Some homeowners give little thought to their heating and cooling systems until they stop working as expected. Unfortunately, neglecting maintenance can lead to avoidable issues. For example, changing air filters regularly is an essential task. The overview below explains why this is important.

What Is the Purpose of HVAC Air Filters?

Air filters, which are often made of spun fiberglass and pleated paper, are designed to prevent dust, pollen, dander, lint, mold, hair, bacteria, and other small particles from contaminating the air.

Once inserted into your HVAC system, they act as barriers and trap these contaminants, preventing them from circulating with treated air. By catching these harmful particles, filters also keep them out of the heating and cooling system itself.

What Happens If They Aren’t Changed Regularly?

Each manufacturer provides recommendations on when to change a filter, but in general, most should be changed between 30 and 60 days. The interval is shorter when you have pets, allergies, and other respiratory concerns.

Homeowners who fail to change their air filters as recommended might experience a range of issues. Dirty and clogged filters restrict rather than encourage proper airflow. When airflow is limited, your HVAC equipment must work harder and uses more energy to function, leading to higher utility costs.

The system’s components also face added wear and tear. For example, the evaporator coils require unrestricted airflow to remove heat from the home. When airflow is compromised or the coils get dusty, they can’t remove heat and freeze over. Since new filters typically cost less than repairs and high energy bills combined, keeping up with maintenance results in savings over time.

If you need HVAC maintenance, turn to A1 Heating & Home Improvement in Toledo, OH. This family-owned business has helped homeowners in the surrounding area avoid breakdowns and stay comfortable year-round for more than 50 years. Their team of certified HVAC technicians is experienced at diagnosing and repairing problems for all types of products. Call (419) 243-4871 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their heating and cooling services.