We all are aware of the fact that the air filter inside an HVAC system needs to be changed every 2 to 3 months or at least cleaned once a month. Since the air filter functions to trap dander, dirt, dust, and other air particles to enter the ac unit and circulate inside the home, it’s likely to see the dust buildup. But when you see your air filter is getting black, then it might be some other issue with the interior components of your HVAC system.

Dust buildup is fine, but your air filter shouldn’t be black. There are three major reasons why air filters can turn black and both of them are not good.

Reasons Your Air Filter Is Turning Black

• Black Soot: The soot caused by candles or gas water heaters is one of the major reasons why the air filters can quickly turn black. Even though burning candles is harmless, the deposit of excess soot on the air filter decreases the efficiency of the HVAC system.

Before using the candles just remember to trim one-quarter-inch candle wicks before lighting the candle each time, this can prevent candle soot from turning your AC filters black. Also, try to choose soy all-natural candles rather than candles of petroleum jelly or vegetable oil. Black soot is also produced by Gas water, to avoid this prefer blue color flame which implies a clean burn.

• Mold: Mold is worse than black soot. When your air conditioning system is in operating condition then condensation droplets get deposited on the evaporator coil, especially in a humid state. Further transfer of this moisture to the air filter causes the formation and growth of black mold.

If you observe any presence of mold on the air filter, replace and dispose of the old air filter immediately. Such mold air filters cause more allergy, asthma, fungal sinusitis, pneumonitis, and other bacteria-related health problems. Locate the source of the mold and contact a technician to fix your HVAC system and to ensure that there is no presence of mold within the air handler. Comfort Solutions Heating/Cooling & Duct Cleaning has incredible HVAC service in Cincinnati, OH with highly skilled technicians.

• Severely clogged air filter: Sometimes the air filters can get severely clogged due to long use. Such clogged air filters restrict airflow, decreasing indoor air quality, and can cause damage to your HVAC system. A clogged air filter cannot trap pollutants effectively so impurities like pet dander can infiltrate the air inside your home. Also, since airflow is not smooth the HVAC system has to work more, consuming more and causing unnecessary wear and tear of components.

After Finding A Black Air Filter

• Remove and dispose of the dirty black air filter immediately.
• Vacuum around the space surrounding the air filter and check there shouldn’t be any black particles or debris in the air.
• Connect a fresh and clean air filter
• Reach out to a professional HVAC expert to examine your HVAC system

Comfort Solutions Heating/Cooling & Duct Cleaning offer a variety of AC service in Cincinnati,  OH at affordable rates. Give us a call to schedule your appointment.