Filters – How Important Are They?

Filters play a more important role than you might think. They help keep your systems clean and functional. A filter in poor condition won’t protect the system, leading to potential malfunctions and safety hazards.

The negative effects from lack of maintenance:

• HVAC filters — If your filter isn’t consistently changed, dust and contaminants will clog the filter. This creates a barrier that prevents airflow from moving adequately, resulting in higher energy bills, poor temperature regulation, clamped-up coils, etc.
• Dryer vent filters — If you fail to clean these frequently, they will get clogged and prevent the dryer from exhausting hot air. This leads to the dryer overheating, clothes taking longer to dry, a higher energy bill, or potential fire.
• Refrigerators — A water filter removes odors, impurities and chemicals. If the filter is not changed regularly, these contaminants will be present in the “purified” drinking water and ice cubes.  Sub-Zero fridges also have an air filter system. Changing the filter is important to prevent icing, leaks, or damage to the compressor.

Solution:
Read the owner’s manual for your appliance or system to learn the proper maintenance.

If your system is displaying any of the above conditions, have a licensed specialist assess the system to repair as needed and ensure no further damage takes place.

*Use only licensed professionals.