Your HVAC’s air filter is designed to last for a specific amount of time, whether it is thirty days or three months. These filters keep dust, pollen, pet dander, and other small particles out of the air you breathe. While they should always be a little dirty when you replace them, they should never be clogged so much that air can’t get through the filter anymore.
If you find your air filters are clogged every time you go to change them, there may be a reason why they are getting dirty so quickly. In this blog post, we will go over some of the common causes of this, as well as ways you can correct the problem.
Clogged Quicker Than Normal
Here are some of the reasons why your air filter may be clogging quicker than usual:
Pet Hair and Dander
While our furry friends make our lives easier, they make our HVAC filters work harder. Your filter will undoubtedly clog quicker than expected with one or more shedding pets in your home. You can combat this issue with daily vacuuming and weekly pet brushing!
Dusty Home
Dust is a common problem inside the home, whether from a recent construction project or an increase in fireplace usage over the winter. Anything that doesn’t get cleaned can end up in your filter. Dusting and vacuuming weekly is essential!
Your Fan Is Set to “On” Instead of “Auto”
When the fan on your thermostat is set to “auto,” it only runs when your system is actively heating or cooling your home. However, when it is set to “on,” air will continuously pass through your air filter. Switching your fan to “auto” will help extend the life of your filter.
How You Can Fix It
Now that you know what may be causing your air filter to clog so quickly, here are some solutions:
Invest in a Higher-Quality Air Filter
If you notice that your HVAC filters get dirty quickly, it may be due to the quality of air filter you’re buying. High-performance filters have a longer lifespan and don’t get clogged as quickly as ones that are only designed to last thirty days. Consider investing in a higher-quality air filter.
Schedule HVAC Maintenance
Leaks in your ductwork can introduce dust and dirt into your home from areas like your attic. This dust and dirt will accumulate in your air filter and cause it to clog more quickly than normal. Scheduling HVAC maintenance and requesting an inspection of your entire HVAC system will ensure your ducts are leak-free, preventing your filters from clogging prematurely.
Consider an Indoor Air Quality System
The best way to prevent your filters from clogging too soon is to supplement your HVAC system with an Indoor Air Quality System. This will help to remove any particles before they can reach your HVAC filter. You should consider investing in an IAQ system if someone in your home suffers from allergies or a respiratory condition or if you have multiple pets.
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Indoor Air Quality Services in Bluffton
Whether you want to extend the life of your HVAC filter or remove dust and pet dander from your air, Dyess Air & Plumbing can help you. Contact us today at (843) 242-0855 to learn more!