If you're unsure about whether the air filter is clogged, hold it up to a light source. If the filter is still in good condition, light should shine through. If the filter is dirty or clogged with debris, the light will be obstructed, indicating it's time for a replacement.
A dirty HVAC filter restricts airflow, which can lead to poor system efficiency, increased energy costs, and wear and tear on the unit.
If your filter becomes clogged, it can cause your furnace to shut off as a safety feature to prevent damage to the furnace. To fix this problem, simply replace your air filter on a regular basis. If you have pets, be sure to change your air filter more frequently.
For 1- to 2-inch filters, replace them every 1 to 3 months. For 3- to 4-inch filters, replace them every 6 to 9 months. For 5- to 6-inch filters, replace them every 9 to 12 months.
Cleaning an air filter only has two additional steps from replacing one. Again, the first step is to turn off the HVAC system. Find the service panel, open the furnace, and then locate your filter and remove it from the furnace. From here, you'll want to place it dirty side up and gently vacuum the large debris.
What problems can a backward filter cause? The most common thing you will notice is the inefficiency of the filter. It will be harder for the air to flow, which would take a toll on your system. More strain means spiked utility bills.
A dirty furnace filter is discolored. It's gray or brown instead of its original white or light color. You'll notice a thick layer of dust, dirt, and debris covering the filter's surface. The filter may look clogged or matted, with visible clumps of dust and hair.
Your furnace can, technically, run without a filter. However, we strongly recommend you don't run your furnace without a filter for any length of time. With air constantly moving through your furnace and your home, dust and debris can quickly build up, even in a matter of minutes.
You can usually tell a dirty HVAC filter needs to be changed just by looking at it. The filter will be gray or black and bits of debris will be visible. But you may notice other changes that indicate the furnace is not operating properly.
Your furnace filter collects debris, including allergens, mold spores, and dust. If your filter is too full, it will allow this debris through into the ducts, to be spread throughout your home. As a result, your air quality will drop, and you may notice that your allergies or respiratory symptoms get worse.
Can a dirty filter stop a furnace from working? Yes, without this furnace maintenance task of cleaning the filter, your furnace could require a premature replacement. If your maintenance list does not include replacing the filter, you're risking a lot.
Air filters that are overdue for a change are a common cause of HVAC system failure. Over time, dirt builds up in the heating and AC filters, causing components such as the motor to go into overdrive, which may eventually overheat your unit.
Your filter should indicate somewhere on it whether it's washable. If you aren't sure, get rid of the old filter when its time is up and buy a new filter you know is reusable.
The first thing you'll want to do is shut off your HVAC system. You should always avoid changing furnace filters while running the heating system, as various types of debris can enter the furnace — and you certainly don't want that to happen.
The colder it gets outside, the faster your filter will get clogged with dirt. That's why it's extra important to check on your filter every month during winter. Your furnace's fan is set to “on.” If the fan setting on your thermostat is set to “on” instead of “auto,” your furnace's fan will constantly be running.