Frequency of Air Filter Replacements at Home Explained
Rethink ThatNeglected Chore:
Let's face it-some home tasks often go overlooked, until you realize they've been neglected for weeks! Changing your home's air conditioner filters is likely one of those tasks. Caring for these filters is vital for a healthy living space and an efficient HVAC system. Here's what you need to know to stay on top of this essential chore.
Brandon Dolan, of Dolan Inc., a century-old company providing plumbing, heating, cooling, and electric services in central New Jersey, offers some insights.
On the Importance of Regular Filter Changes
Air filters, found inside your air vents or HVAC unit, play a crucial role in improving your home's air quality, capturing airborne contaminants like dust, pet dander, and mold spores. Over time, these filters can become clogged, failing to trap further pollutants, allowing them to recirculate in your home.
A dirty filter forces your HVAC system to work harder, using more energy and potentially shortening its lifespan. In contrast, a regularly cleaned filter keeps things running smoothly and can even help lower energy bills.
How Often Should You Change Your Air Filters?
While manufacturers and industry professionals generally recommend a minimum of every 90 days or three months, more frequent replacements are often preferred, especially during peak usage times. "We recommend once a month, especially in the seasons where it is extremely hot or cold," shares Dolan. "During these peak times, your system is working hard enough, and you can help the system by being proactive with the filter replacement."
Various factors can impact the optimal replacement schedule for your filters. For instance, pet owners or allergy sufferers may require monthly replacements, while homes without pets and smaller household sizes may only need to change filters every three months.
Finally, take into consideration your specific HVAC system, as certain systems may have more advanced filtration systems or electronic air cleaners.
How to Change Your HVAC Air Filters:
- Turn Off Your HVAC System: For safety purposes and to prevent unfiltered air circulation, turn off your system before changing filters.
- Identify and Remove the Filter: Find the filter behind a return vent, or within the HVAC unit itself. Once located, remove the vent or cover. Take a mental note of the filter's size and dimensions.
- Swap Out the Old Filter: Carefully slide out the old filter, placing it into a trash bag to minimize dust dispersion.
- Insert the New Filter: Ensure it slides in snugly, paying attention to any arrow indicators on the filter to verify the correct orientation.
- Replace the Vent or Cover: Return the air vent or HVAC cover to its original position, and resume system use.
Tips for Air Filter Maintenance:
Establishing a consistent maintenance schedule ensures that you never overlook the task of changing your air filters. Treat it like a recurring appointment, such as a haircut or a dentist visit, by setting up a calendar reminder. When you change the filter, put a sticky note nearby the unit, or near the vents, with the date to help you remember your last replacement. Regular maintenance guarantees a cleaner, more efficient HVAC system, superior indoor air quality, and reduced energy costs.
- Following the instructions to regularly change your air filters, as advised by Brandon Dolan of Dolan Inc., can help lower energy bills and maintain a cleaner, healthier home lifestyle, similar to tips from Martha Stewart's home-and-garden advice.
- Properly cleaning and organizing your HVAC air filters according to manufacturer and industry recommendations, such as substituting old filters with new ones every 90 days or more frequently during peak usage times, will result in improved air quality, an efficient home-and-garden setup, and a more organized home for you and your family, reminiscent of a Martha Stewart home.
