A home’s heating and AC system is one of the most important appliances in the home. However, it is also one that homeowners often neglect. While these systems may seem complex, some basic maintenance tasks will keep them running smoothly for a long time. One of the most basic tasks we try to impress upon homeowners is changing out the filter regularly. To get started on this service, contact B & D Plumbing, Heating & A/C for immediate assistance in St. Michael, MN and surrounding areas.
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How often should you replace your filter?
AC and furnace filters should be replaced once per month. Some units have a washable filter rather than a disposable one. These filters do not need regular replacement as you can simply wash them to remove dirt. Replacement of these filters is only required if they become bent or torn. They should also be replaced if they no longer fit tightly into the designated spot.
We recommend that homeowners install a thermostat that contains a filter replacement alert. This alert reminds you when it is time to insert a new filter.
What happens if you neglect to replace your filter?
A clogged and dirty HVAC filter prevents adequate airflow from getting into the system. This causes your furnace to work harder to warm your home and reduces efficiency. This reduction in efficiency results in higher electricity bills and colder temperatures inside the home. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, failure to replace a filter can decrease the energy efficiency of a furnace unit by 5 to 15%.
In addition, filters that are overly clogged allow allergens, dust, and dirt to pass through them and enter the home. This creates poor air quality inside the home and can be harmful to those with respiratory illnesses. The dirt particles that slip through the dirty filter can also build up on the evaporator coil of the unit. Over time, this can damage the unit or cause it to fail entirely.
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When is it time to call for professional replacement?
Most air filters are in easily accessible locations, such as near the air return vent or inside the door on the actual unit. However, in some older units, the air filter is not easily accessible. In these cases, homeowners should contact us to have one of our service professionals replace it. In addition, those with mobility issues or severe allergies can also set up scheduled service appointments with us to change their air filters.
Other reasons to call us include identifying mold on your filter or having filters that seem overly dirty after use. If you see particles coming out of the air registers, we can determine if the air filter is faulty or if the problem exists elsewhere in the system.
