As a homeowner, you have a lot of responsibilities, and one of the most important ones is taking care of the most expensive commodity in your home: your HVAC system. One of the simplest and most effective ways to maintain your system is by regularly changing your air filters. So why is it important to change your air filters regularly, how often should you do it, and how can it benefit you, your family, and your AC system?
What are air filters, and what do they do?
Air filters are an integral part of your HVAC system. They help to trap dust, dirt, and other airborne particles, preventing them from entering your home and clogging up your system. When your air filter is dirty, it restricts the airflow in your system, making it work harder to circulate air throughout your home.
Why is it important to change your air filters regularly?
There are many reasons why it’s essential to change your air filters regularly:
- Improved indoor air quality
From appliances (especially if you have natural gas!), cleaning products, dust, and the carbon dioxide you exhale, the air inside your home can be more polluted than the air outside. If your air filter is dirty, it can’t trap as many airborne particles, which means those particles can circulate throughout your home. This can lead to respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues. By regularly changing your air filters, you can improve the indoor air quality in your home, which can help you and your family breathe easier.
- Increased energy efficiency
When your air filter is dirty, it restricts the airflow in your system, making it work harder to circulate air throughout your home. This means your system uses more energy, which can lead to higher utility bills. By regularly changing your air filters, you can help your air conditioning system run more efficiently, which can save you money on your electricity bills. - Longer lifespan for your HVAC system
Dirty air filters force your system to work harder to circulate air through your home; when your HVAC system has to work harder to circulate air, it puts more wear and tear on the system. This can lead to breakdowns, repairs, and even the premature need for a replacement system. By regularly changing your air filters, you can help extend the lifespan of your HVAC system, saving you money in the long run.
How often should you change your AC filters?
The frequency with which you should change your air filters depends on several factors, including the type of air filter you have, the size of your home, and how often you use your HVAC system. As a general rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to change your air filters every 30-60 days. However, if you have pets, live in a dusty area, or have someone in your home with allergies or respiratory problems, you may need to change your air filters more frequently.
If you aren’t sure, ask your Roland Black Heating & Cooling technician during your seasonal maintenance appointment: they will be able to make recommendations on what kinds of filters you should use for your home, and how often you should change them.
