If you own or rent a home, you’ve likely changed your air conditioning unit’s air filter. If not, you might want to go take a look now. Depending on where you live in the United States, you’ll need to replace your air filter every month or just a few times a year. When to replace your air filter is dependent on a number of factors including:
- AC run time
- Number of people living in your home
- Health conditions that might require cleaner air such as allergies or asthma
- Number of pets living in your home
- The location and environment of your home
Let’s answer some other common questions we receive from our customers and home owners about air filter replacement.
Why is replacing my home’s air filter important?
Replacing your air filter will improve the comfort levels of your home by improving Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and the longevity of your AC unit by filtering out dust, allergens, and other debris that can be harmful to both you and your HVAC system.
How often should I replace my home’s air filter?
There are many factors to answering this question but here are some general guidelines:
- Typical house with no pets: every 3-4 months
- House with pet(s): 1-2 months
- Vacation property with limited use: 6-12 months
Does climate have an effect on my home’s air filter?
Yes, it most certainly does. In warmer clients where your AC unit is running consistently, you’ll need to change out your air filter every 1-2 months. In areas with high levels of dust, sand, or other particles, you’ll also want to change out your air filter on a monthly basis for best results.
What direction should I install the air filter in my HVAC system?
When installing a new air filter directly into your furnace or AC unit, you want the arrow facing up into your main duct work and away from your return ducts. Air will flow from your return ducts, into your HVAC system, and then back into the main vents of your home.
If you still feel uncertain about the upkeep of your HVAC system or replacing your home’s air filter, Contact Us and one of our experts would be happy to assist you.