It’s important to clean or replace your HVAC system’s air filters every few months. Dirty or clogged filters reduce indoor air quality (IAQ) and cause major furnace damage. Understanding the issues posed by filter neglect will help you protect your Newnan, GA, home and furnace.
1. Furnace Shutdown
A severely clogged filter damages a furnace’s internal components. It reduces energy efficiency and forces the HVAC systems to work harder to heat your home. This places strain on the blower fan, heat exchanger, pressure switches, gas valves and more.
The furnace can’t cycle on or operate safely with damaged components like the heat exchanger. If this type of damage occurs, you’ll need expensive furnace repair or replacement.
2. Reduced Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
An air filter’s only job is to prevent dirt, dust and debris from circulating through the ductwork and into the air. When a filter can’t perform this job, contaminants and allergens consistently circulate and reduce IAQ. Low IAQ exacerbates asthma, allergies and other respiratory conditions while increasing your risk of developing these types of issues.
3. Inadequate Heating
When a furnace’s air filter is dirty or clogged, the fan can’t blow enough air through the HVAC system. This causes uneven heating or cold spots. Cold spots reduce efficiency and a home’s comfort levels.
4. Increased Energy Consumption and Energy Bills
Furnaces with dirty or clogged filters consume more energy. Dirt and debris force them to use more power to circulate air. Higher energy consumption or inefficiency leads to higher energy bills.
5. Short Cycling and Reduced Airflow
Short cycling causes a furnace to cycle on and off rapidly. It results from a malfunctioning or damaged heat exchanger. Dirty or clogged filters cause heat exchangers to overheat and deactivate.
Without the heat exchanger, a furnace can’t complete combustion and emits toxic fumes. You can avoid hazardous situations like this with regular furnace maintenance. However, if a clogged filter damages your furnace, call Scott Walker Heating and Air for repair and maintenance.
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