Winter is a wonderful time of year, filled with cozy nights by the fire and family visits galore. Unfortunately, it also brings along colder temperatures and dry air that can cause discomfort or even health issues. And no family member wants to miss out on the fun because they can’t keep down a cough.
One way to combat the lingering dry throat is by ensuring your home’s air quality remains top-notch throughout the season—this is where air filters come into play. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about these essential winter appliances.
Unclean Filters: The Unexpected Dangers
As a homeowner, you may already know about the importance of regularly changing your air filters. But did you also know that dirty or old filters can pose serious health and safety risks?
For starters, clogged air filters can restrict airflow, causing strain on your HVAC system and potentially leading to breakdowns or malfunctions. This not only results in costly repairs but also decreases the efficiency of your system, leading to higher energy bills and draining your bank account more than necessary.
But the consequences don’t stop there. Unclean home air filters can also harbor harmful bacteria, mold, and other allergens that can be circulated throughout your home. This can cause respiratory issues like allergies, asthma, or even infections in vulnerable individuals such as young children or seniors.
5 Clean Air Tips to Get Winter-Ready
It’s time to start preparing your home for the cold weather. Here are our top 5 tips for maintaining clean air and a healthy home this winter:
- Vacuum regularly
- Reduce home humidity with a dehumidifier
- Keep your pets clean and groomed
- Test the house for gas leaks
- Regularly replace all air filters
With these tips in mind, you’ve taken the first step towards a clean and healthy home this winter. But you’re not done yet—let’s take a closer look at the last tip and explore how to maintain your home air filters correctly.
Our Air Filter Upkeep Walkthrough
The frequency of replacing your air filters varies depending on factors such as the type of filter, the size of your home, and the number of pets. Plus, you need to regularly maintain them, especially during the winter season. Here’s a simple walkthrough to help you stay on track:
1. Change Your Filters Regularly
Experts recommend changing your home air filters every 1-3 months, depending on the factors mentioned above. To ensure you never forget to replace them, set a reminder on your calendar or phone.
2. Clean Your Filters Monthly
In addition to replacing your filters, cleaning them monthly during the winter season is essential. You can do this by gently vacuuming or washing them with water and a mild detergent. This will help remove any accumulated dust, pet hair, or other particles that may have gotten trapped in the filter.
3. Use Pleated Filters
When choosing your air filters, opt for pleated ones as they are more efficient and have a larger surface area to trap pollutants. This can help improve the overall air quality in your home so you can breathe easy.
4. Watch the Weather to Determine HVAC Use
During mild winter days, consider turning off your HVAC system and opening windows to let in fresh air. This can help reduce the strain on your filters and prolong their lifespan.
5. Enlist A Professional’s Help
If you’re unsure about how to properly maintain your home air filters or suspect that there may be issues with your HVAC system, don’t hesitate to contact a professional. They can guide maintenance and make any necessary repairs.
Winter may bring its challenges, but maintaining clean air in your home doesn’t have to be one of them. By following the tips and guidelines in this guide, you can ensure your air filters are winter-ready and keep your family healthy and comfortable all season long.
Experience A Seamless Winter Home Air Filter Backup
At Triad Mechanical, we understand the importance of maintaining clean air in your home all year round. That’s why we offer a variety of HVAC services in Alpharetta, including maintenance and filter replacements, to help you keep your home comfortable and safe. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and ensure your air filters are ready for the winter season ahead.