It's important to be aware of the wear and tear that can occur on parts of your home and vehicle. When it comes to air filters, if they become too congested during the summer cooling season, it can lead to a lack of air flow to the evaporator or cooling coils. This can cause the fan to work harder, resulting in higher utility bills according to the Department of Energy. Clogged air filters can contribute up to 15% more to energy consumption.
Not only that, but dirty air filters can also cause harmful emissions, wasted fuel, damaged spark plugs, and accumulations in the engine. When the air filter is full of dust, dirt, and debris, those impurities will return to the home's air, reducing quality. Keeping the filter clean and in good condition will help you avoid these problems and extend the life of your vehicle. For every gallon of gasoline a car consumes, it must be able to absorb thousands of gallons of air to process fuel efficiently. If you find that your air filter needs a change, it is also advisable to check the condition of the spark plugs to see if they have been damaged as well. It is wise to check your air filter every month and replace it every one to three months depending on your circumstances.
A clogged filter can also cause a malfunction in the air conditioner fan motor which is an expensive repair compared to replacing a $10 air filter. If your car shakes when you accelerate or responds more slowly than usual, it most likely won't get the air it needs to run at peak performance. In addition to high bills, a clogged filter can cause the boiler to malfunction. The boiler uses a fan to bring air from the house to the system, heat it up, and then blow the hot air back into the house. Russell, a native of Australia and vice president of operations for Phyxter Home Services, is also a co-owner of Vernon Air Conditioning, Plumbing and Electrical Services. He recommends checking your air filter regularly in order to avoid any potential problems that could arise from a dirty filter. In order to keep your home and vehicle running smoothly and efficiently, it's important to be aware of how dirty air filters can affect them.
From sizes to types, qualities, and more, understanding what an air filter does and how often it needs replacing is key for avoiding costly repairs or energy bills. Regularly checking your air filter will help you maintain peak performance for both your home and vehicle.
