What you Need to Know About Dirty Air Filters
Most people spend more hours in their house every day than anywhere else. Given that reality, it’s important that your home is safe and that your indoor air quality is high. Low air quality can lead to allergies and respiratory issues.
When it comes to your home’s air, your HVAC system is primarily responsible for maintaining indoor air quality. As a result, it’s important that you keep your system in good condition and that you keep your air filters clean. Your air filters are an easy but important way to make sure that you obtain all the benefits of clean air.
How Dirty Air Filters Lead to Health Issues

When your filter gets dirty, it can no longer block these pollutants. As a result, dirty filters leads to an increase in allergens, dust, and other pollutants getting into your indoor air supply. This can lead to a number of health issues including allergies and respiratory issues.
Is Cleaning Air Filters a Good Idea?
Most air filters need to be replaced at least every 90 days. However, if you have animals or family members with allergies, you’ll want to replace your filters every 45 to 60 days. Because of this recurring expense, some homeowners attempt to clean air filters instead of replacing them. This is not a good idea.

Your air filters work to trap even the smallest of pollutants from the air. As a result, it’s incredibly difficult to thoroughly clean the inner fibers of the filter. Additionally, wetting the filter can lead to mold growth and cleaning it can cause damage to the filter, making it less effective. While it might seem like a good idea to simply clean your air filter, this is not an effective solution and it’s worth the expense to regularly replace air filters.
Do You Need an Air Quality Upgrade?

Given the importance of air quality, it’s important to always make sure that you have accurate information and that you’re doing the right things to make your home safe. The best way to do this is by working with a trusted HVAC professional.
These individuals can provide advice about your air filters and any services that your system needs. If you have questions about your indoor air quality or need to have your unit inspected, contact a local HVAC professional for help or to schedule a consultation.
Trust a Local Expert
Sunset Heating & Cooling have been the trusted HVAC services in Portland and its community for almost 100 years. Their team of qualified, professional, and friendly technicians is there for any HVAC issues that you have.