We all expect our heaters to provide us with the heat we desire, especially during the winter season. Fairfield temperatures are quite brisk this time of year, so it’s best that you prepare, as we have a long winter ahead of us. One way to do this is by taking the time to think about your air filter. Air filters need regular changing to keep your furnace running efficiently. They need to be changed more than just once a year by a trained HVAC technician.
Many homeowners tend to minimize the importance of changing their air filters, so it may only get changed during their annual maintenance visit. However, it is recommended that an air filter is changed once every 1-3 months. Failure to do so can negatively affect the overall function of your furnace. Thankfully, you can schedule an appointment with Bartels Heating & Cooling. We offer heating services in Fairfield, OH!
What Is an Air Filter?
There is a lot of debris that circulates throughout the home and ultimately ends up in the ductwork. If the debris enters the furnace, it has the potential to cause some significant damage. The air filter exists to prevent dirt and debris from entering the furnace itself. When air blows through the filter, the dirt is trapped.
The reason we change our filters is that they are unable to rid themselves of the particles they collect. If they become too clogged, airflow into the furnace is restricted, thus causing problems.
What Can Happen if I Don’t Change My Filter?
Decreased Efficiency
When your furnace struggles to circulate air throughout your home, it becomes significantly less efficient. A dirty filter is going to create more airflow resistance than is normal.
In addition, a dirty air filter can cause your system to short cycle. This is an industry term that describes when your furnace keeps turning itself on and off over and over throughout the day. When airflow is restricted, heat becomes trapped. This causes the internal temperature of the furnace to rise, which activates the limit switch. When your system is constantly turning off, it decreases the overall efficiency and will cause your heating bill to skyrocket.
Increased Repair Needs
When your system has to work harder than it normally does, there is an increased risk of wear and tear. This will lead to operational problems and eventually a breakdown. Repair bills tend to cost more than maintenance bills. Changing your air filter is simple and easy. Dealing with a system breakdown is not.
Decreased Indoor Air Quality
Although the air filter is ultimately put in place to protect the furnace, it does have some positive effects on our health. When the air filter is very dirty, air may be forced around the filter. When this happens, it will be distributed into your house unfiltered!
The good news is that this can all be avoided with regular air filter replacement services. Bartels Heating & Cooling offers furnace maintenance services. Regular maintenance will allow your system to perform better and run efficiently. Our NATE-certified technicians have over 40 years of experience.