Can You Get Sick from a Dirty Air Filter?

If the filter is dirty, everything that goes beyond the filter is contaminated too, including the air you breathe. This fills your home with dust, allergens, and other particles that can cause a number of physical symptoms, such as headaches, fatigue, chest tightness, and cold-like symptoms. A clogged filter can also make your heating and cooling system inefficient. All air that passes through your systems must pass through the filter. When it's dirty and dusty, air flow is restricted, making your heating and cooling system work harder than it should.

This can lead to premature wear, a total system breakdown, or expensive utility bills every month. Contaminants and small particles can make you sick if you don't keep the filter clean. When an air filter is clean, it filters out dust, mold spores, pollen and other matter suspended in the air. But when it's dirty or “full”, its ability to filter these particles decreases dramatically. Over time, contaminants re-enter the ducts and move freely throughout the house. Inhaling these contaminants can exacerbate symptoms associated with a cold or respiratory infection, not to mention the flu.

For people with asthma, these particles can cause an asthma attack. There are many potential health risks due to dirt on air filters - especially for those with allergies, asthma, or respiratory illnesses. Even the smallest level of dust, dirt, or pollen can trigger a chain reaction and cause some serious health problems. To ensure proper air circulation inside your home and air purification, you should change your air filter regularly. When an air filter is clogged, it cannot trap impurities before air blows through the house's vents. This increases the risk of developing physical symptoms related to colds or respiratory infections.

Homeowners should take responsibility for cleaning air filters to protect their health and that of their family. A clean air filter at the source of your home's cold air supply is a great way to reduce indoor allergens. Remember that a dirty air filter can make you and your family sick, so it's essential to replace it regularly to have a healthier home. It is best to consult a professional when looking to improve the air quality in the home by updating the air filters they use. Nice Heating & Air covers all HVAC needs in Alexandria, VA - from heating, insulation, gas chimneys and repair to air conditioning systems. Read on to learn more about how old, dirty air filters can contribute to creating an unhealthy environment and possibly create a negative effect on your health. On the other hand, if it is a disposable air filter, you must change it regularly - within three months - to ensure proper air circulation inside your home as well as air purification. You should know that your home is full of particles that must be removed from the air to maintain clean and breathable air.

The right air conditioner filter is truly based on your needs and those of your family when it comes to air supply. When not enough air is allowed to pass through the air filter, it means that less cold air enters the house.

Gina Vuoso
Gina Vuoso

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