You might think changing the air filter on the HVAC is only important for air quality. But the truth is, the filter impacts the system’s energy efficiency and overall performance in several ways. Forgetting to change the filter every so often will do much more than increase dust buildup and allergy flare-ups. Let’s break down how clean filters boost your HVAC system’s performance and help it last longer.
Better Airflow for Lower Energy Use
The air filter on your HVAC has the specific job of capturing dust and airborne particles so that they don’t circulate throughout your home or damage internal components. But when the filter gets dirty and clogs, it’ll have the opposite effect. The HVAC will use more energy as it struggles against the restricted airflow. A clean filter ensures air can move freely, reducing how much energy the system uses as well as your energy bills.
Less Wear on the Blower Motor
The part of the HVAC that’s responsible for moving air to the supply vents is the blower motor. Dirty filters make the blower work harder because they create air resistance, which makes the motor wear out faster. Regular filter changes keep this from happening by allowing steady airflow and reducing unnecessary stress.
Cleaner Ductwork Enhances System Efficiency
A clogged filter will let more and more dust and debris slip into the ductwork. As it accumulates, the buildup will block airflow and decrease the HVAC’s efficiency. With a clean filter, the ducts will stay cleaner, so the HVAC doesn’t use as much energy to heat and cool the house. When your system uses less energy, you’ll notice lower monthly utility bills.
Fewer Airborne Particles Reduce Coil Contamination
The evaporator coil takes on the important role of absorbing heat to cool your home. But this part must stay clean, or it’ll experience restricted airflow or ice buildup. Unfortunately, the high pollen levels and humidity in Huntingdon Valley, PA can make coil contamination much worse. A dirty filter will further exacerbate this problem by allowing more dust and debris to settle on the coil. Following a regular filter replacement schedule and booking a yearly tune-up will help keep the coil clean.
Faster Heating and Cooling Cycles
You want your HVAC to have fast heating and cooling cycles so that it doesn’t run around the clock. But with a dirty filter, the airflow will slow down, causing the cycles to drag on and become inefficient. Checking the filter every few weeks is the best way to ensure the system can reach the desired temperature quickly.
Improved Humidity Control for Balanced Comfort
Excess moisture not only causes skin and respiratory issues but also hurts the longevity of your HVAC system. And if you don’t do regular filter changes, it’ll make the humidity problems much worse by blocking airflow. This can make rooms feel damp in the summer or overly dry in the winter. A clean filter improves moisture control, so you don’t deal with uncomfortable indoor conditions. It also helps the HVAC last longer by minimizing strain on internal components.
More Accurate Thermostat Readings
A dirty filter can cause airflow problems that result in inaccurate thermostat readings. Your thermostat may become confused as it detects inconsistent temperatures, and the HVAC may run longer to compensate for areas that feel too warm or too cold. Keeping a clean filter will ensure the thermostat can take accurate readings. This is crucial to making sure it doesn’t overwork.
Lower Chance of Short Cycling
Short cycling is when the HVAC keeps turning on and off really fast. It indicates a serious problem, like a clogged filter or overheating. If your system is doing this, you should take immediate action to change the filter and fix the problem. Short cycling wastes energy, increases your energy bills, and puts extreme wear on the compressor, blower motor, and electrical components. Regular filter changes are one of the best ways to ensure the system runs full cycles without interruption and your indoor air quality doesn’t fall into unsafe ranges.
Work with the Pros!
AAA Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning is a go-to provider of HVAC tune-ups throughout Huntingdon Valley. We make it simple to stay on top of routine maintenance so your HVAC runs optimally all year. Ask us about our preventative maintenance plans that take the guesswork out of scheduling an HVAC tune-up!
Call AAA Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning now to access expert HVAC services in Huntingdon Valley.
