The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI) has found that a dirty air filter can be the cause of allergic reactions and sinus congestion in people who are sensitive to animals, pollen, and mold. Not only can this lead to health issues, but it can also cause your HVAC system to malfunction, leading to costly repairs. Many people think that air filters in ovens and air conditioners keep dust and allergens out of the air. However, the air in your home is still contaminated with dust, pollen, dander, mold spores, and other particles.
In fact, about 60% of asthma cases are caused by these particles. A good quality air conditioning filter can help reduce these air pollutants. But when the filter becomes clogged with dust and debris, its efficiency decreases. This means that the air conditioner is pushing allergens and asthma triggers throughout your home.
The health problems you experience as a result of the dirty filter are likely due to allergic reactions to particles in the air. To determine the effectiveness of an air filter option, look for its MERV rating (Minimum Efficiency Report Value). If you have pets or smokers in your home, you may need to change the filter more often to avoid problems with indoor air quality. When looking for an air conditioning filter or filter replacement, you should look for one that removes the smallest particles from the air.
If the filter becomes too clogged with dust, dander and debris, then the blower has to work harder to get air through the blocked filter. Most residential homes can accommodate air filters up to MERV 13, but it's best to consult with a professional HVAC technician before using any product other than MERV 9.It's generally recommended to change the air filter once a month during busy heating and cooling seasons. This is an easy task that should not be forgotten if you want to keep your family healthy.
