Furnaces and AC systems have filters designed to clean the air that passes through them to heat or cool your home. Since they trap dirt, dust, and other particles, they need to be replaced (or cleaned, depending on the type of filter) routinely to prevent a buildup of pollutants, help keep your systems running smoothly, and sustain the right amount of airflow. The problem is, not every homeowner knows that – of if they do, it’s one of those routine chores that’s easy to forget.
Follow along to learn how often a standard air filter should be replaced.
Filter Packaging
The first step in determining how often to change your filter is to check the manufacturer’s instruction. Most recommend replacing their filters every 30 to 90 days, depending on filter type. Fiberglass filters are low-cost but need to be replaced more frequently. Pleated filters cost a little more but can last 3 to 6 months before needing to be replaced.
Household
The fewer occupants in your home, the fewer pollutants and contaminants that are likely to get trapped in a filter. The size of your home matters, too; the larger the home the more air that circulates through a filter, so it will require more frequent cleaning or replacement. Plus, more frequent changes may be necessary in households with pets that shed.
Air Quality
It’s no secret that indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. If you have a smoker in the house, replacing the air filter more frequently can help improve air quality. Same goes for replacing your vacuum cleaner with one containing a HEPA filter.
Health
When excess contaminants build up, the filter will begin to release dust, dander, and other particles into your living space, exacerbating problems stemming from allergies, asthma, and other respiratory issues. More frequent coughing, trouble breathing, sneezing, itchy eyes, and other allergic reactions are common with unfiltered air. For mild to moderate allergies, replace the filter once a month or so. For more severe respiratory issues, you may need to clean or replace it more often – again, depending on the type of filter.
Remodeling Projects
You finally have the kitchen of your dreams, complete with an open layout and brand new everything! Well, that renovation sent excess dust and debris into the air, and into your filters. Anytime there’s a need to vacuum or dust more frequently than usual, it’s probably a good idea to inspect your filters at the same time.
Here’s another way to keep the air in your home fresh and clean – with a whole-house air filtration system from Air Professionals. We have several types and just the right solution for your home and your family’s air quality needs. Contact us today to learn more and for a free new system.