It’s easy to forget to change your HVAC system’s air filter regularly, but doing so is one of the best ways you can improve your system’s energy efficiency and extend the life of your HVAC equipment. Changing your air filter regularly can improve HVAC system efficiency by:
Keeping moving parts clean. A clean air filter stops dust, pet hair and other debris before it can cling to your air handler’s moving parts. Fan blades with a layer of dust can reduce airflow through your system, while dust buildup on moving parts can shorten equipment life.
Improving heat transfer. A clean filter keeps dust off of evaporator coils and furnace heat exchangers. Layers of dust and grime on these parts can reduce heat transfer between your A/C or furnace and the air in your ductwork, resulting in lower energy efficiency as your HVAC equipment works harder to transfer heat where it’s needed most.
Reducing ice buildup. A severely clogged filter can restrict airflow and keep evaporator coils damp, which can create a thick layer of ice accumulation. This can result in lower energy efficiency, as well as moisture damage inside your furnace and utility room as the ice melts and overflows the condensate drain.
Reducing dust in ducts and on vents. A clogged filter slows airflow in ductwork, letting debris fall out and cling to the inside of ducts and on vent registers. A clean filter lets air move fast to keep dust and debris suspended until they’re caught in the filter.
Improving indoor air quality. Your filter’s main job is to keep the inside of your HVAC system clean, but high quality filters can also remove allergens from indoor air. Be aware that higher quality filters restrict airflow, so cleaner air comes at a cost of reduced energy efficiency.
Call Ace Hardware Home Services, Inc. in Dayton for advice on changing your air filter and other ways to improve HVAC energy efficiency.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Dayton, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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