Imagine walking into your home and immediately sneezing, coughing, and dealing with watery eyes. While it may seem like just seasonal allergies, the real issue could be closer than you think—a clogged air filter in your HVAC system.
It may not seem like a big deal, but a clogged air filter can seriously affect your home’s indoor air quality (IAQ) and overall health. Today, Blacklick Heating & Cooling wants to highlight the real issues caused by a clogged air filter and explain why every homeowner in Ohio should pay attention to their air filters to avoid HVAC-related problems.
Why Not Changing Your Air Filters Is Horrifying:
- Reduced Air Quality – A clogged air filter prevents your HVAC system from effectively filtering out airborne contaminants like dust, pollen, and germs. This results in poor indoor air quality, which can worsen respiratory issues like asthma and allergies. For Ohio homeowners, where seasonal changes introduce various allergens, keeping indoor air quality high is essential.
- Higher Energy Bills – A clogged filter forces your HVAC system to work harder to push air, leading to increased energy consumption. A study by the Department of Energy shows that replacing a dirty filter with a clean one can reduce your air conditioner’s energy use by 5% to 15%. With Ohio’s changing weather, your HVAC system is already under strain, so don’t make it work even harder.
- System Breakdown – Ignoring your air filter can result in more than just bad air quality and high energy bills. Over time, the added strain on your HVAC system may cause it to fail completely, leading to expensive repairs or a full system replacement. For homeowners in Ohio, where HVAC systems are a major investment, regular maintenance can save you a lot of money over time.
Why Changing Your Air Filters Matter:
- Pollutants and Contaminants – A clogged air filter lets harmful pollutants and contaminants circulate in your home. These can include mold spores, pet dander, and tobacco smoke particles. Such contaminants can lead to health problems, ranging from minor issues like sore throats to more serious conditions like respiratory infections.
- Dust and Debris Build-up – A clogged air filter can quickly lead to dust and debris accumulating in your home. You might find that your furniture gets dusty more often, and even your HVAC vents may start to gather dust. This not only makes your home look unkempt but also means you’re continually breathing in these particles.
- Germs and Bacteria – One less obvious but serious 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 particularly troubling for people with asthma or respiratory conditions.
What Signs Should Be Watched for:
- Increased Allergy Symptoms – If you or your family are noticing worse allergy symptoms even while taking medication, it may be a good idea to check your air filter. Watch for signs like sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes, as these can all be worsened by poor indoor air quality.
- Unusual Odors – Furthermore, a clogged air filter can often cause unpleasant odors to circulate throughout your home. These could range from a musty smell to something more pungent, depending on what contaminants are trapped in the filter.
- Higher Utility Bills – If you’ve seen a sudden increase in your utility bills without changing your HVAC usage, a clogged air filter might be to blame. When the filter is dirty, the system has to work harder, using more energy and increasing your costs.
When Air Filters Should Be Replaced:
- Seasonal Changes – In Ohio, where seasons can be very different, it’s a good idea to check your air filter at the start of each season. This helps ensure your HVAC system is ready for the changing demands throughout the year. If seasonal changes aren’t your guide, we recommend homeowners change their air filters every 30-90 days based on usage and lifestyle.
- After Renovations – If you’ve recently completed any home renovations, it’s wise to replace your air filter. Construction and home projects can release a lot of dust and debris into the air, which can quickly clog your filter.
- Pet Owners – For those with pets, it’s important to change your air filter more often. Remember, pet dander and fur can clog an air filter faster than usual, impacting your home’s indoor air quality (IAQ).
A clean air filter is crucial for keeping your HVAC system running well and ensuring good indoor air quality. For homeowners in Ohio, where changing seasons can significantly impact air quality, regular maintenance is key. By recognizing the signs of clogged air filters and knowing how to replace them, you can help keep your home comfortable and your family healthy.
Blacklick Heating & Cooling can help you tackle any and every HVAC scare that is thrown your way! Call today at (614) 245-2572 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!