Why Should You Be Concerned With Your Air Filter?
Most people have heard about the benefits of clean air at home. However, in an attempt to save money, some homeowners are making decisions that could cost them more money in the long term.
It is important to know what health issues are associated with dirty air filters, if they can safely be cleaned, and what other alternatives are to make the indoor air quality the best it can be.
The Health Issues Associated With Dirty Air Filters
A clean air filter works by stopping dirt, dust, allergens, and other contaminants from continuing to circulate around the home. Dirty air filters, on the other hand, have the potential to cause devastating health effects.
Indoor air pollution is known to cause a variety of different health problems and symptoms. These can be either short term problems or have long-term effects.
Immediate reactions to the poor air quality caused by dirty air filters include symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, headaches, and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. Asthma can also be worsened. Long term, repeated exposure can cause cancer, respiratory disease, and heart disease.
This is why it is important to change the air filters in the home at least every 3 months, and more often if the home contains pets or smokers.
Can Homeowners Clean Dirty Air Filters?
While many people attempt to start cleaning dirty air filters instead of changing them, this simply does not work. Problem number one with attempting to clean dirty air filters is that it is not possible to reach the most important part – the inner fibers! This is the part that collects all of the dust, pollen, dirt, and other particulate matter.
Ultimately, they collectively create a barrier that stops air from being able to pass through at all. Not only does this harm indoor air quality, but it can also be detrimental to the entire HVAC system.
In addition, getting an air filter wet can cause it to retain that water and eventually grow mold. HVAC systems will then spread those mold spores around the home.
However, there are air filters for the home that can be cleaned instead of replaced. Homeowners who are interested in purchasing one for their home should contact an HVAC technician to find out if it will work with their existing system.
Knowing When You Need More Than a Filter Change
While being aware of how, when, and why to upgrade air filters in the home is important, sometimes a home needs more than that. In cases like this, a full air quality cleanses may be necessary.
UV air sanitizers are the most recent advance in air purifying technology. While an air filter traps the dirt and dust particles, the ultraviolet light provided by an air sanitizer actually improves the air. It literally incinerates airborne germs and bacteria in the home, while also eliminating odors.
The benefits of using an air sanitizer are numerous. It is especially beneficial for homes with family members who suffer from asthma and allergies. However, they should always be installed by a professional HVAC technician.
About Sharp-Long 72 Degrees Air Conditioning and Heating
The staff at Sharp-Long 72 Degrees Air Conditioning and Heating provide top-notch HVAC services in Lees Summit. They also offer comprehensive system inspections before providing custom, cost-efficient solutions, with all costs, explained upfront.