Often overlooked, air filters are a vital component of HVAC systems. While their primary function is to remove harmful particles from the air as it circulates, air filters also help regulate air temperature and keep HVAC systems in healthy working order. Here’s a look at why air filters are so important for indoor air quality and HVAC system health.

Cleaner Air

It goes without saying that air filters are primarily tasked with cleaning the air. Without air filters, dust, pollen, dirt, and pet dander would float freely through HVAC systems and the buildings they heat and cool. These allergens and harmful airborne particles wreak havoc on indoor air quality and can trigger allergies, asthma, and respiratory problems in occupants. Seeing the built-up debris on a well-used air filter is an easy way to understand their key role in improved indoor air quality.

A Healthier HVAC System

Having clean, functioning air filters is also critical to an HVAC system’s overall performance and efficiency. Having a filter in place prevents particles and moisture from building up elsewhere in the system, for example. Additionally, when air can move freely through a clean filter, the system can more consistently heat and cool a building. Clean filters also ensure that an HVAC system doesn’t have to work overtime, which prevents it from overheating, freezing up, and needing frequent repairs.

Lower Energy Consumption

In addition to requiring fewer repairs and running more efficiently, HVAC systems consume less energy with a clean filter in place. Dirty, clogged filters prevent the air from circulating properly, which causes heating and cooling systems to compensate by burning through more energy. By simply replacing HVAC air filters regularly, homeowners and building managers can keep energy consumption and expenses to a minimum.

Regularly replacing your HVAC system’s air filters is one of the most important things you can do to keep your home efficiently heated and cooled. When problems still persist, our team at Northfield Heating And Air can provide Chicagoland-area residents with air conditioning and heating repairs, as well as new air conditioning and heating installations. To schedule service, contact us today by calling (847) 251-2740.

In colder climates, having a well-functioning home furnace is essential. Although furnaces typically remain unused during spring and summer, homeowners should still perform regular inspections and maintenance to ensure that their heating system is in good working order when winter arrives. Here are four essential furnace maintenance tips.

Clean or Replace Air Filters

An HVAC system is only as healthy as its air filters. Dirty filters can do severe damage to entire heating and cooling systems, from reducing their efficiency and performance to even causing the whole system to break down. Homeowners should check all air filters at least once a month and clean or replace filters that have become dirty and clogged.

Keep Air Registers and Exhaust Pipes Clear

Like air filters, furnace air registers and exhaust pipes must also be kept clean and clear of blockages. If an air register is clogged or blocked by household objects, the furnace won’t be able to heat the house evenly and efficiently. If outdoor exhaust pipes are blocked, heat and air from the furnace won’t have an escape, which is a safety hazard.

Check CO Detectors

Carbon monoxide leaks are dangerous and potentially life-threatening emergencies. It’s therefore vital to ensure that all CO detectors are up-to-date and in good working order. Replace batteries regularly, and keep extras on hand just in case they’re needed, especially during winter when the furnace will be used frequently.

Schedule Professional Maintenance

Although homeowners can do a lot on their own by inspecting and maintaining their furnace throughout the year, scheduling annual professional HVAC maintenance is also important. An experienced HVAC technician can identify and address problems that homeowners often overlook. Professional inspections, seasonal maintenance, and replacements help to keep entire HVAC systems running efficiently and safely all year long.

By performing simple maintenance throughout the year, homeowners can have a healthy, efficient furnace for winter. At Northfield Heating and Air, we offer furnace installations and repairs to keep your home safely and effectively heated during suburban Chicago’s icy winters. To learn more, or to schedule service, contact us by calling (847) 251-2740 today.