It’s not until the temps are in the 90’s or in the negatives that you realize how important maintenance of your HVAC system really is. The HVAC air filter is a crucial part of keeping your system up and running and efficient. Air filters can often be the reason that your system fails which can lead to insanely expensive repairs or replacement.
According to Energystar.gov, you should be changing your air filters as often as once a month or once every 3 months to keep the filters clean and efficient. The reason being, a dirty air filter restricts the airflow in the system which strains the motor and can cause your system to burn out or overheat. Dirty air filters also reduce the quality of air being pumped into your home. Failing to change out the filters can cause allergies to be heightened and can even aggravate conditions such as asthma.
How do you know when it’s time to change your HVAC filter? As simple as it sounds, whenever they get dirty. If you look at the air filter, if it has built up a layer of dust, dirt and germs, it’s time to change it out.
How often you change your air filter can also depend on a few different factors:
- The level of pollution in your city or neighborhood.
- If there are pets living in your home
- How many people are living in your home
- The type of filter you’re using
With these things in mind, obviously if you have several pets, many people living in your home or live in polluted area, changing your air filter will need to occur at least once a month. As the filter does it’s job and keeps out polluted or dirty air, it gets covered with the germs it’s keeping out of your home.
Imagine yourself breathing all of those allergens and germs through your supposedly clean air; this is why it’s important to change once it’s done its job. Most air filter manufacturers will tell you to change out every 40-60 days and this is a great rule to live by. Setting a reminder on your calendar to check the air filter every month is a great way to ensure your system is performing well and the filter isn’t causing problems.
Here is a great resource on how to change your HVAC filter. If you’re still not sure and want a professional to do the job, Blue Ox is happy to help. Give us a call today and we’ll keep your HVAC system running clean and efficiently.
