What are the hidden dangers behind a dirty air filter?

The importance of maintaining your home air conditioner

Are you aware of how much harm a dirty air filter can do to your household? Why does it get clogged in any event? An air filter may seem small and insignificant but in reality, it’s crucial for your air con’s performance. Plus, when you fail to keep it in proper condition it can also cause you financial and health problems.

What is the main purpose of an air filter?

As the name implies, an air conditioner air filter’s role is to remove unwanted particles such as dust and other debris from the air circulating into your home. Basically, it’s similar to an allergy mask that some people wear to prevent pollen from getting to them during springtime. Therefore, filters are there to help you and your family breathe fresh air and your air conditioner run at optimal performance.

What are the reasons why your air filters get clogged?

Have you ever removed your air conditioner’s air filter only to find it covered in a black coating? Surprisingly, this is one of the primary causes of heating and cooling system breakdowns in Australia.

Generally speaking, an air filter fights against a wide range of indoor pollutants that affect the air quality in your home. However, when it becomes clogged, instead of protecting you, it’s actually causing you more harm. Some of the reasons for a dirty air filter may be:

  • Cooking or cigarette smoke
  • Dirt and dust
  • Pollen
  • Mould growth
  • Microorganisms and bacteria
  • Pet dander

What are the drawbacks of a dirty air filter?

Most of the homeowners don’t pay that much attention to air conditioners until something goes wrong. So if you find yourself in any of the situations below, that may be a sign of a clogged filter:

Low or zero efficiency

First of all, an inefficient air filter equals more energy your air con needs to cool down your home. Since it has to work harder, the fan motor will eventually burn out, resulting in overheating and failure of the entire system.

Decreased comfort in your home

In the same time, a clogged air filter also means less airflow in a room. In other words, you may not feel very comfortable on a hot day, waiting pointlessly for a cooling breeze to come.

Poor air quality for your family

Furthermore, another role of a functional filter is to help you breathe clean air, free from dust and other debris. On the other hand, a dirty air filter leads to an increased amount of indoor air pollutants as pieces break off and spread throughout your home with every cycle.

High power bills to pay!

Finally, here’s something to really worry about: your electricity bill! Dirty air filters will not only affect your health and the system’s performance but also your pocket! Since your air con requires more energy to keep up with your requirements, this may cost you much more than expected.

Find out more about your air con’s air filters

The situations mentioned above are all causes of a dirty air filter. For this reason, we strongly recommend you to ensure a correct and regular maintenance so that you and your family can enjoy a perfectly working air con system.

Do you still think that air filters are not that important to you and your family? Call Jaric Air Conditioning at 1300 452 742 and schedule a professional check today!

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