Air filters are a crucial part of keeping your home healthy. If you’ve ever been sick, you know there’s nothing worse than being stuck in bed with the flu or on a plane when you’re already under the weather. But did you know that your air filter could be making you sick?
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, your home’s air quality can be as much as six times worse than the air outside. That’s because indoor air pollutants are trapped inside and have nowhere to go, which means that it’s easy for them to build up in your home over time.
That’s why it’s important to understand that an air filter is not a “one size fits all” solution. Depending on your home and the location, different air filters will be required to keep your family safe.
In this article, an Air filter replacement expert in Doylestown will help you understand some symptoms of clogged air filter and how often you should get an air filter replacement.
What does an air filter clogged typically look like?
An air filter clogged is a common problem that can be caused by many things. It is important to know what it looks like so that you can tell if you need to replace your filter or clean it.
An air filter that is clogged can appear dirty and blocked with debris. Here’s what a clogged air filter may look like:
Accumulated dirt and dust
A clogged air filter will typically have a buildup of dirt, dust, and other particles. The filter may appear discolored, grayish, or brownish due to the trapped contaminants.
Blocked filter surface
As the air filter collects more debris, it can become visibly blocked. The surface of the filter may be covered with a layer of dust and particles, making it difficult to see through the filter material.
Restricted airflow
When you remove a clogged air filter, you may notice that it feels heavier than a clean filter due to the accumulation of debris. The blockage can restrict the passage of air through the filter, reducing its effectiveness in capturing airborne particles.
What are potential health issues related to a clogged air filter?
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think about your home’s air filter until the moment it stops working. But if you’ve ever been in a house with a clogged air filter, then you know how much of an impact it can have on your health—and how quickly.
If you suspect that your air filter is clogged, here are six potential health issues to watch out for:
1. Sore throat and cough
2. Allergies
3. Asthma attacks
4. Sinusitis (sinus inflammation)
5. Bronchitis (inflammation of the bronchi)
6. Pneumonia
7. Respiratory irritation
8. Respiratory infections
9. Fatigue and reduced productivity
Symptoms Of A Clogged Air Filter In House
If you notice that your house is starting to smell like dust and the air feels a bit stale, it may be time to change the air filter in your HVAC system.
The air filter in your HVAC system functions as a barrier between the air in your house and the outside world. Its job is to filter out dust, pollen, mold spores, and other allergens before they get into your home. It also helps with energy efficiency by catching dirt and debris that would otherwise make its way into the blower motor and cause damage.
If you’re noticing reduced airflow or increased dust, it’s probably time for a change. Here are some of the most common symptoms of a clogged air filter:
Reduced airflow
This is probably one of the easiest ways to tell if your filter needs replacing. When an HVAC system isn’t getting enough outside air due to a clogged filter, it will have to work harder to provide adequate heating or cooling throughout your home—which means higher energy bills!
Increased dust
A clogged air filter can also cause an increase in dust particles in the air. This could lead to allergies and other respiratory problems if not addressed promptly.
Allergy or respiratory symptoms
If you’re experiencing symptoms like sneezing, coughing, or sinus pain, it could be time to change your air filter. The reason for clogged air filter symptoms is that dust and other particles get into the air you breathe. This can make breathing difficult for some people.
Poor odor control
If your home smells bad even after running the fan for a few hours, it could be time to change your air filter. The reason for this is because dust and other particles are getting into the air that you breathe. This can make breathing difficult for some people.
Increased energy consumption
If you can hear the whirring of your AC or heat pump, but it’s not doing anything to cool or warm your house, then there’s probably something wrong with the filter. This is especially true if it’s been a while since you’ve cleaned out the filter (and it should be cleaned at least once a month).
HVAC system issues
A clogged air filter can cause a variety of issues with your HVAC system, such as reduced efficiency, increased noise levels, or poor indoor comfort levels. In addition, if you have an electronic control board in your system and it senses a certain level of resistance in the airflow caused by a clogged filter (for example), this may trigger an error code which means that there is something wrong with the operation of the unit or its components—so it’s probably best to check out what’s going on before things get worse!
How Often Should You Get An Air Filter Replacement?
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think about your air filter very often. But the truth is that your air filter is responsible for keeping your home clean and comfortable—and if it’s not working well, it could even be making you sick.
That’s why it’s important to make sure that you’re getting a new one regularly—and the question is: how often should you get an air filter replacement?
If you live in a dusty area or have pets or allergies, you should consider changing your filter every couple of months. If not, try to keep track of how long your current one has been in place. You can use a calendar or mark down on a piece of paper when you got it and when it needs to be replaced again.
It’s also smart to check the quality of your home’s air at least twice a year by using an indoor air quality monitor. This will help you spot any problems with your filters before they become an issue and prevent them from worsening over time!
Here are a few additional factors to consider:
Filter type
Different types of air filters have varying lifespans. Fiberglass filters typically need replacement every 1 to 2 months, while pleated filters can last up to 3 months. However, it’s important to check the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific filter.
Usage and air quality
If you live in a dusty area, have pets, or have a higher occupancy in your home, the air filter may become dirty more quickly. Similarly, if you or anyone in your household has respiratory conditions or allergies, more frequent filter changes may be necessary to maintain good indoor air quality.
System requirements
Some HVAC systems may have specific recommendations regarding air filter replacement. It’s advisable to consult the system’s manual or contact an HVAC professional to determine the appropriate replacement interval.
DIY Vs. Professional Air Filter Replacement
The debate between DIY and professional air filter replacement is a hot topic among homeowners, but it’s not always clear which option is best for you.
So, here’s a comparison table highlighting the differences between DIY (Do-It-Yourself) and professional air filter replacement so that you can make an informed decision about the right way to replace your air filter:
| Aspect | DIY Air Filter Replacement | Professional Air Filter Replacement |
| Cost | Lower cost as you only pay for the filter | Higher cost as it includes professional service |
| Convenience | Can be done at your own convenience | Requires scheduling and waiting for the service |
| Skill Level | No special skills required | Requires professional knowledge and experience |
| Time Investment | Typically quick and straightforward | Depends on the complexity of the system and setup |
| Equipment and Tools | Basic tools may be required (e.g., screwdriver) | Professionals come with the necessary tools |
| Filter Selection | You can choose the filter based on your preferences | Professionals can provide guidance and options |
| Expertise and Accuracy | Relies on personal knowledge and understanding | Professionals have the expertise and ensure accuracy |
| System Inspection | Limited ability to inspect overall system condition | Professionals can assess the system for issues |
| Warranty and Guarantees | No specific warranties or guarantees | Professionals may offer warranties or guarantees |
| Safety | Generally safe, but precautions should be taken | Professionals prioritize safety during the service |
Preventive Maintenance is Key! Call A Professional AC Filter Replacement Technician in Doylestown, PA!
If you’re looking for a professional AC filter replacement technician in Doylestown, PA, look no further than CDO Heating and Air Inc. We have the equipment and expertise to take care of all your needs, so don’t hesitate to call us today!
Our team has been delivering high-quality HVAC services to homes across the area for more than 25 years. During that time, we’ve earned a reputation as one of the most reputed names in residential and commercial heating and cooling repair.
Whether you need help with a new air filter installation or just want to schedule an annual HVAC maintenance checkup, we can provide it!
We’ll always go above and beyond for our customers—and that includes providing them with free estimates on any project they’re interested in having done. That way, there are no guessing games involved when it comes time to get started—you know exactly what it’s going to cost before any work begins!
So what are you waiting for? Call us today at (267) 481-7787 to schedule an appointment with our HVAC technician for Air Filter Replacement in Doylestown!