How to Know If an Air Filter Is Dirty
Datetime:2013-10-17 Hits:
Air filters in a home serve a very important purpose. By trapping dirt, dust and other allergens in the filter, the air circulated throughout the home is clean. Air filters also keep the heating and cooling systems of a home running efficiently by keeping dirt out of the vents. Air filters that are dirty can cause financial and health problems. This article details how to know if an air filter is dirty.
Instructions
1
Take a look. Most times, dirty air filters look dirty. Hair and other debris stick to the surface of the filter. In some cases, the dirt looks like a layer of fine dust. Either way, the filter needs replacing.
2
Run a finger across the air filter. If there is a difference between where the finger crossed, it's dirty. Check the finger and see if it appears dirty, too. If so, it indicates the need to change the filter.
3
Note the installation date. Filters usually last about a month. Check packaging on air filters for exact time frames for replacement. Once it's been a month, replace the filter regardless of whether it looks dirty or not. Because air is constantly pulling through the filter, the fibers inside the air filter loosen or break, making it less effective at catching dirt and allergen particles.
4
Check the bills. Dirty filters make it harder for air to go through them. All the dust and other debris can clog the filter, forcing the heating and cooling units to work harder to get air in. An increase in otherwise stable bills can indicate the need to change out the air filter.
5
Note any allergy problems. Allergy and asthma sufferers are extremely sensitive to any increase of dust or allergens in the air. If sneezing or wheezing increases for those with allergy or asthma problems, the air filter may be responsible.
6
Compare it. Hold up a brand-new air filter next to the current air filter. It's easier to see a difference when there is a perfect one available for comparison.
7
Change it out. Air filters are not expensive compared to the problems that occur when they are dirty. If it's unknown when the installation date was and questionable whether it's dirty or not, just change it out. Mark the date on the calendar to ensure that next time the date is clear.
