How Often Should I Replace My Filters?

We are often asked why the AC is blowing warm air. Many homeowners are troubled about their HVAC system not cooling evenly across rooms. There are several reasons your AC could act up. One of them is the filter. So, how often should you replace it?

Filters play an important role in cooling and heating systems. More often than not, a filter change should happen every 30 to 90 days, depending on several factors.

When the filter is dirty, it could limit airflow. More often than not, it shoots up energy bills. The worst experience is during summer. This is when you are expecting a relaxing but instead end up disappointed.

Knowledge is power. If you know a thing or two about your HVAC filter, there is much you can do to save the day. This article will guide you on the frequency of replacing your filters. When you are done reading, you should know what to do.

What Types of Filters are There?

There are two types – Fiberglass and Pleated. The former is low-cost and disposable, while the latter is disposable and more efficient.

Possible causes of filter problems

• Depending on your location, dirt can quickly build up and restrict airflow. Dirt could result in your AC freezing up or short cycling.
• Allowing a filter to stay longer than is necessary. If you leave your air filter too long, it could lead to filter problems.
• Not used often. Leaving your AC unused or idle for too long could affect the parts.
• Irregular maintenance could increase wear and tear and affect the filter.

Factors Influencing Filter Replacement

• Location. If you live in an environment where you use your AC less often, you can most likely go longer between replacements.
• Season. Periods of the year, like summer, may require more cooling than winter, when the AC is at rest. At such a period, the replacement could linger.
• Size of the home. A larger home will require frequent changes of the filter than a smaller apartment.
• Pets in the house. To prevent germs and their spread, you should replace the filters often if you have pets in the house.
• Allergies. Polluted air can easily spread around the house with a dirty filter. It’s best to replace the filter every 30 days for the sake of any member of the house with allergies. 

How Often to Change Home Air Filters

Fiberglass filters need to be changed every 30 days of use due to their low efficiency and quality. They can quickly accumulate dirt and cause discomfort with continued use.

For pleated filter types, it is recommended to change them between 30 and 90 days of use. It is best to change them anywhere from 30 to 45 days during the summer and winter months.

As earlier mentioned, the season is an important factor in filter replacement. During milder seasons like spring and fall, the cooling system works less. However, it is important to have scheduled maintenance for all-season efficiency.

How to Know When HVAC Filters Need Replacing

While you need a reputable air conditioning repair company to help figure things out, the following will help you know when your filter needs a replacement.

• The fans are working harder and causing increased wear and tear of the unit.
• The unit is blowing warm air rather than cool.
• You notice more dirt in the rooms than usual. The filter allows more dirt and contaminants to pass through instead of blocking them out.
• More dirt builds up in the duct.
• The unit is working harder than normal and shooting up energy bills.

It is recommended to have scheduled maintenance in place for your air and furnace filters. The best approach to prevent a filter emergency is a regular check once every month. If you notice any of the symptoms above, you possibly need to replace the filter. You can have your AC technician double-check for confirmation.

Buying a New HVAC Filter

Before you start asking how much it costs to replace my AC, it would help to know how to buy a new filter.

The costs of filters will vary depending on your location. However, we recommend going for a quality filter, which may be a bit more expansive.

When buying a filter, it is best to go for the pleated option. Pleated filters are studier with wired mesh support. Try to look for one with a high MERV rating.

MERV means Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. Thus, buy a filter with a MERV rating of eight or nine. These categories can filter out tinier particles.

When to Call a Professional HVAC Technician

Your cooling and heating systems are for your comfort and enjoyment. It doesn’t feel good to have them disappoint you when you need them. As professional HVAC technicians with years of practice, we recommend calling a professional technician from day one.

From experience, a filter will not constitute a problem if a professional technician is looking after it.

If you live within the Coachella Valley or surrounding area, allow Anthem professionals to care for your cooling and heating units. Call (760) 895-2621 now to discuss your needs! We are glad to help!