Changing your home’s air conditioning (AC) filter might not sound exciting, but it’s really important. It’s a bit like changing your car’s oil or cleaning your dryer vents—something that’s easy to forget but very necessary.
You might have seen in your AC manual that it says “change your filter every one to three months or as needed.” But what does “as needed” mean? And does one month between filter changes seem too soon?
Let’s break it down and see why changing your air filter matters and how to know when it’s time.
Why Change Your Air Conditioning Filter?
Changing your AC filter is key to keeping your HVAC system running well. Your air conditioner needs good airflow to cool your home. A dirty or clogged filter makes it harder for the air to flow, which can stress out your system. This extra strain can make your HVAC system work less efficiently and wear out faster. So, swapping out the filter regularly is a small step that can protect your big investment in HVAC repair and keep everything running smoothly.
What Affects How Dirty Your Filter Gets?
Here are some things that affect how often you should change your air filter:
- Filter Quality: Basic filters made of fiberglass get dirty faster. Higher-quality filters last longer and might need changing less often.
- Pets in the Home: If you have pets, their fur and dander get caught in the filter. Pet owners usually need to change their filters more often than those without pets.
- Size of Home: A smaller house puts less demand on your HVAC system, but it might have a smaller filter that needs changing more often. Bigger homes may need changes less frequently, depending on the system size.
- Frequency of Use: How much do you use your HVAC system? If you live in a place with extreme temperatures and your AC or heater runs a lot, you’ll need to change the filter more often. If you use your system only a few hours each day, you can go longer between changes.
- Air Quality: Both indoor and outdoor air quality affect the filter. If you live in a dusty area or have smoke in your home, the filter will get dirty faster.
Think about these factors to decide when to change your filter. For example, if you use basic fiberglass filters, have pets, and run your AC all day, changing the filter every month is a good idea.
Remember, regular maintenance of your air conditioning filter can help your HVAC system work better and last longer. If you’re unsure about how to handle HVAC service or need advice, look up “HVAC contractors near me” or “commercial HVAC contractor in Plantation” for professional help. They can guide you on how to keep your system in top shape and explain HVAC meaning and how to become a HVAC contractor if you’re interested in learning more.