What Does a Dirty Air Filter Do to an AC System?

A dirty air filter can have a significant impact on an air conditioning (AC) system. Learn how it restricts cold air flow, causes overheating & more.

What Does a Dirty Air Filter Do to an AC System?

A dirty air filter can have a significant impact on an air conditioning (AC) system. It restricts the flow of cold air, causing it to build up inside the unit and reducing the internal temperature. This can eventually lead to ice forming on the coils, and an overheated AC is often a sign of a clogged air filter. The air conditioner will work harder when turned on to keep the room cool, putting more pressure on the system and causing it to produce a lot of heat.

The air filter is located between the intake air and the HVAC system, so if it's clogged, air won't be able to circulate through the vents. This means you won't have enough air to keep you comfortable. A clear sign that the air filter needs to be replaced is when the back of the unit is too hot. If it's very dirty, you may even feel hot air coming out of the back.

This will lead to more frequent repairs and will shorten the life of the unit. It's important to replace the air filter regularly in order to reduce the load on your AC system. According to the U. S.

Department of Energy, a clogged filter can cause a 15% increase in energy consumption. It's recommended to check your AC system every two to four weeks and clean or replace the filters whenever they are dirty. This will help stop dust and dirt from accumulating on the internal components of your AC system. Many homeowners assume that a dirty air filter is only a problem because it keeps the air dirty, but this isn't true.

A clogged filter forces your AC system to work harder, which can lead to more frequent repairs and ultimately shorten its life. It can also cause hot or cold spots all over your house, or make it feel like one temperature when your thermostat indicates another. The filter is often overlooked when it comes to HVAC maintenance, but it requires more attention than many people realize. If you haven't been cleaning or replacing your filters regularly, you may be surprised at how much of an impact it can have on your AC system.

Edwin Ezparza
Edwin Ezparza

Devoted pizza enthusiast. General travel fanatic. Evil social media evangelist. Devoted coffee lover. Friendly pop culture advocate.

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