What happens if you run the AC with a dirty filter?

• <div><p>If you run an AC with a dirty filter, it could allow dust and dirt to build up in your ductwork, which could make you sick. At the same time, your air conditioner won’t work as efficiently as it would with a clean filter, likely resulting in less airflow, more wear and tear on your HVAC system, and higher energy bills.</p></div>

Can a dirty air filter cause a high electric bill?

• <div><p>Yes, a dirty air filter can cause a higher electric bill. That’s because clogged filters make it harder for air to flow through your HVAC system, which forces it to work harder and use more energy. According to the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/maintaining-your-air-conditioner#:~:text=Replacing%20a%20dirty%2C%20clogged%20filter,in%20the%20air%20conditioner%20itself.">U.S. Department of Energy</a>, replacing dirty filters can save you between 5% and 15% in utility costs.</p></div>

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TRUSTED BY RICE LAKE, WI HOMEOWNERS

4.6
Average homeowner rating
30
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Verified Reviews for Heating And Air Conditioning Service pros in Rice Lake, WI

*The Angi rating for Heating And Air Conditioning Service companies in Rice Lake, WI is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Heating And Air Conditioning Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Heating And Air Conditioning Service companies in Rice Lake, WI is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Heating And Air Conditioning Service needs.

Last update on November 11, 2025

Reviewed in July 2025
Evan & his team recently completed our bathroom remodel, converting from a tub to a shower. We had HVAC in our old wet space which he had to relocate this as well. He was very informative of the process & made sure he had our input on where all hardware/shelving should be placed. They took...
Mad City Windows & Baths
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Reviewed in May 2023
Kurt did a great job. His cost beat the competition and the water heater installation left nothing to be desired.
KJM Plumbing
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Reviewed in February 2019
I canceled the appointment for an estimate due to the forecast for bad weather and travel conditions. I will reschedule.
Renewal by Andersen
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Reviewed in September 2016
The two service techs were very professional and cleaned up after themselves. The price that was quoted was the price I paid. However once my unit was installed the HVAC does not function as advertised, the programmable thermostat that I paid extra for is not worth it. The blower fan should...
Air Tech Heating
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Reviewed in July 2016
I brought my first home this spring that my dad was helping me remodel. While in the middle of the remodel, my water heater started to fail. Around the same time, the county told us that I couldn't do the work "myself" since I was not living on the property at the time. My dad reached out to...
Cox Plumbing Co Inc
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Reviewed in June 2016
Technician was very thorough in his equipment check. He explained everything that he was doing and the results. He even wore "booties" when he came into our house. Our AC/Furnace is 15+ years old. Carew has come out annually (spring/fall) to do the cleaning. I feel that this has prolonged the...
Carew Heating & A/C
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Reviewed in January 2016
The short answer is, "It went great!" Note that I rated price an "A" not because they are cheap, but because they provide good value. I have lived in rural East Troy for about 30 years. In that time we have used Martens Plumbing and Heating to : - replace a water heater - replace a...
Martens Plumbing & Heating Inc
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Reviewed in April 2015
I decided to go with Command Service on Tuesday 1/20/2015 and on Friday they came and replaced my equipment. They sent a crew of three because they changed the furnace, air conditioner, and water heater. The crew was polite, courteous, and knowledgeable and on time. They did a very...
Command Service Center Inc
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Reviewed in January 2015
Komfort Heating did a great job. The technician called the day of service to see if he could come early, which worked out great for me. He was very honest and was able to get my furnace up and running within a half hour, for a low price. I will definitely be using Komfort for any HVAC issues...
Komfort Heating & Cooling
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Reviewed in October 2013
We have leased a water softener from Johnson Water Conditioning for over 8 years and find the price, equipment and service to be excellent. Recently we heard a noise that sounded like there was air in the line and called Johnson. A tech was sent to inspect the unit within a few days of our...
Johnson Water Conditioning
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Find Heating and air conditioning pros in Rice Lake

Aquarius Home Services

Aquarius Home Services

Customers say: Super punctual

Recommended by 92% of Angi customers

441 local quotes requested

Aquarius Home Services is the top home service provider in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Offering expert service in HVAC, Water Softeners, Plumbing and Electrical . Our work is backed by a 100% performance guarantee.

"They were on time. Explained what he would do, was very professional and did a great job."

Dan C on October 2025

"They were on time. Explained what he would do, was very professional and did a great job."

Dan C on October 2025

RC Construction

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RC Construction

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Emergency services offered

Repair, installation, service, troubleshooting. We do just about everything.

