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Have you checked your air filter recently? If you don’t remember, you are probably not alone. Many homeowners overlook air filters as essential tools for sustaining a healthy HVAC system and air quality indoors. For either a homeowner seeking to save on energy expenses or an HVAC contractor hoping to educate their clients, knowing how often air filters should be changed and why is important for effective AC maintenance, preventing expensive AC repairs, and optimal indoor air quality.  

Air Filter’s Job In the HVAC System  

Air filters serve an important function within any heating and cooling system. They filter out dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and other microscopic particles that would otherwise be allowed to circulate within your home. In addition to shielding your HVAC system, air filters also play an important role in your personal health.  

Dirty or clogged filters not only capture insufficient particles, but also slow down airflow. This means your air conditioner will inevitably have to work overtime, leading to higher energy consumption, AC repair, a reduced lifespan of the system, or a combination of all. More importantly, neglected air filters are capable of worsening indoor air quality, which in turn will aggravate allergies and respiratory issues.

How Often Should You Change Air Filters?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The type of air filter, its use, as well as the number of rooms and pets the house has, affect household air quality management. In broad terms, the guidelines are as follows:

  1. Standard 1” to 3” Filters

Change every 30–90 days

Most used in residential HVAC systems

For those unsure, check the filter every month and aim to replace it every 60 days.

  1. High-Efficiency Pleated Filters

Change every 6–12 months

More advanced HVAC systems or homes with air quality concerns

  1. HEPA Filters (High-Efficiency Particulate Air)

Change every 12 months

Good for allergy sufferers and those living in polluted areas

While HEPA filters are great for filtration, they may have to be professionally assessed so that they do not restrict system airflow.

Factors That Influence Filter Replacement Frequency

There are reasons why the above-mentioned household and lifestyle air management practices are more frequently adopted. For instance:

  1. Allergies or Asthma

No matter the number of filters in the house, they should be replaced every 30 days to ensure optimal air quality.

  1. Having Pets at Home

As for households with only one pet, changing filters every 60 days is advisable. With multiple pets, every 30 days is recommended.  

  1. Indoor Smoking

For an indoor smoker, it is suggested that filters be replaced every month, as tobacco smoke contains a large number of particles.  

  1. Elevated Consumption Periods  

For those who rely on HVACs during extreme temperatures, filters should be replaced every 30-45 days, as these periods are also termed peak seasons.  

  1. Home Renovation Projects

These can boost air filter maintenance requirements. It is, therefore, suggested that performing HVAC filter inspections weekly during construction periods is advised.  

Indications of Needing an Air Filter Change  

Having an air filter can be a blessing, but knowing when it needs to be replaced is crucial for it to function properly. Look out for the following signs:

Increased energy consumption: Air filters that are dirty will be clogged, and as a result, the system will use more power.  

Accumulation of dust around vents: The vents are no longer efficiently trapping particles as the filter has grown less effective.  

Lack of even heating/cooling: Poor airflow can be a sign of a dirty air filter.  

Long operating hours for the HVAC system: The system is performing poorly or there is a blocked filter.  

Increased allergy symptoms: Declining indoor air quality.

How to Change an Air Filter

Replacing an air filter is a quick and simple part of regular AC maintenance. Here’s how:

  1. Before beginning the maintenance procedure, turn the HVAC system off to prevent drawing in fresh, unfiltered air.
  2. The air filter can be found in the return air duct or the air handler. 
  3. Take the old filter out and check it for any dirt and gunk.
  4. Put in the new filter and make sure the arrows indicating flow are correctly positioned.
  5. Now turn the HVAC system on, and record, and record the date on which the maintenance was performed.

The Link Between Air Filters, AC Repair, and Maintenance

Failing to change air filters regularly can lead to significant HVAC issues. Dust and debris buildup can cause:

  • Frozen evaporator coils
  • Overheated motors
  • Reduced airflow and comfort
  • Premature wear and tear

All of the above can result in expensive repairs or a complete AC system replacement. Alternatively, the air filter is easy to change and is a cost-effective way to keep the system’s AC well-maintained alongside regular maintenance checkups, protecting the system’s lifespan, and preventing breakdowns.

Regular HVAC Maintenance and Filter Services 

For homeowners seeking minimum hassle, HVAC contractors have maintenance packages that come with automated filter change schedules. These packages guarantee timely filter replacement, as well as thorough inspections, cleaning, and routine tune-ups for all essential HVAC components. 

Professionals in HVAC can assist homeowners with selecting the most appropriate filter based on their lifestyle habits, personal health issues, and air quality in the region. This is critical for those who are focused on maintaining indoor air quality while ensuring that the HVAC system operates optimally. 

Conclusions 

In the grand scheme of comfort, health, and energy efficiency, the task of air filter replacement seems trivial. However, it can greatly influence all of those aspects. Keeping up with this basic air conditioning maintenance task will not only help homeowners avoid the costs that come with air conditioning repairs, but it will also ensure peace of mind when it comes to indoor air quality.  

A good rule of thumb to follow is to inspect the filter monthly and to replace it a minimum of once every 90 days. Homes with pets, allergy sufferers, or those who frequently use their HVAC system should replace the filter even more frequently.

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