC vents could start collecting a layer of dust, too. Not only does this make your place look messy, but it also means you’re breathing in those particles all the time.
- Germs and Bacteria – A less obvious but just as concerning issue with a clogged air filter is the growth of germs and bacteria. A dirty filter can turn into a breeding ground for harmful microorganisms, which can spread throughout your home. This can be especially tough for anyone with asthma or other respiratory problems.
What Are the Signs You Might Need to Change Your Air Filters?
- Increased Allergy Symptoms – If you or your family are dealing with more allergy symptoms despite taking medication, it could be time to check your air filter. Look out for sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes, as these can get worse with poor indoor air quality.
- Unusual Odors – A clogged air filter can lead to some not-so-pleasant smells floating around your home. These odors can vary, from a musty scent to something stronger, depending on what’s trapped in the filter.
- Higher Utility Bills – Noticing a spike in your utility bills without changing how you use your HVAC system? A clogged air filter might be the reason. As mentioned earlier, when the system has to work harder, it uses more energy and drives up your costs.
How Often Should You Replace Your Air Filters?
- Seasonal Changes – In Ohio, where the seasons can get pretty extreme, it’s a good idea to check your air filter at the start of each season. This way, your HVAC system is ready for whatever the year throws at it. If you don’t want to stick to the seasonal schedule, we usually recommend that homeowners change their air filters every 30-90 days, depending on how much they use their system and their lifestyle.
- After Renovations – If you’ve just done some home renovations, it’s smart to replace your air filter. Home projects can kick up a lot of dust and debris, which can clog your filter pretty quickly.
- Pet Owners – If you have pets, you’ll want to change your air filter more often. Remember, pet dander and fur can really clog up a filter faster than normal, impacting your home’s indoor air quality.
Keeping your HVAC system running smoothly and ensuring good indoor air quality really hinges on having a clean air filter. For homeowners in Ohio, where the seasons can really impact air quality, regular maintenance becomes a must. If you know how to spot the signs of a clogged air filter and how to replace it, you can keep your home cozy and your family healthy.
Don’t wait until things get bad! Make air filter maintenance a regular part of your home care routine. It’s not complicated—these tips will help you tackle any air filter issues that come up.
Greater Columbus Furnace & Air Conditioning can help you tackle any HVAC scares that come your way! Call today at (614) 245-3025, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
