Does a Clogged Cabin Air Filter Affect Your AC System?

Believe it or not, the cabin filter can have a strong impact on your air conditioning system and the power of your entire vehicle. If the filter is clogged, you may need to turn on the air conditioner, which can cause a strain on the system and increase energy consumption. The cabin air filter has nothing to do with the operation of the vehicle itself. Rather, it works to improve indoor air quality by filtering pollutants.

If the cabin filter is clogged, it can reduce the air flow of the air conditioner and make the cabin feel warmer. The air conditioner has to work harder as a result of reduced airflow, which can eventually cause the fan motor to fail completely. Not all vehicles are equipped with cabin air filters, but those that do need a clean, unobstructed surface to allow air to move freely. Cabin air filters can capture dust, insects, leaves and other types of debris. A dirty air filter can certainly hinder the cooling capacity of your air conditioner and, after a while, could cause unnecessary strain on the entire system. In addition to increasing energy consumption, voltage can cause motor damage due to overloads.

This would occur especially when you have to increase the air flow by increasing the fan speed of the air conditioning system. An increase in fan noise may be due to air intake from large materials or a dirty cabin air filter. Clean air is essential for your vehicle to function properly; your car's engine air filter ensures that clean air reaches the engine. If you're susceptible to allergies, a faulty cabin air filter can cause pollen and dust particles to reach the cabin and cause health problems. Similarly, your car's ventilation system features the cabin air filter to maintain a constant flow of clean air.

Cabin air filter prevents dust, dirt, pollen, bacteria and exhaust fumes from entering your car's HVAC system. If you don't change the cabin air filter, it will become more clogged with dirt and debris and the efficiency of your car's filter and HVAC system will be compromised. If it's been more than a year since your last air filtration system was serviced, you notice a dirt or damp smell on the vents, or you discover a loss in acceleration power, call to schedule an air cleaner inspection. If desired, you have the option of having a professional change your cabin filter instead of doing it yourself. Simply cleaning the air filter and reinstalling it does not adequately protect the air conditioning system. If your auto mechanic only checks the air conditioning system or cooling system without first evaluating the condition of the cabin air filter, you could pay for unnecessary repairs. Before entering the passenger compartment, outside air is directed through this filter to trap contaminants inside the filter and prevent them from entering the interior of your vehicle.

The cabin air filter is vital for cleaning the air inside the car so that you and your passengers can breathe easy - something you'll appreciate all year round but especially during allergy season.

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