To keep your heating and cooling system clean and running efficiently, a furnace filter is an absolute must. It keeps harmful airborne particles like dust and pet dander from becoming stuck in the HVAC system and decreasing the air quality inside your home. This improves efficiency, which in turn lowers energy expenses and helps your system work smoothly.
So, keeping the air filter in good condition is crucial and must be taken care of consistently. But how often to change the furnace filter? Read ahead to find out.
Frequency of Changing Furnace Filters
If you want your HVAC system to last as long as possible, keep the air quality high, and keep your energy bills low, you need to change the furnace filter regularly. Several factors, such as the type of filter, the characteristics of your home, and the external climatic conditions, determine the appropriate frequency for replacing your furnace filter. By keeping these things in mind, you can figure out when it’s best to change the filters in your furnace.
Types of Furnace Filters and Their Recommended Change Frequency
Various furnace filters are available, each with its own set of pros and cons in terms of filtering capacity and suggested replacement intervals:
Fiberglass Filters
To protect HVAC systems from large contaminants like dust and lint, the most common and affordable filter type is the fiberglass filter. Particularly in houses with heavy HVAC use, it is advised to replace them every 30 days because of their limited filtration capacities.
Pleated Filters
Better filtration and the ability to trap tiny particles like pollen, mold spores, and pet dander are achieved using pleated filters, which are often made of cotton or polyester folds. While air quality and usage in the home do affect how often you should change your pleated filter, the general rule of thumb is every 90 days.
Electrostatic Filters
Electrostatic filters are able to attract particles due to their self-charging fibers. Both one-time use and long-term (washable) varieties are available. Every three months, replace the disposable electrostatic filter and clean the permanent filter as needed.
HEPA Filters
High-efficiency particulate Air or HEPA air filters are considered the best in the industry since they can capture 99.97% of particles smaller than 0.3 microns. People with severe allergies or those who work in healthcare environments often utilize them. Although they still require routine inspection, you might not have to change them quite as frequently (around once a year) as other varieties.
Factors Affecting Filter Change Frequency
The frequency of furnace filter changes is dependent on a number of factors
Home Size
Filters can become dirty more quickly in larger homes due to increased air circulation. One possible explanation for why filters last longer in smaller houses is because there is less air circulation and the heating system is used less.
Air Quality
Due to the higher concentration of air particles, homes in areas with high levels of pollution or pollen may need to change their filters more regularly, impacting air quality.
HVAC Usage
Changing a dirty furnace filter more frequently is a common practice for systems that are used more often. It is recommended to inspect the filter periodically and, if necessary, change it during seasons when the HVAC system is utilized often.
Pets
Fur and dander shed by pets can quickly turn your filters into dirty furnace filters, so it’s a good idea for homes with pets to think about changing their filters more often.
Allergies
It is essential to keep filters clean in homes where family members have respiratory diseases or allergies. To maintain good indoor air quality and remove airborne dust consistently, you should consider changing them more often.
Smoking
The air quality can be greatly reduced when smoking indoors, and the increased presence of airborne particles means that filters need to be changed more frequently.
Seasonal Considerations
The seasons can play a role in determining when to change the furnace filter, as consumption patterns naturally vary:
Winter: Filters get clogged up faster in the winter because furnaces run more often to heat homes. Regular checks should be done, and adjustments should be made as necessary.
Summer: In the summer, the same rules that apply in the winter also apply if the air conditioner is turned on often. Clean filters are more important when outdoor pollen levels are high since they affect indoor air quality.
Spring and Fall: During the spring and fall, HVAC systems may not be used as often, but pollen and other allergens
Advanced Tips for Managing Filter Changes
-
Smart Thermostats
-
Filter Subscription Services
-
Visual Checks
Rather than relying on predetermined intervals, many newer smart thermostats can be set to remind you to check or replace your filter depending on the amount of time it has been in use. The closer it is to how the system is actually used, the more effective it can be.
Some businesses provide subscription services that will have fresh filters sent to your house at predetermined intervals. In addition to making sure you never run out of the correct size or type of filter, this can serve as a helpful reminder to change it.
Although the time may not have come, your filter may appear unclean indicating that it is time to change it. Do what you think is necessary—regardless of the time of day, replace a filter if it appears blocked.
Furnace Filter Types and Their Lifespans
Why Should You Keep Changing Your Furnace Filter?
Keeping the furnace filter clean is more than just a nice-to-have—it’s a critical habit that affects your home’s air quality, energy efficiency, and HVAC system’s lifespan. You could risk your family’s health and rack up expensive bills if you put off doing this one little thing.
Know when to Get Professional Help
If you have never changed a filter before or are confused about which one to use, it could be helpful to talk to an expert from a business like Comfort Union. You can trust that our HVAC specialists will provide you with recommendations based on your unique system and requirements, guiding you toward the best equipment and maintenance practices.
