5 Problems Caused by a Dirty Air Filter

February 20, 2018

    Get a Free Replacement Estimate

    How can we help?

    Experiencing an HVAC system malfunction can make people panic, especially during colder seasons. However, heating and cooling Mesa AZ professionals say that most of these problems are caused by a dirty air filter.

    Inadequate heating or cooling

    If you notice that your system is simply not working as it used to, don’t fret, as the problem is most likely the filter. If the air filter is dirty or clogged, the blower needs to work a lot harder to push the air through the filter. Reduced airflow creates cold and hot spots, making the desired air temperature unattainable. This is an easy fix, and heating and cooling Mesa AZ maintenance experts do it all the time. There is, however, another problem that stems from this one.

    Increased energy bills

    Clogs cause a decrease in the airflow, making your heating and cooling system run for longer periods of time, trying to cool or heat your home adequately. This significantly raises energy usage, consequently increasing your energy bill. In fact, a study performed by the Florida Public Service Commission shows that the number two reason for increased energy bills was a dirty air filter. The longer you wait the more money you will spend, so act quickly.

    Inevitable breakdowns

    It’s not just about keeping your home cool, or putting a stop to high energy bills. It’s also about preserving your unit, and increasing its lifespan. With the air filter clogged, the strain on your AC system is greater as well, with the engines being pushed to the limit to compensate for the obstructed airflow. This will imminently result in a breakdown, sooner or later. If it comes to this, you can forget about a quick fix by the resident heating and cooling Mesa AZ maintenance crew. You will either be forced to replace your AC unit or replace the engines.

    Low air quality

    If the air filter is too dirty to perform its function properly, you can be sure that the air quality in your home is going to drop. The dirt and debris will pass through the system, settling in ducts, slowly contaminating your home. This can lead to chronic allergies, and can be especially troublesome for people suffering from respiratory conditions, such as asthma. In the beginning, you may not even notice, except for an occasional sniffle, but poor air quality will impact your health eventually.

    Frozen evaporator coils

    When the clog appears during summer, at the peak of the cooling season, the cooling or evaporator coil can freeze up. The lack of air that moves past the coil means it cannot dissipate the condensation produced during the process of cooling. It is then that the condensation freezes, thus reducing the ability of the unit to remove heat and cool your home adequately. Also, without an intervention from heating and cooling professionals, the air conditioner will surely break down at some point.

    Heating and cooling Mesa AZ to the rescue

    Hughes Air Heating & Cooling is there for you every step of the way. It doesn’t stop with us helping you choose the best heating and cooling system for your home. Our maintenance crews are there for any problems you might experience, providing swift and efficient service. Choose us, call today.