How Does Changing the Air Filter Improve HVAC Lifespan?
One of the most basic yet crucial things to do while maintaining a furnace or air conditioning system at home is to change the air filter. In addition to promoting optimal air quality, a clean filter greatly increases the system’s longevity. To keep your system running well and avoid expensive repairs, replacing the air filter on a regular basis is a must. Most filters should be replaced once every 30 to 90 days.
Less Air Resistance and Improved Airflow
When the air filter in an HVAC system is clean, air can flow freely through the system. The filter captures particles like dust and dirt before they can enter the system and clog the air passageways. Clogged air filters reduce circulation, which makes the system work harder to circulate air. Overheating decreases efficiency and creates an increased probability of malfunction. This is all the result of this heightened load on the system. You can keep your HVAC system running smoothly and without blockage by changing the filter periodically. This will preserve adequate airflow. Because of this, the system is less likely to wear out or break down. Ensuring proper ventilation is a key part of enhancing a clean filter’s ability to capture harmful elements in the air.
Promotes Proper Humidity Control
Controlling humidity is another critical component of HVAC performance. Any number of moisture issues may arise when an HVAC runs with a dirty or blocked filter because it allows condensation to form within the system. This dampness encourages the development of mildew and mold, which harms the system and lowers the quality of air inside the home. Bacteria and other microbes thrive in moist conditions, which further reduces the system’s efficiency. If you change your air filter on a regular basis, you can keep the HVAC system dry and mold-free by preventing moisture accumulation and maintaining optimum circulation. This ensures the system lasts longer and creates a healthier interior environment.
How Does Filter Type Impact HVAC Lifespan?
A major factor in how long your HVAC system lasts is the type of air filter you use. Fiberglass filters, pleated filters and high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are just a few examples of the many filter types available.
The cheapest filters are usually fiberglass ones, but they allow a lot of particles through because of how little filtering they provide. They work well in homes where there aren’t a lot of airborne contaminants, but they could make things worse in homes with high concentrations of particulate matter. Pleated filters improve air quality by decreasing dust accumulation and capturing finer particles for greater filtering.
Despite its high cost, a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter may help homeowners with allergies or respiratory disorders. These filters protect the HVAC system from debris better than anything else, which means it will last longer. However, they need more maintenance due to their larger filtering capacity. It’s very important that you verify whether your HVAC is compatible with a HEPA filter before using one. If it’s not, using one could result in reduced airflow, increased system strain and increased energy consumption. All these drawbacks shorten the lifespan of the HVAC. If you want your system to run smoothly with little wear on key parts, you need to choose the right filter type.
How to Know Which Filter Type Is Best for Your HVAC
Because every house is unique, it’s best to consult an expert from our team when shopping for an air filter for your HVAC system. We can assess your home’s unique airflow requirements. We will also consider things like the area where you live, whether or not you have pets and whether anybody in your home suffers from allergies. To further guarantee filter compatibility, we will assess the make and age of your HVAC system.
1st Choice Service Group Heating & Air offers heating and AC installations, repairs and maintenance. We also provide electrical repairs, EV charging stations, surge protection and geothermal HVAC. Call us today to schedule a filter change of HVAC maintenance for your home in Asheville, NC.