Though it may not feel like Autumn here in Florida, your furnace doesn’t really know the difference. That being said, it’s important that you treat it as you would your air conditioner, and of course, then, that includes changing out your air filter.
We find that many homeowners underestimate just how important it is to change their air filters on a regular basis, so below, we have explained exactly why you should take the time to do so. All you’ve got to do is keep reading to find out more (oh, and of course, remember to schedule your home heating services in Orlando with our team!)
What Does an Air Filter Do?
There is a lot of debris that circulates throughout your home and ultimately ends up in your ductwork. If the debris enters your forced-air heater, it has the potential to cause some significant damage. The air filter exists to prevent dirt and debris from entering the heater itself.
The reason we change our filters is that they are unable to rid themselves of the particles they collect. If they become too clogged, airflow in and out of the heater is restricted, causing problems. Be sure to change your air filter every 1–3 months during the heating season.
So, What Happens if You Don’t Change Your Air Filter?
Here’s what can happen if you don’t change your air filter:
Decreased Efficiency
When your heater struggles to circulate air throughout your home, it becomes significantly less efficient. A dirty filter is going to create more airflow resistance than normal.
In addition, a dirty air filter can cause the system to short-cycle. This is an industry term that describes when your heater keeps turning itself on and off over and over throughout the day. Not only is short-cycling extremely inefficient, but it also places a ton of strain on the system, leading to sky-high energy bills and costly repairs.
Increased Repair Needs
When your system has to work harder than it normally does, there is an increased risk of wear and tear. This will lead to operational problems and eventually a breakdown. Obviously, you do not want to be stuck dealing with costly repairs and untimely replacements. Changing your air filter is simple and easy … dealing with a full system breakdown is not.
Decreased Indoor Air Quality
Although the air filter is ultimately put in place to protect your heater, it does have some positive impacts on your health. When the air filter is thickly congested, air may be forced around the filter, and when this happens, it will be distributed into your house! This, in turn, decreases your indoor air quality and can lead to some significant health issues for you and your family.
Ask a Professional
If you need help locating or changing out your air filter, ask a professional HVAC technician for help. Any reputable professional will be happy to show you the ropes!
To schedule your heating services, or to learn more about air filters, contact the team at English Air Inc. today!