How To Perk Up Your HVAC With These New Filter Options
Back to BlogThe typical HVAC system consists of cooling and heating systems, air ducts, a thermostat and perhaps add-on equipment, such as whole-home ventilation and humidification systems. To deliver efficient air conditioning, there’s one important HVAC task homeowners should stay on top of. To reach peak cooling and heating efficiency in your Alpharetta home, change the air filter regularly.
HVAC Airflow Efficiency
Free airflow is imperative for a HVAC to cool and heat efficiently. Airflow promotes better heat exchange at the evaporator coil in heat pumps and HVACs, and adequate airflow prevents the furnace from overheating and shutting down.
Air filters trap airborne particles, allergens and microorganisms in the return-side ductwork. Though air filters are closely associated with improving indoor air quality, the essential role air filters perform is protecting HVAC components from dirt and contaminant buildup, which hinders airflow heat exchange, damages components and degrades efficiency.
Cooling and Heating Efficiency
It’s important to change the air filter regularly to maintain free airflow across the air handler or blower. If a filter becomes clogged with debris, the air handler or blower motor must use more energy to pull air through the filter. It doesn’t take long for the motor to sustain damage or fail. Moreover, a clogged filter can increase HVAC bills up to 15 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
A mid- or high-efficiency filter is recommended to trap microorganisms, such as mold spores and bacteria. Heat pumps and A/C components, such as the evaporator coil, fins, drip pan and drain line, provide perfect breeding grounds for algae, mold and mildew growth. These contaminants in essence obstruct airflow and heat exchange across the evaporator coil, and they can block drainage.
If you’re using a disposable fiberglass filter, switch to a more efficient air filter that traps microorganisms and other harmful contaminants. A permanent electrostatic filter works nicely. It requires occasional cleaning and lasts for years. Whichever filter you decide upon, follow manufacturer recommendations for cleaning or changing.
Schedule Air Conditioning Maintenace in Macon and the Surrounding Areas
Learn more about why it’s important to change the air filter regularly and other indoor air quality solutions available from the professionals at Conditioned Air, Inc. in the Macon metro area.