A dirty air filter can have a significant impact on the performance of your air conditioning system. It restricts the flow of cold air, causing it to build up inside the air conditioner and lower the internal temperature. This buildup of cold air can cause ice to form on the coils, resulting in poor cold air flow and an overheated air conditioner. If left unchecked, this can lead to frequent repairs and even shorten the life of the unit.
Signs that your air filter needs to be replaced include uneven cooling throughout the house, warm air coming out the back of the unit, and an overheated air conditioner. If you notice any of these signs, you should check your air filter first. A clean filter will not prevent airflow in and out of your unit, but a dirty one will restrict it. When the air cleaner is dirty, the air conditioning unit has difficulty operating efficiently.
As a result, parts work harder than usual and ultimately break before their time. Not only will this require you to pay for a unit to be repaired, but you may even have to replace it before it has passed its normal 10-15 year lifespan. The way your air conditioner works is by absorbing heat from the air inside your home. As the refrigerant evaporates inside the indoor condenser unit, the evaporator coil absorbs heat from the air blowing over that coil.
If the air filter is too dirty, then the hot air is restricted, which can cause the coil to freeze. This will reduce the HVAC system's ability to remove heat from the air and eventually cause the air conditioner to fail. To prevent this from happening, you should replace your AC filter regularly. This will reduce the load on your system and help it run more efficiently.
It will also help prevent costly repairs and extend its lifespan. If you notice hot or cold spots throughout your home when your HVAC system is working, or if your thermostat says a temperature but you think it's wrong, you should check your air filter first. If it's heavily soiled, you may need to call an HVAC professional for help. From sizes to types, grades and more, there are many factors to consider when choosing an air filter for your home.
It's important to choose one that fits your needs and is easy to maintain. A clogged filter can cause serious problems for your HVAC system, so make sure you keep it clean and replace it regularly.
