If you notice that your AC unit isn’t performing as well as it used to, the problem may not be with your AC system; it might be a dirty air filter. A clogged filter can prevent your AC from cooling your Opelika, AL, home properly, and if left unchecked, it can even cause damage to your unit. Here are four ways a dirty air filter affects your AC unit.
1. Makes the System Work Harder
A dirty air filter puts unnecessary strain on the AC system. To function properly, your AC unit must be able to circulate air freely. However, a dirty air filter inhibits this process by blocking airflow. As a result, your AC unit has to work harder to circulate the same amount of air in your home, raising the monthly energy bills.
2. Freezing Evaporator Coils
When the air filter becomes clogged with dust and debris, it will restrict how much air can flow through it and circulate the refrigerant. This can cause your evaporator coils to freeze because the refrigerant in the evaporator coil becomes much colder, making it difficult for your AC unit to cool your home.
3. Overheating of the Unit
Restricted airflow due to a dirty air filter can cause more problems than frozen coils; it can also force your unit to work harder to cool your home. In turn, extended stress can cause the unit to overheat in the long run and shut down prematurely as it tries to cool things down.
4. Increased Wear and Tear
Even if your AC doesn’t overheat, that doesn’t mean you’re in the clear with a dirty air filter. When your AC has to continually work harder than necessary to cool your home, that puts more stress on its components, increasing wear unnecessarily. At worst, that can lead to your components needing costly repairs or early replacement.
Whether you’re looking for advice on the best air filters to use or you need help with your AC system, we can help. Contact us today at Climate Control Heating & Air Conditioning for any air conditioning and heating repair or installation services.
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