Changing your HVAC filter regularly is essential because it has a significant impact on your health and the lifespan of your HVAC system. The air you breathe indoors is as polluted as the air you breathe outdoors. An efficient filter works to prevent contaminants from extending towards your living areas and promotes efficient airflow throughout your home.

Many people ask when they should change the air filter, and the typical answer is, it depends. There are several factors to look for when a filter needs a change. But the main thing to determine that “it’s time” is when your filter looks dirty.

Waiting until your filter is entirely filthy is a no-no because it can result in your HVAC system to not run to its full potential. Here are some things to determine when your HVAC filter needs changing.

Know What Type of Filter Your HVAC System Has

One of the main factors to let you know that you need to change your HVAC filter is to determine what kind of filter your HVAC system has. The filter in your HVAC system comes in various materials, thickness, and form.

Fiberglass Filter. If you have a fiberglass filter, you should consider changing it every month. Dirt particles can build up quickly on these type of material, especially during the hot season, and you can protect it by replacing it every month.

4-inch Pleated Filter. As 4-inch pleated filters have more space for dirt to accumulate, they need less frequent changes. Typically, these type of filters can go as long as six months or a year before you replace it.

1-inch Pleated Filter. This type of filter lasts a bit longer than fiberglass. Changing it can be done every 60 to 90 days, but it would be an excellent idea to check its condition every month in case the dirt accumulates faster than expected.

Washable Filter. Washable filters are also known as permanent or electrostatic filters. The static electricity in them can absorb up to 94 percent of contaminants in the air. It is advisable that you wash them every two months. The cleaning process only takes a few minutes, and you need warm water to wash them. Regular cleaning of your washable filters can increase the lifespan of your HVAC system up to five years.

High-Efficiency Particulate Arrestance (HEPA) Filter. This type of filter is efficient in getting rid of small and large contaminants from indoor air. HEPA filters strain the air passing through them at an excellent scale. It removes bacteria and various types of mold and pollen.

The US Department of Energy uses HEPA filters because it can filter 99.7 percent particles 0.3 microns or larger. They are the best-buy if you want to protect your home from allergens that might cause allergic reactions and put your health at risk. You can wash your HEPA filter every month with water.

Replace Your HVAC Filter If You Have Pets in Your Home

Yes, a pet in your home is one of the factors to consider when you need to change your HVAC filters. Cats, dogs, and other animals that have fine, fluffy furs which typically shed their hairs everywhere. Loose hair from your pets will pass through your HVAC filter, which will change the full potential of your heating and cooling system.

So, if you have pets in your house, you need to replace your filter more often. You have to check it at different intervals to know whether specks of dirt and hairs have already accumulated in the filter. Typically, animals shed more hairs during the warm season, so you need to consider that when it comes to filter checkup.

Change Your Filter More Often If You Have Allergies

Aside from your pets, you should consider other occupants in your home. If you or any family member are prone to allergy attacks, you need to think of changing your HVAC filters more often.

An HVAC filter that is full of dirty contaminants will not work efficiently to trap more allergens and pollutants in the air. Replacing the filter every month will protect you and your loved one from allergy attacks in your home. Or you can check out GStore for an eco-friendly HVAC system to replace your old one.

Change Your Filter If You Want to Save Money

Another factor to consider changing your HVAC filter is to save money. According to the US Department of Energy, replacing your dirt-filled filter with a clean one can decrease your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5 to 15 percent.

Aside from the savings on the electricity bill, you also increase the lifespan of your HVAC system. It is because a dirty filter will cause damage to your heating and cooling system which will require you to repair it or replace it with a new one.

Takeaway

It is essential to change the filter of your HVAC system regularly. It is because filters work to clean the air indoors to protect you from pollutants and contaminants that roam in your home. Aside from it will protect and maintain your health, changing your HVAC filter will also save you money on your electricity bill and improve the lifespan of your heating and cooling system.