What Causes an Air Filter to Become Wet?

 wet air filter

A wet filter can pose problems for your HVAC system’s filtration capabilities. Such a filter is no good for its intended job, plus the moisture can cause a host of problems with airborne particulates.

Wet air filters tend to be common in areas with high humidity. Condensation leaks are usually the cause of a wet air filter. When moist, warm air loses its latent heat after passing over the evaporator coils, condensate drips from the coils and into a drip pan located below. The condensate usually drains out of the pan through a drain line, where it ends up outdoors or within the household sewer system.

Unfortunately, condensate leaks from the drain lines or drip pan can cause water to find its way onto the air filter. Not only can a wet filter cut airflow to your home, but it can also lead to mold and mildew problems. Of course, it’s also bad for indoor air quality. If there is a leak, it should be fixed right away. Carefully check the condensate drip pan and drain lines for any cracks, loose fittings or blockages. All of these can cause condensate to leak through and create a wet air filter. It is usually best to enlist the aid of professional technicians. To ensure there is no recurrence:

  • Invest in regular maintenance: Having a trained and certified HVAC technician perform regular inspection and maintenance on your system is the best and easiest way to avoid leaks. Routine maintenance can help catch relatively small problems before they snowball into larger maintenance issues.
  • Rely only on professional installation: A professional HVAC installer will make sure to keep condensate as far away from your filter as possible.

Discover how you can prevent wet air filter problems and maintain IAQ with the latest in A/C maintenance solutions from Preferred Air Conditioning & Mechanical, LLC Call us at (772) 905-3358 in Port Saint Lucie, or (561) 202-1422 in Palm Beach.

You May Also Like

Furnace
February 2, 2023

4 Reasons Furnace Size Matters in Jupiter, FL

When purchasing a new furnace for your home, size matters. If your furnace is too small, it won’t be able to heat… Continue Reading 4 Reasons Furnace Size Matters in Jupiter, FL

Read More…

Heat Pump Filter
January 18, 2023

Don’t Make These 3 Mistakes With Your Heat Pump

Heat pumps are popular HVAC solutions in Boca Raton, FL, throughout the year. So, you want to ensure your heat pump warms… Continue Reading Don’t Make These 3 Mistakes With Your Heat Pump

Read More…

Heat Pump
December 28, 2022

Why is Your Heat Pump Tripping Your Breaker?

Has your heat pump been tripping its breaker in your Boynton Beach, FL, home? Believe it or not, you want this to… Continue Reading Why is Your Heat Pump Tripping Your Breaker?

Read More…

Compliance Settings
Increase Font Size
Grayscale
Simplified Font
Underline Links
Highlight Links
Reset
Close