Failing to regularly change your HVAC filter can result in a 15% increase in energy consumption. Over time, this leads not only to higher energy bills but also to a larger carbon footprint.
Introduction
When it comes to maintaining the efficiency and longevity of your HVAC system, the importance of regularly changing your air filters cannot be overstated. You might be surprised how this one small but critical task can have a big impact on your property, whether it's in Connecticut or New York. This article aims to convey the significance of this necessary chore and how it all affects the Air Quality in our homes.
The Role of Filters in HVAC Systems
At its core, the job of an HVAC filter is to clean the air that circulates through your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. They trap and hold various types of particulates and contaminants that could affect your indoor air quality including dust, pollen, mold spores, bacteria, and even fur and hair from your pets.
The Impact of Seasonal Changes on Indoor Air Quality
Our beloved states of Connecticut and New York experience quite dramatic changes in seasons, and believe it or not, this has a significant impact on the air quality in our homes. Spring brings with it a great deal of pollen, while autumn sees a rise in spores and fungi due to the fallen leaves. These allergens can make their way into our HVAC systems and ultimately, our lungs, something a well-maintained filter can mitigate effectively.
The Importance of Regular Filter Changes
So we know that a filter's job is to trap particles like pollen, dust, and other irritants, but what happens when the filter itself becomes too clogged? A dirty or clogged filter struggles to perform its function efficiently, leading to a buildup of contaminants and debris within your HVAC system. This, in turn, can reduce the air quality of your indoor spaces and put a strain on the system, leading to potential equipment damage and more frequent repairs.
How Often Should You Change Your Filters?
While the standard rule-of-thumb suggests changing your filters every 90 days, this interval might vary based on certain conditions. If you have pets, suffer from allergies, or live in a high-pollen area, you might need to switch out your filters more frequently. It's a small price to pay for better air quality and an efficiently running system.
Conclusion
Maintaining a healthy HVAC system goes beyond just comfort. It is about creating an environment that promotes good health and well-being by enhancing the quality of the air we breathe. Regularly changing your filters checks all these boxes while also protecting your equipment. So next time you're doing maintenance around your home, remember your HVAC filters could likely use a change too!