When it comes to air conditioning systems, one of the most important components is the air filter. It is responsible for trapping pollutants and other particles that can be harmful to your health. If you don't change or clean the filter regularly, you may be putting your health and your wallet at risk. A dirty filter reduces air flow to the air conditioning system and makes it work harder.
This means that it consumes more energy, which costs you more money. You may also be unable to keep your home at the right temperature, as the system has to run for longer periods of time. If the air filter is clogged and can't trap pollutants like it did before, those elements can be left back in the air that everyone in the house breathes. This can lead to immediate problems such as headaches, itchy eyes or throat, and dizziness.
If the air filters are not changed and problems persist, the long-term effects could be respiratory diseases, heart disease, or cancer. When air filters are not constantly changed, they become clogged due to the buildup of particles and contaminants that adhere to the filter. This means that the air conditioner is heating or cooling the same air and not pushing it through the ducts. As a result, you may notice that the air stagnates and it's harder to reach the desired temperatures. Usually, vacation homes or vacant homes that don't get much use can wait to change the filters every 9 to 12 months.
However, if you live in a home with pets or allergies, you should change them every 90 days or 3 months. The price to fix any problems caused by a dirty filter is higher than that of simply buying a new air filter every few months. When the filter becomes clogged and air can't pass through it, the air conditioning system will work harder to push the air out. Some people have reported that rooms with little air flow can even change the color of walls and furniture. Because clogged air filters cause the system to work hard to create airflow, hot or cold air can't get to where it's needed properly. The only type of filters that trap allergens and spores are HEPA, or high-energy particulate air filters.
Therefore, if you want to ensure your health and safety, as well as save money on energy bills, make sure you change your AC air filter regularly.
