Your air filter plays a crucial role in not only keeping the air that comes out of your air conditioner clean but also making sure that your system runs smoothly and efficiently. When it doesn’t, one of the main culprits can be a dirty filter. Read on to learn more about the seven most common AC problems caused by a dirty filter, plus how you can prevent breakdowns and provide a healthier indoor environment with better air quality.
7 Common AC Problems Caused by a Dirty Filter
- Overheating. If your air filter is clogged, your air conditioner has to work harder to compensate for the airflow blockage. This can lead to system failures by causing your blower motor to overheat.
- Poor Air Quality. Dirt and other particles get trapped in your air filter, and if it’s clogged, these are then released into your home. If there are any asthma sufferers or people with respiratory allergies in your home, it’s particularly important to keep your air filters clean. Allergens will build up in your duct system, and you may even end up with mould problems.
- Short-Cycling. Your AC will occasionally cycle on and off throughout the day. Having a dirty filter can cause those cycles to become more frequent than needed. You will experience uncomfortable temperature changes, wasted energy, and unnecessary noise.
- Uneven Cooling. A clogged air filter causes airflow issues and is detrimental to your AC’s cooling power. In this case, it’s more difficult to reach your desired indoor temperature levels, and you’ll notice inadequate cooling that leaves you with hot and cold spots and higher costs.
- Frozen Evaporator Coils. A dirty air filter can restrict the flow of cold air, causing it to build up inside your AC unit and lower the internal temperature. Over time, this build-up of cold air can result in ice forming on the evaporator coils. The coils won’t receive enough heat, and this can cause your unit to shut down in the process.
- Wear and Tear. A dirty filter will cause unnecessary wear and tear that can lead to more serious maintenance issues along the line. You could even end up having to replace your AC unit a year or two sooner, and you’ll be paying for costly repairs in the meantime.
- Reduced Energy Efficiency. An AC unit with a dirty filter uses more power to try and cool your home. You’ll end up with a system that’s not performing at its best and increased costs on your energy bills.
Prevent all of these issues from happening by cleaning or changing your air filters once a month as a guideline. Regular maintenance check-ups will also help keep your system in good condition.
Contact an HVAC Maintenance Company Today
Say goodbye to AC problems caused by a dirty filter, and enjoy your cool home once more. Contact Air Treatment ClimateCare for your heating and cooling needs. We look forward to hearing from you!
