The Top 5 Effects of a Dirty Air Filter
The lack of air circulation causes the evaporator coil to freeze because the warm air that your return intakes from your home no longer flows fast enough through the evaporator coil. The lack of proper air circulation disturbs the balance of heat exchange between the evaporator coil and the warm air that comes through from your home.
Because your system is no longer circulating cold air efficiently, it stresses your blower motor causing it to overheat and work harder shortening the blower motors lifespan substantially.
It also increases the number of allergens in your home and increases the chance of mold build up in your system, which, can be a big problem, especially for those with asthma or other breathing difficulties.
Your energy bill increases because your system works harder and inefficiently.
If you have a split-system unit, (meaning a unit that has the condenser coil outside usually sitting on the ground and the blower motor and evaporator coil inside a closet, garage or attic) it can cause the drain pan to melt when the heater is enabled because of the increase of heat in the air handler. Consequently, it can cause your A/C system when enabled, to leak the condensation build up from the evaporator coil into your home, causing expensive water damage.
Effects of dirty air filter on A/C
How Often Should I Change My Filter?
We generally recommend our customers to change their filter every month to get the best results from their system. Changing your air filter once a month increases the longevity of your system, lowers your energy bill, and keeps your air cleaner and purer. This simple and inexpensive practice can save you lots of money and headaches down the road.