Reasons For Having Dirty HVAC Filter

As a responsible homeowner, it is up to you to ensure that you replace your HVAC filter on time. However, you might need to do more than ensure that you replace the air filter on schedule in some cases. If you notice that your filter is full of dust, hair, and other debris at the replacement time, you may be interested in finding out what might be causing it to clog up faster than usual.

Several factors can cause your filter to clog up prematurely. But fortunately, there are steps that you can take to deal with these issues.

Reasons for Having Clogged HVAC Filter

Here are some of the common reasons why your filter may be clogging up faster than usual:

• Pet hair. If you have a pet or shed a lot, this is most likely a major contributing factor to your clogged filter. You can deal with this issue through daily vacuuming combined with regular pet brushing.
• Extreme temperatures. If your area constantly experiences extremely hot or cold weather, your system may be forced to work harder and for longer even if the fan is on “auto.” You may need to reduce the time interval between replacements in such cases.
• The fan set to “on.” Thermostats typically have two fan settings; “on” and “auto.” When you put the fan to “auto,” it only runs when the system is either actively heating or cooling your home. On the other hand, if set to “on,” it blows continuously, meaning that air will be flowing through the filter throughout. Setting it to “auto” will help extend the life of your filters.
• The filter has a high MERV rating. MERV ratings indicate the size of particles that the filter can trap. The higher the rating, the smaller the particles. A thick, pleated filter will catch smaller particles than a low-cost fibreglass filter. However, it also means that it will clog up much quicker. In addition, it may also speed up the wear on your HVAC fan and reduce its energy efficiency. What’s more, these filters are more expensive. Consult an HVAC technician for advice on your options and assistance in choosing the best one for your system and needs.
• Dusty home. If your home is excessively dusty, perhaps due to a recent construction project or accumulated dust in rarely-used rooms, this dust will often end up in the filter.

A New Lease on Life

If your filter clogs up faster than usual, consider vacuuming off the surface of the filter. While this won’t clean your filter, it will go a long way in minimizing the amount of hair and large particles. Remember that plenty of particles will still be trapped deep within the filtration media. This quick and straightforward step will help to stretch the filter for a couple of more days.

A better solution is to invest in an air purification system. Air purification systems eliminate any particles in the air before they reach the HVAC filter. If anyone in your household suffers from a respiratory condition or severe allergies, you may want to consider an air purification system. Also ideal for those who have multiple pets.

You can also consider switching to a reusable filter. Reusable filters are easy to clean using a garden hose or a vacuum attachment. To find out more about these filters, air purification systems or other viable solutions, consider reaching out to the home comfort experts at Furnace Repair Calgary.