The Reality of Dirty Air Filters
Homeowners go to great lengths to keep the inside surfaces of their homes clean. Scouring hard surfaces with bleach and other disinfectants, and staying on top of carpet cleanings and laundry may make the home feel clean, but what about the benefits of clean air? Often a low priority, or even just ignored, the air quality in homes can affect both the health of residents and the efficiency of the HVAC system.
Even so, most homeowners aren’t replacing dirty air filters as frequently as they should. Worse yet, some attempt to clean disposable air filters instead of replacing them at all. While this may seem like a quick way to save money now, disposable air filters aren’t designed to be used long-term. Dirty air filters force HVAC systems to work harder, using more energy and creating unnecessary wear and tear on the system’s components. All of this actually leads to increased costs and expenses for homeowners.
Dangerous Health Issues
Allergies and airborne illnesses run rampant throughout the year. Air filters work by capturing the dirty particles present in the air. Capturing these particles does not erase them, though, so as they build up on the air filter, less air is able to get through until no air can pass through at all.At that point, no more particles are being captured. The dirt and allergens remain in the unfiltered air to be breathed by residents of the home. Similarly, any air in the duct system is also dirty.
Symptoms caused by breathing unfiltered air can include persistent headaches, fatigue, and even cold symptoms. If elderly residents or young children or infants are present, these health issues can prove especially dangerous.
Cleaning Air Filters Doesn’t Always Work
In an attempt to save money, some homeowners try to clean disposable air filters, instead of simply replacing them. The fibers used in these filters are not designed to be cleaned, though. They are designed to permanently capture the dust particles, allergens, and pet hair. Trying to clean them, then, only damages the fibers, rendering them less effective.
While homeowners who do this may be able to clear some space for air to temporarily continue flowing, the filter will be less effective at capturing the necessary particles, and many will still get through. Replacing air filters is the only way to ensure that a home’s air is kept clean and safe.
Opt for an Air Quality Upgrade
While all air filters work essentially the same way, different filters use different media and fibers to capture the particles. Some are more effective than others. HEPA filters, in particular, are incredibly effective at cleaning the air.Per the EPA, this type of air filter can theoretically remove at least 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and any airborne particles with a size of 0.3 microns. Upgrading to a higher quality air filter, like a HEPA filter, ensures the home’s air is as safe and clean as possible.
Working with HVAC professionals to confirm the quality of the air filter being used is a great way for homeowners to keep the air quality in their homes clean year-round, don't wait any longer and get your air filter upgrade!
About TR Miller Heating & Cooling
TR Miller Heating & Cooling offers award-winning service that homeowners can count on. With a guarantee to do it right the first time, their trained and certified HVAC technicians are available 24/7 to provide air quality services in Plainfield, to all homeowners and residents at any time. They offer the latest technology and straightforward pricing to get all HVAC systems running clean and efficiently.
