How Often Should I Change My Home Air Filter?

Importance of Regular Air Filter Changes

Changing your home air filter every 30-90 days is crucial for maintaining a healthy and efficient HVAC system. Regular replacements improve indoor air quality, keep your furnace and HVAC filters clean, and ensure your system functions properly. If you have pets, consider changing your air filter every 30 days due to pet hair and dander buildup. 

Benefits of Changing Your Air Filter Regularly

Improved Indoor Air Quality

A clean filter helps remove airborne particles like dust, pet dander, and dust mites, significantly improving indoor air quality. This is especially important for those with allergies or asthma.

Increased HVAC System Lifespan

A clean filter reduces the strain on your HVAC system, preventing premature wear and tear. This not only extends the system’s lifespan but also lowers your energy bills.

How Often Should You Change Your Air Filter?

The general rule is to change your air filter every 30-90 days. However, this can vary based on factors such as home size, the presence of pets, and outdoor air quality.

Homes with Pets

If you have pets, inspect your filter every month. Pet hair and dander can clog filters quickly, necessitating more frequent changes to maintain clean air and efficient HVAC operation.

Impact of Outdoor Air Quality

Living in an area with high pollution or construction can cause a dirty air filter faster. Regular changes, potentially more often than every 30 days, may be necessary to keep indoor air clean.

Return Air Filters vs. Air Handler Filters

It's also important to know the difference between return air filters and air handler filters. This is because each type has a distinct role in maintaining your HVAC system's efficiency and your home's air quality:

• Return Air Filters: These filters are usually located in the return air ducts and should be replaced every 30 days. They are more accessible and easier to change, making regular maintenance straightforward.
• Air Handler Filters: These are usually larger filters located in the air handler unit, often found in the attic. Air handler filters need to be replaced less frequently, generally every 90 days. Due to their location and size, they can trap more debris over a longer period.

For more details, you can read more about the differences and maintenance tips here.

Choosing the Right Type of Air Filter

The type of air filter you choose affects its lifespan and performance. Here are some factors to consider:

Check the MERV Rating

MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) ratings indicate an air filter's effectiveness. Higher MERV ratings capture smaller particles more effectively. Choose a filter with a MERV rating suitable for your home’s needs.

High-Efficiency Filters vs. Standard Filters

High-efficiency filters, such as pleated air filters, capture tiny particles but may require more frequent changes. Standard filters, like fiberglass filters, are less expensive but offer lower filtration levels. Here are some of the most common filter types:

• Pleated Air Filters: High-efficiency, captures smaller particles, more expensive, ideal for homes with pets or allergies.
• Fiberglass Filters: Standard efficiency, less expensive, needs frequent replacement, suitable for basic use.
• HEPA Filters: Capture 99.97% of tiny particles, expensive, used in medical settings or homes with severe allergies.
• Electrostatic Filters: Self-charging fibers, reusable options available, good for homes with pets or smokers.
• Washable Filters: Reusable, eco-friendly, requires regular cleaning, higher initial cost but cost-effective over time.
• Carbon Filters: Removes odors and VOCs, often combined with other filters, moderate cost, ideal for homes with odors from pets, smoking, or cooking.

We recommend selecting a filter based on your specific air quality needs and budget.

Signs It's Time to Change Your Air Filter

Dust Buildup

Visible dust and dirt on your filter or excessive dust on surfaces in your home can indicate that it's time for a new filter.

Inefficient HVAC Performance

Reduced airflow, unusual noises from your HVAC system, or the system working harder than usual are signs that your filter needs changing.

The Role of Air Filters in Your HVAC System

Air filters are crucial for maintaining good indoor air quality and efficient HVAC operation. A clean filter ensures optimal performance and clean airflow, reducing energy costs and extending the system's lifespan.

To Wrap It Up

Change your home air filter every 30-90 days, considering factors like pets and outdoor air quality. Regular changes enhance air quality, improve HVAC efficiency, and lower energy bills. Mark your calendar and make filter changes a regular part of your home maintenance routine.

Air Filter FAQs

How do I know if my home air filter needs replacing?

Check for visible dust and dirt buildup on the filter. Reduced airflow and unusual HVAC system noises can also suggest that it's time for a replacement.

What happens if you don't change your air filter in your house?

Neglecting to change your air filter can lead to poor air quality, higher energy bills, and a shorter lifespan for your HVAC system.

Why change air filter every 3 months?

Changing the air filter every 3 months maintains good indoor air quality, ensures efficient HVAC operation, and prevents system strain and higher energy costs.

Why does my home air filter get dirty so fast?

Factors like pet hair, outdoor pollution, and high dust levels can cause your air filter to get dirty quickly, necessitating more frequent changes.