The air filters you use in your HVAC system help keep dust, dirt, debris, and other contaminants from circulating through your air. When you neglect to change your air filter regularly, it can cause problems for your system’s operation and leave you breathing in unhealthy particles.
Knowing the signs to watch for can ensure that you never neglect changing your air filter when it needs to be replaced.
Dusty Vents and Surfaces in Your Home
Your air filter captures all the debris that flows through the air in your home. Eventually, this can leave layers of dirt and particles on the filter, hampering its efficiency. It can also make it harder for your system to function optimally. If you see lots of dust around the vents or on surfaces throughout your home, it’s usually a sign that your air filter is filthy and needs to be changed.
The Filter Looks Dirty
Perhaps you simply have forgotten dusting on your list of household chores. However, you can check your air filters to see if they look clogged. Thicker filters will not need to be changed as often, though this will will depend on the MERV rating. It’s always best to look at the filter and if it looks grungy, it’s time for a replacement.
Your HVAC Is Frequently Cycling
When you’re using a dirty air filter, it will take longer for your system to cool or heat your home. Since the HVAC system pushes air through the filters, this can lead to it running more frequently than it should to cool the air.
Your System Isn’t Heating or Cooling Efficiently
In addition to causing your air conditioning system to short cycle, clogged air filters can impede the proper flow of air in your home. You’ll likely notice the temperature isn’t up to your level of comfort, even after adjusting the thermostat. When your air filter is causing these issues, you may need repairs if the damage is already done.
Higher Energy Bills
You can expect higher energy bills when you use your system more often. However, if you haven’t made any changes to your usage and the bills keep skyrocketing, it may be due to a dirty filter that is forcing your unit to work harder.
You’re Not Sure When It Was Last Changed
Perhaps you’ve recently bought your home and aren’t sure when the previous owners last changed the air filter. Even if you’ve been living in your home for years, it is easy for it to slip your mind and question whether or not you’ve changed the filter.
It happens to plenty of people, but if you’re ever unsure of when you’ve replaced the air filter in your HVAC system, pull it out of the slot. You’ll be able to see right away if it’s covered in layers of dust, dirt, and other debris.
Fortunately, installing air filters is easy when you choose the right size for your home. You should order them in bulk to have them ready, which will make this task much easier in the future.