Changing the HVAC Filter—Small Task, Large Benefit
Changing the HVAC Filter—Small Task, Large Benefit
Is your heating, ventilation and air conditioning system unable to provide conditioned air the way it used to? The problem may be a dirty filter. Clogged filters can affect the way a system operates and reduce energy efficiency. In fact, dirty filters are one of the most common reasons for a service call. Changing a filter is a simple maintenance task that homeowners can do.
Function of HVAC Filters
Filters capture airborne particulates and prevent them from entering ducts. Clogged filters allow pollutants to bypass the filter. Pollutants in the ducts are blown into the living space. Breathing these pollutants can worsen allergies, asthma and other respiratory ailments.
Dust and particulate matter can coat the evaporator coil situated in the air handler. Dirty coils affect heat transfer and control of moisture, which makes your system work harder.
A clogged filter can affect airflow, which also makes the system work harder and affects comfort. Clean filters can lower a system’s energy use between 5% and 15%.
Standard filters are designed to capture large particulates to keep equipment clean. Upgrading to MERV 8 or higher helps keep indoor air clean. MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. The higher the number, the better the filtration. Better filtration can capture biological pollutants, including bacteria, fungi, viruses and mold. Ask your HVAC contractor to recommend a filter for your system.
Importance of HVAC Maintenance
HVAC manufacturers recommend seasonal maintenance to keep heating and air conditioning equipment running smoothly. During a maintenance session, technicians examine, clean and calibrate every component, including filters. Well-maintained systems last longer, have better energy efficiency and require fewer repairs.
Call AC Southeast for Fast, Reliable Service
Whether your HVAC system needs repairs or you would like to schedule HVAC maintenance, the licensed HVAC contractors affiliated with AC Southeast are ready to help. We serve communities in the five-state area of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi and South Carolina. Simply enter your zip code in the search bar on our site to find a contractor near you who provides the services you need. Many are NATE-certified and Carrier Comfort Specialists, designations that indicate advanced training, technical expertise and superb customer service.
Call AC Southeast today to schedule a tune-up.
