Not all heating systems use an air filter, but if you have a heating system that does, it is important that you, or a trained technician, change it every three months. The systems that use air filters are furnaces (both electric and gas), and any system that uses a heat pump (including geothermal and high velocity systems). Why is it so important to change your air filter? We\u2019ll explain more below.<\/p>\n
The first reason it is important to make sure you aren\u2019t running your heating system with a clogged air filter is air flow. Your heating system needs a specific amount of air moving through it during operation for it to work properly. Clogged air filters will act as a stop-gag to air, seriously restricting it. This will put tremendous pressure on your system and reduce its capability to heat your home.<\/p>\n
Your heating system works in a delicate balance when it comes to air pressure. Not only does the main part of the heating system, where the heat is generated, need to have a balance of air, but your ductwork does, too. A clogged and dirty air filter can throw off all the air pressure throughout the system, creating a number of systemic problems.<\/p>\n
A clogged air filter is utterly ineffectual for stopping dust and dirt from entering your system. In fact, dust and dirt will just simply go around the filter and have a direct path into your home\u2019s living spaces. This can be a serious problem for those who suffer from indoor allergies or have allergy sufferers at home.<\/p>\n