How Often Should You Change Your HVAC Filter?
The filter is an essential component of any HVAC, preventing dust from accumulating in the system. Over time, it collects a large amount of debris that hinders its operation. For this reason, changing the filter is of paramount importance.
We’ll list some of the factors that determine how often you should change an HVAC filter:
Asthma or allergies
Indoor air can sometimes trigger worse allergic reactions than outdoor air. People susceptible to various pollutants are more exposed to them indoors, increasing the severity of their symptoms.
Therefore, if a resident is prone to allergic reactions, the HVAC filter should be changed once every six weeks to increase indoor air quality.
Children
Young children are more sensitive than adults since their immune systems won’t be able to develop rapidly. They require a cleaner home and higher air quality. To achieve this, swap out HVAC filters at least once every two months.
Pets
HVAC units often have to work twice as hard with pets around. Hair and dander build-up in the filter impedes its operation and increases the risk of malfunctions. Change the filter once every two or three months to prevent this from happening.
The frequency of HVAC use
Owners who only use their HVAC for a couple of hours per day may not need to replace their filter for an entire year. On the other hand, families who constantly run their unit will need to change it every few weeks, primarily if they use fiberglass filters.
Size of the house
Furnaces and air conditioners in smaller homes pump less air to provide optimal temperature control, leading to fewer filter replacements. However, larger houses circulate more air, meaning the filter will need to be changed more often.
Air quality
The frequency of HVAC filter replacement is also impacted by outdoor and indoor air. As previously mentioned, homes with poor air quality require a new filter more often.
How to tell when an HVAC filter needs to be changed?
HVAC filters trap dust, hair, and other debris that keep the unit from delivering fresh air. Eventually, the build-up is so severe that air can’t reach the system as efficiently. As a result, you may notice the following signs that the filter needs replacing:
High electricity bills: Clogged HVAC filters make the system work harder to heat or cool the house. Consequently, it runs for much longer, increasing energy consumption.
Health issues: Malfunctioning filters allow allergens to circulate throughout the home, leading to respiratory problems.
System failure: As blocked HVAC filters put the unit under immense strain, the appliance can eventually break down. In this case, your best bet is to hire trained HVAC experts to repair the device and install a new filter.
Contact an HVAC expert today for more guidance about your home.
Stud Air Conditioning is a full-service installation, maintenance, and repair HVAC company serving Broward, Miami-Dade, West Palm Beach, and Port St. Lucie counties. Call us when you need help with your heating or cooling needs at (954)324-2905. We can help!
