Having a clean air filter is essential for maintaining the quality of air in your home, as well as for keeping energy costs down. When air filters become clogged and dirty, they require the HVAC system to work harder to push air through, resulting in higher energy consumption and bills. Fortunately, changing air filters is a quick and easy process that can be done in less than an hour. So, how often should you change your air filter? Generally, manufacturers and HVAC companies recommend changing the air filter every 90 days or 3 months.
However, this may vary depending on the location of your home, if you have pets, and the age of your system and equipment. If you have pets in the household, you should consider changing the filter every 60 days or 2 months. For households with multiple pets or people with allergies or respiratory conditions, we recommend changing the filter every 20-45 days. Vacation homes or empty homes that don't see much use can wait to change filters every 9 to 12 months.
The more you use your home, the more often you need to change the air filter. Doing so can help lower your utility bill as it prevents your HVAC unit from having to work harder. In addition, the U. S.
Department of Energy reports that changing your home's air filter can improve the efficiency of your HVAC equipment by 5% to 15%, potentially generating hundreds of dollars each year. Air filters are usually made of spun fiberglass or pleated paper and are surrounded by a cardboard frame. A HEPA filter is extremely efficient, but it takes a significant amount of air pressure to force air through a HEPA filter. In addition, the EPA states that some MERV 12 filters and most MERV 13 filters are almost as effective as HEPA filters in reducing airborne particulate matter related to adverse health effects.
Changing an air filter is a simple task that does not require a professional hand. However, it is important to note that there are high-efficiency filters that are designed to filter small particles of bacteria, mold and mildew, but the standard MERV 8-11 filters will only block the largest particles of dust, dirt & hair. With a clogged air filter, air will not flow properly over the coils, causing them to stop working and leading to total system failure.
