How Air Filters Work and Why They’re Important

Your heating and cooling system works hard to keep your Houston, Texas, home livable in the hot summers and cooler months. Make sure you regularly maintain your HVAC system, which includes changing the system’s air filters routinely.

Your HVAC air filters are an underestimated aspect of system performance. Keeping them clean can prevent significant damage to your HVAC equipment.

Air Filters Keep Your System Free From Debris

Air filters are fairly inconspicuous. In fact, you may have difficulty imagining how they can impact your HVAC system’s performance. Filters protect your indoor air quality, but their primary function is to keep your HVAC system’s interior from getting damaged or compromised by dust and other floating debris. Made of biodegradable paper or similar material, filters trap airborne particles and keep them from coming through your HVAC unit.

It’s important to change your filter routinely, since a dirty filter can affect your system’s air flow, cause overheating, and place strain on your machine. When dust accumulates on the system’s coils, heat exchanger, and fan, the debris can cause further structural damage.

Choosing the Right Air Filter for Your System

Filters come in many different sizes to fit various HVAC models. One of our Davis Air Conditioning and Heating contractors can tell you the correct size you need and show you how to install your filter correctly.

You should also look for the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) ratings. These ratings range from one to 16 and mark the level a filter can trap microscopic particles in the air. The higher the number, the more efficient a filter is at capturing smaller particles.

Changing your air filter routinely is something you can do to extend the life of your HVAC unit in addition to regular maintenance. These maintenance visits can prevent problems before they arise and help you avoid costly repairs. Call one of our Davis Air Conditioning and Heating service professionals at 888-710-5530 or 888-929-0049 to discuss a preventive maintenance plan for your system.

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