How Often Should I Change My AC Filter?

How Often Should I Change My AC Filter OrlandoThere are very few maintenance steps that a homeowner can perform on their own HVAC systems. One of them is changing out the air filter or filters in the system on a regular basis. It’s pretty simple for any person to purchase the right type of filter and then install it. For most other AC maintenance procedures, it is highly recommended to get help from a licensed HVAC contractor. A filter helps keep proper airflow going through your home’s AC system and also improves the air quality in your home at the same time. If you’re wondering how often should I change my AC filter, it’s not a simple one size fits all answer. Here are some factors that affect the frequency of filter changes.

Filter Quality/Type

You first have to look at the many different aspects of your home HVAC system. One of the most important ones is the types of filters that you use on your home’s HVAC system. Fiberglass filters have to be replaced the most often because they clog up fast and this can really hurt your HVAC system’s performance when left unchanged. Ideally, you have to change a fiberglass AC filter every 3 months. Other filters such as HEPA filters and filters with many pleats do not have to be changed out as often because they don’t clog up easily. But it is still recommended to change them at least once or twice a year. Yes, pleated and HEPA filters cost more but you will get the added benefit of improved home air quality from them too.

Number of Pets in Your Home

Many HVAC professionals believe this is the single biggest factor in determining when to change your AC filter. That’s because pet dander, especially if you have long-haired cats or dogs, tends to find its way into your HVAC air filters very quickly. That not only necessitates changing your air filters faster because they get clogged easier but all that pet dander can be a real respiratory irritant for many people too especially those that suffer from allergies.

Frequency of AC System Use

How often you use your AC system is a factor to consider when determining how often to change your HVAC filters too. If you only run your AC system at night during the summer months to help you sleep, then you won’t have to change your HVAC filters as much as someone that runs their AC system 24/7 all year round. So the more you use your AC system, the more often you need to spot check your air filters even if you use the best filters for AC. 

Home Foot Traffic/Traffic Type

If you host large parties twice a month or you have 4 kids that play football, then chances are your home has more dirt coming inside it compared to a home that houses a small family or one that never usually has guests over. That also means it stands to reason that your AC filters get dirty faster too and need to be changed more often. The type of foot traffic that comes through plays a role in this too. If its people dressed for Sunday school, they probably do not track much dirt into your house. On the other hand, if it’s your husband’s football team after a game, you may need to change your AC filters more often. 

Call Pros to Change AC Filter

Hopefully, the guidelines above gave you at least a basic idea of how often should I change my AC filter. Whenever you need help with AC maintenance in Apopka, AC repairs, AC installation, and everything else HVAC-related for your residential or commercial property, Eggert Cooling and Heating is the company to call. We serve  Clermont, Apopka, Ocoee, Windermere, and surrounding areas. Call 407-252-3785 to get a free estimate.