If you have a higher-efficiency air filter and don't change it often enough, moisture buildup can cause mold to build up in ducts and lead to serious mold infestations. Air filters are usually made of spun fiberglass or pleated paper and are surrounded by a cardboard frame. They are inserted at a specific location in air conditioning systems and act as a barrier to prevent contaminants and other particles from circulating through the air or reaching sensitive parts of the system. Common elements that block filters include dust, pollen, lint, mold, hair, animal hair, bacteria, and more.
If the filter is left dirty for too long, it can also accumulate moisture, which can lead to a mold infestation. Mold is a health hazard regardless of whether you have allergies or not. People with allergies will only suffer if the air conditioner air filter is not cleaned regularly. Evaporative coils, which help remove heat from the air to keep the house cool, can freeze if overworked. If the air filter is clogged and can't trap pollutants like it did before, those elements can be left back in the air that everyone in the house breathes.
If the filter becomes too clogged with dust, dander, and debris, the fan will have to work harder to pass air through the clogged filter. Unfortunately, many homeowners delay replacing their air filter for months (if they ever do).While dirty air filters can prevent your air conditioner from working properly, there are many ways to keep your air conditioner well-maintained and running efficiently for longer. Frost buildup on coils or fans makes it difficult for the air conditioner unit to remove heat from the air and cool the house. Shake the filter after washing to drain any excess water that may be trapped in the filter and allow it to air dry before returning it to the air conditioning unit.
The filter in an air conditioning unit is an incredibly important part that cleans the air that enters it. Because clogged air filters cause the system to work hard to create airflow, hot or cold air can't get to where it's needed properly. If it's too late and your air conditioning unit has already broken down, you can get help with that too. A clogged filter, which is particularly evident in a central air conditioning unit, occurs when the machine has to work harder to pass air through it. As an expert in HVAC systems, I always recommend changing your filters every 30 days.
The EPA also recommends inspecting your filter at least once a month. This will help prevent costly repairs and health risks associated with mold infestations due to dirty filters. Ambient Edge offers preventive maintenance contracts so you never have to worry about a dirty air filter ruining the performance of your air conditioner. Regularly changing your air filter will ensure that your system runs efficiently and keeps your home healthy. Not doing so can lead to mold infestations in ducts and other serious health risks.
It can also cause your system to work harder than necessary, leading to costly repairs or even replacement of your entire system.
