Deciding when to replace your HVAC air filter this summer can be confusing, because you’ll likely get different advice depending on who you ask. There are a number of reasons why it’s vital to know how often to put in a clean filter — it keeps damaging debris away from sensitive HVAC components, it ensures ample system airflow and optimal energy efficiency, and it plays a key role in maintaining good indoor air quality.
Helpful Air Filter Replacement Guidelines
Generally speaking, you should inspect the filter every month during the summer and change it whenever you see any evidence of dirt or dust. To ensure that you’re replacing it as often as needed for your unique home environment, consider these factors:
- Climate — Summers are warm and humid here in Dayton, so you’ll likely need to run your heat pump or air conditioner a lot, which means the filter will get dirty faster and need more frequent replacement.
- Air quality — Keeping the house closed up over the summer when you’re running the cooling system cooling can degrade indoor air quality, especially if you leave a dirty filter in place. Changing the filter more often can help keep pollutants, irritants and allergens from recirculating through the ductwork and make breathing easier for family members with asthma, allergies or other respiratory issues.
- Household size — You should plan to replace the air filter more frequently if you have a large family or pets that shed dander and hair. With just one or two in the household and no pets, you won’t have to change it as often.
- Type of filter — Regular fiberglass filters will get dirty faster and may need replacement every month. If you use a pleated filter or have an air cleaner that uses an electronic filter, you may go three months or even six to twelve months between replacements. Just be sure to follow your HVAC manufacturer’s recommendations when you’re selecting replacement filters to get ones in the right efficiency rating range.
For more advice about replacing the air filter in your Dayton home this summer, contact us at Ace Hardware Home Services.
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