Does a Dirty Air Filter Affect My HVAC System?

As a homeowner, you have likely heard that it is important to change your HVAC filter regularly. However, you are not alone if you have wondered whether it is really that important to change your air filter as often as recommended. Would waiting a few extra months really hurt? The answer is yes. In fact, you may be surprised to learn just how big of an impact a dirty air filter can have on your HVAC system. If you have been tempted to wait to replace an air filter to save time and money, here is a look at just a few of the problems doing so can cause.

Increased Energy Consumption

When you do not replace your air filter frequently enough, your HVAC system will have to work harder to pull air through the clogged filter. This means that your system will have to run longer and consume more energy to heat/cool your home, which can cost you a pretty penny over time! On the flip side, replacing your air filter regularly can then save you money as your HVAC system will not have to work as hard.

You Won't be as Comfortable

Of course, if your air filter is severely clogged and your HVAC system is having trouble getting enough air, this can also affect your comfort level. Without enough airflow, your HVAC system will likely have a harder time heating/cooling your home, which means it won't be able to keep you comfortable when you need it most.

You Could Damage Your System

Not only will the strain of a dirty air filter cause more energy to be consumed, but it will also cause unnecessary wear and tear to your HVAC system’s components. This can result in your system needing costly repairs if your motor fails, and it could even cause your heater or air conditioner to overheat and fail. In fact, not changing a dirty air filter frequently enough is one of the most common causes of premature failure in HVAC systems.

While it can seem like a hassle, replacing your HVAC system's air filters regularly is critical in ensuring that it is able to keep you comfortable in your home. Contact us to learn more about the importance of regular HVAC maintenance!

Helpful Tips for Preparing your HVAC System for Spring

When the warm weather hits, issues with your HVAC system will be the last thing you’ll want to worry about. A properly functioning air conditioning system is essential for spring and summer comfort. Consider these four tips to help you prepare your HVAC system for spring.

Air Filter

When was the last time you gave any thought to your air filter? If you haven’t replaced your air filter in a while, now is the time to think about it. By purchasing a new air filter and replacing your current one, your air quality and efficiency will be improved. Also, be sure to have your air filter checked every thirty days during the warm weather months and replace it when needed.

Ductwork 

To ensure proper duct performance for distributing conditioned air in a home or building, have an air conditioning repair or installation contractor test your ductwork for leaks this spring. Having leaks in your ductwork repaired will increase your system’s efficiency and help your HVAC system cool your home more effectively.

Consider an Upgrade

An air conditioner has a typical lifespan of around 10 to 15 years. Therefore, if your air conditioner is acting up, and it is over 15-years-old, then it might be better to upgrade and replace it. Spring is a great time to have a new air conditioning system installed. If your system is old, having it replaced by a new, efficient system will save you money and reduce your cooling bill.

A Programmable Thermostat 

Are you trying to find the best way to save energy? If you do not have a programmable thermostat, have one installed sooner rather than later. You will enjoy better control of the temperature in your home and will lower your energy bills as well.

For example, if you go to work all day, during that time, you can raise the temperature in your home. This way, you can avoid wasting energy dollars cooling a vacant home. Then, you can program the thermostat to kick on at a lower temperature about a half hour before you are scheduled to get home. Therefore, you won’t miss a minute of optimal comfort!

For more information, or to schedule an air conditioning service or repair, please contact us here at Blackie's Heating and Air Conditioning.

Energy Efficiency Guide for Summer

With summer in full swing and at least a few more weeks of hot, sunny days on the horizon, it’s more important than ever that your home is as energy efficient as possible in order to keep you and your family cool and comfortable without causing your energy bills to skyrocket. There are many ways in which you can make your HVAC system and home as a whole more energy efficient this summer. Continue reading for a few of our top tips on energy efficiency.

·         System maintenance: If it’s been over a year since you’ve had your HVAC system serviced, now is the time! An inspection and overall maintenance can help your system to run at peak performance, saving you money and keeping your home cool.

·         Clean air filters: The air filters in your HVAC system should be cleaned or replaced at the start of every new season, sometimes more often depending on your system usage. When your air filters are dirty, your system is forced to work harder in order to push air through your vents into your home. Keeping your air filters clean can go a long way in keeping your system running at maximum efficiency.

·         Keep clean: Keeping your home clean is an easy way to increase energy efficiency. When dust, pet fur, and other allergens are eliminated from the air, furniture, and linens in your home, they are less likely to get caught in ducts and air filters and slow down your system. Frequent vacuuming and sweeping can go a long way towards eliminating these allergens, and an air conditioning expert can also help to clean your ducts.

·         Energy audit: A home energy audit can alert you to where energy is being lost in your home and the changes you can make in order to make your home more energy efficient. Our team is proud to offer energy evaluations in order to help you make your home as comfortable and healthy as possible.

For more information on energy efficiency or to schedule a home energy audit in Tilton IL, click here to visit our website.