When to Replace Your HVAC Air Filter


Your HVAC system may be the one part of your home that gets more use than any other. After all, your heater runs nearly constantly much of the year to keep you and your family warm. So, with all of that in mind, how often should you really change your HVAC air filter?

HVAC Filters Need to be Changed When They are Dirty

In reality, there is no one easy answer to “how often does my HVAC air filter need to be changed?” Essentially, air filters should be changed when they’re dirty. Think about what the air filters do and why they are important to your HVAC system, and you’ll have no trouble understanding why they need changing as often as they do.

Even though you don’t often think about it, there is dirt, dust and other contaminants in the air around you. If you have pets or smokers in your house, there is even more than usual. But no matter how clean your home is, dust in the air is just the natural way of the world. The contaminants in the air don’t work well with your furnace either. They may cause your furnace to become damaged more quickly than otherwise and it is not that pleasant having contaminants blown in your face every time you turn the system on, is it?

Also, it is vital to note that any particles in the air of your home can make allergies worse, lead to congestion and even trigger symptoms of asthma. Plus, a home with contaminated air is simply dustier and dirtier than one without.

The air filter in your furnace catches the majority of the matter before it reaches your vent, letting air through but keeping the dirt contained so it doesn’t invade your home or cause the HVAC unit to malfunction. A filter becomes clogged by all the dirt and dust trapped in it. Clogs like this make it harder for the air to blow through the system. When this happens, your HVAC will not do an efficient job of keeping your home warm and cozy. This can mean higher energy bills and a colder home.

So How Often Should You Change Your Filter?

Pull your filter out and look at it now. Is it black, dark or dingy? If so, it probably needs to be changed. For most households changing every 2 months, or so, is sufficient. However, if your furnace is being used regularly or there are additional contaminants in your home you may think about changing every 4 weeks or even more often.

As you can see, deciding when to change your HVAC air filter isn’t a question with one simple answer. One of the best things you can do is to talk to a professional about this topic. Reach out to us at KLEBS. Our experts can help you decide how often changing your filter may be necessary and answer any other questions you may have regarding this important system in your home. We look forward to talking to you.