Maintaining your home’s HVAC system is important for more than just keeping the temperature comfortable — a clean, functional air filter also helps keep toxic particles and airborne contaminants from entering your lungs. Understanding the importance of an air filter and keeping it in proper working order can significantly affect the quality of life inside your home or office.
Additionally, knowing the size of your air filter is also important. A 12 x 24 x 1 air filter will generally be the right size for most systems, but you should always double-check with your manufacturer or local HVAC professional to make sure.
Here are some of the most important reasons why using an air filter is a critical part of keeping your HVAC system running smoothly:
Keeps Contaminants Out of the Air
Air filters help to keep the air in your home or office free of airborne contaminants and particles. This is especially important if you suffer from allergies or asthma, as these tiny particles can easily trigger an attack. A well-maintained air filter can help to reduce the amount of dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, bacteria, and other allergens that make their way into your lungs.
Improves Indoor Air Quality
By trapping contaminants in the air filter, an air filter helps to improve the indoor air quality in your home or office. This can help to reduce odors and make it easier to breathe while also reducing the amount of dust and grime that accumulates on furniture and surfaces.
Prevents Damage to HVAC System Components
Using an air filter can also help to reduce the amount of wear and tear on your HVAC system components. Dust and other particles can build up in the system, causing it to run inefficiently or potentially even break down over time. By changing your air filter regularly, you can help to extend the life of your system and prevent expensive repairs or replacements.
Condensate Drain Issues
Using an air filter also helps to prevent condensate drain issues, which can otherwise occur when the air conditioner removes too much moisture from the inside air. This excess water can build up in the unit and cause it to malfunction or even break down. An efficient air filter can help keep this issue at bay by trapping some of that moisture before it enters the system.
Extends the Life of Your HVAC System
A good air filter can help extend the life of your HVAC system by preventing components from being damaged due to dirt and dust build-up. This can save you money on repairs down the line, as well as help you avoid a costly replacement.
All in all, the importance of an air filter for your HVAC system can’t be understated. Not only does it help to keep you and your family healthy by filtering out harmful airborne contaminants, but it also helps to prolong the life of your system’s components and improve its overall efficiency. Keeping up with regular maintenance on your air filter is essential for making sure your home or office stays comfortable and healthy.
