Maintaining Clean Air in Your Home: Signs That You Need to Change Your HVAC Air Filter
Having a clean air filter in your home's heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is essential for keeping the air inside your home free of dust, pollen, and other contaminants. A dirty air filter can not only reduce airflow but also cause allergens to circulate freely throughout your home, aggravating allergies and asthma. Knowing when it's time to change your HVAC air filter can be tricky. Here are some signs that you need to replace yours:
1. Visible Dirt on the Filter
The most obvious sign that it's time to change your air filter is if you can see dust and debris on it. Even if it doesn't look dirty, you should still check the filter every month or two as dust and dirt can accumulate quickly.
2. Rising Energy Bills
If you've noticed an increase in energy bills without any other changes to your lifestyle or home, a clogged filter could be the culprit as it restricts airflow and forces the HVAC system to work harder than usual.
3. Strange Noises Coming From The System
A blocked up air filter may cause strange noises such as rattling, buzzing, or humming sounds coming from the vents.