The Health Risks of a Dirty Air Filter

A clogged air filter can cause your heating and cooling system to become inefficient, leading to premature wear and tear, system failure, or costly utility bills. But the health risks of a dirty air filter can be even more serious. Contaminants and small particles can make you sick if you don't keep the filter clean. Over time, these particles build up in the ducts and can cause respiratory infections, asthma attacks, and other health problems.

It is important to change your air filter regularly to minimize the effects of dirty air. If the owner's manual doesn't mention anything about the filter, it is generally recommended to change it once a month during busy heating and cooling seasons. If you or a family member has been sneezing, coughing, and generally not feeling well, it may be due to a dirty air filter. But when filters get too clogged, dirt, dust and allergens have nowhere to go, reducing air quality.

Smog and other air pollutants can enter your home, making the HVAC system and filter work harder to keep the air clean. It is better to get a thorough cleaning of the air quality than just a partial one with the remaining dust and new chemicals mixed in the air. People with allergies, asthma, or respiratory diseases are especially at risk from dirty air filters. Even the lowest level of dust, dirt, or pollen can cause serious health problems. Action Furnace technicians can clean all ventilation grilles and walkways in your home with compressed air and a powerful vacuum.

When these particles are not removed, they can block air from passing through the filter, making the HVAC system less efficient. It is also important to consult a professional when seeking to improve air quality in the home by improving the air filters used. In some cases, people may experience health problems related to air conditioning even if the unit is clean as a whistle. For more information on how to change your dirty air filter and repair any damage it may have caused, Avery is proud to serve North Carolina. Air filters that look dirty should be changed as soon as possible, even if they say they last more than a month.