Dirty air filters can be a major cause of health problems, as they are unable to do their job properly and allow dirt, dust, and bacteria to enter the home. This can lead to airborne allergens triggering allergic reactions and aggravating diseases such as asthma. Indoor air pollution can be even worse than outdoor air, so it is essential to change filters regularly. Not only can dirty air filters cause health issues, but they can also cause problems in your home.
If the filters are left on for too long, you may start to notice dust particles coming out of the vents. People who have allergies, asthma, or respiratory diseases are especially at risk from the health risks associated with dirty air filters. Even the lowest level of dust, dirt, or pollen can cause a chain reaction and lead to serious health problems. Over time, congested filters become secondary sources of indoor pollution.
Dust accumulations support vast microbial colonies, particularly in humid climates. Mold, bacteria and dust mites that live in dirty filters can cause allergies and asthma. Symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, congestion, and eye irritation may develop as a result. Dirty air filters can also cause mold spores to form, which can lead to major health problems such as worsening respiratory conditions (asthma), headaches, exhaustion, and skin irritation. It is important to clean reusable filters when the air conditioner is not needed - for example on a cold night.
Many homeowners try to clean their disposable air filters and reuse them in order to save money by not buying new filters. To protect and preserve the expensive systems that heat and cool your home and keep your family comfortable during hot summers and cold winters, it is important to change your home's air filter regularly. Dust, pollen and dirt get trapped deep in the air filter and a vacuum does not have the power to remove them all. When homeowners seek to improve air quality in the home by improving the air filters they use, it is best to consult a professional. If you have pets or smokers in your home, you may need to change the filter more often to avoid problems with indoor air quality. When you don't maintain your air conditioner, it picks up high concentrations of dust, pollen and mold.
At best this could exacerbate allergies and asthma; in the worst case scenario it can cause infections. All the extra work you have to do to circulate clean air through dirty filters will eventually strain your air conditioner parts, which could cause them to break down more quickly. If you commit to changing your air filters regularly, you may notice that your breathing problems improve due to all the clean air you breathe. Studies show that indoor air pollution caused by a dirty air filter can trigger allergic reactions and sinus congestion in people who are allergic to animals, pollen and mold.
