Air Filter Not Working? Here’s Why.
As a homeowner, you likely already know why air filters are so important. So when you find your air filter not working, you’re probably wondering what to do. There are a couple of different problems that could be causing your air filter to not function properly. From cheap filters to airflow obstruction.
No filter
Air filter not working? The reason why could be that there’s not one in your HVAC unit. While this might sound absurd, you’d be surprised how many homeowners forget to replace their filter if they take it out to clean or check the size. While your HVAC system can still run without an air filter, your system will get dirty quickly. That buildup of dust and grime can reduce your HVAC unit lifespan and efficiency. Make sure you have an air filter in your HVAC unit. Double-check to make sure it’s in the right place and is the right size, too.
Improper Installation
If your air filter is installed, it may not be installed correctly. If your filter isn’t sealed properly in the filter frame, air can pass through around the gaps surrounding the misplaced filter. While these gaps may seem small and insignificant, they can have a huge impact on your air filter efficiency. It can be almost as bad as not having an air filter installed at all! If you have questions about the fit or what size air filter you need for your HVAC unit, contact an HVAC technician to ensure your filter, filter housing, and gaskets are in good working condition and that everything fits properly.
Cheap filter
When deciding what air filter to buy, consider the MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) number that will tell you how efficient the filter is at filtering out allergens and particles. The lower the MERV number, the less efficient the filter. Ideally you want to aim for a MERV 16. Cheap, low-efficiency filters (MERV 1-6) can filter hair, large pieces of dirt, and insects/other pests but they’re not good at keeping finer particles from circulating through your home and HVAC unit. At the very least, you should have a MERV rating of 7. When browsing filters with higher MERV ratings, also consider what your HVAC unit can handle. Some high-efficiency filters are quite thick and may cause more strain on your unit. If you have questions about what MERV rating is right for your HVAC system, call a professional.
Air filter (still) not working?
If you need help selecting the right air filter for your household needs, schedule a service with A-Abel. We’ll help you figure out what kind of air filter you should be using and show you how to install it correctly.
