Your Servicing Delaware, home’s HVAC system uses an air filter in order to capture particulates from the air. Each time the heating or cooling system cycles, the warmed or cooled air passes through the HVAC filter before it enters the air ducts and vents. A dirty or clogged air filter causes a variety of issues for your heating and cooling system’s effectiveness and efficiency. Here are the top three signs that your air filter is clogged.
Low Airflow
If there doesn’t seem to be enough air coming out of each room’s vents, a dirty filter could be the cause. Clogged filters hinder the airflow. This could also result in your home feeling too hot or too cold. During a maintenance visit, the technician checks and replaces dirty filters and measures airflow rates.
Increased Utility Costs
When the HVAC filter’s pores are clogged, the warmed or cooled air can’t get through it. According to the Department of Energy, dirty filters cause a 5 to 15 percent increase in energy consumption for air conditioners and heat pumps. Even though your heating or cooling system cycles, the temperature will not change much. This causes your heating or cooling system to cycle more frequently. Frequent cycling means a big increase in your utility bills. The system could wear out faster, resulting in more repairs and a shorter lifespan.
More Allergy Symptoms
Once the HVAC filter’s pores are full, they can’t capture any more dust or other particles. This may cause your home’s living areas to accumulate more allergens. More exposure to allergens means an increase in allergy symptoms. You or other members of your household may have more coughing, sniffling, sneezing, sore throats or itchy eyes. If anyone has asthma, their breathing could worsen.
To learn more about HVAC filters and how they impact your comfort, check out Red Dog Associates’s indoor air quality services, or call us today for more information.
