Changing your furnace filter is one of the simplest things you can do to help maintain your home’s HVAC system. A clean filter supports proper airflow, helps keep dust and other particles from circulating through the equipment, and can reduce unnecessary strain on your heating and cooling system.
But how often should you actually change it?
There isn’t one replacement schedule that’s right for every home. The type of filter you use, your HVAC equipment, pets, household conditions, and how frequently the system operates can all affect how quickly a filter becomes dirty.
Your HVAC system pulls air through the return ducts before heating or cooling it and circulating it back through your home. The filter helps capture particles before that air passes through the equipment.
As the filter collects dust and debris, airflow can become restricted. A severely clogged filter can make it more difficult for your HVAC system to move air properly.
Regular filter replacement can help:
Your filter is also one component of your home’s overall indoor air quality strategy, although filtration needs vary from one household to another.
A good approach is to check your filter regularly rather than relying only on the calendar.
Many common disposable HVAC filters need replacement somewhere within a range of approximately one to three months, but the manufacturer’s recommendations for your particular filter and HVAC equipment should take priority.
Some thicker media filters are designed to last considerably longer.
Check the filter periodically. If it is visibly covered with dust and debris, it may be time for replacement even if it hasn’t reached the manufacturer’s suggested interval.
Some households may need to replace HVAC filters more frequently than others.
Factors that can affect filter life include:
Season can make a difference too. During periods when your furnace or air conditioner operates frequently, more air passes through the filter, which can cause it to accumulate debris faster.
The easiest way is to inspect it.
Remove the filter and look at its surface. A filter that has become heavily coated with dust and debris should generally be replaced rather than waiting for a specific date on the calendar.
Other signs that airflow may need attention include:
These symptoms don’t necessarily mean the filter is the only problem. If replacing it doesn’t improve performance, your system may need professional attention.
Not necessarily.
Filters are available in different efficiency levels, and it can be tempting to assume that the filter that captures the most particles is automatically best.
However, your HVAC system must be able to move air through the filter properly. Installing a filter that creates too much resistance for your equipment can negatively affect airflow.
If you’re interested in improving filtration, Ehret can help you determine which filters are appropriate for your system and discuss whole-home air quality solutions when a standard furnace filter isn’t enough for your goals.
Allowing a filter to become excessively dirty can restrict airflow through your HVAC equipment.
Over time, restricted airflow can contribute to:
Changing the filter is inexpensive compared with many HVAC repairs, making it an easy maintenance task worth keeping on your household checklist.
Although people commonly call it a “furnace filter,” the same filter is often used by the home’s central air-conditioning system.
That means filter replacement isn’t just a winter maintenance task.
You should continue checking the filter throughout the summer when your heating and cooling system is circulating air regularly.
Changing the filter is important, but it’s only one part of maintaining your HVAC equipment.
Professional maintenance allows a technician to inspect components that homeowners can’t evaluate simply by looking at the filter.
With an Ehret FAN Club membership, your HVAC system is checked and maintained twice per year. Regular maintenance can help your equipment operate properly, identify developing problems, and reduce the likelihood of unexpected surprises during heating and cooling season.
There’s no universal furnace-filter replacement schedule that works for every household. Check your filter regularly, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, and replace it when it becomes dirty.
If filters are becoming clogged unusually quickly, airflow seems weak, or your furnace isn’t keeping your home comfortable, there may be another issue that needs attention.
Ehret Inc. provides professional heating, cooling, and indoor air quality services throughout Belleville, IL and surrounding Metro East communities. Schedule an HVAC service appointment or call (618) 233-1018 if you’d like an experienced technician to evaluate your system.
