Regularly changing your HVAC system’s filter is one of the easiest ways to improve its performance. Not only does it help reduce energy costs, but it can also protect your system from buildup and plug-ins that can cause more serious issues. Keeping an eye on your filter’s condition can also help you identify potential problems before they become costly repairs. The longer a filter lasts, the more costly repairs are likely to be. If you’re experiencing frequent filter replacements, there may be something wrong with your system that needs attention. Depending on the type of filter you use, these can be relatively cheap to replace. But if you aren’t changing them regularly, they could end up costing you a lot more in the long run.

Filter Checklist

Once you’ve identified a problem with your system, you need to know exactly what to look for when replacing the furnace filter. There are a few things to keep an eye out for, including the following:- Airflow - Check that you can see consistent air flow across the filter. If you find that you’re having to push the filter in too hard, then it’s time for a new one.- Dirt and debris - You can tell if the filter needs to be replaced by looking at the dirt and debris that it catches. If you’re seeing larger pieces of dirt and debris, then it’s time for a new filter.- Air flow - Make sure that the filter is the right size for your system. You want to make sure that it’s not too tight or too loose.

Why Is Changing Your Filter Important?

Aside from the obvious aesthetic appeal of keeping your home or office looking clean and tidy, there are a few other reasons why you should keep your filter clean and change it on a regular basis:- It helps improve air quality - Changing your filter will trap dirt and debris, which will prevent it from entering the air ducts and negatively impacting indoor air quality.- It keeps your system running smoothly - Dirt and debris can get trapped in your system, which can lead to a build-up of pressure that can cause serious problems. This is particularly true of outdoor units, as they are generally open to the elements.- It protects your system from wear and tear - Dirt and debris can cause wear and tear on your system over time, particularly in the cooling part of your HVAC system.- It lowers energy costs - Dirt and debris can cause a build-up of pressure in your system, which can make it work harder and use more energy.

How Often Should You Change Your HVAC Filter?

Depending on the type of filter you use, you can change it anywhere between once a month and once a year. This is particularly true of high-efficiency particulate matter (HEPM) filters, which are the most effective type of filter available. If you have an HVAC system that isn’t central air, you can usually get away with changing your filter once every three to four months. This rule of thumb is less applicable to central air systems, as they are more likely to be exposed to a lot more dirt and debris. If you have an oil- or gas-powered furnace, then you’ll have to change your filter a little bit more frequently.- If you have an oil- or gas-powered furnace, then you’ll have to clean your filter every three to four months. You can use a vacuum cleaner or an industrial-sized filter cleaner to get all of the dirt and debris out of your system.- If you have electric heat or a ductless mini-split system, then you can usually go as long as six months between filter replacements.

Conclusion

There are a lot of advantages associated with regular HVAC filter changes. Not only will it improve the air quality in your home or office, but it could also help keep your system running efficiently and reduce energy costs. If you have a central air system, then you should change your filter every month. If you have a gas- or oil-powered furnace, then you should change your filter every 3-4 months. When choosing a filter, look for one that is the right size for your system, and make sure that it’s in good condition. If a filter is visibly dirty, then it could be letting a lot more dirt and debris into your system, which could lead to more problems down the road.