The recommendation for changing the HVAC filter in your home is every 30 days. However, if you utilize higher-quality air filters, you will need to change it less. For those with allergies, pets, or more people occupying the home, the air filter may need to be changed more often. Changing the HVAC filter is an essential task that should be done to ensure the proper operation of your HVAC system, the highest level of air quality within the home, and to help in reducing energy costs. Continue reading to learn more.
Do Any of These Special Circumstances Apply to You and/or Your Home?
Regardless of the type of HVAC system you use or the circumstances surrounding its usage, all filters should be changed every 90 days. If these filters remain in place for longer than 90 days, a large amount of dust, allergens, and other types of debris will start to accumulate on the filter, resulting in decreased levels of efficiency and potentially higher levels of pollution within the air of your home.
There are special circumstances that call for the HVAC filter being replaced more often. These are as follows:
- Are there babies, toddlers, or young children living in your home? If you answered “yes”, it is essential that you change the air filter more often. At the most, you could wait up to 60 days; however, it is advised to change the filter every 30 to 45 days.
- Do you have several people living in your home? If so, the filter should be changed at least once every 2-4 weeks. More people equal more dirt, dust, and other types of debris that could clog the HVAC filter, resulting in its inability to function appropriately.
- Do you have pets that stay indoors or come indoors frequently? If this applies to you, you should understand that pet odors, dander, and hair may clog your HVAC filter fast. It is ideal to change your HVAC filter at least once every 30 days. If you have more than one pet, you should change the filter once every 2-3 weeks.
Are There Situations That Affect the Lifespan of my HVAC Filter?
In addition to the previously-mentioned situations, there are several situations that may impact how long your HVAC filter will last.
The first is how often you use the HVAC system. If you live in an area that has a mild climate and you use the system infrequently, you may only have to change the filter 1-2 times each year.
If you live in a small home, you may need to change the filter 1-3 times every 6 months.
If you have poor air quality within your home or live in an area that is known for having high levels of air pollution, you will need to change your filter once every 2-6 weeks.
What Are the Signs It is Time to Change My HVAC Filter?
You should know and understand that all of the air that circulates through the HVAC system to control the climate inside of your home will pass through the filter. If the HVAC filter becomes dirty, there are some signs that may occur that indicate it is time to change it. These include the following:
- You may find that there is a reduction in the air flow inside of your home from the HVAC unit.
- You may find an accumulation of dust and other contaminates in your duct work or on the vents throughout the home.
- You may see dust being blown through the vent systems in your home.
- Your electric bill may start to go up because of the fact that the HVAC system is working harder to keep up with your indoor climate preferences.
- The HVAC system may start to malfunction and/or damage to the components of the system may occur.
Need Help?
Though a small part, the HVAC filter in your system is a critical component to the operation of the unit and your comfort level. You should have your HVAC system regularly maintained and you should make certain that the filter is changed on a regular basis.
If you are unfamiliar with how to do this or would rather professional assistance in the endeavor, you may contact us here at Reynold’s Plumbing, Inc. and HVAC. Not only can we change your air filter, but we can thoroughly evaluate your HVAC system to ensure it is working properly. Call us today: 765-966-0994
