All of This Pollen Can Quickly Clog Your HVAC System’s Air Filter

Spring is an undoubtedly beautiful time of the year in Peachtree Corners, GA. As the trees and shrubs turn green and flowers blossom, there is one major drawback: pollen. Pollen can quickly clog your HVAC air filter. Once the air filter is clogged, your home’s indoor air quality could plummet. Read on to learn how pollen clogs HVAC air filters and what you can do to improve the quality of your home’s air.

Pollen’s Effects on Your HVAC Air Filter

During high pollen counts, your HVAC air filter could fill with pollen in a matter of weeks or even days. The air filter’s job is to keep debris off the evaporator coil. If the coil has buildup, the air conditioner’s refrigerant can’t transfer heat or humidity out of your home.

Why a Clogged Filter Is a Problem

When your HVAC air filter is clogged, airflow is restricted. Less cool air will reach your home this spring and summer, which will overwork your air conditioning system. Your air conditioner could overheat, which will trigger its safety limit switch to shut it down. Dirty air filters aren’t able to trap dust, dander, spores, and other particles from your home’s air. Breathing dirty air increases your risk of respiratory infections and may worsen your allergy or asthma symptoms.

Plan Frequent Filter Changes

During the peak pollen season, which extends from March through October, plan to check and replace your HVAC air filter once each month. According to the Department of Energy, replacing an air filter that’s clogged with pollen with a new, clean air filter could improve your air conditioner’s energy efficiency by 15%. Air filters are usually located near the return duct, but some have their housing between the evaporator coil and the air handler.

For more information about how pollen can quickly clog your HVAC air filter, take a look at Ful-Bro Heating and Air Conditioning Inc.’s indoor air quality services, or give us a call today.