Air filters for tractors: protecting the environment by reducing emissions

It’s now hard to refute that climate change is real. Surveys show that the average temperature is rising, and this has led to a variety of extreme weather conditions. These include heatwaves in Asia, excessive rainfall in Brazil, and of course, floods in the Sahara.

Everyone has a duty to act. Fortunately, you can help by starting small. Anyone involved in agriculture can start by looking at the air filters on their tractors. They should be replaced regularly.

Why Replacing Air Filters Matters

The tractor air filter performs a valuable role. It ensures the air entering your engine is clean and free from debris. Any debris, no matter how small, can potentially cause blockages in your engine, reducing performance and even causing serious engine issues.

Over time the air filter will become clogged, that’s why it needs to be replaced. A clogged air filter will reduce the amount of air getting to your tractor engine. As engines are carefully calibrated, a reduction in airflow will cause an imbalance in the mix of fuel and air. The result is excessive fuel consumption and an increased level of emissions because the engine isn’t burning efficiently.

These increased emissions have a direct effect on the environment and contribute to climate change.

Type Of Tractor Air Filters

You may not realize it but there are actually two air filters in your tractor:

Engine air filter

As mentioned, this air filter ensures the air delivered to the engine is clean.

Cabin filter

This filter is fitted into the heating/cooling system on your tractor and prevents harmful contaminants from entering the cab.

Most modern tractors are fitted with dry filters. These are usually fitted in front of the radiator, are cylindrical cartridge-style filters, and are very easy to change.

In some smaller tractors, you may have an oil bath air filter. These are located in a bath of oil and are harder to change. The oil and a mesh lining prevent any contaminants from getting into the engine but still allow air through.

When To Change Your Tractor Air Filter

When changing either tractor air filter it’s important to get the right one. The simplest approach is to talk to the experts, they’ll know which filter is best for your tractor and can answer any other questions you have.

In general, an air filter should be checked and changed after 100 hours of use. Of course, most people don’t monitor every hour they spend in the tractor. Instead, they simply check and change it every six months.

If your tractor starts to experience performance issues it can be a sign of a dirty air filter. It’s advisable to check it and replace it if necessary.

Summing Up

Regularly replacing your tractor air filters will help to ensure the engine runs smoothly. This reduces emissions and is better for the environment. It will also ensure your engine runs efficiently, saving you money on fuel and the premature wear of other components.

Check your air filter today and replace it regularly.