
Why Dirty HVAC Filters Are Costly and Unhealthy

Nasutsa Mabwa
June 24, 2025Dirty HVAC filters don’t just raise your energy bills — they harm your indoor air quality and health. Learn why regular filter changes are essential for Chicagoland homes and businesses, how they prevent costly damage, and when to seek professional help for air quality issues.
Keeping Your Chicagoland Property Safe, Efficient, and Healthy
When was the last time you changed your HVAC filter? If you can’t remember, you’re not alone — many homeowners and business owners across Chicago, Oak Park, River Forest, Skokie, Evanston, Wilmette, Northbrook, Highland Park, and the North Shore overlook this simple but critical task. Yet, a dirty HVAC filter can cost you in ways you might not expect — from higher energy bills to health risks for your family or employees.
The Hidden Costs of a Dirty HVAC Filter
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Americans spend about 90% of their time indoors, where pollutant levels can be 2 to 5 times higher than outdoor air (EPA). A clean HVAC filter helps trap these pollutants and maintain healthier air quality. But neglecting your filter leads to:
- Reduced airflow: Your HVAC system works harder, using more energy, driving up your utility bills, and shortening the lifespan of your unit.
- Poor indoor air quality: Dust, allergens, pet dander, and mold spores recirculate through your home or business.
- Increased risk of mold: Moisture gets trapped inside clogged filters, creating the perfect breeding ground for mold.
- Uneven heating and cooling: Blocked filters strain your system, causing inconsistent temperatures and discomfort.
How Often Should You Change Your HVAC Filter?
For most Chicago-area homes and businesses, it’s recommended to change your filter every 60 to 90 days. If you have pets, allergies, or smokers in the building, consider replacing filters every 30 to 60 days for optimal performance.
Set a calendar reminder or sign up for subscription delivery of filters to stay on top of replacements.
Can You Clean and Reuse HVAC Filters?
Disposable filters — the most common type — are not designed to be cleaned. Attempting to vacuum or wash them can damage the delicate mesh, leave behind moisture that promotes mold growth, and fail to remove deep-seated particles.
Washable or reusable filters can be cleaned, but they still have a limited lifespan (typically 3–5 years) and require thorough drying before reinstallation to prevent mold buildup.
Do HVAC Filters Remove Odors?
Standard HVAC filters are not designed to eliminate odors from smoke, pets, or other persistent sources. If you're struggling with lingering smells after a fire or other event, professional odor removal services using ozone, hydroxyl, or fogging technology are necessary. Visit ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons to learn more about specialty cleaning and deodorization.
Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC Filters
How do dirty HVAC filters affect my energy bill?
Dirty filters restrict airflow, forcing your HVAC system to work harder and use more energy. According to Energy Star, this can increase energy consumption by up to 15% (Energy Star).
Are expensive filters worth the investment?
Higher-quality filters may capture smaller particles, improving air quality — but it’s critical to choose a filter compatible with your system. Always follow your manufacturer’s recommendations.
Can dirty filters make you sick?
Yes. The EPA states that poor indoor air quality caused by dirty filters can contribute to respiratory issues, allergies, and asthma (EPA).
What signs indicate my filter needs changing?
If you notice dust buildup near vents, increased allergies, musty smells, or uneven temperatures, it’s time to inspect and replace your filter.
About ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons
ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons is a locally owned, award-winning disaster restoration and specialty cleaning firm proudly serving Chicago, Oak Park, River Forest, Skokie, Evanston, Wilmette, Northbrook, Highland Park, and Lake County. Part of the nation’s oldest restoration brand, founded in Chicago in 1929, we bring over 40 years of local expertise and compassionate service.
Our IICRC-certified professionals specialize in:
- Water & Flood Damage Restoration
- Fire & Smoke Damage Cleanup
- Mold Remediation
- Specialty Cleaning & Odor Removal
We are recipients of the 2020 BBB Torch Award for Ethics, the 2020 Skokie Business of the Year Honorable Mention, and the SB100 Best of Small Business Award 2021.
📖 Learn more in our book: RESTORE: A Complete Guide to Protecting Your Home As Your Most Valuable Asset.
📞 Call 773-376-1110 or visit ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons for expert help today.
Nasutsa Mabwa is the CEO and co-owner of ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons, a certified MBE/WBE firm proudly serving Cook, DuPage, and Lake Counties in Illinois. Under her leadership, the company has become one of Chicagoland’s most trusted providers of disaster restoration services, including water and flood damage restoration, fire and smoke damage cleanup, and mold remediation for residential and commercial clients.
A recognized civic and business leader, Nasutsa is a recipient of the 2020 Daily Herald Business Ledger C-Suite Award, a Crain’s Chicago Business 40 Under 40 honoree, and a 2018 ServiceMaster® Achiever Award recipient. She currently serves as a Civic Federation Board Member, an Advisory Board Member, and is the Past President of the Executive Committee for the Evanston Chamber of Commerce. She is a proud member of the WPO - Women's President Organization.
Nasutsa holds IICRC certifications in Water Damage Restoration (WRT) and Fire & Smoke Restoration (FSRT), bringing both strategic leadership and technical expertise to every project.
She is also the co-author of RESTORE: A Complete Guide to Protecting Your Home As Your Most Valuable Asset from Water and Fire Disasters — a practical, accessible book for homeowners based on real-world experience in the restoration industry.
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