Few things are as crucial as regular HVAC system maintenance when keeping your home healthy and comfortable. One of the essential parts of maintaining your HVAC system is changing the air filters. The AC’s air filter is vital in ensuring the air in your home is clean and free of allergens, dust, and other particles. A dirty air filter can cause several problems, including reduced efficiency of your HVAC system, increased energy bills, and even poor indoor air quality.
It’s imperative to change your air filter regularly. But how often should you change your air filter? Is it time for a change? What are the signs? We’ll answer all your questions about changing your home’s air filters. It is generally recommended to change the air filter every three months. However, a few factors affect how often you need to change your home’s air filter.
Pets in the Household
If you have pets in your home, you will need to change your air filter more often. Pets shed fur and skin cells, which quickly clog an air filter. If you have multiple pets, or if your pet sheds a lot, you must change the air filter every month or two.
Dusty Households
If your home is dusty, you must change your air filter more often. If you live in a dry climate or have a lot of household dust, the air filter must be changed every month or two.
Smoky Households
The EPA recommends changing your home’s air filters more often than usual if you live in an area with high wildfire smoke or pollution levels.
Smokers in the Household
If someone in your household smokes, it’s essential to change the air filter more often. Secondhand smoke contains harmful chemicals and particles that quickly clog an air filter. Check your air filter monthly and change it as needed if you have smokers in your home.
People with Allergies
If you or someone in your household has allergies, change your home’s air filter more often. Allergens like dust, pollen, and pet dander rapidly clog an air filter. Check your air filter monthly and change it as needed if you or a family member has allergies.
In addition to changing your home’s air filter every three months, you should also change it if you notice any of the following signs:
- Reduced Airflow
- If you notice the airflow from your HVAC system has decreased, it might be time to change the AC’s air filter. A clogged air filter restricts airflow and causes your HVAC system to work harder to circulate air.
- Increased Energy Bills
- If you notice a sudden increase in your energy bills, it could be because of a clogged air filter. A clogged air filter makes your HVAC system work harder, requiring more energy and raising bills.
- Poor Indoor Air Quality
- If you notice the air in your home feels stuffy or smells bad, it is time to change your air filter. A clogged air filter can cause poor indoor air quality and make your home feel uncomfortable.
Your HVAC system needs a new air filter every few months to ensure proper functioning. However, how often you need to change your home’s air filter depends on several factors, including the filter type, the size of your home, and the number of pets in your household.
If you’re unsure how often to change the air filter, check it monthly and change it as needed. If you have any questions about changing your air filter, call Sharon’s Heating and Air Conditioning today at (734) 425-1415. We’re always happy to help.
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