4 Ways Neglected AC Filter Changes Can Damage Your HVAC System

4 Damages to Your HVAC System Resulting From Forgetting Your AC Filter Change

After almost 75 years of experience and thousands of residential HVAC repair calls, we can say the top reason for making HVAC repair calls is poor maintenance demonstrated by dirty air filters. This is always surprising, since changing an air filter is inexpensive and very easy. A dirty air filter leads to serious problems; here are four of the most significant difficulties caused by a dirty air filter.

AC Filter Change Tip 1: Poor Indoor Air Quality

The reason the air filter is in place is to remove airborne particles; dust, pet hair, dander, mold, mildew spores, and pollen collect on the folds of the air filter. Once the particles are removed, they will no longer circulate with every air conditioning cycle. Eventually, the surface of the filter will be completely covered by the particles. When the surface is covered, small amounts of dust will find a way around the filter, coating vital electrical parts. It also reenters your home. You will notice it as:

AC Filter Change Tip 2: Impaired Air Conditioning Function

Your air conditioner moves the entire volume of your house every few minutes, and when the air filter becomes severely clogged, it restricts the airflow. This causes a few internal problems.

AC Filter Change Tip 3: Repair and Replacement

If a dirty air filter is still neglected, the stress leads to damage and damage will lead to failure. The stress on the blower motor and evaporator coil, along with the collection of dust inside the air conditioner cabinet will stress electrical components, such as switches and capacitors. While a technician can replace these parts, the stress may remain on surviving components.

These are serious troubles caused by a dirty air filter. Manufacturers, technicians, and even the Department of Energy acknowledge that poor maintenance, typified by a dirty air filter, will shorten the useful life of your air conditioner. The cost of replacing your HVAC system is staggering compared to the cost of regularly replacing the air filter. The normal life span for an HVAC system is typically 20 years or more; poor maintenance can reduce the life span by 5 years or more.

When was the last time you replaced your air filter?

AC Filter Change Tip 4: Low Efficiency—High Utility Cost

When you understand how a dirty air filter is adding stress to your air conditioner, it will not surprise you to know a stressed air conditioner costs more to run. This stress will lead to a noticeable increase in the energy needed to run the system. The increase is gradual, so it is hard to measure. A new HVAC system (bringing new, more efficient technology) will heat and cool better, using about 30% less energy than the old system.

Air filters are readily available from hardware and home improvements stores. They are available in a variety of sizes and are rated according to the size of openings in the filter. Filters should be changed at least every 3 months—more if you deem it necessary. Plan to change your air filter regularly!

Need help with AC Filter Changes?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and AC Filter Changes, schedule an appointment, or visit our HVAC Maintenance information page.

AC Filter Change

Full Service Air Conditioning & Heating, Commercial HVAC, Ductless HVAC and
Air Quality & Insulation in the Bryan and College Station, TX Area