The basic function of your HVAC’s air filter is to remove any particles and pollutants from being spread throughout your house by the heating and cooling system. So, naturally, it will get dirty over time. But if your air filter is clogging up faster than usual, it can reduce the efficiency of your HVAC unit and also cause other potential issues. There could be many reasons that are causing your air filter to clog up quicker. In this article, we will take a look at some of those. We will also explore some potential solutions for the problem.
To learn more about how often you should change your air filter and for help maintaining your HVAC system to ensure efficiency and performance, contact the heating and air conditioning experts at Galmiche & Sons in St. Louis.
Common Reasons for a Dirty Furnace or AC Filter
If your air filter is getting dirty faster than usual, it could be because of the following reasons:
- Thermostat fan set to ‘ON’: If the fan setting on your thermostat is set to ‘ON’ this means that the indoor fan runs constantly. When the fan is working constantly, the air filter will have to catch airborne contaminants 24/7. This may cause it to get dirtier faster. The best way to avoid this is by making sure that your fan is set to ‘AUTO’ instead of ‘ON’.
- Pets in your house: If you have furry pets in your home, there will likely be an uptick in the number of airborne contaminants in your house as well. This means that your air filter will have to work doubly hard, causing it to clog up more quickly. The best way to combat this issue is by changing your air filters more frequently. The best frequency will depend on your home, but this can range from monthly to once every few months.
- More people living in the house: If the number of people living in a house increases, so will the load on the air filter. This is because more people often results in more contaminants in the house. Changing the filters frequently can help you improve the unit’s airflow and operational efficiency.
- Air duct leaks: Leaks in the return ductwork can draw dust from outside areas, such as the crawl space or the attic, and quickly cause the filter to become clogged. The problem can become even more pronounced if the filter is positioned close to the inside unit of the air conditioner. Make sure to get your air ducts checked by an HVAC technician for air leaks, so that they can be sealed.
- Construction work: The dirt and dust created during remodeling and construction work can get sucked into the HVAC unit, which can cause the air filters to become clogged. It is best to avoid running your HVAC system during major renovations, but sometimes this is unavoidable. It is important to regularly check and replace your air filters, during and after any remodeling or construction work.
What Are the Solutions for Clogged-Up Air Filters?
If you feel like your air filter is clogging up faster than normal, there are two things you can do:
- Replace the air filter: Replacing your filter regularly is the best way to deal with this problem. But how frequently you will need to replace depends on the type of air filter you are using. Fiberglass filters need to be replaced once every month, while pleated filters (paper or polyester) can be replaced every 3–6 months. As for the HEPA filters, they can be replaced every 12–18 months, while electrostatic filters never need replacing because they are washable. Ask your HVAC professional for the best recommended maintenance schedule for your filter type and system.
- Maintenance check from an HVAC specialist: If you continue to experience issues with your HVAC system, it may be beneficial to schedule a professional maintenance check. A qualified technician can inspect your system for any underlying issues that may be contributing to the filter clogging more quickly than usual.
Let Galmiche & Sons Address Your Air Filter Issues
At Galmiche & Sons, we understand how important indoor air quality is. We are here to help if your air filters are getting dirty too quickly or if you have other problems with air flow in your HVAC system. With over 70 years of experience in the HVAC industry, Galmiche & Sons is dedicated to providing services that not only increase the comfort of your home but also its safety. Let us inspect your system and determine the cause of your dirty air filters so we can help you enjoy a healthier, more comfortable living environment. Call us today at 314-993-1110 to book your HVAC service appointment.