TNJ Alliance

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TNJ Alliance

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Property Preservation, Handyman Construction, Remodeling, and HVAC repair services for 40+ years combined experience! We have hundreds of satisfied customers. We can handle all your small to medium size remodel or repair work at a fair price and prompt service. We won't leave the job until you are satisfied, and you will be!

Freedom Mechanical Services

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Freedom Mechanical Services

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Emergency services offered

Freedom Mechanical Services is a growing licensed and insured HVAC family-owned and operated business in the Chippewa Valley. We can tackle everything from commercial to residential needs. With over 15 years of experience in the mechanical industry, you can depend on us to keep your business or home comfortable year-round.

Badgerland Contracting of West Wisconsin

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Badgerland Contracting of West Wisconsin

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Free onsite estimate

We are a full service contracting company, we offer all services from remodeling to plowing snow and mowing your lawn!

Percolation Consulting, LLC

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Percolation Consulting, LLC

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Integrated solar energy solutions: photovoltaic, solar-thermal, battery storage and heat pumps. We are not tied to any specific PV manufacturer and will source the best solution for your location and situation. Solar energy is no longer idealists' domain - it makes solid financial sense. Whether your goal is to minimize the time until your solar installation is paid off, or you want to ride out the Zombie apocalypse in comfortable energy self-sufficiency, we have the perfect solution for your location and building use. Contrary to popular perception, year-round self-sufficiency can be reasonably achieved in the Midwest. We have close relationships to vendors of weekly and seasonal energy storage systems which will keep lights and heat on year-round.

Superior Plumbing & Mechanical

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Superior Plumbing & Mechanical

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25 years of experience

We offer plumbing, heating & cooling and septic services to customers throughout all of Northern WI. Specializing in both residential and commercial projects, we provide new system installs, repair, and maintenance. Since established in 2000, hundreds of residential and commercial customers have depended on Superior Plumbing & Mechanical. We present them with superior service and quality products to meet their needs.

J&H Online Retail Store

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J&H Online Retail Store

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We are a locally owned and operated online retail store now serving the greater northland located in gary new duluth with over 65,000 products in stock we have everything your looking for

715-642-2453 HVAC company serving Northwest Wisconsin. Licensed and Insured 25+ years Experience. -Free Estimates -Residential and Commercial Heating and Air Conditioning -24/7 Emergency Service -New and Replacement Heating and Air Conditioning Equipment -Appliance repair and installation -Free In-Home HVAC Evaluation -Air Duct Cleaning, Sealing, and Replacements -EPA Certified -Certified Indoor Air Quality Specialist -Green HVAC/R Certified -Ductless Systems -Air Purification Ultra Violet Systems -Ventilation & Dehumidificaton Systems -WiFi and Smart Thermostat Installation and Set-Up -Super Tune-Ups and Cleaning -High Efficiency Filtration Systems -Air Balance & Air Volume Calibration Call today for your home, cabin or business needs. 715-642-2453

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Heating and Air Conditioning questions, answered by experts

If you run an AC with a dirty filter, it could allow dust and dirt to build up in your ductwork, which could make you sick. At the same time, your air conditioner won’t work as efficiently as it would with a clean filter, likely resulting in less airflow, more wear and tear on your HVAC system, and higher energy bills.

If an air conditioner is younger than 10 years, it’s worth trying to repair it in most cases. Some basic maintenance or a cleaning might bring it back to working condition. However, many HVAC pros swear by the “5,000 rule.” If the estimated cost of your repair multiplied by the unit’s age is more than $5,000, it’s time to replace it.

Yes, a dirty air filter can cause a higher electric bill. That’s because clogged filters make it harder for air to flow through your HVAC system, which forces it to work harder and use more energy. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, replacing dirty filters can save you between 5% and 15% in utility costs.

It’s normal to hear a low humming sound as air moves through your vents. Most of the time, you probably won’t even notice it. However, if that sound becomes disruptive or if you hear more concerning noises (such as rattling, clicking, banging, hissing, or grinding), there might be a problem with your HVAC system.

To extend your HVAC system’s lifespan, it’s crucial to keep up with maintenance. This includes changing filters and thermostat batteries, keeping the outside unit clean and clear of clutter, and lubricating moving parts. Watch out for leaks, mold buildup, and blockages to ensure your unit stays in good working order. Spotting these issues early can be the difference between a simple, wallet-friendly repair and an expensive replacement.

The Rice Lake, WI homeowners’ guide to heating and air conditioning services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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