One of the most important things you can do to keep your HVAC system running smoothly is to simply change its air filters regularly. Doing so keeps everything working properly and also helps keep your energy bills low. Although replacing your air filters is an important task to keep your HVAC system running efficiently, it’s a task that is often overlooked by homeowners for months. Don’t be one of those homeowners; here’s how often you should change your air filter at home.
What is an Air Filter and How Does it Work?
HVAC air filters are devices that remove any air impurities such as pollen, pet hair, debris, and dust. They’re usually made out of spun fiberglass or pleated paper and framed with cardboard for stability and rigidity. Air filters are inserted into a specific place within your return duct, normally in a large drop-down vent in your hallway or another place within your home.
How Often to Change Home Air Filters
It is generally recommended that you change the air filters in your home every 30 days when using less expensive fiberglass. High-end air filters, made with pleated fiberglass can last as long as six months. If you have air filters somewhere in between high-end and inexpensive, you should change them every 90 days. But what if you don’t know what kind of air filters your home has? An experienced HVAC professional can inform you of what kind of air filters your home currently has and make recommendations based on your needs.
Things that Can Affect the Lifespan of Your Air Filters
Several things can affect the lifespan of your home’s air filters.
How Often You Use Your Heating and Cooling System
If you live in a mild climate or only use your AC or furnace a few hours a day, you can expect your air filters to last a long time. It’s not unheard of for homes that use their heating and cooling systems less often to have air filters that last up to a year. If you use your heating and cooling systems more frequently, you will need to change your air filters every few weeks.
The Size of Your Home
If you live in a large house, your heating and cooling systems need to work harder to heat or cool the house. That means you will need to change the air filters more frequently. If you live in a smaller home, your heating and cooling systems are required to pump less air to change the temperature. Therefore, you will need to change your air filters less frequently.
Your Home’s Air Quality
Your air filters are affected by the outside air within your home. If you have poor air quality or pets inside, you will need to replace your air filters more frequently.
Need to Have Your Air Filters Replaced?
S&L Prime A/C & Heating Systems is here to help with your heating and cooling systems. Whether you need A/C repair, A/C maintenance, heating repair, or heating maintenance, we can help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
