How Often Should I Replace My HVAC Air Filter?

When we’re thinking about the proper maintenance of your HVAC system, one of the simplest and most important tasks is replacing your system’s air filter. As you continue to use your unit to heat and cool your home your filter will gradually become clogged with the dirt, debris, allergens, pet dander, etc. that is being sucked out of the air for your breathability. 

As the filter clogs, its filtering ability becomes less and less effective, which is what makes it so important to change regularly. So, today, we’re diving into the frequency of HVAC filter replacements, what makes them so important, and how these regular changes will help to keep your system running properly. 

Let’s dive in!

Understanding the Role of the Air Filter 

Before we dive into all of the specifics of how often you should replace your HVAC air filter, you first need to understand just what it is that a filter does. The purpose of your air filter is to trap all of the dust, dirt, pollen, and any other airborne contaminants from entering your HVAC system and totally polluting your air. The cleaner your air filter, the better your air quality and the more efficient your system will run. 

If your air filter goes neglected, your system will have to work a lot harder to pull air through it. This strain on your system could cause a lot of internal damage to your components, which is why during regular maintenance visits, your trusted technician will change your filter along with some other integral tasks. 

How Often Should I Replace My HVAC Air Filter?

So, let’s talk about how often you should change your HVAC filter. This answer is contingent upon quite a few things including, your home’s size, dust, and allergen levels in that environment, as well as how often you use your system. Here are a few good rules of thumb to follow:

• Standard Filters (1-3 Months)

If your system utilizes standard fiberglass or pleated filters, typically, you would want to replace it every 1 to 3 months–especially during the peak heating and cooling seasons when your system tends to work the most. 

• High-Efficiency Filters (6-12 Months)

Let’s say you own a system that takes a high-efficiency filter,    like HEPA. Usually, these filters will last a lot longer. You can count on them needing to be changed every 6-12 months. These filters were designed specifically to capture smaller particles and last longer than their standard counterparts. That’s not to say they don’t still require regular inspections. Make sure you’re contacting your trusted technician to assess the health of your unit. 

• Homes with Pets, Smokers, or High Allergens (Every Month)

If you’re living with pets, smokers, or other allergens in your home, your air filter will need to be replaced far more often. Usually checking and replacing it each month will help your system operate at its best year round. 

• Homes in Dusty Environments (Every 1-2 Months)

If you’re living in a particularly dusty area, or even near construction sites or dirt roads, you’ll need to change your filter every 1 to 2 months. Since dust accumulates so quickly, your filter can clog a lot easier, and lessen the efficiency of your airflow, ultimately putting a strain on the system. 

Why Changing Your HVAC Air Filter Matters

Since we’ve gone over just how often you should replace your HVAC filter, let’s dive into why such a simple task is such an integral element of your system’s health and home’s air quality!

Improved Indoor Air Quality 

Your clean air filter plays a huge role in elevating your indoor air quality. Any contaminants floating in the air can cause respiratory problems. When you regularly replace your air filter, you’re taking an active step in mitigating any buildup and guaranteeing that you and your loved ones are breathing cleaner air. 

Increased Efficiency and Lower Energy Bills 

If your air filter is clogged, your system will work a lot harder to push air throughout the unit which ultimately will increase your energy consumption. When you make it a point to regularly replace your air filter, your HVAC won’t have to work harder than necessary. That translates to lower utility bills and less wear and tear on your unit.

Prolonged HVAC System Life 

If your HVAC filter is kept clean, you are helping to elongate its lifespan. The more clogged your air filter is, the more strain on your system there will be. Your compressor or motor could overheat and fail, and you don’t want that! Make sure you’re regularly replacing your filter to guarantee your system continues to function as it should for years to come. 

Are you noticing some extra dust in the air? Maybe you’re experiencing a weaker airflow. If you’ve noticed your energy bills getting higher or dust on your filter, it’s time for it to be replaced! 

We can’t stress enough how important it is to change your air filter, which is why we include it in all of our maintenance visits. Are you ready to schedule your routine HVAC maintenance and breathe cleaner air? 

Click here to get in touch with the Optimum Air Solutions team! We’ll have you breathing easy in the Big Easy in no time.