How Often Should You Replace Your Home Air Filter?

When it comes to changing your home’s air filter, or furnace filter, there is no rule or answer to this–although it’s important for your home’s air quality. There are a few factors to take into consideration when deciding to switch out the filters, for example, is the filter dirty? Time to change it. Never wait till the filter is completely dirty though because this means your HVAC system isn’t delivering its full potential throughout the home. Here are a few factors to consider when deciding whether to change your home’s air filter or not.

Type of Filter

Filters come in all shapes and sizes. From the material they’re made with to their thickness to their form–there are many choices. However, when it comes to saving money, buying a cheap air filter can actually cost you more in the long run. A cheaper filter only means you’ll have to replace it more often as it’s not of higher quality. If you can, spend a little extra on a better quality furnace filter as you’ll have to replace it less and it’s better at catching the air pollutants.

Have Allergies?

If you or anyone else in your home has allergies, you may want to replace the filter more often. Why? This will continuously help remove the allergens from the air making those allergies sufferers breathe better. If the filter is dirty, then it won’t be able to trap the allergens.

Pet Filled Home

Pets are like family, however, they shed like crazy. If you have any furry critters taking up occupancy in your home, then you’ll have to change the filter more often. Cat and dog hair, as well as dander, gets everywhere in your home- including the air filter! It’s also important to note that depending on the season, you may need to change the filter more often. For example, animals tend to shed more when the weather is hotter.

Changing your filter is an important part of the quality of your home’s air. Not only can it make you and your family breathe better, but it can also help save you some money. Dirty filters restrict the airflow causing the HVAC system to work harder, which may lower the lifespan of your system.

If you’re looking for HVAC contractors or need more information on air filters, contact the expert heating and cooling team at Pro-Tech Mechanical Services today.