Can a Dirty Air Filter Cause an AC to Stop Working?
The air filter is arguably the most important component of your air conditioning system. Air filters do just what their name says: filter the air!. They not only keep pollen and dust out, but also keep larger particles out of your heating and cooling unit, preventing your unit from damage. Dirty, clogged and unchanged air filters are a leading cause of air conditioner problems.
Failure to clean or change your AC’s air filter as recommended means mold, dust, and other particles will find their way into your home, impacting your indoor air quality. Damaged or clogged air filters will force your air conditioner to consume more energy, costing you more money in monthly utility costs for poorer quality air. What’s more, it means that rooms within your home may not be having the level of air circulation they need, and this affects your overall home comfort levels.
Below are a few air conditioner problems you’ll experience if you fail to clean or replace your unit’s air filter:
- Short cycling:
Short cycling refers to the process wherein the unit keeps running on and turning off, usually every few minutes, throughout the day. When in tip-top condition, your air conditioner should occasionally cycle on and off throughout the day. However, a dirty or clogged air filter will ultimately force those cycles to become more frequent. Apart from the loss of energy and uncomfortable temperature changes that come with increased cycling incidence, your home will also suffer from noise pollution.
- Compromised system efficiency:
If you don’t clean or change your system’s air filters on time, perhaps because of the associated costs, know that you are not only impacting the efficiency of your air conditioner, but damaging your finances in the long run. A compromised air filter will make your unit consume more power to cool your home, and you’ll end up incurring bigger monthly utility expenses.
- Allergen buildup:
It is always good to keep your air filters clean at all times, especially if someone in your home suffers from asthma or respiratory problems. A dirty air filter will not impact your home’s comfort levels, but will also cause allergens to collect in your duct system and anytime the system operates, these harmful allergens will be released into your indoor air.
- Freezing incidences:
When properly maintained, your air conditioner’s air filter allows air to circulate freely out of the unit and into your home. On the other hand, a clogged air filter significantly restricts the free movement of cold air, making it build up inside your air conditioner and affecting your indoor temperature. With time, this unwanted buildup of cold air will eventually result in ice forming on the coils of your system.
- Uneven cooling:
It is also imperative to note that restricted airflow isn’t good for your HVAC’s cooling power. It will result in uneven cooling and this means you’ll experience hot and cold spots in your home.
- Increased repair bills:
With dirty or clogged air filters, air conditioners are forced to strain to meet your home’s comfort requirements. With time, they will ultimately break down and this means you’ll have to contend with costly repairs. And you’ll possibly have to replace it before its normal lifespan.
These are just a few common problems that a dirty air filter can cause to your air conditioner. Above all, a dirty air filter will cause your AC to stop working. So, if you notice that your AC has stopped working, you’ll have to contact your local air conditioner repair technician to have a look at its air filter. Air filter maintenance is very important because this device performs a significant role in cooling your home. All of the air that either cools or heats your home passes through it. For this reason, it is very important to always keep them clean and in tip-top condition.
Don’t worry! we are here to help you with fixing all the air conditioner problems. We have licensed technicians near to you and we can make the same day booking. Call us on 1300 730 896.