Ever wondered how often to change HVAC filter? It’s a common question, and the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Knowing the right time to swap out your air filter can make a big difference in your home’s air quality and your system’s efficiency.

Understanding HVAC Filters

Before we discuss how often to change HVAC filter, let’s talk about what they do. HVAC air filters are designed to catch dust, pollen, and other airborne particles. This keeps your air cleaner and helps your system run smoothly. When your system isn’t running intended or efficiently this can lead to problems and that is when you give us a call as we are HVAC professionals near Lansdale, PA.

Types of HVAC Filters

Several types of air filters exist, each with differences in lifespan and how well they work:

1. Fiberglass filters: These are basic and inexpensive. Change these furnace filters every 30 days.
2. Pleated air filters: These are made from materials like polyester. Pleated air filters can last up to 90 days.
3. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters: These catch almost all airborne particles. Change them more often due to their density.
4. Washable filters: You can reuse these, but they still need regular cleaning and eventual filter replacement.

Factors Affecting Filter Lifespan

The best answer for how often to change HVAC filter depends on many things. Several factors can impact how long a filter lasts.

1. Home Environment

If you have pets or smoke indoors, you’ll need more frequent filter replacements. Pet dander and smoke can quickly clog a filter.

2. Family Size and Health

Larger families create more dust and other particles. If someone has allergies, changing the ac filter more often helps with indoor air quality.

3. HVAC Usage

The more you run your air conditioning, the faster the filter gets dirty. In hot or cold climates, you might need to change air filter more frequently.

If you have a heat pump you will want to consider this as well when you change HVAC filter.

4. Filter Quality

Better filters with higher MERV (merv ratings) catch smaller particles. They may need changing more often because they trap more.

General Guidelines for How Often to Change HVAC Filter

While situations differ, here’s a guide for how often to change HVAC filter:

Filter Type	Recommended Change Frequency
1-inch fiberglass air filter	Every 30 days
1-inch pleated filter	Every 60-90 days
3-4 inch pleated air filter	Every 6-9 months
Washable filter	Clean every 30 days, replace air filter annually

Remember, these are just starting points. Check your HVAC air filter monthly, especially for central AC units.

Replace it when it looks dirty for clean air.

Signs It’s Time to Change Your HVAC Filter

Sometimes, your system will show signs of needing a filter replacement, so you may need to do a quick filter check. Here are some clues that indicate itâs time:

1. Visible dirt on the ac filters
2. Higher energy bills
3. Less airflow from vents
4. More dust around your home
5. Odd smells when the system runs

If you see these, change HVAC filter right away, even with disposable air filters.

The Consequences of Not Changing Your Filter

Skipping air filter replacements can cause problems:

1. Lower efficiency: A clogged filter makes your system work harder. This means higher electric bills for your air conditioners.
2. Poor indoor air quality: A dirty filter can’t trap particles well. This can cause issues if you want quality air.
3. System damage: A clogged filter can make the system overheat. This could damage parts.
4. Shorter lifespan: Changing filters is part of maintaining your HVAC system.

Tips for Maintaining Your HVAC Filter

Here are ideas to help maintain optimal filter changes and HVAC care:

1. Set reminders: Use your phone to remind you to check and change air filter.
2. Buy in bulk: Buying multiple air filters at once can save money.
3. Consider a filter subscription: Some offer an air filter subscription service. These deliver new filters regularly for an easy replacement schedule.
4. Write the date: Note the date on the new filter. This is an easy way to track your filter replacements.
5. Ask a pro: An HVAC technician can help if needed with your HVAC services. We will offer advice for your home after a filter check. We’re an HVAC company in Bucks County that is ready to serve you.

FAQs about how often to change hvac filter

How do I know when my HVAC air filter needs to be replaced?

You know it is time for a change when it is dirty. Check it monthly and hold your filter up to see if any light can get through it.

If you see any of the following signs, then that means it is time: reduced airflow from vents, increased energy bills, and more dust in your home.

What happens if you don’t change HVAC filter?

Your HVAC system will need to exert more effort if you donât account for regular filter changes. As the filter loses its ability to capture particles, the indoor air quality in your home may suffer.

The added stress on your system could potentially result in malfunctions, and possibly reduce the longevity of your HVAC unit.

Do you really need to change furnace filter every 3 months?

Three months is typical, but it can vary. If you have pets or allergies, change it sooner.

Check monthly and replace when dirty, no matter the timeframe. Some may need a bit longer interval depending on filter thickness and other factors.

Can I change my air filter every 6 months?

Some filters last six months, especially in clean homes. You should inspect them regularly, though.

Local conditions might mean more frequent changes, but change conditioner filters if dirty, even before six months.

Conclusion

Knowing how often to change HVAC filter helps keep your home healthy and your system working well. General advice says every 1-3 months, but your situation might be different and your filters might need changed regularly.

Things like pets, allergies, air quality, and the kind of filter all matter when finding the perfect air filter replacements time. Regular changes keep the air clean and can prevent expensive problems with air conditioners too.

Always replace it when it looks dirty. If you have any additional questions, reach out to their customer service via email address. All rights reserved and check the privacy policy and privacy choices along with cookie settings for additional product reviews.