How Quick Can Air Filters Become Blocked

Your HVAC system plays an integral role in keeping your loved ones relaxed and comfortable. Unfortunately, it is susceptible to wear and tear if it is often running. Your home’s air conditioner filters can be clogged quickly, causing considerable damage to your heating and cooling unit. They can also impact your comfort and health if you fail to attend to it quickly. Moreover, it can lead to increased air conditioning expenses.

Understanding how quickly your air conditioner is blocked is the key to keeping your air conditioner in pristine condition. Read on to discover how quickly air filters become blocked.

What Causes Blocked Air Filter?

Identifying the cause of a blocked air filter is the first step you will take to protect them from clogging. Discover the major causes of a blocked air filter below:

1. You Are Using the Wrong Air Filter

Most air conditioners come with 1-inch pleated filters. Although these air filters effectively catch more dust and airborne contaminants, they are clogged quite easily. Your 1-inch pleated air filter will catch every particle, which means it will be filled in no time. The best thing to do is to switch to fiberglass air filters. Using thicker air filters can also work. However, you will get more value for your money when you switch to air cleaners.

2. Your AC is Always On

The chances are that your air filters will be clogged quickly if your air conditioner is set to “on.” When the fan is always running, it will continuously blow air over the filters. This means the air filters will be catching more pollutants, making them get clogged quickly. What is more, your air conditioning costs will increase, since your air conditioner is blowing non-stop and has to work harder. Set your AC to “auto” so that the blower runs only when needed.

3. Duct Leaks

Did you know that about 20% to 30% of the air that flows through the duct is lost due to leaks? Duct leaks lead to increased electrical bills and inefficient air conditioners. The air filters will also become clogged quickly since the system will pull dust from dusty areas – including the crawl space and your attic. You can prevent duct leaks by asking a certified and experienced HVAC expert to inspect them.

4. Pet Hair and Dander

Do you have furry friends? Unfortunately, cat and dog hair will clog your air filters quickly. The good news is that you can overcome this problem by installing an air filtration system.

What Happens When Air Filters Become Blocked?

Clogged air filters can cause serious issues. First, blocked air filters will reduce air quality in your home, leading to respiratory problems and airborne diseases. It will also reduce the performance of your heating and cooling unit and increase utility bills.

If you want to learn more about why your air filters become clogged in no time, it would be best to get in touch with our air conditioner service technicians. Call us on 1300 730 896.