Are your allergies acting up this winter? In addition to the cold weather, dirty HVAC filters might be to blame. After all, stale air filled with dust particles and other pollutants can exacerbate respiratory problems. Keep in mind, however, that using the wrong type of filter can also lower indoor air quality and trigger allergies.
To help ensure your HVAC system is working properly, the AC maintenance experts at Cool Zone Air Conditioning & Heating list below the most common HVAC filter mistakes to avoid:
Using the Wrong Filter Size
Using the incorrect filter size leaves gaps around air vents that prevent the filters from removing particles and contaminants circulating in the air inside your home.
Installing the Wrong Kind of Filter
Check your HVAC system’s manual to find out the types of filters it can support. While shopping for air filters, you may notice minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) ratings on the filter. These ratings indicate how well a filter can remove particles—the higher the MERV rating, the more effective a filter is at maintaining indoor air quality.
What if your HVAC system doesn’t support high-MERV filters? An HVAC system with lower-rated filters can still keep the air inside your home free of contaminants. However, AC replacement contractors say you’ll need to replace lower-efficiency filters more frequently.
Neglecting to Change Dirty Filters
In general, HVAC filters should be replaced every 30 to 60 days, although this can vary depending on the type of filter installed in your HVAC system. For instance, standard fiberglass air filters need to be changed every month, while higher-efficiency filters can last up to 90 days.
Keep in mind that in addition to exacerbating health issues, dirty air filters can place additional strain on your HVAC system, making it more prone to breakdowns. With clogged filters preventing air from entering the vents, the HVAC system’s blower fans need to work harder to circulate air. As such, filters should be replaced before they turn gray or black, and HVAC systems should be inspected by experienced AC repair contractors.
Cool Zone Air Conditioning & Heating, a factory-certified contractor with more than a decade’s worth of experience, offers a wide range of professional HVAC services. To request an estimate, you can call us at (623) 777-3881 or leave us a message here.
