One of the most important, easiest and least expensive things you can do to ensure the efficient operation of the heating and cooling systems in your Lorain area home is the proper installation and maintenance of system air filter, including regular and timely air filter replacement. Such a seemingly insignificant and easy-to-forget task like air filter replacement can have a huge effect on a variety of indoor air comfort and air quality factors. Consider the following:
- Running HVAC equipment with dirty filters is the number one cause of mechanical breakdown. This is because the restricted airflow caused by a dirty filter puts unnecessary strain on the system that can cause overheating and eventual failure.
- Dirty filters cause the equipment to use more energy, increasing your utility costs, and also increase your carbon footprint.
- Clean air filters improve the quality of the air you breathe, especially when you use an air filter with a MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) in the 8-12 range, which are usually recommended for residential use. Allergy sufferers and those with breathing problems will be negatively affected when air filter replacement isn’t a priority. Filters should be checked every month and changed when they look dirty.
Air filter replacement is easily accomplished on a DIY basis. The most important considerations are to ensure the filter is the proper size for your equipment and that it’s correctly installed so no air can pass through any gaps around the edges. You’ll also want to choose a filter with a MERV rating most appropriate to your specific needs. You may want to consider using a filter that has a built-in layer of activated carbon, which will help remove any harmful gases, vapors or odors (non-particulates) you may have in your home.
Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning has been serving the heating and cooling needs of clients in Lorain, Elyria and Oberlin for more than 30 years, providing excellent products, installation and service. Contact us for any assistance you might need regarding indoor comfort or air quality topics, including air filter replacement tips.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Lorain, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about air filters and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area