How Often Should You Change Your Air Filter
Your HVAC system functions harder and is more inclined to malfunction when the air filter is dirty. Changing air filters is a simple task that can be completed in under an hour, compared to other do-it-yourself home renovation chores.
Even so, a lot of homes fail to update their air filters regularly, which exposes their system to the risk of harm. Learn more about changing your air filter in this article, so keep on reading.
The Need for Regular Filter Changes
Your air conditioning system returns fresh, clean air to your home by capturing pet hair, dust as well as various other irritants in air filters.
The filter eventually accumulates enough dust and particles that air cannot effectively filter or reach the HVAC unit, which results in:
1. High energy costs
Your system needs to work harder to move air throughout to cool or even heat the space when an HVAC filter is blocked. Because of this, it runs for longer periods, consuming more energy in your house.
2. Health issues
Dust and allergens can spread throughout your home if a filter isn’t functioning properly, leading to allergies and respiratory ailments.
3. Failure of the system
A clogged filter makes it difficult for the HVAC system to move air. The item may break as a result of this ongoing stress, necessitating costly repairs or replacements on your part.
How to Replace an Air Filter
While it’s recommended that you replace your air filter every three months, there are a few things to take into account before doing so.
• Type of air filter
Different air filters have varying degrees of effectiveness. Fiberglass filters of lower grades are less expensive but require monthly replacement because they don’t last very long.
A 20x23x1 air filter will be a better choice because they last longer. Plus, pleated air filters are premium filters with a 90-day lifespan and excellent particle filtration.
• Pets
To maintain clean air in your home, if you have pets, check your filters every two months.
• Allergies
If you have allergies, even a tiny bit of dust or other material in the air can cause a reaction. Filters should be changed approximately every 50 days to guarantee that your system is only pumping clean air.
• Children
If you have young children in your house, maintain a high standard of indoor air quality by changing your air filters every two months.
• Operate at home
Vacation homes that don’t constantly filter the air need air filter substitutes less frequently than homes that operate their HVAC systems daily.
Replace the air filters at around 6 to 12 months if the heating, as well as cooling equipment in your home, is only used occasionally.
While these elements influence how often air filters need to be changed, you should visually examine your filter once a month to look for excessive particle buildup.
Even though the unclean air filter is still within its intended lifespan, it should be replaced if it is covered with dust and debris.
Conclusion
Some filters are designed to last longer than others. It is worth mentioning that the denser the air filters, the longer it will last.
However, you still must frequently check on your air filter. Make sure you also take into account the factors I have mentioned above so you can have a clean and breathable environment.
