One of the most common questions that many homeowners ask about their HVAC systems is how often they should take care of HVAC filter replacement. The answer to this question involves several factors. In this guide, we will break down how often you should replace filters and the factors that affect the need for air filter replacement.
What Factors Affect HVAC Filter Replacement?
One of the most important factors in determining when you should replace your HVAC filter is the size of your home and your HVAC usage. If you have a larger home or a larger HVAC system, more air is circulated than in a small home or with a smaller system. As a result, more frequent changes are needed.
At Oak View Mechanical, we recommend more frequent air filter changes for homes that have pets. Generally, if you have one pet in your home, you should plan to change the filter approximately every sixty days. Homes with multiple pets or households with family members who are prone to allergies should plan to change air filters as frequently as every three weeks.
To improve indoor air quality, you may also need to change air filters more often. This can be particularly important in urban areas as well as dusty environments and those affected by wildfire smoke, where filters can become clogged faster.
The thickness of the filter you use in your system can also affect how often a replacement is needed. Filters that are at least four inches thick will last longer and may be able to last up to several months. By comparison, a thinner filter that is only about one inch thick may need to be changed every one to three months.
Types of Filters Affecting AC Filter Replacement
The type of filter you use can also play a role in how often the filter should be replaced. Fiberglass filters tend to be less efficient and often require replacement every month or so. A pleated filter is usually more efficient and may be able to last as long as three months before needing to be replaced. The most efficient filter is a high-efficiency HEPA filter, which can last between six months and a year, depending upon air quality and usage.
Differences Between a Furnace Filter and an AC Filter
A furnace filter and AC filter are not necessarily the same. However, in some modern HVAC systems, one filter can serve dual purposes. If you are wondering whether you need furnace filter replacement, it is important to understand the difference between the two types of filters.
Furnace filters are designed to protect your home’s heating system by collecting dust, dirt, and debris before it has a chance to enter the furnace, thus providing crucial protection to the heat exchanger and blower. Compared to an AC filter, a furnace filter is constructed to withstand much higher temperatures. An AC filter, on the other hand, is often designed to be resistant to moisture and prevent the growth of mold.
AC and furnace filters, when used separately, may also be found in different locations. A furnace filter is typically positioned near the air return duct, whereas the AC filter is often located near the evaporator coil or the air handler.
In many HVAC systems, the AC and the furnace will share the same ductwork and air handler, which means a single filter can be used for both cooling and heating cycles. There are some specialized HVAC systems, however, that require the use of specific filters. In either case, whether your system uses a single filter or an individual filter for the AC and the furnace, regular replacement is important.
Signs It’s Time to Change Your HVAC Filter
The following signs indicate HVAC filter replacement is needed:
- Unusual HVAC performance
- Reduced airflow
- Accumulation of dust on the filter
- Visible dust on surfaces and furniture in your home
Tips for Regular HVAC Maintenance
The tips below can help you get the best efficiency from your HVAC system, while improving indoor air quality and extending the lifespan of your HVAC system.
- Make a point to check your HVAC filter monthly. During high-usage seasons, consider checking it every two weeks.
- Replace filters based on their visible condition and not on a calendar schedule.
- Keep spare filters on hand so that you can quickly handle filter replacement.
- Always follow manufacturer recommendations regarding using the specific model filter for your system
- Book an appointment with a licensed HVAC specialist to check your HVAC system twice per year, in the spring and the fall.
By carefully monitoring your home’s HVAC filter replacement needs, you can ensure optimal airflow, indoor air quality, and energy efficiency are maintained. To learn more about maintaining your home’s HVAC system or to book a maintenance appointment, contact us at Oak View Mechanical.