Can a Dirty Air Conditioner Filter Cause it Not To Work?

Nobody needs a broken air conditioner, but keeping it running isn’t always as straightforward as it seems. Can a dirty air conditioner filter cause it not to work, or is it something else? 



Keep reading to discover how to keep your air conditioner in peak condition this season.

As the most trusted AC maintenance service in Bozeman, Premier Systems provides exceptional service that can extend the life of your air conditioner. Whether you need maintenance, repair, or replacement, give us a call to learn more!

Signs You Should Replace Your Air Filter

How do you know whether you have clogged air filters? Look for these most common signs:

Your Air Conditioner Runs Hot

If your air conditioner is too hot to touch or radiates heat, it's working extra hard to cool your space. If your AC unit has a clogged filter, the blockages will reduce its airflow. That forces the appliance to put forth more effort to try and achieve the same cooling results.

You Notice High Energy Bills

An air conditioner that's working extra hard drives up energy bills. Your device uses electricity, so the harder it works, the more electricity it requires. If your utility bills increase disproportionately to you using your air conditioner, the first check should be your air filter.

Your Air Won't Cool Your Home

Your air conditioner's job is to take the heat out of the air and transfer it outside. If your indoor air is warm, your device isn't performing its most basic function. A dirty air filter reduces the airflow, and places stress on your unit’s evaporator coil, which can prevent adequate cooling.

Your Unit Shows Dust Accumulating

The air conditioner's filter cleans the air going through it, but clogged air filters can't prevent dust from entering your ductwork. If you notice dust accumulating around your vents, on the device itself, or in your ductwork, your air filter is likely in need of a cleaning.

You Experience Respiratory Issues

A clean air filter maintains excellent indoor air quality, holding back dust, pollen, pet dander, and other contaminants. So, if you notice worsening allergies or respiratory issues, check your air filter.

The Risks of a Dirty Air Conditioner

Can a dirty air conditioner filter cause it not to work? Yes, and you should know the risks of not maintaining your filter before you ignore the signs.

Decreased Efficiency

A dirty air filter reduces energy efficiency, which comes down to money. The US Department of Energy estimates that a clogged air filter increases your energy use by up to five percent. Ignoring it could push that energy use up to 15% over what the unit should be consuming. 

Replacing your filter is a minor expense, especially when you consider how much you'll save on utility bills in the long run. You could also save money by avoiding an early replacement, as a clean air filter means less wear and tear on the components within the unit.

Freezing Coils

A blocked air filter prevents the air from reaching the evaporator coil, which is responsible for releasing warm air outside. This causes condensation on the coil that freezes. And a frozen evaporator coil poses a serious threat to your air conditioner.

Shorter Life Expectancy

An air conditioner that works harder than intended wears down quickly. Your air conditioner should last around 15 years, but operating it with a dirty air filter can chip away at that figure. A clogged filter can also cause serious damage, which is sometimes more expensive to repair than installing a new device.

How To Maintain Your Air Filter

Changing your air filter is an essential part of maintaining your air conditioner. Check your filter at least once a month, though some types can last up to 90 days. If you have pets, smoke, have allergies or respiratory issues, or live in an area with poor air quality, check it more frequently.

Also, air filters come in two versions: those that you replace and those you clean. Be sure to ask a preferred HVAC specialist like Premier Systems about which type of filter your device supports.

Let Premier Systems Maintain Your Air Conditioner

Can a dirty air conditioner filter cause it not to work if there’s no other issue? Whatever you want to know, Premier Systems can provide answers on top of all the services you need to keep your air conditioner running smoothly.

If your AC is not blowing cold air or doing what it should, call Premier Systems at 406-300-4258 today or book an appointment online!