If you don't replace your HVAC filter, you may be putting your health and home at risk. Not changing the air filter can lead to a variety of problems, from dust and contaminants entering the air conditioner to respiratory diseases, heart disease, and even cancer. It can also damage other parts of the system and result in a large repair bill. To avoid these issues, it's important to change the air filter regularly and have the HVAC system inspected.
When air moves through a building's HVAC system, air filters trap and pick up large and small particles, such as dust, allergens, and microorganisms. If the air filter is clogged and can't trap contaminants like it used to, those things can go back to the air that everyone in your home breathes. Immediate problems may include headaches, itchy eyes or throat, and dizziness. If the air filters are not changed and problems persist, the long-term effects could be respiratory disease, heart disease, or cancer.
Dust clogs moving parts of an air conditioner, such as motors and fan valves. Airflow is restricted, creating a strain on the system. Failure to change the air filter can damage other parts of the system and can result in a large repair bill later on. Changing air filters regularly can help preserve the life of your system and make it work more efficiently.
The danger of not changing the air filter in the house for a long time is that it will eventually lead to damage to the oven. This means that the entire system will be destroyed by excess heat. If the air cleaner is not serviced often enough, it will eventually become clogged to the point where air cannot pass through it. When the oven is operating, the lack of air flow will trap heat in the system.
As the temperature inside the system continues to rise, the limit switch will turn the oven on and off to prevent it from overheating. This will temporarily mitigate the problem, but will not resolve the root of the problem. Without a new air filter, the oven will overheat every time it is turned on again. This is known as short cycling. Probably the biggest danger of not changing your oven's air conditioning filter is that it can damage your HVAC system and reduce your life expectancy. The best source of information on how often to change air filters is in the HVAC system owner's manual.
You may also notice some dust around your HVAC unit or in your home if you don't change your central air filter. If you notice that your HVAC system isn't working as efficiently as it should be, changing your air filters could solve the problem. Putting a filter that is too small for your HVAC can be harmful because it will allow dirt and dust to enter your unit. Your HVAC technician can give you lessons on how to make sure you change your air filter. Changing your air conditioner filter is a very simple thing to do but can have a huge impact on your HVAC performance, life expectancy, and possibly even your health. To avoid any potential issues with your HVAC system or health, make sure you replace your filters regularly.
