Of all the parts and components that make up your HVAC system, your air filter might seem like the least important. Not only is it easy to forget to change it out, but if you do, it sometimes takes months before you start seeing issues. So what’s the big deal with your air filter, and how important is it to the health of your HVAC system? That’s what we’ll be exploring today; just read on.
When it comes to heating and air conditioning in Duncanville, TX, look no further than the HVAC pros at Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating. Whether you need regular maintenance or emergency HVAC repair, you’ll find a helpful and reliable team eager to fix your AC woes. Reach out today at 469-518-4211.
How Important is Your Filter for Your HVAC System?
When you think about your HVAC system, you often think of an expansive network of ductwork and fans that give you relief from the heat in the summer and warmth in the winter. Since the power comes from the main unit, this is often considered the most important part of your home’s comfort. While this is true, other components of your HVAC system can play just as important of a role.
I’m talking, of course, about your air filter. This small and unassuming piece of cardboard and pleated cloth is one of the most obvious and easy parts of essential maintenance for an air conditioning unit — and it can affect not only your system’s performance but also your family’s health. It’s true. Changing air filters in your home can be one of the most effective ways to reduce sources of pollutants, allergens and other nasty contaminants in the air outside.
Additionally, your home’s air filter is essentially the lungs of your home. As your main unit breathes in the outside air, it comes through the air filter. When you neglect to maintain and service this area of your system properly, it could lead to poor performance and even component failure. The worst part, changing your air filter is easy to do. So when you are in a situation where a dirty filter is the source of bigger issues, you’ll be kicking yourself for years to come.
Regardless of what AC problem you’re facing, Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating offers the AC repair service in Duncanville, TX, you need to get your system back in tip-top shape.
Reasons Why Replacing Your Filter Regularly Matters
So now that you’re quite aware of what your air filter does, why does regular maintenance and replacement need to be on your must-do list? Look, we’ve all had the experience of our first home. Whether it was after high school, during college or even earlier, most of us never had a passing thought about changing out the air filter. So what gives? Well, as you may have already guessed, the effects of a dirty filter often crop up in ways you might not expect. Here are some common reasons why changing your air filter regularly matters.
Improve System Efficiency
Remember our lung analogy? While serious neglect can lead to real painful issues down the road, in the meantime, that dirty filter could be causing your system to perform poorly. Imagine having a huge weight pushing on your chest. You can still take in breaths, but you’re laboring with every gulp of air. In the same way, a dirty filter inhibits the flow of air into your system, making it work overtime to compensate.
Put quite simply: HVAC system maintenance improves performance. That includes your air filter. While other forms of regular maintenance you should leave for your local pros in heating and air conditioning in Duncanville, TX, air filter changes are easy and quick to perform. The best part, you can get a quality air filter for under $30.
Dirty Filters Can Affect Your Health
Okay, so now you’re on board with the importance of your air filter. When you finally get a new filter and decide to make the switch, you’ll probably be quite surprised at what you find. Instead of a stark white cloth filter, you’ll see a dingy brown mess. All that dirt and grime, well, it’s in your air. Without your air filter, all those contaminants go right into your vents and into your lungs.
Keeping on top of regular filter changes can mean the world to your respiratory health, especially if you suffer from ailments like asthma or allergies.
Clogged Filter Cut Your Systems Lifespan
Just like system efficiency, your HVAC system’s lifespan can pay the price when regular filter changes fall to the wayside. With the life expectancy of your average HVAC system sitting at around 12-15 years, you really don’t want to cut off unnecessary years of service by neglecting something so easy as changing out your filter.
While it’s hard to pin down where the performance suffers and how many years after issues can shave off, you can’t deny that it won’t affect your HVAC system.
How Often Should You Change Out Your Filters
So now that you’re efficiently scared and ready to go out to your local hardware store now for a new filter, how long do they last? It’s a pretty common question that has a slightly more nuanced answer. While, as a general rule, you should think about changing your filter monthly, some filters have a rating that suggests they can last upward of three months.
Obviously, this is going to depend on the manufacturer and the quality of your filter. Always consult with the instructions on the packaging, your system’s user manual and, of course, your local servicer for heating and air conditioning in Duncanville, TX.
Finding AC Service in Duncanville, TX
If you’re looking for quality service that won’t break the bank, Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating is at your service. Our team of HVAC professionals is always ready to help out the homes of our local customers. If you’re in need of servicing for heating and air conditioning in Duncanville, TX, schedule a visit today.
Author Bio:
Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock
Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating is now owned and operated by Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock, with his grandson, Daniel Johnson, a third-generation plumber who is also the Service Manager.