Why Should You Regularly Clean Your HVAC Filter?

Tori Klein • June 7, 2021

HVAC systems don’t often show signs of underlying issues, so it’s easy for people to forget its maintenance. Negligence can result in various problems, such as reduced efficiency and higher electricity bills, among other things. One of the most commonly forgotten maintenance procedures is air filter cleaning. The more often you use your HVAC, the faster it accumulates dust. A clogged air filter leads to frequent malfunctions as well as reduced performance. If you’re dealing with the summer heat, a filthy filter might make your home more unbearable.

Why Should You Regularly Clean Your HVAC Filter?

Prolonged Lifespan of your HVAC Unit

A girl is sitting on the couch while pointing the remote on the white HVAC unit installed up on the wall behind her.

A dirty filter is one of the most common causes of a malfunctioning HVAC system. There are many problems associated with a clogged filter, such as lower output, short cycling, overheating motor, and inefficient cooling, among others. These issues reduce the lifespan of your unit. This means you’ll need to spend money for a costly replacement without getting the most out of your HVAC. Properly cleaning your HVAC’s filter can help you maximize your system without the expensive replacement costs.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

A person's hand is lifting the cover of a white air conditioner indoor unit, showing the newly cleaned filters

Most HVAC systems come with a built-in filter that prevents dust, debris, and allergens from accumulating inside your home. This allows you to enjoy better indoor air quality for a prolonged period. However, since these filters collect dust particles, they eventually become too clogged. This can significantly reduce the efficiency of the filter. Plus, filthy HVAC filters eventually become the source of allergens and dust in your home. These particles can trigger existing allergies among your family members. Therefore, to ensure the well-being of your family, it is best to schedule monthly cleaning of your HVAC’s built-in filters.

Reduced Electricity Bills and Improved Cooling Efficiency

One person's hand is holding a pen over the monthly electric bill while the other hand is typing on a black scientific calculator

A dirty filter can also restrict the airflow, which leads to a lower output. The low output is inconvenient for two things: increased utility bills and reduced comfort. A filthy filter can block the airflow of your HVAC system, which means it’ll need to work harder to better regulate the indoor air. Hence, it’ll need to consume more energy to reach the desired temperature. A dirty filter can also result in inconsistent cooling, which can result in cold/hot spots indoors. This can make the winter or summer season more uncomfortable for you. To prevent these problems, make sure to regularly clean your HVAC’s filters.

Have Your HVAC Maintained by the Experts!

To avoid any inconveniences, make sure to schedule regular HVAC maintenance. Consult the device’s manual to know how to properly remove the filter from the unit. You may also check it for any special care instructions to avoid further damages. Cleaning the filters can significantly reduce your monthly energy consumption, so it is recommended to be done at least once a month or as often as needed. 


If it needs a replacement or if you’re unsure how to clean it, make sure to contact a reliable HVAC technician from Best Owner Direct HVAC. Our experts are trained and certified to perform thorough maintenance for various HVAC units. Plus, our years of experience allows us to efficiently diagnose and repair existing problems. Rely on us to help you with your HVAC needs -- Call us today for a free estimate.

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