You know that it’s important to change out your air conditioner’s filter each month. But what happens if you leave the air filter in for too long? You may not think it’s a huge deal, but skipping out on replacing your AC air filter may leave you scheduling an appointment for AC repair in Troy, VA.
That’s right. Something as simple as changing out your air filter (or not!) can have a huge impact on your air conditioner and your home. You can keep reading to learn more about what happens when your air filter stays in place too long.
Air Filter Purpose
The grate where your air filter is located is the single intake space for your air conditioner to bring air in for cooling. Your air filter is in place to help capture larger particles of dust and dirt so that they don’t make their way into your air conditioning system. This protects the system from damage while also improving your indoor air quality.
Blocking Airflow
In fact, your air filter can only do so much. This is why it needs to be changed out periodically. As dust and dirt get trapped in the filter, they begin to block airflow going into your air conditioner. So while your filter has a very important role to play, it can also be a hindrance when not handled correctly.
If your air conditioner does not have enough air to bring in for cooling, it begins to work harder to produce results. However, your air filter is still clogged with dirt and can only allow so much air through at a time. So your air conditioner is working harder, costing you more on your monthly energy bills, and you’re still not seeing the results you expect.
Allowing Dust and Dirt In
But that isn’t the only problem with your air filter getting overly full. As your air filter fills up with dust and dirt, it begins to allow some particles to pass through. This means that dust and dirt are getting into your air conditioning system instead of being trapped by your air filter. They can get into tiny crevices of your air conditioner and dry up lubrication, affecting how well intricate components can work together to cool your home.
Indoor Air Quality
Dirt and dust also make their way through your system until they recirculate through the air again, blowing back through the vents. These tiny particles attract microscopic viruses, bacteria and allergens that can lead to sinus problems and illness. Your indoor air quality may be up to five times more polluted than the outdoor air because of a persistently dirty air filter.
We can’t control the weather outside of your home, but we can control the weather inside your home. The team at Mack Morris Heating & A/C is here to help with AC service, so schedule your appointment today.