What Does a Dirty Air Filter Do to Your Home?

A dirty air filter can have a huge impact on your home's air conditioning system. It restricts the flow of cold air, causing it to build up inside the unit and lower the internal temperature. This buildup of cold air can cause ice to form on the coils, leading to more frequent repairs and a shorter lifespan for the unit. Not only does a clogged filter force the air conditioner to work harder, but it can also lead to an increase in energy consumption.

According to the U. S. Department of Energy, a dirty air filter can cause a 15% increase in energy bills. If the filter becomes too clogged with dust, dander, and debris, then the blower has to work harder to get air through the blocked filter.

People with asthma can benefit from using air purifiers or air filters to reduce their suffering from hay fever, pollutants, and other sinus-related problems. To find out when to change the filter, consider installing a CleanAlert FILTERSCAN WiFi air filter monitor. We recommend checking your air filter at least once a month, but advanced filters can last a little longer. If the surfaces closest to the vents are more dusty and others appear cleaner, it's a sure sign that the air filter needs to be replaced.

However, if the air cleaner is not the problem, an experienced HVAC service technician should investigate the problem and perform the necessary maintenance.