How Often Do You Need to Change Your HVAC Filter?

Did you know that your home’s heating and cooling system could last over 25 years? With regular maintenance, your HVAC system should function well for at least two decades or more.

It’s best to leave most HVAC maintenance to professionals. A reputable HVAC service can help keep your system in top condition.

However, you should make a habit of changing your HVAC filter yourself. A quick Google search for “how often do you need to change your HVAC filter” can provide guidance on timing.

There’s some debate about how frequently homeowners should replace their HVAC filters. In this article, we’ll clarify how often you should change your HVAC filter and explain the correct way to do it.

Keep reading to understand the importance of replacing your HVAC filter.

What Does an HVAC Filter Do?

Before we discuss how often you should replace your HVAC filter, it’s important to understand its role. This knowledge will help you appreciate the necessity of timely replacements.

When your heating and cooling system operates, it pulls in air from your home, heats or cools it, and then circulates it back through the ductwork into various rooms. The HVAC filter ensures this air is as clean as possible.

A dirty HVAC filter can negatively impact your home’s air quality and put unnecessary strain on the entire HVAC system.

Therefore, it’s crucial to regularly replace your HVAC filter. Failing to do so can compromise air quality and shorten the lifespan of your HVAC system.

How Often Should an HVAC Filter Be Changed?

Now that you understand the importance of replacing your home’s HVAC filter, let’s discuss how often you should do it. There is some confusion around this, as different sources may give varying recommendations when you search “how often should you change your HVAC filter?”

Generally, you should replace your HVAC filter every 3 months. Make it a habit to switch out your old filter for a new one at least this often.

However, there are certain situations where you might need to replace your HVAC filter more frequently. Consider changing it every 2 months or even monthly if:

You have pets that contribute pet dander to your home’s air
You or your family members smoke regularly inside
You have an older HVAC system and want to maximize its lifespan

The frequency of replacement will depend on the air quality in your home.

How Can You Tell When an HVAC Filter Needs to Be Replaced?

While you should typically replace an HVAC filter every 3 months, there are signs that indicate you might need to do it more frequently. It’s important to monitor your home for these signs and replace your HVAC filter as needed.

Here are some signs that suggest it’s time for a new HVAC filter:

Visible dirt buildup on the filter
Increased dust accumulation in your home
More frequent allergic reactions among family members
Your HVAC system is struggling to meet heating or cooling demands

It’s better to be proactive with your HVAC filter. Replacing it doesn’t require much time or money, so if you suspect it’s nearing the end of its usefulness, go ahead and install a new one.

How to Change the HVAC Filter in Your Home

If you’ve never replaced an HVAC filter before, you might be unsure how to do it. Luckily, it’s a straightforward process.

Follow these steps to change the air filter in your home:

Turn off your heating and cooling system.
Remove the old HVAC filter and note its size to purchase a new one.
Write the date on the new HVAC filter.
Install the new filter in the same location as the old one.
Ensure the new filter is secure and turn the system back on.

This entire process should take less than five minutes, making it one of the easiest HVAC maintenance tasks you can perform.

What Type of HVAC Filters Should You Use?

When buying a new HVAC filter, you might be inclined to stick with the same type you’ve always used. However, it’s worth exploring other options that might better suit your home’s needs.

Basic HVAC filters typically capture dirt, dust, and larger debris. However, there are more advanced filters designed to trap pet dander, smoke, and various allergens.

If your indoor air quality is lacking, consider opting for a higher-quality filter. It could significantly improve the air you breathe compared to your previous filter.

What If You Don’t Change Your HVAC Filter Often Enough?

If you neglect to change your HVAC filter regularly, it will eventually cause significant problems. Here are some issues that can arise if you don’t replace the filter at least every 3 months:

The indoor air quality in your home will deteriorate.
Dust will accumulate on various surfaces throughout your home.
Your heating and cooling system will work harder than usual, potentially leading to HVAC repairs.
Your heating and cooling costs may increase.

Fortunately, it’s easy to avoid these issues. Simply replace your HVAC filter every few months to keep your system running smoothly and maintain good air quality.

Does Other HVAC Maintenance Needs to Be Done?

Replacing the HVAC filter in your system is one of the most essential maintenance tasks. However, it’s not the only thing you should do to keep your HVAC system in good shape.

At the beginning of the winter and summer seasons, arrange for an HVAC service to inspect your system and make necessary adjustments. They can clean the system and lubricate any moving parts.

Additionally, schedule HVAC repairs as soon as you notice any issues. This proactive approach prevents minor problems from escalating into major, costly repairs.

Who Can You Go to for HVAC Maintenance Services?

Taking care of replacing your HVAC filter yourself is a good idea. However, as mentioned earlier, it’s best to leave most other HVAC maintenance tasks to the professionals.

Search for an experienced HVAC service that has a great reputation within your community to maintain your HVAC system for you. A company like Aspen Heating and Air Conditioning can lend a hand with HVAC maintenance and make sure your HVAC system is always running the way it should.

Stop Googling “How Often Should You Change Your HVAC Filter” and Call Us for Help

If you’re searching “how often should you change your HVAC filter,” you might be uncertain about maintaining your HVAC system. Let Aspen Heating and Air Conditioning help with all your HVAC maintenance needs.

We service most heating and cooling systems. Whether you need routine maintenance or a repair, you’ll be pleased with our professional HVAC services.