What Happens to Your AC if the Filter is Clogged

What Happens to Your AC if the Filter is Clogged As a homeowner, it’s easy to overlook the air filter in your air conditioning unit. But did you know that a dirty air filter can cause significant problems with your HVAC system? The ac air filter is not just to help keep the air clean. Regularly replacing or cleaning the air filter before it turns into a dirty ac filter is one of the most important steps you can take to maintain your air conditioner in tip top shape.

Reduced Air Flow

One of the most significant problems with a dirty air filter is reduced airflow. When the filter becomes dirty and clogged with dust and debris, it places an additional strain on your HVAC system, making it harder for your unit to work properly and efficiently. Over time, this increased wear and tear can lead to a complete breakdown of your system, resulting in costly repairs.

High Energy Bills

A dirty air filter can also lead to high energy bills. When your unit has to work harder than usual, it uses more power to cool your home, resulting in higher energy bills. According to the US Department of Energy, a clogged air filter can cause a 15% increase in energy usage.

Short Cycling

Frequent cycling is another problem that can result from a dirty air filter. Your HVAC system will cycle on and off throughout the day, but a dirty filter can cause those cycles to become more frequent, leading to noise pollution, wasted energy, and uncomfortable temperature changes.

Frozen AC

A dirty air filter can also cause your AC unit to freeze up. When the filter is clogged, it restricts the flow of cold air, causing it to build up inside the unit and lower the temperature. If this happens during the summer cooling season, it can lead to ice forming on the AC coils or evaporator, reducing the HVAC system’s ability to remove heat from the air and eventually causing your air conditioner to break down.

Decreased Comfort

A dirty air filter can also result in decreased comfort for you and your family. Restricted airflow means less cool air and increased strain on the blower, resulting in hot and cold spots in your home and making it harder to reach your desired indoor temperature.

Poor Indoor Air Quality

A dirty AC air filter allows dust, dander, and debris into your air duct system, reducing the quality of the air you breathe and potentially causing respiratory issues or even mold in your ducts. Changing your air filter regularly is especially important if anyone in your home suffers from asthma or respiratory allergies.

Furnace Failure

A clogged air filter can even cause damage to your furnace. The overworked blower may fail entirely, causing the whole HVAC system to fail, resulting in costly repairs or replacement.

Keep Your HVAC System Maintained

To prevent any of the problems mentioned above, it’s critical to check your air filter regularly. If your air conditioner has a reusable filter, clean it regularly and let it dry completely before placing it back in. If your HVAC system uses a disposable filter, replace it with one that is sized and designed specifically for your system. We recommend checking your air filter at least once a month, but advanced filters can last longer. Consult the manufacturer for a recommended replacement schedule. It is also essential not to let your air conditioner run without a filter to avoid potential catastrophic issues in the future.

Give Us A Call Today

At Northern Climate Control, we offer AC and furnace maintenance plans to fit your needs. Don’t let a dirty air filter keep you from being comfortable in your own home or lead to costly repairs. Replacing your air filters is an easy, affordable step you can take to extend the life of your HVAC system.

Our skilled technicians serve the entire Denver Metro Area. Get in touch with us today to get started.

What Our Customers Have to Say

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I have had a few experiences working with them, which were fantastic.

Manny T.

Kevin was fantastic! Very easy to work with and knowledgeable about our HVAC system. After being told that we should replace our furnace entirely because of its age after a transformer blew, I'm so happy we called Northern Climate Control, Inc., for a second opinion. Not only did Kevin replace the faulty transformer, but essentially he saved us thousands of dollars by not prematurely replacing a good Furnace. When we do finally have to replace our system, I know who we will be calling. Thanks for all your help, Kevin!

Sarah Fezler

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SR Todd

Came out quickly when my AC was acting up. The technician took the time to thoroughly explain everything he was doing and everything he was seeing to ensure that I felt comfortable with the work. Prices are much lower than another company we have used before. Absolutely will call them again.

Sarah Lebsack

Kevin at Northern Climate was great. We needed a clean, service and certify on our HVAC and he was able to provide all 3 services. Very reasonable prices in comparison to other companies without the corporate hassle. Provided me with great tips on our HVAC unit and was very honest. Definitely my new HVAC company.

Yinessa Bueno

When our A/C unit stopped working, I called Scott that Saturday and gave him the info for a new unit (being 16 SEER) and asked for a price. He got back to me the same day. Price was great and he said he could be here on the following Monday afternoon. I provided Him with the key dimension for the top of our air handler an it was a go for the following Monday. Scott and son showed up earlier and went to work. By 7PM the house was cooler and Scott answered all our questions. With a 16 SEER unit, Xcel Energy will provide a rebate and the office followed up with the required paper work. Great working with NCC Team. David Ranger, From Centennial, CO

David Ranger

Very honest and knowledgeable technician. I was out if town when they came to service out AC and I had some questions for them. My wife called me and I spoke with the technician for about 5 minutes. He answered my questions and could have upsold me but didn't. Will continue to use and trust N. Climate Control.

Ian Kahn

Northern came out after we used Plumbline to do service on our A/C. They (plumbline) said we required hundreds of dollars in repairs. We had Northern come out and they found absolutely nothing wrong with our unit. Thank you for saving us hundreds in unnecessary repairs.

Victoria Parker

Trustworthy and dependable, excellent work both at repairing and replacing furnaces and air conditioning systems. I have used Scott at Northern for over 15 years and he has serviced all of the homes I own as rentals as well as the 75 that I manage. I wouldn't use any one else!

Richard Douglas

Kevin was very knowledgeable about my furnace and serviced it in a timely manner. I have used Northern Climate several times now and have always had a great experience.

Elsa Erickson